Phase 1: Assess the needs of the property. Establish priorities: check the condition of the wiring, plumbing, foundation and roof (new shingles or complete roof). Keep the current market and location of the property in mind to determine costs and the appropriate amount to invest in repairs. Determine whether you plan to live in the property or sell it. This will help you decide the scope of projects, but don't compromise on quality when it comes to materials or hired help. Buy the best you can while staying within your budget. Evaluate the floor plan and changes needed to increase property value: additional bathroom, fireplace, garage, interior storage. Call on professionals in the necessary fields for bids on work you are not qualified to estimate. yourself and complete yourself. This is also a good time to know city and/or county building codes and permit requirements. Phase Two: Now you need to determine what you are qualified to do. This could save you a lot of money if you have the skills and time. Gain knowledge of subcontractors in the area for projects you cannot complete. Here is an opportunity to hire small business owners. Discover the reputation of local entrepreneurs. This can be tricky because it can be very subjective! Stay away from mid-sized companies if possible. They tend to charge the most for different reasons. Collect quotes and/or offers. For larger projects, obtain written bids and contracts to stay within at least a percentage of the bid, for example: a written commitment not to exceed the bid by more than 10%. Many homeowners have found themselves stuck with large home improvement bills due to the issuance...... middle of paper...... finishing the job all the way, even those little things! Too often, businesses forget about these little things and chase after big-budget projects. This is another reason to look for smaller, reputable contractors. Your house is now finished, I hope. You've decided to move in or sell. If you're moving in, I hope you're happy with your furniture, because at this point you're undoubtedly strapped for funds. Well, another project to look forward to, plan for and budget for! Perhaps you have fixed up this house to sell it, perhaps to a son or daughter's family. Family projects can be very rewarding, even a little stressful. This has been a learning experience for you and you've done it sane, I hope. I hope this was more rewarding than anything else.