Finding the remodelor for you is not as simple as looking through the phone book or picking up the classifieds. On a big project, you may be working closely with this individual for several months, so you want to do everything possible to ensure you make the right decision. After all, they will be working on YOUR home! Where should you start? Professional trade organizations such as the Remodelors Council or the Home Builders Association are the best places to begin your search. The criteria for membership in these associations are stringent; therefore only the most professional and ethical remodelers become members.

What questions should you ask?
When you discuss what you'd like to do, does the remodelor show enthusiasm for your ideas and suggest ways to make them work better? Is customer service emphasized? Will they work within your budget constraints? Do they seem organized when you discuss the job with them? Are their business materials neat, professional, and complete (business cards, flyers, etc.)? Do they carry insurance to protect you from claims arising from property damage or job site injuries? Do they offer a warranty? Will they arrange for the builder's permit? Do they specialize in particular types of projects?

How do you choose?
When you hire a remodelor, you are buying a service rather than a product. The quality of service the remodelor provides will determine the quality of the finished product and your satisfaction with it. Only choose a remodelor who returns your phone calls, answers your questions, and has a trustworthy reputation.

Choose a Certified Graduate Remodelor™ ! Designed to emphasize business management skills as the key to a professional remodeling operation, CGR certification requires that graduates meet prescribed standards of business practice, have proven track records of successful project management, complete a comprehensive training curriculum, and pledge to uphold the program's rigorous code of ethics.

Graduates of the CGR program must meet re-certification criteria every three years. Requirements include: attendance at remodeling industry trade shows, business-related seminars and continuing education workshops, proof of insurance and letters of recommendation from suppliers and financial institutions.

All Certified Graduate Remodelors™ must have owned or managed a remodeling business for at least five years, and must be approved by a nine-member board of governors. Only individual remodelors can earn the CGR designation; CGR does not apply to companies or their employees. In addition, all CGR's must provide reference letters, proof of business insurance, and licensing information, (if required by state law), to the board before they are approved for certification.

How to Select a Reputable Contractor?
A home is the biggest investment most people ever make. Don't entrust your dream to just anyone. Check out the contractor before you hire one.

Call your local Home Builders Association for references or a list of their members. Take your time. Most problems occur when consumers fail to investigate contractors carefully before hiring them. Inquire about the contractor's Workers Compensation and general liability insurance. They should be adequate to protect you and your property against legal action if an accident occurs on the job site. Ask someone who has had work done by the contractor about the contractor's capabilities and quality of workmanship. Ask to see the contractor's work. Check for yourself the quality of work and design.

• Call the local Better Business Bureau, Consumer Affairs office and Chamber of Commerce. They can alert you to known problems.
• Make sure the contractor has a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers.
• Incorporate any warranties, guarantees or other promises in your written contract.
• Be specific about starting and completion dates. Some delays are unavoidable and beyond the contractor's control.
• Be wary of an unusual low bid or low advertise price. If a contractor cannot pay for labor, materials and overhead, you are both in trouble.
• Select a contractor you are comfortable with, one who understands your tastes and needs and with whom you can communicate well.