You can save a great deal of time and money by setting a clear set of goals before contacting a construction professional. Take the following first steps:

1. Get a clear picture.

Ideas of how you want your finished project to look can come from a number of sources. Consider:

• visiting homes
• attending home shows
• looking through home design books and magazines
• viewing related web sites and TV shows.

Keep a folder of all your thoughts so you can relate these to an expert when you meet.

2. Think about the space.

• Consider how you will use the newly renovated or constructed space.
• Think about compatibility.
• Think about the space in day and night and throughout the seasons.
• If considering a renovation, think about how the project should blend with the rest of the existing structure. Will the existing structural design limit what can be done?
• Think about the need to blend with your lifestyle.

3. Examine your finances.

• Consider what you have to spend and how you will finance the project.
• Plan the project in distinct, manageable phases.
• Set a list of key project priorities to help maintain the budget.

4. Do your homework.

When looking for a building or renovation specialist, refer to the advice of:

• Friends and colleagues – Rely on their first-hand experience.
• Your Local Home Builders’ Association – They have a listing of local, professional renovators.
• The Ontario Home Builders Association and the Ontario Renovators Council – They support members of your local Home Builders Association.

OHBA site/Peterborough Site

Source: The Ontario Home Builders’ Association.