Tips for home remodeling projects

 If you're thinking of doing some home repairs, but you don't know where to start, consumer group Angie's List has some advice.

"If you are considering tackling a home improvement project the first things consumers should do is a full assessment of your house. Don't think about your budget, walk around your house like you are going to buy it. Write down everything you see. Prioritize the list and lay your budget against it, that way you can avoid surprises," says Angie Hicks of Angie's List.

If you have a large project you may want to consider hiring a general contractor.  If it is a small job a handyman may be a good choice.

Angie's List says these are the benefits of hiring a handyman:
·    Typically skilled in many areas and can perform multiple projects in one visit.
·    Tend to have less overhead than a contractor since they typically don't hire employees and require less specialized equipment - which means less cost to you.

More tips from Angie's List:
·    Make a list: Have this list on hand on what's important to you when you call to make an appointment. Talk through your list with the handyman or contractor. Although handymen are generally considered jacks-of-all-trades, most will have particular areas of expertise. Before hiring, make sure they have all the skills necessary to complete the work to your satisfaction.
·    Does the work require a licensed professional? Every state/city varies when it comes to whether a handyman requires a license. If a license is not required for a handyman, but the locality requires it for plumbers or electricians, then handymen either need to be licensed for those trades or they must subcontract that part of the job to a licensed trades person.
·    Get three estimates: Talk to at least three different handymen. Get estimates on price and how long it will take to complete your list of projects. Most handymen will provide free estimates and depending on the length of the wish list, will break down labor costs for each item on the list. That way you can pick and choose which items you want done within their prioritized list. Ask for and check references.
·    Know what's included in the price: Ask if they charge a flat rate or by the hour. Are they charging you a trip fee? Can you purchase the supplies yourself, rather than paying for the handyman's drive time to-and-from the home improvement store?
·    Prepare ahead of time: Prepping your home for the handyman visit may save you money - especially if the handyman charges by the hour. For example, if there's an issue with your sink, remove all the items from underneath it.
·    When you find a good handyman, keep him! A handyman can become a good resource for you, especially if you use him/her regularly. He/she will come to know your house and can help identify issues before they become costly problems. Keep the contact number in your cell phone.