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Contracting

Couple upset at work done by a bad contractor

How To Fight Back Against a Bad Contractor

You have options for recourse if a contractor disappears or does shoddy work, but which action to take depends on the particulars of your situation. Read More

Progress K
Effort Low 1 hr-1 day (legal consult)
Investment Low $500-$1,000 (legal consult)
Added to Binder
Building official visiting house construction area

The Top 5 Contractor Scams and How to Avoid Them

Protect yourself against unscrupulous contractors by learning about the warning signs of these common home-improvement scams. Read More

Progress K
Effort Med 3 wknds (interview contractors)
Investment Low $0
Added to Binder
Architect and client discussing architectural model

Do You Need an Architect for Your Remodeling Project?

An architect can add to the cost of your remodeling project, but there are times when it pays to hire a design professional. Read More

Progress K
Effort High 3-6 mos added to job
Investment High $5,000-$20,000 (on $100,000 job)
Added to Binder
Architect studying home remodeling plans

7 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Architect

The answers to these questions will help you zero in on the architect who’s right for your project, your budget, and your personality. Read More

Progress K
Effort High 3-6 mos added to job
Investment High $5,000-$20,000 (on $100,000 job)
Added to Binder
Man's hand signing construction contract

What Your Remodeling Contract Should Say

Review your remodeling contract carefully and adjust it to make sure it protects you in terms of payments, work schedules, and project specifications. Read More

Progress K
Effort Low 3 hrs (review contract)
Investment Low $0
Added to Binder
Client discussing home renovation with contractor

Getting the Best Work from Your Contractor

Working with a contractor takes effort and know-how in order to keep your project on time and on budget. Read More

Progress K
Effort High 1 hr/day (checking job site)
Investment Low $0
Added to Binder
Ladder leaning against wall in otherwise empty room

What to Do If a Contractor Puts a Lien on Your House

If a contractor puts a lien on your house, you’ll have to fight to keep your house out of foreclosure. Here’s how to defend yourself. Read More

Progress K
Investment Low $1,000 (attorney reviews lien)
Added to Binder
Contractor talking on telephone with client

5 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor

You’re ready to remodel but you want to make sure you get the best contractor for the job. Here’s what to ask the candidates before you decide. Read More

Progress K
Effort Med 3 wknds (interview contractors)
Investment Low $0
Added to Binder
Man painting his home's fence

When It Pays to Do It Yourself

Doing home-improvement jobs yourself can be a smart way to save money, but choose the right DIY projects or you’ll end up paying dearly. Read More

Progress $ K
Save Money Med $120/mo (2 mows, .5-acre lawn)
Effort Low 1-2 hrs to mow
Investment Low $200-$400 (walk-behind mower)
Added to Binder
Home Security Check

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