List names and contact information for materials, contractors and consultants. Keep track of any changes you decide to make If you and your contractor agree to change the scope of the work from that specified in the signed contract, use written change orders to make sure that all parties are clear on what is to be done and it's expected costs. For most people, a quality contractor will give you better results faster and at less cost. It may appear cheaper to do the project yourself if you assume that your time has no value and if you avoid making a major mistake. If you do do the project yourself, be prepared to take the extra time to learn to do it right.
Most contractors are reputable professionals.
Avoid the bad ones by hiring an ImproveNet pre-screened contractor. A clear understanding of your goals and a basic understanding of your home improvement project will allow you to be an effective team member and make sure that you get what you want. Technical know-how is the most important aspect of the home improvement process. The most important part of any project is honest communication between team members. You may lose a friend this way.