As homeowners, we don’t do this every day, that’s what it’s important to get organized, do your research, and stay on top of your project. The more effort you put in upfront, the smoother your project will progress and the more involved you are throughout the project, the closer the outcome will be to your expectations. When you’re just starting to think about a home improvement project such as remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, get organized by spending the time to scope out the ins and outs of the project to lay out the foundation of what you want to accomplish and how you’ll go about achieving it. Then, determine which resources you’ll need to accomplish your renovation. For larger projects (or if you’re less DIY-inclined) you’ll need to hire a general contractor or a specialized tradesperson who’s mastered their craft. Spend the time to find and vet the best tradesperson for your project and make sure you have a mutual understanding of your expected level of involvement throughout the project. Finally, stay on top of your project’s progress, quality, and budget to ensure your expectations are met. Even though you’re hiring someone to project manage, this is your home, and you are the most involved stakeholder. Keeping an eye on things during the project can save a lot of headache and potential rework down the line.