The Unofficial Guide to Hiring Contractors

For most people, the mere thought of hiring a contractor is enough to induce nightmares of epic proportions--crazed contractors showing up late, leaving early, and offering shoddy workmanship at best, all to the tune of some figure that's 10 times what was originally promised. If this sounds all too familiar, and you're looking at diving into a home-improvement or remodeling project, pick up Duncan C. Stephen's The Unofficial Guide to Hiring Contractors. Stephens, who lived through the complete remodel of his 750-square-foot ranch-style home--now a 1,600-square-foot Cape Cod--knows whereof he speaks. From finding a contractor and surviving the remodeling ordeal to controlling the work and wrapping up the job--as well as additional in-depth discussions of specific remodeling projects, a resource guide, and helpful charts and checklists--Stephens's expert advice will get you on the road to the home of your dreams.