Maria Patterson

Experts agree that any remodeling project that brings your home up to the level of your neighbors’ is a worthy...

A variance is a request made to your local jurisdiction to deviate from current zoning requirements. If granted, a variance...

Zoning regulations establish how the land can be used, either for residential, industrial, commercial or recreational purposes, or sometimes a...

There are many, including those surrounding zoning, permits, variances and building codes. All of these regulations are the government’s way...

Rather than price specific products or materials, many contractors prefer to use product allowances, an amount included in the contract...

If you have a legitimate complaint, keep after the contractor until the needed repairs or alterations are made. If this...

Plan ahead and create a realistic budget. Decide on the items and materials you would like to have in a...

According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, a well-written contract should contain the following information: The contractor’s name,...

Most projects require a set of basic services. They are as follows: preliminary, or schematic, design; design development; preparation of...

Ask questions that will give you a sense of the architect’s style, approach to design and methods of work. For...