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1. Define scope: Create idea portfolio when at all interested in an exact look. Even sketches can aid in planning. Start this at least six months out to locate theme.

2. Determine budget: Hopefully your budget allows for your wants. But, ‘where to draw the line’ factors are key here- property value, length at residence, other neighboring sales, and what can we do right now?

3. Consider function: Are the needed elements ergonomic? Do special needs exist?

4. Existing space: Re-work and restore to original, or change to a more modern look? This is YOUR home…what do you want to look at every day?

5. Contractor connections: Are you using the contractor’s architect to submit plans to city? Do you understand need for code/permits/building practices? Does contractor have ability to locate whatever you may need, offer more thoughts and inspiration prior to start? Are you willing to track down samples before work begins?

6. Placement of features: Which side of home should be open with big windows to landscape, and which covered for privacy? Is entry located in user-friendly spot? Is fireplace in an unflattering location? Is that door really needed there or can we remove it?

7. Materials used: Do you like- wood, concrete, metal, glass, painted drywall, composite materials, etc? Do you like glass doorknobs or metal? This is important to tying all elements together in the design process.

8. Feature trade-offs: Will you add windows, or arrange for a better lighting system? Will you build the retaining wall needed, or opt for heavy landscape and go with the water feature you always wanted? Do you want extremely cheap to operate and amazingly effective heating, or go with the traditional heat/ac system with vents everywhere and all the warmth up above 6′? Will you go with smooth wall finishes throughout, or get more involved with framing extras and spray texture everything?

This list is about 25 to 50 questions deep to determine trade-offs with budget and to speed the bidding. So start your list right away!

9. Timeframe: What is the desired completion date, or is that not a factor? Will all work be performed with client on site or gone? What will weather conditions hinder or benefit?

10. Monetary schedule: All jobs are different…what will you need to know regarding payments to GC and progress timeline? Do you need to show liquidity if project is over a certain dollar amount? Were the GC’s subs paid?

11. Details during project: Is there something that is not to your liking? Is that not the right place for that, now that it is there? Should this be bigger/smaller? Changes cost money, so catching them right after mock up is vital to keeping things as cost effective as possible. But this always happens, stay on top of it.