So, after much deliberation, you finally decided to renovate your home rather than move. The only problem is, you don't have a home improvement contractor and nor a clue of where find one. Relax. Many homeowners have been in this position before. It's not an easy task and it may take you some time to actually find a contractor that has the right mix of knowledge, expertise, skills and reputation. After you find one that has those qualities, hopefully they will fit within your estimated budget.

But lets not get ahead of ourselves. One of the first things you should do when searching for a local home improvement contractor is to create a list of qualities your contractor should have. Do your homework. Then ask your friends, family and neighbors that have renovated in the past for recommendations. Believe it or not, this is how many homeowners find their contractors. Is it the best way? Not necessarily. You can search forums in home improvement forums and time-lines or on sites like Service Magic or Angie's List. These are great resources that provide a wealth of information about home improvement contractors. Additionally, make sure to ask your real estate agent for a list of referrals as well. Most agents have a Rolodex of high quality local contractors and ancillary service providers that they work with.

After you have done your homework, it's time to compile a list home improvement contractors to interview. Make sure the home improvement contractor:

• Is properly Licensed to do the specific type of work in your area
• Is Insured
• Has workers compensation
• Has a recent list client references
• Has a recent Portfolio of similar completed projects
• Can show you active jobs in progress - Pictures, Video or a LIVE walk-through
• Is reputable - Check your local BBB Better Business Bureau
• Is a good listener and detailed oriented
• Is organized
• Will assign you a project manager that will keep you updated every step of the way
• Informs you whether they have an in-house crew or whether the use subcontractors
• Has some form of quality assurance program for the work they complete
• Provides a professional contract/agreement/scope of work to be signed by both parties

Make sure to get a detailed proposal and scope of work from each contractor with time-lines and a payment schedule based on project milestones. Without adding some structure and deliver ables, you run the risk of having your project drag on and on. Your payment schedule should be proportional to the work being completed within your agreement - avoid hefty down payments. It's important to note that you shouldn't let price necessarilly be the determining factor. Some may lowball you to get the job and some might high ball you in hopes of not geting the job. Select a contractor that meets the majority of your needs. As in most instances where contracts determine what will be done, read the fine print and make it as specific as possible.