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Tamer Construction has taken the time to organize any tips that we feel would benefit someone looking to build or remodel. These tips come from years of experience in the industry. We feel that sharing this knowledge with consumers is not an option for contractors, but rather it is a responsibility.

Finding a qualified professional remodeling contractor doesn't have to be a difficult task. By following these guidelines, you will make the selection process easier and be better prepared to make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

Employ a contractor with an established business in your area. Local firms can be checked through references from past customers in your community. Local remodelers are compelled to perform satisfactory work for their businesses to survive.

Look for a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). The NARI logo is the mark of a professional.

Many states, but not all, require contractors to be licensed and/or bonded. Contact your state or local licensing agencies to ensure the contractor meets all requirements.

Check the remodeling contractor with the government Consumer Affairs Office and the Better Business Bureau to ensure there is no adverse file on record.

Ask to see a copy of the contractor's certificate of insurance or for the name of his or her insurance agency to verify coverage. Most states require a contractor to carry worker's compensation, property damage, and personal liability insurance. Make sure the contractor's insurance coverage meets all state minimum requirements.

If you solicit bids from several different contractors, be sure they are bidding on the same scope and quality of work. Discuss variations in bids and beware of any bid that is substantially lower than the others.

Ask for references and follow up. Don't be afraid to ask specific questions such as: "Did the contractor begin the work on time?" "Was the job site kept neat?" "Did the contractor stay in touch throughout the project?" and "Would you use this contractor again without hesitation?" Ask to see the finished project. Make sure you are satisfied with the quality of work.

Comply with local codes and permits. Building codes have been established by most cities, towns, and counties. A building permit generally is required whenever structural work is involved or when the basic living area of a home is to be changed. Do not obtain your own building permit - in most jurisdictions, the individual obtaining the permit is considered to be the contractor and is, therefore, liable if the work does not comply with local building codes.

Is remodeling something you really want to do or should you move? Which is the better choice? If you do remodel, should you do-it-yourself (DIY) or hire a professional? If you hire someone, which type of professional should you choose? There are so many questions to ask yourself before you make a firm decision to remodel.

Remodeling and moving are both significant financial investments. The difference between the two investments is where the money is going. In remodeling, the money is being reinvested. However, remodeling cannot offer a change of neighborhood or school system. If these are the reasons you want to make a change, remodeling may not be the right answer for you.

The American Homeowner Foundation states the cost for selling your home and moving is at least 10 percent of your current home's value which covers such costs as real estate commissions and the termite inspection. This amount does not include the following costs though:

The actual moving and storage costs, which could be an additional several thousand dollars, depending on the distance of the move and the weight of your household belongings.
The cost of any cosmetic work that needs to be done to put the house on the market.
Any housekeeping services to maintain the house while it is on the market.
Any discrepancies between the listing price and the sale price.
Or the risk of not selling the home.

Moving can be a serious financial drain. While you are adding up costs, don't forget to tack on those incidental items you always need after a move: new shelf paper, plants, curtains, etc.

However, if you are looking for a new area to raise your children or a dramatically different home, then moving may be a good investment of your money.

Then again, how much remodeling could you do with 10 percent (or more) of the value of your home? Could you change the parts of the house that you don't like? Before you pull up stakes and move to a bigger home, decide what it is you want to change. Do you want more space? More light? A new style?

Most of those can be accomplished through remodeling. The best way to approach this decision is to contact a professional remodeler to find out what is possible in your particular home and to establish an estimated budget. With this information, you will be able to make an informed decision.