As spring approaches, many home owners grow eager to start remodeling projects to update their surroundings. Before getting started, it’s a good idea to hire a professional remodeler, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

A professional remodeler knows how to translate a homeowner’s dreams and budget into reality. They have the expertise to work with a home owner and make sure factors such as resale value, future uses for the space, whether the materials selected are appropriate for the family’s lifestyle, and other factors that a home owner may never have considered are fully evaluated.

Here are five tips for planning a successful home remodel that you can enjoy for many years to come:

1. Compile a list of home remodeling ideas and draft a budget for the work.
You likely have projects in mind, such as modernizing the bathroom, renovating the kitchen, replacing windows or repairing the roof. Prioritize your wish list: Maybe you don’t have the budget for your dream remodel, but professional remodelers can maximize your dollars by phasing the work, suggesting budget-friendly materials, and implementing creative design solutions.

2. Look for a professional remodeler to help plan the project.
Start by searching NAHB’s Directory of Professional Remodelers at www.nahb.org/remodel. You’ll get a list of nearby remodelers to contact. Asking friends and neighbors for names of qualified remodelers will also help you find a match for your project.

3. Check the references and background of the remodeler.
After you speak with remodelers and find one or two who match your project’s needs, be sure to conduct background research by checking with the Better Business Bureau, talking to their references, and asking if they belong to a trade association such as the SHBA. Remodelers with these qualities tend to be more reliable, better educated, and more likely to stay on top of construction and design trends.

4. Agree on a contract.
Talk over the details of the project and begin reviewing the contract. You’ll want to check the remodelers’ insurance coverage, ask about any warranties on their work, know who is responsible for obtaining any building permits, and understand the process for making any change orders after the contract is signed. Make sure that you and your remodeler see eye to eye before you sign on the dotted line.

5. Take advantage of the energy efficiency tax credits.
If your remodel includes replacing windows or doors, adding insulation, installing new roofing, upgrading heating or air-conditioning units, updating the water heater, or installing energy generating products (such as solar panels, heat pumps, or wind turbines) then you can take advantage of federal energy efficiency tax credits through 2010 that will help defray costs and maximize your remodeling budget while reducing home energy bills. Learn more at www.nahb.org/efficiencytaxcredit.

Premier Home Improvement Show – April 16-18
If you are looking for professionals who can assist you with all facets of your home improvement project, plan to attend the Premier Home Improvement Show presented by PROBuild. The show kicks off, April 16th - 18th at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center. For additional event details and a discount coupon go to www.SpokanesPremierShow.com.

For more tips on planning a home remodel or hiring a professional remodeler in Eastern Washington, go to www.SHBA.com or call (509) 532-4990.