So you and your family have decided to pull the trigger on a home remodel. Now what? You have an internet full of options and a dusty copy of the yellow pages. Before you call anyone you need to make sure that you have done your homework.

Here is a good question to start with. What is the difference between home remodelers and home contractor?

There are some projects that a home remodeler might not be able to do.

Trades, such as a plumbing or electric work, require licensing, so you will need to check local licensing agency to see if the handyman is properly licensed, or if your project requires one.

If you hire someone who isn’t licensed then you will be liable on the financial side should damage happen on the job, and lets face it no one wants to deal with that.

Don’t misunderstand what we are saying there are some jobs that are great to call a home remodeler for, take plumbing as an example you don’t need a contractor to change out your toilet. However you do need a plumber to change out plumbing lines.

A good home remodeler knows their limitations and will let you know when a project is out of their scope of work. Contractors are often the better bet because of the licensing that comes along with a skill set required to tackle the more difficult jobs.

It is recommended to ask for accreditations from your service provider, things like a good rating from the BBB, affiliations with local home builders, Angie’s list and as always personal references.