Tips from a Contractor:

Find a contractor you can work with, negotiate with and enjoy talking with. Referrals are a great way to go.

Good carpenters are easy to find, but finding a contractor with the necessary business skills; well, that's a different story.

Find a contractor that builds houses like you want yours built. I can't think of anything worse than building a house that I don't like.

Once you narrow your selection, check out the contractor's background and credentials. Request references and assess the quality of their completed work. Ask for proof of the contractor's insurance. license and compliance with workman's compensation and check expiration dates. Also, contact your local Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org).to run a complaint check.