Start with a solid plan. If your decision is to add to
your existing residence, don't make the mistake of letting an
architect control the project. The home owner all to often
puts the entire decision and plan in the hands of the
architect. All additions and remodels should have three main
components: home owner, contractor and architect.
Remodeling:
Remodeling can very often be done successfully with a
good experienced general contractor. Pick a contractor with
the primary concern of experience; the more years the
contractor has been in business, the better. There's a reason
he's been around so long, weathering recessions. Make sure he
is licensed in your state. Most projects can be handled
without the involvement of expensive architects.