1. Don't get caught with your pants down. You will need to develop a strategy for coping with and living around construction. For example: If you're doing a major remodeling job on the only bathroom in your house, make other living arrangements "in advance" for the period when your bathroom will be shut down.

2. Understand the impact on your neighbors and neighborhood. Know where your contractors and subcontractors can park their vehicles. Also, address the noise and disruption level to your neighbors lifestyle, and work with them. Most job problems that I have seen, come from a trusted neighbor calling the local inspector with a complaint.

3. Know your budget limitations. When you do a project, you need to know the exact amount of cash you have on hand and the limit you can borrow from the bank. That's the job budget -- stick with it, no matter how tempting it might be to exceed it! (Going over budget now and thinking we can find a way to afford it later, is what got us all in this mess!)

4. Require licenses, permits and insurance from your contractor. Whatever the minimum requirements in your area for contractors, you need to see proof of that license, insurance and/or registration from your contractor, and make sure permits are taken out.

5. Be available to make decisions. Don't lose sight of the fact that your contractor is working for you! Do some communication research and have a plan in place so the contractor can contact you quickly about major decisions for the project.

Remember, these are just five basic tips to help you get started, and I hope this "additional information" will help in the planning your new addition!