Preparing for a kitchen remodel before calling a professional

Do Your Homework

• Create a kitchen remodel budget
• Define your priorities 
• Ask around
• Research online
• Know your restrictions

Be Thorough With Your Kitchen Professional

• Be upfront with your expectations
• Contact your local Better Business Bureau to make sure your contractor hasn't had complaints
• Create a list of questions and makes sure your contractor can answer them
• Read the fine print
• Learn about permits and double check with your contractor

NADIA GELLER: Hi, I'm Nadia Geller, interior designer for Homestyler. I'm here on location at the Bellato showroom in New York City with some tips about what to do before you call a professional to help you with your kitchen remodel.
There are different types of professionals to choose from based on the needs you'll have.
Kitchen designers, contractors, electricians, plumbers and installers.
So what and who do you need?
A big part of that answer will depend on how much you're comfortable doing on your own and how much help you can afford.
Most important, do your homework.
Know your likes and dislikes and define your priorities.
For example, if a restaurant grade appliance is really important to you, you may need to spend less somewhere else.
One way to save is to do the initial budget planning yourself. {www.homestyler.com}
I've recreated this kitchen using Homestyler, which is a free online program that lets you design your kitchen in 2D and 3D.
Let me show you how you can identify some of the key decisions you'll want to consider before contacting a professional.
You can virtually build your kitchen before buying a thing. Try popping in different appliances, countertops, you name it.
The possibilities are endless.
You can try different layouts.
Even explore different colors and finishes.
Save all your designs online, then share them with potential design professionals and contractors, so you can get more than one bid.
Or print out your designs and take them with you if you meet in person.
Choose your contractor wisely.
Ask your friends for referrals.
Do call references, and always ask to see their license.
A few final notes, consider time as well as budget.
Things tend to take a lot longer than we allow.
If you need permits, that will add to your schedule.
And very important, check with your homeowner's association to find out if there are any rules about construction.
You need to know these before you start your remodel plans.
Some of them can be pretty strict.
{Before You Call A Professional}
{Define your priorities}
{Find licensed contractors with good references}
{Learn about permits}
{www.homestyler.com}
Good luck building your new kitchen.
I'm Nadia Geller.
To start designing your dream kitchen today, go to homestyler.com.
{To start designing today, go to www.homestyler.com}