Choose a contractor by breaking the process into steps. To begin, make a list of 10 to 20 contractors. Ask friends for references and utilize the Internet, Yellow Pages and newspaper ads.

In addition, “Use the Kitsap Home Builders’ Association website [www.kitsaphba.org] as a source for references,” said Art Castle, executive vice president of the Home Builders’ Association of Kitsap County. “For example ask for references from real estate agents, bankers, designers, interior decorators, cabinetmakers, architects, drywall contractors and plasterers.”

He added, “For people planning a remodel, we have a Remodeler’s Council with a national certification, the Certified Graduate Remodele (CGR), which are contractors specifically educated in that specialty.”

Plan telephone interviews with the contractors on the list. Do they speak knowledgeably? Be prepared to answer their questions: When does the project start? Is financing approved? What is the budget? What is the status of the building permit?

“Be wary of contractors who ask you to pick up the building permit,” Castle said. “In most instances, the contractor is required to pick up permits. Permits are your protection. Call the Washington Department of Labor and Industries at (800) 647-0982 to learn if contractors are currently registered and for how long. Find out if actions against contractors’ bonds are pending or have been taken in the past. Ask for the names of contractors’ insurance companies.”

Narrow the list of contractors. Hold interviews at the future job site, learning more about contractors’ qualifications and personalities. Ask them for proof of contractor’s license and at least eight customer references. Do they show up on time?

Next, ask the contractors for estimates. Estimates calculate the approximate cost of completing a general scope of work. Estimates guide the budget of the design process and evaluate potential contractors. Give the contractors basic drawings and specifications. Provide an itemized price list and ask for additional items needed to complete the project. Set a due date.

From the estimates and previous information, choose the final candidates to bid. Bids are offers to perform certain work for a specified sum.

“Solicit written bids,” Castle said. “Bids that are significantly lower than all others should be questioned.”

Homeowners usually hire the contractor who gives the lowest bid. However, consider quality of work, reputation and compatible personality. For the bid, give the contractors the detailed specifications and a final design based on cost. Set a due date.

“We prefer that customers work with contractors or consultants on their final design,” said Karen Monaco, partner of Builders’ Design Group of Bremerton. “We don’t want customers to go over budget.”

After contractors turn in their bids, sit down with them before making the final decision. Do bids include everything in the design and specifications? When can the job be started? Can a completion date be guaranteed? What is the charge for extra work? When are payments made and how much? If there is a misunderstanding, how will it be resolved?

Plan and be patient. Choosing a contractor is the cornerstone of building or remodeling a home.