Are you doing a complete remodel? Updating a kitchen or bathroom? Adding square footage or moving walls and plumbing will require a general contractor to ensure the project turns out the way you want.

If you hire an interior design or kitchen design firm, the company will have excellent resources, including general contractors. The designer wants a seamless, trouble-free project as much as you do, so she or he knows the best contractors to hire. Otherwise, the general contractor is in charge of scheduling, hiring, material estimation and acquisition, tear out, installation, waste disposal, permits, and insurance. All of the sub-contractors and their workers will report to him or her.

Ask for references. Most clients are happy to share their experiences. Certifications can indicate standards of professionalism and values. NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) offers the Certified Remodeler, Certified Remodeler Specialist, and Certified Lead Carpenter designations.

A general contractor can protect you by getting the proper building permits so your job is covered by your homeowner’s insurance. The firm will also provide worker’s compensation to cover workers who might get injured on your property.

Make certain the scope of the work is detailed in the estimate, so you know what, when and where work will be done.

Merry Christmas, homebuyer! Do not cash Mom and Dad’s check yet! Your loan could be denied if the money isn’t carefully documented.

Lenders require a paper trail for all monies, so no phone camera deposits. Gifts are limited in relationship to the total down payment. Some loan programs require the borrower to contribute at least 3% to 5% of the down payment if the down payment is less than 20%, while other programs allow the entire down payment to be supplied by a gift.

To avoid questions, provide a certified down-payment gift letter or sign an affidavit that explain:

• The amount of the gift, accompanied by a corresponding cashier’s check, including a photocopy of the check
• The name and address of the gift-giver and relationship the gift-giver has to the homebuyer
• The purpose of the gift – to be used only as a down payment on the subject property, complete with the property’s address
• A statement confirming that the gift is not a loan, and does not need to be repaid
• Signatures of the borrower and the gift-giver

If you’re planning to use a gift as part or all of your down payment, ask your lender about the requirements you must meet.