Whether you've just bought your new home and want to make some changes or are working to get the place in shape before you sell it, finding the right contractor can be the hardest part! Most people don't have an extensive list of every kind of contractor they might need. And looking at phone book ads or a bulletin board full of business cards really doesn't make you feel warm and fuzzy.

The Federal Trade Commission has a web site that's a great guide to finding and choosing a contractor. It can tell you how to check references how to pay them and just about everything else you'd want to know about how to get the right person for the job.

Check it out. And don't forget to give me a call or send me an e-mail if you're at a loss. I recommend professionals all the time and usually have a short list of people I've used or my clients have used and recommended. And, any time you've used someone and are really happy with the experience, I'd love to know. You can't have too many good workmen on your list!