Maybe you coach your kid's little league team, or maybe you've even consulted with a life coach. But were you aware that in the field of home renovation there's a new coach in town? To help you play the remodeling game error-free, renovation coaches or consultants are sprouting up all over the country. These are people who've often had years of experience in real estate and renovation. Some have worked in some capacity as a contractor, and all have closely worked with a number of contractors and architects.

What's the Difference between a Contractor and a Renovation Coach?

The renovation coach plays a different role than your remodeling contractor. In fact, the renovation coach can act as a communicator between you and your contractor. In addition to taking care of building permit issues, providing information about different renovation products and materials, and giving ballpark estimates, renovation coaches can actually help you find a good remodeling contractor for your needs. And unlike contractors or architects, renovation coaches charge an hourly fee as opposed to a large sum to oversee the entire project.

You've Gotta Pay to Play

A renovation coach or consultant can save you thousands--even tens of thousands--of dollars on your remodel, and that's on top of the peace of mind you'll gain knowing someone's there for the sole purpose of helping you make the best decisions. But this guidance doesn't come cheap. Depending on your region, you can pay anywhere from one hundred to a few hundred dollars per hour for such expertise. Talk to anyone who has had a rough remodel experience--or a difficult time with an uncommunicative remodeling contractor--and they'll tell you that a little professional intervention can go a long way.

Source

• This Old House: Hand-Holders for Home Owners

About the Author
Ellen Foster is a freelance writer and teacher. She has taught students aged five to forty-five.