I want to remodel my home. Where do I start?

Is this a total gut with an addition?

DIYnetwork.com or HGTV.com to find a "look" that you like...and print out pictures... to give the designer and or contractor a direction.... then HomeAdvisor.com or Angieslist.com to find a review checked and reference verified.. Designer or Contractor (or combo)... to help you....

Make a list of what you would LIKE to do ... use graph paper to draw out the current floor plan.... and also the "altered" floor plan.... the designer or contractor will let you know if what you "want" to do.... is what you will be "able" to do... and what will be necessary to make it happen at what cost... They should be able to advise you as to permit requirements and they should also have resources like plumbers and electricians for the job as well

first you need a reasonable budget. my real-estate go to is awesome. he suggested to me for my last remodel to calculate the square feet of the room to be done then figure out the cost of the room from the selling price of the house. i'm lousy at math. for that house, 25 usd per sq ft. you may get a different total. most of the time you can find a schematic of your place on line, giving you the dimensions. if not ..tape measure.

then find a contractor. get referrals at least 3, check with the better business bureau. your contractor will be well familiar with the currant codes and permits. inspections will be done periodically. this is a safety issue. no short cuts. they need to give you a time frame for completing the project. give them a penalty if the do not. be wary of up front give me all the money now types. explain that they will get paid when x is finished, and when y is finished, and when z is finished. I've seen a few take the money and use it to purchase materials for another site and not come back to finish a job.

it may be a total gut. if you can have a chat with the contractor...i took on the task of garbage removal and clean up,it might save you some money.. the best thing i did was consult with a kitchen planner. she came over to my place, measured a few places and the new cabinets and counter went in smoothly.

Thanks for the advise. Greatly appreciate it