Sometimes small projects keep getting bigger and bigger. If you are looking at changing or adding 50 percent of your living space and getting involved with some major plumbing, heating or electrical work, you’re getting into what remodeling contractors call “whole house renovation.”

“Usually the people considering whole house renovation love their property and can’t imagine finding a better view or a better piece of land anyplace else,” says Tim Englert. “But this is a major undertaking that can take many months to complete.”

You’ll want to select the best person for the job, considering not only the contractor’s experience and expertise but also personality. You want someone you will enjoy working with for the long haul. It’s important to keep open lines of communication and to always accommodate the family who has to live in the house throughout the process.