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If you’re only hiring one or two experts, you may be able to handle it on your own. But if your project requires juggling a few jobs, and you have any doubts that you can run it all yourself, then your home, your wallet (and, uh, your sanity) may benefit from hiring a general to oversee it all for you. He or she will plot out a plan, make sure the subcontractors are licensed and insured, and deal with any roadblocks.

If your fear is about being ripped off or screwed over, negotiate with your contractor at the get-go. Try this trick: Ask your contractor to give you a realistic date of completion. Once you set a date, say you'll put a $100 penalty for every day they pass the deadline.

Nestpert Tom Silva of This Old House

-- Amy Spencer

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