Look, if you're diving into the world of remodeling here in Denver, brace yourself. Prices ain't what they used to be. Kitchen remodels start at $25k, and that's for something basic. Full home additions? You're looking at $250-$400 per square foot. And don't even get me started on the cost of change orders when your 'simple' job turns into a nightmare because of foundation settling or unexpected surprises behind those walls. It's not a TV show, folks—it's your wallet we're talking about.

Here's the cold hard truth: not every contractor is the same. You got your general contractors, the jack-of-all-trades who manage the whole shebang. Then there're those specialized folks—plumbers and sparkies (electricians) who are always in short supply, trust me. Don't forget about the drywall hang experts or the folks who understand the intricacies of load-bearing walls. Each one has their role, and skimping on quality ain't gonna cut it when your roof is on the line.

I've seen too many folks fall into the trap of the unlicensed 'expert.' You need to do your homework—check licenses, insurance, and reviews. Don't trust a glossy website. Look for real testimonials. Visit job sites if you gotta. The city's permit office can be a pain (BUREAUCRACY!) but it's a necessary evil to ensure your contractor's legit. Ain't nobody got time for a project that drags on because you hired the wrong person.

Here's a little secret: big names don't always mean best quality. Some of the best work comes from companies that fly under the radar. Ask around—word of mouth is powerful in this business. Remember, relationships with subcontractors can make or break a job, and who you partner with impacts everything from cost to timeline. Google might give you a list, but your neighbor's recommendation? Priceless.

Alright, folks. Residential construction, it's personal. Commercial, it's a whole other beast. Different codes, different expectations. You might think you're just adding a space, but in commercial—every square foot counts differently, and costs can skyrocket. Understand what you're in for. Residential projects tend to have more flexibility but tighter budget constraints from homeowners who still think HGTV prices are real. Go commercial, and you're bound by lease agreements and endless inspections.

Don't rush it. I've seen projects meant for three months drag into a year because of seasonal construction delays due to snow or rain (Denver's weather can be unpredictable). Major projects have a rhythm, and when sparkies or plumbers are in short supply, it throws everything off. Factor in everything from soil issues causing foundation delays to the hassle of scheduling inspections that fit the city's timeline. Five months is optimistic for anything big. Patience, my friend.

Some do, some don't. Here's the reality: a 'free' estimate is only as good as the paper it's written on. A detailed estimate takes time and knowledge. If you're serious about the project, paying for a consultation might save you headaches down the line. Free estimates can lead to hidden costs later on. Clarify what's included and don't be afraid to ask the hard questions. Better to invest a little upfront than face a financial surprise later.