Look, if you're dreaming of turning your old kitchen into the envy of Georgetown, it's gonna cost you. Kitchens start at $25k and that's if you don't get too fancy with the Italian marble. Here’s the cold hard truth: those home makeover shows? They're a FAIRY TALE. You’re looking at $250-$400 per square foot for full additions. And don't forget—the dreaded change orders will make your wallet weep. Foundation settling? Another dollar sinkhole. Always have a buffer, or you might end up refinancing your house.

I've seen every type of contractor from the 'jack-of-all-trades' handyman who's more trouble than he's worth, to the specialized sparkies and plumbers who are as rare as a loyal Redskins fan outside of D.C. Load-bearing walls? You need someone who knows their stuff—NOT some guy with a YouTube degree. Get licensed pros who understand the rough-in and drywall hang stages, or prepare for a costly lesson.

Here's the deal: the permit office is a BLACK HOLE for your time. You want to find a licensed contractor who knows their way around it. (Trust me, knowing a guy who knows a guy helps.) Check local directories, ask for lien waivers, and grill them like you’re the FBI. Online reviews? Take 'em with a grain of salt—the guy's mom could be writing them.

Look, 'best' is subjective, right? But I've heard good things about a few stalwarts who've been around the block a few times. You want someone who's survived DC's tough soil and seasonal construction delays. Word of mouth goes a long way here. Plus, the BEST companies know how to handle those damn weather-related delays without sending your costs through the roof.

Not all construction jobs are created equal. Residential projects can be a nightmare if you're not specific about what you want (and I mean EXACTLY), whereas commercial work often requires dealing with more red tape than you can imagine. Here's a tip: commercial projects might pay more, but the headaches can be just as costly. Think load-bearing calculations and endless code compliance checks.

Ever tried building something during a D.C. winter? Bad idea. Weather-related delays are a real killer. In perfect conditions? Major projects like full home remodels can take anywhere from 3-6 months. But you know how life is—unexpected detours pop up like those pesky tourists on the National Mall. Allow for delays in your timeline, or you'll drive yourself (and your contractor) insane.

Yeah, you'll get free estimates—just remember, they're often worth what you pay. It's a starting point. A handshake. A glimpse into the abyss of potential costs. You might think a free estimate is a ticket to savings, but let me tell ya, there’s always more lurking beneath the surface (like hidden plumbing issues or termites). Always budget for more, or regret it later.