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Purchasing an old farmhouse which includes a list of remodeling projects to last a lifetime has given me some pointers which I'd like to pass along to help others tackle a remodeling project in a much more efficient and stress-free manner.

Budget: The best first step in planning a remodeling project is to come up with a budget, an amount you feel confident will work for you. It's never set in stone, but setting a spending limit ensures that you will complete the project. Once a budget amount is calculated, you will have a better idea of where to spend the most money and which area to shop "discount". It's easier to have a set amount in mind because you will soon learn that there are so many new and neat remodeling materials not to mention cool decorating ideas. Money adds up very quickly and disappears just as fast.

Ideas: I found it extremely helpful to cut out magazine pictures or print pictures from on-line sources and assemble in a scrapbook or old photo album. This gives you an idea of the look and project you're hoping to accomplish. Paint chips and fabric swatches are also a great addition to your collection along with drawings. Another note: I also wrote down the websites of ideas/materials that I liked. It's a lot easier to find what you favor once you make decisions.

Pencil & paper: Using graph paper is the easiest way to see the lay out of your remodeling project with notes, measurements, room dimensions, and drawings. I'm not a professional and my sketches aren't to scale, but mapping out a room and showing windows and doorways, etc. makes it easier to picture the overall design. Measurements are then written as a side note (for example: wall between door and window 7 ft.).

Shopping list: Write down all materials needed to complete your project. Also include pricing. I personally comparison shop by writing down the store name and price before making a purchase or decision. This helps to track the budget amount also and keep you on track. Be sure to include "misc." on your shopping list for things you wouldn't consider you'd need to buy, but do need (supplies/etc.). The small things add up quickly! (I also prefer to pay $5.99 at a discount store as opposed to $9.99 at the department store and it saves time returning things!)

Organization: Keep an envelope marked "receipts" for all of your receipts! I keep mine handy in my purse or car, but keeping it with your scrapbook is also a good idea. Not only will this help tracking what you've spent, it's extremely

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