Quote Originally Posted by ny biker View Post
So, is there a good rule of thumb for budgeting? Such as, assume you'll spend X% more than the contractor's estimate once everything is final?
Yes! Your remodel will either cost twice as much, take twice as long or both

As for finding the right contractor, do your research, follow up on their references. Yes if there is someone local who you know their clients, have seen the homes, that is worth a lot.