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Library Journal

Building one's home or planning a major remodeling project can take a heavy financial and emotional toll. Johnston, who has 15 years' experience as an owner's representative and construction project manager, has coordinated over 100 new construction, renovation, and historic preservation projects. Here, she provides a wealth of advice that will ease the burden of those who are considering a major housing project. Much of the text is devoted to planning and organization so that the homeowners are protected and get the most value for their money. Readers learn about the many people involved in a construction project-architects, contractors, and subcontractors-as well as about the numerous legal requirements related to permits and contracts. Johnston succeeds in clearly explaining a complex process in lay reader's terms. A bargain that belongs in most public libraries. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

Customer Reviews

Mark, A reviewer, 01/26/2007
The Most Informative Book on the Market!
Thank you Amy! You are a true innovator! 'What the 'Experts' may not tell you about...building or renovating your home' was extremely educational. This book is the pirate ship in the yatch club. The issues that need to be addressed are in this well written and strategically laid out renovation guide. After reading this book I feel that I know have the education I need to avoid many home renovation pitfalls.

A reviewer, 01/27/2006
Chock full of sound advice!
Ms. Johnston's book does not provide head-spinning technical information, rather it is a project management guide for the general public. We have found valuable advice that is easy to absorb through a clear, concise, step-by-step format. We are first time home builders with a project taking place 1000 miles from our current residence. The understanding of the construction process gained from this book has served us well. There have been a few times in our project to date that we have impressed the industry professionals and our confidence to complete our project on-time and on-budget is sound. This book is a true bargain when measured against the costs and anxiety of home building and renovation!

A reviewer, A reviewer, 11/23/2005
A great How to Book
Calling all people concerned in the building industry - Architects, Designers, through Realtors.....alert your clients to this book....you and they will be richly rewarded

A reviewer, a real estate developer, 08/08/2005
A book that tells you what you really need to know about construction
This book is an indispensable resource. It is appropriate for home remodels, new home builders, developers, and anyone getting started in the construction business. Read it and you will be able to converse professionally with architects, engineers, builders, and subcontractors. This is not a technical book on how to frame a house or plumb a bathroom. Rather, it gives you an insight into the construction process and a game plan to make sure that you are ready to deal with construction professionals. Amy Johnston's checklists and recommendations for various parts of the process are spot on. Follow her guidance and you will save thousands in time and money and navigate your way through the construction process with confidence.

A reviewer, Building my Dream Home, 07/21/2005
Your build/renovation must start with this book
After reading just about every construction book available, I stumbled across this one. It is the most important investment that you will make in your home. Amy Johnston details the steps in your construction project from an insider's perspective. She provides invaluable advice in selecting and working with contractors in a down-to-earth manner. The book includes anecdotes and personal experiences, and reads like a novel while providing you with fundamental information for your project. Make sure to have a pen handy while you read, because you're likely to want to take notes, or at least dog ear all the important pages!