1. Pick Your Project . Write down a list of all the remodeling projects you MIGHT want to complete in the next 12 to 18 months. Now narrow this list down to the top three or so. Focus on these and leave the rest aside.
2. Start a Folder . Create a file folder for each current remodeling project, e.g. bathroom, kitchen, deck, family room, etc. This can be a standard manila folder or envelope. Better yet, use your computer to create an electronic idea file (see below).
3. Clip and Rip . For the next 30-60 days read and rip. Tear out articles, ads, stories, and pictures that catch your eye and might be solutions or idea starters you can refer to later. Expect to end up with fat files and a ton of ideas. More is better.
4. Check out the Internet . All of the major appliance and bathroom fixture companies have wonderful websites with product and design ideas. Just type in the name of your favorite sink faucet manufacturer, for example, and you can quickly find the Internet link to the right website. Another excellent web resource is found at www.improvenet.com. This company has gathered a wide variety of product and design ideas along with the tools to help you estimate the costs for your dream project.
   At ImproveNet's website you can create an electronic idea file and see pictures of thousands of products. A special Idea File camera lets you take a "snap shot" and instantly add that to your personal file.
5. Sort and Share . Look at your entire pile of clips to find common design and idea themes. These reveal what you'd really like to accomplish. Then try writing a "word picture" of the project. This will help clarify the answers to questions you'll be asked by the contractor, designer, or architect. And the more detail up front, the better, since contractor change-orders drive costs up astronomically.

More articles from Moving.com