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Knowledge and careful planning are the keys to success here. Knowing the regulations is obviously important, but it's also essential to know the various town boards and agencies and how they operate. Serving on multiple Falmouth boards and committees has given me experience and insight, so I am able to guide my clients through the red tape. Every town is different. Make sure you work with a builder who is familiar with the way your town does business.

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In most cases, yes. For all but simple interior improvements and general repairs, an architect or design professional is important to achieving your desired results. If you already have an architect, that's great. If you don't, that's all right, too, because I can easily match you up with the right person once I understand the scope and style of your project.

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The contractor is responsible not only for the end result of the project, but also for the day-to-day appearance of the site. We always containerize debris immediately, both inside and out. No exceptions. We control for dust. Our goal is to leave every site cleaner than we have found it. It's part of our philosophy.

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Communication is the key to any successful project, whether it's for your primary or second home. In the latter case, you'll want to be available for occasional face-to-face meetings and frequent telephone or email communications. But just as importantly, we will provide you with images on a regular basis via email that will document our progress and keep you engaged in the process.

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Think of the three P's: planning, preparation, and product selection. Once you've established your budget, you need to make—and stick with—realistic decisions that will fall within your boundaries. It may not be easy, but to maintain construction scheduling and to keep costs from creeping upward, make your choices a) early and b) firm.

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Call me. Tell me what your dreams are, and I'll help you take it from there.