You might make scale drawings to show them. Drawing it out yourself forces you to think about the entire project.

Don't forget to mark all the electrical outlets you want.

The easier way to do it and apply all your ideas into one sucessful project is to hire an architect. Once he does a survey of the areas and everything that you would like to change, you will feel more comfortable!

If you need help in lifting this project off the floor with an architect, as an expediter I have a couple that are great to work with and the prices are very reasonable.
Ive worked with Architects for many different projects such as the polo store in SOHO, 1 Hanson Place (downtown brooklyn by the LIRR), Bulvgari, The "W' hotel...etc. so I am well known and very reliable.

Send me an email or give me a call..
718-844-1054
MVJ@tmo.blackberry.net

No, you don't need to necessarily know anything to meet with GC's and find out if that's who you want to work with. In fact they can be useful in getting ideas of what you want to do.

You will need as much detail as possible to get an accurate bid.

Somethings, like light fixtures, certainly don't need to be finalized to pull permits and get started. Other things like bathroom tubs and vanities should be finalized if possible.

Don't hire a GC that suggests doing an addition without getting permits.

There more detailed information especially regarding your finishings i.e plumbing, lighting fixtures, molding, doors, etc. the more accurate your bid will be.

I agree with kptwin...the more specific you can be, the better and more accurate your bid will be. And it will send a message to your GC that you know what you want, and tell him not to pull the wool over your eyes. Be very careful out there...there is more shoddy work by contractors than ever before.

Take your time finding someone, get at least 5 bids, including design/build (but they are usually more expensive). Hold firm to your wants and needs, and don't budge if the GC cannot or will not give you the exact fixture or appliance brand you want. Just have him pull it from the bid or give you an allowance for it...then go and buy it yourself.

In fact, you may be able to get most things cheaper than your GC can. Many GC's are heading in that direction nowadays...with the internet and GC supply houses that are open to the public, you can usually get his discount without his markup...all for being willing to do the research, pay the invoice, and bring the materials back to the job site. Saves him a lot of work and paperwork.

Even if he doesn't charge you markup on materials, he'll make it up with higher labor charges. They will try to get their money somehow.

The bigger stuff...like windows, doors, etc...you can work with him and see what he recommends. Be careful of certain large companies like Milgard which pay the biggest commissions and kickbacks to GC's. They are not necessarily the best windows, nor the cheapest.

As for flooring, if it's wood, know exactly what species you'd like, as well as what grade and stain/finish.

For other solid floorings, know what brand and color. Same for countertop materials. Check out Costco if there is one near you...you might be able to get cabinets/countertops, windows, blinds, closet systems, etc...much cheaper.

And know exactly what paint brand and color you'd like him to use.

The more you know, the less likely you'll end up with builder-grade materials.

Don't put measurements on the scale drawings. In our case, I did that just to give them an idea of what we wanted and they used those measurements verbatim for ordering, etc. (even though I TOLD THEM NOT TO.) and things turned out to be measured a little wrong.
Make sure you designate what brand and quality you are expecting otherwise they will give you the cheapest thing they can and mark it way up. Be very specific.
Most important: And when you are done, get a release of lien from him. That way if he does not pay his subcontractors they can't go after you for their $$.

Thanks everyone for the helpful information. I feel a lot more prepared now.