Home improvement resolutions

Do you have home improvement resolutions but don't know where to begin? If you need to kick a project into gear, consider these simple but motivating strategies:

• Seek inspiration and ideas. Check out HGTV, BHG.com (Better Homes and Gardens), your favorite shelter mag or furniture store.
• Enlist help from family and friends. There may be experts in your midst who would love to share their knowledge about your project. Do you admire your neighbor's garden? Ask how it got that way.
• Take a class at your local home improvement center or community college. Maybe you really can do it yourself!
• Solicit referrals. The people who are passionate about your plans (see above) probably know other folks who can help you.
• Check out professional organizations and Angie's List for pre-approved trades people.
• Take notes. Get a small notebook or use your smart phone to jot down all of your project particulars: room sizes, paint colors, sub-contractors' contact info, etc. You'll need it.
• Last but not least, check with your local government to determine whether or not a permit or licensed professional is required before starting any major work in or around your house.

Happy new year!