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It is important that you have as many of the individual elements 52; such as doors, cabinetry, hardware, wall finishes, plumbing, lighting fixtures and flooring products 52; itemized and clearly identified.

During initial discussions at the outset of the building or renovation process, it is imperative that you and your contractor review all the individual products and finishing specifications and have them detailed on a contract.

Rather than specify products, your contractor might opt to grant an allowance: This may be a lump sum or a per-square-foot amount. Do your homework before signing the contract. Visit a supplier or two and find out if this sum will be adequate or if you will need to supplement it. Better to know beforehand than to be surprised and blow the budget.

You will want to spell out every detail, from the model number and specified finish of a door handle, to a brand and specific line of paint. Quality can vary greatly even within the same paint line.

As you meet with individual salespeople or suppliers, you will be introduced to many options, upgrades and alternative products. It is important to be open to suggestions and to review their recommendations carefully.

Suppliers' salespeople might be hoping that you choose to upgrade. Your builder has most likely negotiated a "good deal" with the supplier (hence, the salesperson is not making a lot of money and quite often is working on a commission basis).

You want to make informed and educated decisions when choosing to upgrade a product, accept a substitution or retain a contractor -specified item.

If you decide on a product other than one specified by the contractor be sure to get all the information and commitment to use the product in writing. It should be signed by both you and the contractor. Your contractor 's initials should appear on all change orders so nobody will be able to claim that they were not aware of the product change.

Your product specifications sheet should be, well, specific. Never leave anything to chance. Include the brand name, model numbers, colour code and name, delivery dates and any other information available. Be sure the contract clearly states that no substitutions are allowed without written approval from you. Many a homeowner will be caught up in the excitement of renovation or building a new home and their budget is quickly overrun by upgrades.