​As we barrel towards the festive season, the time for family dinners and holiday cheer also sparks a wave of reflection on how our homes serve us. January through February often sees a surge in inquiries about extensions and improvements. So, whether you're dreaming of a larger kitchen, brighter spaces, or a more functional layout, this guide will walk you through the DOs and DON’Ts of home improvement with a sprinkle of wit and practical advice.

​Imagine it’s a chilly Friday morning, and your builder just… vanishes. One moment they’re promising smooth sailing, and the next, they’re MIA. That’s exactly what happened to a client of mine not too long ago, and let me tell you, scrambling to track them down was not how I planned to spend my day. That chaotic experience taught me some valuable lessons about finding and working with builders—lessons you won’t find in any how-to guide. Here’s what I’ve learned (the hard way!) about picking the right builder.