Yoel Borgenicht

In my last column I offered four renovation projects that you could live through if you did not want to move out.

Below are some projects that require move-outs--though sometimes, it’s just a short relocation.

Timing is the key to a successful renovation. If you’re wondering which pieces to do first, here are some chicken-and-egg scenarios for you:

1. What comes first -- architect or contractor?

Neither. There is no chicken-and-egg scenario when it comes to hiring an architect and contractor. You should select both your contractor and architect at the start of the design process. They can work together on estimating the cost of your renovation and use their common experiences to recommend materials and construction methodologies.

As a general contractor working in New York City, I encounter a lot of strange requests and tricky situations.

Here's a recent sampling--and a few tips should one of these scenarios resemble your situation.

1. The love nest

When a wealthy, older gentleman hired my firm to renovate a small apartment on the Upper East Side, I could not figure out why such an affluent person would own such a relatively modest home.

So, you've chosen a contractor. Before he can get started, make sure he completes the 10 duties listed below:

As a contractor working in New York City, I get to see a lot of extravagant homes and furnishings where price is not a concern.

Below is a list of some eye-popping projects I have worked on, and some more cost effective options for us mere mortals.