After reviewing bid after bid from contractors, you search desperately for ways to reduce the cost of your remodeling project.

You realize that the general contractor's fee is typically 15-30 percent of the project cost. Sounds tempting, perhaps, but should you consider supervising the project yourself?

The answer depends on several factors. Homeowners and contractors suggest that anyone considering such a venture understand and appreciate the knowledge and time commitment required, as well as the potential pitfalls.

You may be asking yourself, What does a general contractor do? In short, he:

• Oversees all the project details
• Hires and schedules subcontractors
• Inspects the subcontractors' work
• Orders supplies and oversees their installation
• Helps to resolve design or logistical issues.

Whew. It's not an easy task.

Bobbie and Vern Schultz discovered how much work is involved when they supervised the remodeling of their three-bedroom, two-and-one-half-bath condominium in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood.

Bobbie was self-employed and reduced her work schedule to allow time for supervising the project. She then interviewed, requested bids and hired subcontractors to install tile, wood floors, kitchen cabinets and other materials.

While the work progressed fairly well, she was unprepared for the number of decisions she was asked to make every day, and the amount of time needed to schedule and work with the subcontractors and find the supplies.

Do you have what it takes to be your own general contractor? Consider the following:

• Can you make yourself available during the day while the work is being done?
• Are you comfortable supervising others?
• Do you have strong problem-solving skills?
• Are you able to juggle multiple tasks?
• Are you willing to educate yourself about the particulars of your remodeling project?
  

Tips for success

Contractors typically recommend that homeowners limit their general contracting work to small projects that involve supervising only one or two different tradespeople. They say that those who have plenty of free time because they are retired, work seasonal jobs or are self-employed are the best suited for managing a remodeling project.

Also, keep your budget on target by breaking down the original contractor's estimate. How much was the fee for general contracting? How much were the subcontractors charging for electrical, plumbing, etc.? Then look for other subcontractors who will provide the same level of work for a similar price.