In the process of revamping the kitchen (keep the cabinets but whitewash them, I do not like the current ubiquitous NYC "yellow" wood tone, also new backsplash, new stainless steel fridge, I may keep the current stove even though it is not stainless steel as it is fairly new and nice w vent, I may keep current countertops or replace w white granite as they are small in area) buy new toilet, the current is old and small, but the rest of the bathroom is nice!

All states give the Contr pretty serious lien rights for this very reason...Sometimes a Contr. will request a small amount up front for materials, and I think that is ok in some cases where the materials are a huge number (like cabinets), but if an established Contr does not have enough money in reserve to pay for some materials, then you do not want him working for you.

I tape the plan on the inside of a kitchen cabinet door so it is easy for them to find at any time. 

The property has 4 separate entrances and essentially 3 separate living spaces with relatively minimal work required; couple inside doors, add cabinets, sink and stove to complete a mother in-law. 

Open all cabinets and doors.G.

I letter each bedroom and place letters inside cabinet doors and fridge to dedicate space for everyone.

Even having a spreadsheet would have been better than my manual notes.Look for priority maintenance needs: water leaks under water heaters, inside under sink cabinets, clogged air filters, dripping faucets, etc. 

Updated the kitchen with new counters, cabinets, electrical, appliances.

Updated the kitchen with new counters, cabinets, electrical, appliances.

Things your contractor should know: there are no 2x4s in the place, the switches and outlets don't have standard boxes behind them, the subfloor in the bathrooms almost always needs to be redone, the cabinets can't hold granite unless you built a support structure, support under the house where there are tubs, and the roofs cannot have more than one layer of shingles.