pixy0stix , how did the basement go? We're gearing up for our own reno - any tips, take aways, do-overs, etc.?
Good luck w/the new projects!
Get a really good contractor who won't fuck around and take forever. Our 6-8 week project took 6 months because the contractor flaked and he had other contractors who owed him "favors" come in and finish it. We had to compromise on some things because they just wouldn't ever get done if they were to be done to our specs.