2. "Home Remodeling for Dummies" (Paperback) by Morris Carey and James Carey - Also brought to you by the "For Dummies" empire, this book is written by remodeling contractors who know what they are talking about. The Carey's teach the reader how to deal with government officials, contractors, the bidding process, the construction site called home, etc. With line drawing provided to help even the most novice of re-modelers this book is an excellent option for those looking to remodel.

3. "Home Renovation Checklist: Everything You Need to Know to Save Money, Time, and Your Sanity" (Paperback) by Robert Irwin - Robert Irwin is considered one of the real estate world's most experienced renovators. Irwin helps to delineate jobs to the point that the reader is better able to make decisions regarding whether or not to do certain projects alone or to hire out contractors for the work. This book is written in a question and answer format that is designed to help the reader to consider all of the different issues that might be present for them in their remodel. Home improvement topics are well covered and there are lots of examples of both the right and the wrong way to approach various renovation projects around the house.

4. "The Incredible Complete Remodeling Workbook and Organizer" by Dan Fritschen - This unique book that serves as a workbook that the homeowners can use to personalize their building and remodeling experience puts a spin on the traditional home-improvement books and may be able to help you make more personal applications to the tasks that you are working on.

5. "Independent Builder: Designing & Building a House Your Own Way" (Real Goods Independent Living Books) (Paperback) by Sam Clark - This top-pick book is known for its comprehensive covering of topics that are not typically discussed in other books of its kind. Such topics as how to make a small house seem bigger, incorporating ergonomics and accessibility, doing your own drawings and scale models, making contracts that work, and working effectively with professional designers and builders are all discussed in this book.

6. HGTV (books and videos) - Sometimes books don't provide you with the kind of remodeling or building help that you are looking for. If you are looking for a more multi-media approach that will supplement your literary findings, HGTV offers coordinating television episodes and books that may help those who have a more difficult time visualizing a home improvement project from the pages of a book. A listing of home improvement and remodeling books available through HGTV can be found by visiting their website at: http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/rm_books_videos/0,1796,HGTV_3665,00.html