Having done a big reno quite a while back now and a few bits and bobs since, a really big factor for me is finding someone I actually like and get on with. If you get on with someone and feel comfortable with them, it's much easier to head off potential problems at the pass.

I've dealt with a few architects lately and it's the same deal. They could be the best architect in the world but if they don't laugh at my jokes, they ain't getting the gig. OK, I'm not quite as superficial as that but we had two around who were stony-faced and treated us like idiots.