Recently, a reader wrote in to the Home Interior Guide about the possibility that her father had been fleeced when he hired an interior decorator. Her question was, “What should you look for?” It got me thinking … aside from trying to find someone to realize your visions, or perhaps create something you never realized you would love, what are some important factors should you consider?

If you just want to re-style your house, for example paint your walls, change your window coverings, or choose new furnishing, go with a decorator. Keep in mind however that anyone can call themselves a decorator as there is no standard of accreditation. Decorators charge less, but buyer beware – sometimes you get what you pay for. Since there are no standards, the best thing to do (for anything) is to look at his/her portfolio, ask for references and check those references. Someone who is extremely happy with the job the decorator did on their home would recommend them, and flaunt their beautiful home, right?

If you’re thinking of changing the structure of your home in some respect, such as knocking down a few walls, you’re better off with a registered interior designer. An interior designer has graduated from an accredited design program, has completed four years of work experience in the design field, and must pass the international NCIDQ exam, according to Interior Designers of Canada.

Be clear about how much you want to spend and outline a schedule of deposits and payments. It’s always better for both parties to have everything in writing – don’t feel badly about doing that despite how friendly the relationship seems.

If it ends up that you are not satisfied with the professional you’ve gone with, have a frank talk about dissolving the contract.  You are still hiring professional services and if it doesn’t work out, you are entitled to find the right fit and be completely satisfied with the results. It is your home after all – and no pun intended – you do have to live with it.

Useful source links:

Interior Designers of Canada: http://www.interiordesigncanada.org

American Society of Interior Designers: http://www.asid.org

National Council for Interior Design Qualification: http://www.ncidq.org

Home Staging Article: http://www.canadianbusiness.com/my_money/spending/home/article.jsp?content=20050504_105659_6480&page=3

Interior Designer or Decorator article: http://www.canadianbusiness.com/my_money/spending/home/article.jsp?content=20060103_111157_5252

About.com article: http://interiordec.about.com/cs/hiringadesigner/a/hiredesigner.htm