We didn't build here but we did do two extensive renovations. It went great and the guys who did the work are still good friends. But we were here while it happened, didn't give the contractor all the money up front (at his request) and were involved with the whole process. Artisan makes good points. Definitely buy your own materials. It's not so much that people are bad, it's just that when you're not here they get distracted and people leave and don't come back all the time. Just stay involved in the process.