Hello fellow neighbors with old creeky houses, drop ceilings, and faux wood paneling...we need your advice!   We are planning for what could be a major renovation/remodel of the first floor of our (we think) American Four-Square home, which at one time was converted into a 1st floor and 2nd/3rd floor duplex. We foresee dumpsters full of drop ceilings and faux paneling. We hope that sound and intact walls, ceilings, and old French or pocket doors lie beneath, but who knows! There are many mysteries, making it challenging to strategize. There is likely to be carpentry work involved, especially if walls and trim are not hiding beneath the faux paneling. This project also is likely to involve replacing hardwood floors, a bathroom remodel, correcting the stairway (which was redirected to accomodate the apartment), and possibly even a kitchen redo. We are having trouble imagining this project in small bites, and think it might be better completed as one big project rather than many smaller projects.   We are wondering how you have planned your similar projects, how you have developed a budget, and ultimately...how did you get started? Did you consult with a designer? An architect? Did you go straight to the remodeling contractor? Can you recommend any of the above?   Your input is greatly appreciated! We would especially like to hear your "hindsight is 20/20" feedback about what you woulda, coulda, shoulda done if you had it to do over.   Looking forward to hearing from you! Happy New Year! Mary