Consumer Resources

Welcome to Your Consumer Resources Center

Here you'll find a number of valuable resources for a consistently positive customer experience, including a reference guide to important consumer agencies, tips and advice from Chris Bjorklund, Consumer Advocate, and Frequently Asked Questions. Additionally, you can read current and archived issues of The Diamond Certified Consumer Report, our monthly newsletter. And check out Chris' Savvy Consumer blog. She's here to help!

Consumer tips you’ll find here:

Latest Savvy Consumer Tip

03/05/10
Part 2: Renovate or Relocate?

If you have a pent up desire to make changes to your home, having looked at design magazines and watched HGTV for months, you might want to first discuss your ideas with an architect. Mason Kirby, a Diamond Certified Architect, explains that a collaborative approach can be helpful and educational. The architect commonly plays the role of contractor, investment advisor, real estate agent, and even marriage and family counselor in helping you decide what to do.

Once you decide to renovate rather than move, an architect will assist you with the design, introduce your project to the contracting community, make sure the project bids are accurate and fair, and will help you find a good match with a contractor. Mr. Kirby says his goal is for you to like the person who is tearing out your kitchen sink and that you’re pleased with the job upon its completion.