We bought a fixer-upper in 1990 and started a major remodel in 1995. The house was eventually dismantled to the foundation as more defects were uncovered. Our 5 month construction project took over 14 months before we could move back in. During that time we lived at our next door neighbor's house (5 months), a coworker/friend (1 month), the neighbors across our street (6 months) and neighbors who lived up the street and were returning to the area after renting their house for many years (2 months). During that time, our neighbors/friends would only except a total of one month's rent to offset utility costs. Our cats (4) and dog were welcomed in each household and the cats never stressed out over the moves since they were still in their own neighborhood. We even managed to remain on good terms with each of our neighbors. Needless to say we were very fortunate. We sold that house last year when we moved to the South. We are currently renting. To make a long story short, we've got some experience in house construction and the typical delays. I actually enjoy the problem solving aspects of construction and the multiple decisions to be made. I refer to this as "builder's disease." My wife, on the other hand, dislikes uncertainty but is more understanding after our first construction experience.