I received the comment below on a previous blog post from a new Angie's List member in LA, but I thought I should call attention to it since I think it reflects the anxiety and confusion many homeowners have.

Loved all your info. I'm at a loss; a '46 duplex. I don't even vacuum myself. What do I do first? The exterminating, the yard tear down, the outside paint, the inside ceiling scraping,the inside paint, the floors, the blinds, the screens? FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, HELP ME.I also have a full time job! I want a modern 'zen' like look. What do I do FIRST? Do I hire a contractor or do one thing at a time? What are the priorities and where to I begin??? Oh, Miss Angie..puh-leeeeze help me.

We've consulted with a few highly-rated experts on Angie's List and here's our first update to "I have a house - now what?"

Your first step should be to find a reliable home inspector who can give you a professional assessment of the foundation, walls, roof, major appliances, etc. Address any safety issues before you launch into expensive cosmetic changes.

You can develop a priority list once you get your report from your home inspector. He or she will tell you if you have a need for extermination or major repair. You’ll also know whether you need a general contractor or if you can tackle projects in a series and oversee them yourself.

Next, determine if you want to live in the property, rent it out or sell it.

If you’re selling, you may want to invest in cosmetic or structural changes to increase your curb appeal and ability to sell.

If you’re thinking making it a rental property, you may want to take a more basic, sturdy approach.

If you’re planning to make the duplex your home, then you want to take the time to truly make it your castle.

So my advice is to take a deep breath, decide what you want to do with the property and start looking for a reliable home inspector. Let me know if you have questions after you get the inspection report!