BELOW ARE SOME VALUABLE LINKS IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO BUILD OR REMODEL YOUR OWN HOME:  

Here are two helpful links in determining the contractor licensing requirements for all 50 states: 

§  http://www.nascla.org/consumer_maplanding  National Association of State Contractor Licensing Agencies.  This is the most comprehensive website I have found with links to the licensing agencies most of the states, however some states are “unsupported” by this website.  This can mean that the State is not a participating member OR that there are no licensing requirements in that state. 
§  http://contractors-license.org/  this site provides more information regarding state licensing requirements without the difficulty of navigating through the site of the actual licensing agencies. 

Here is a link to locate an Upfront Mortgage Broker, that is one who has elected to provide full disclosure and operate in an upfront and transparent way:
http://www.upfrontmortgagebrokers.org/search_umb.asp

If you are wishing to Design and Build a new home, to help you find the exterior style that best suits you, as there are a variety of architectural styles to choose from, here is a helpful link:
http://www.realtor.com/Basics/AllAbout/TypesStyles/Index.asp  

To offset some of the expense in purchasing the more expensive Energy Star rated appliances go to this link to locate any rebates available in your zip code:
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=rebate.rebate_locator

If you are considering any renewable energy options, such as solar energy, go to this link to identify any state, local, federal and utility incentives and rebates that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency:
http://www.dsireusa.org/

You may be able to go greener and save some green at the same time!  

A way to seek out qualified contractors would be to advertise your project in an online plan room or builder’s exchange website as the members of these organizations are contractors, construction managers, subcontractors, suppliers, and other industry professionals.  In most cases, you can list your project free of charge.  This gives you the opportunity to upload your plans and specifications, list any applicable conditions, and choose a date for bids to be submitted.  If you choose to act as an Owner/Builder this is a great way to advertise for qualified subcontractor and supplier quotes.  Below are links to two sites I would recommend for ease of use and free project submission:
http://www.constructionjournal.com/pages/submit.aspx?tab=1
Note: This site serves a large portion of the East Coast of the United States

http://www.bidclerk.com/home-remodeling.html
Note: This site serves all 50 states and Puerto Rico