Converting your carport to a garage: how close are you to starting?

NOT VERY CLOSE YET: "I am not sure yet whether or not I want to convert my carport to a garage in San Mateo. First, I'd like to get informed about basic issues (like the typical costs to build a garage from out of a carport), then maybe to browse some before and after pictures of carports converted to garages."

GETTING CLOSER: "I do plan to enclose my carport. However, first, I have at least one specific question that I'd like to ask an expert, like about building permits, financing, property insurance, or smoke detectors. (Or, what I would really like is to learn what it would cost to add a particular feature to my plans for a new garage, such as a side entry door, a garage door with windows, an extra-high roof, or some other detail)."

VERY CLOSE: "I'm already finished with the basic feasibility planning and I am almost ready to go. Basically, I just need to select which contractor in San Mateo I will hire for the conversion of the carport in to a garage. Take me directly to where I can contact an estimator (plus receive a link to before and after pictures of past carport-to-garage conversions in San Mateo)."