General

Out of the entire remodeling process, what would you say is the most stressful? Personally, I would say hiring a contractor is the most stressful part. Without a good contractor your remodeling dreams may not come true. However, I know finding the right fit for you can be extremely tedious and nerve-racking. That’s why I am here to help! I’m going to give you a few tips to keep in mind when looking for a contractor.

First and foremost be sure to get a background check! The Better Business Bureau offers them, as well as the Department of Consumer Protection. It is super imperative you do this so you can rest easier when hiring a contractor. In addition, if something were to go wrong halfway through the project, they will be able to help you out. Background checks are extremely important when you’re dealing with a home. You want to be sure you’re putting your money in the right place.

Positive Word-of-Mouth

Ask your neighbors and friends for references before hiring a contractor. The best way to find out about a product or service is positive word of mouth. If your neighbors recommend someone, they are most likely going to do a stand up job. Most people are more likely to trust their friend’s opinion over a review from the internet.

If you are still unsure, ask them if you can check out some of the work the contractor did for them. It doesn’t hurt to ask! Once you’ve asked around and made a list of a few names, start making phone calls. Set up a time for you and the contractor to have a phone interview. Be sure to ask questions about their work and give details about the project you might have them do. Also, it would be good to find out how many other projects they might have going on at the same time as yours. A contractor with a full plate might not be the best person to have doing your job.

Next, think about looking into a specialist depending on your remodeling project. For example, if you’re planning to do a kitchen remodel, look for a kitchen specialist rather than just a general contractor. Don’t just hire any contractor, do your research. In doing this, you will feel more at ease knowing you have someone who focuses on just one part of your home rather than the entire space.

Do Your Research Before Hiring a Contractor

Once you’ve narrowed down the choices to a couple of contractors, have your top one or two visit your home and see the area of the remodel. This will give them a better sense of the scale of the project and a true idea of the work involved. From here, they should be able to give you a detailed estimate of the cost of the remodel.

Also, consider the different estimates. Don’t just take the first estimate someone gives you because you think it is cheap. Remember to keep this saying in mind when you’re on your search, “You get what you pay for.” That being said, don’t go for another estimate when it could be an astronomical price. Talk with the contractor about the different costs involved. Make sure you do your homework. This is the most important part of your whole remodeling process. You want to make sure you trust someone to come into your home and really take pride in the work they do.

I hope these tips prove to be helpful when you decide to hire a contractor for your next home improvement project. Just be sure to do your research and really find the right fit for you and your home!