| When a homeowner is ready to build or remodel, | | | | Get three bids: It is always wise to get three bids |
| they need to hire the best contractor for the job. | | | | and compare them line by line. The cheapest is not |
| There are many contractors out there and the level | | | | always the best option, however. Look over the |
| of their work can vary greatly. In order to get the | | | | estimate and notice how detailed and complete the |
| best job done, here are some tips for hiring the best: | | | | information is. Take note of what is included in each |
| Make certain that they are licensed: A licensed | | | | separate bid in order to be comparing apples with |
| contractor is always your best bet. A builder who has | | | | apples. Notice how promptly the bid was delivered. |
| taken the time to study up, pass all tests and pay all | | | | Communication skills: In order to have a successful |
| fees is smart and serious. Becoming licensed shows | | | | business relationship, there must be good |
| much about a builder's character and integrity. | | | | communication. Does the builder explain everything, |
| When a person has their license, all of their work is | | | | including technical details about permits, codes and |
| basically watched over by the licensing board. If they | | | | structural issues, in layman's terms that the |
| do shoddy stuff or participate in unethical financial | | | | homeowner can understand? Is the office staff |
| practices, these blemishes will appear on their record | | | | courteous and available? Do personalities mesh or |
| for years. Having a license means that they want to | | | | clash? Having friendly rapport is crucial for a smooth |
| do good work and are happy to have their records | | | | project. |
| visible to future customers. Homeowners should | | | | Experience: It's important to have a contractor who |
| always check the records of the builders that they | | | | has had ample experience in the types of building |
| plan to employ. | | | | projects that they are being hired for. Some may be |
| References and referrals: There's no better way to | | | | experts in new structures but don't know much |
| learn about a contractor's work quality than by their | | | | about remodeling. Get someone with experience. |
| reputation. Get word of mouth referrals from | | | | Local business: Out-of-towners don't know the ins |
| co-workers, neighbors, family members and business | | | | and outs of the region. Support a local business and |
| associates. Check out the quality that they've had | | | | hire close to home. |
| done and ask about the building experience. Was the | | | | Follow these tips and end up with a great contractor |
| work done on time? Was there good follow-through? | | | | for the project. |
| Was the quality acceptable? | | | | |