Six Tips For Hiring A Contractor

So You've Decided To Hire A Contractor

Smart Move Most of the time. Know when to get a pro!

• 1Tip Number One - Your contractor is not your friend. That does not mean that they are not on your side or looking out for you, but keep in mind that this is their business and it is how they make their money. Keep your conversations focused on the job they are doing for you or are getting ready to bid on for you. They are not really interested in your Aunt Mildred's Gall Stones. They want to know what it is you want done, how you are going to pay for it, and when you expect it to be done.
• 2Tip Number Two - Do listen to your contractor. This is especially important in the pre-bid and bidding phases. They have the years of experience necessary to avoid pitfalls in your desired project. They know what the building department will and will not approve, what materials work best in a given situation, and if a desired outcome can be achieved. They don't give this advice to raise the price of the project, they give it because they want the job and want to be able to do the job and get paid. After all, the best way for them to stay in business is for you to love what they do and tell your friends and family.
• 3Tip Number Three - Be prepared. When you first approach doing a particular project, be clear about what exactly it is that you want to achieve. Know what you want and be ready with ideas for things like fixtures, appliances, floor coverings and paint colors. This will help your potential contractor in the bidding process and keep both of you looking at the same goal. Being prepared goes beyond the pre-bid stage. Continue to stay prepared to vacate portions of the structure as needed by the contractor, prepared to take down pictures or move furniture and just stay ready. Your contractor is paying his staff by the hour and they want their employees drawing wages doing the job, not waiting for you to do yours.
• 4Tip Number Four - Have your financing. Your contractor is more ready to work for and with you if they know that the money is there ready to pay them when the job is done. Get pre-approval for any loans you will need to make and then lock them in later. Make sure you understand how the contractor is to be paid and be prompt in making those payments.
• 5Tip Number Five - Communicate. Stay in constant communication with your contractor. If there is a change in the scope of the work, it is cheaper for both you and the contractor to make that change early into the construction phase. If there is some portion of the work where the quality does not meet your expectation, by all means let the contractor know immediately. Corrections and changes are much easier to make and less expensive if caught early in the project.
• 6Tip Number Six - Praise. Praise your contractor on the good points and be sincere about it. If your contractor thinks you really like their work, chances are good that they will continue to maintain the high level of quality that earned them the praise. Contractors are people too, and who doesn't love to hear they did a good job and are appreciated? Just be sincere and specific when you express your appreciation. A little praise can go a long way to smooth any misunderstandings if something turns out to be not to your liking. Establish early in your project that you notice and appreciate attention to detail, and most people will respond by giving a little extra to maintain that good feeling.