Home Improvement Tips
If you are planning an addition and need more space in your home or are simply getting new windows, finding a reputable contractor is the first step to making your vision a reality.
Your home is most likely the most valuable financial asset you have. It’s very important to be cautious when you hire someone to do work on your home. Home improvement and maintenance contractors often advertise in newspapers, on the radio and TV. Just because they advertise does not mean they have the best quality of work. Your best option is to research online or ask people you know, there s a decent chance they or someone they know has experience working with contractors and can give you some insight.
Like shopping for anything, it is a good idea to get written estimates from several contractors or remodelers. If prices vary, don’t be hesitant to ask the reason for the difference and if you don’t understand something, don’t be embarrassed to inquire. You are a professional at something and this is their line of work. Quality materials and craftsmanship matter, so with something this important, it’s not a good philosophy to automatically choose the lowest bidder.
Types of Home Improvement Professionals
Depending on the size and complexity of your project, you may choose to work with a number of different professionals:
General Contractors manage all aspects of your project, including hiring and supervising subcontractors, getting building permits, and scheduling inspections. They also work with architects and designers. Obviously this option would be best suited for something larger, like an addition.
Specialty Contractors install particular products, such as cabinets, bathroom fixtures and flooring. If you are looking for more cosmetic or upgrade type of projects, this option could accomplish your goal.
Architects design homes, additions, and major renovations. If your project includes structural changes, you may want to hire an architect who specializes in home remodeling.
Design/Build Contractors provide one-stop service. They see your project through from start to finish. Some firms have architects on staff; others use certified designers. Like a general contractor, you could find yourself working with a Design/Build Contractor for larger projects.
Before hiring a contactor, you should know the following information
Are they licensed and insured?
How long have they been in business?
How many of these types of jobs have they completed in the past?
Will this project require a permit?
Do they have references?
Do they employ subcontractors of their own employees?
Along the way
Don’t pay up front. Make sure to keep your leverage in the situation.
Set defined goals as to when they can collect payments while the project is underway.
Don’t sign off or make the final payment unless you are satisfied.
Keep track of what is going on and if they require more materials than originally thought. Refer to the original estimate so you are not blind-sided with an unexpeted bill.
