Are you trying to do some home renovations that will require a lot more than just a coat of paint or replacement of fixtures? Things like tearing down walls to expand rooms or re-designing a bathroom? If you are not knowledgeable about home improvement projects on this level then you may have to hire a general contractor. Now the initial problem is how to determine the good ones from the bad. There are dozens that will say that they know what they are doing and don’t! So take a look at these steps to find the right one for you!
Before you hire a contractor look at these helpful tips
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Determine if the job requires contractor or handy person:
Now depending on what type of home project you want to pursue will decide if you actually need a contractor or just a handy person. If the project doesn’t require permitting and isn’t more than $500.00 US dollars then a handy person would be ideal. However, if any major electrical, mechanical, or plumbing items need to be dealt with then a contractor is best suited.
Determine what projects you will need done and your budget
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Ask around for references:
When you are on the search to find the right contractor, one of the best moves you can make is using the resources around you. Such as asking your home inspector (which will try to refer you to general contractors for your specific needs), asking in local home improvement stores lumber yards, and watch out for contractors the little have heard of or haven’t seen where they purchase their material.
Ask for references before hiring a contractor
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Call before starting on any work:
Start off just interviewing the contractor over the phone before he/she even comes to your home. Ask questions like: What other projects have you done? Were they the similar in issues and the size of mine? What are the payment requirements? Is their license current or suspended? Where is there office located? (Run the other way if they accept cash only or require you to write a check to them instead of their business). Make sure that they carry the necessary insurances to operate.
Trust your instincts when hiring a contractor:
If you feel comfortable with them of over the phone, then meet with them. When you ask them questions they should be able to answer with no hesitation. And ask if you can see their previous work or speak with their previous clients. Do not go with the cheapest contractor. There could be reasons of why the cost is so low such as poor quality materials or no clientele base. You want a contractor that you feel comfortable with and that will ensure that the job gets done right. Keep everything in writing, schedule payments and make sure the contractor has a lien release to protect you.
A home renovation is a wonderful step to make within your home. Upgrading, improving and personalizing your home to better fit you and your family’s needs are great. However, making sure that it gets done and done properly can be a challenge as well as finding someone who will do the work honestly. So take a look at these suggestions above when deciding on hiring your contractor and see how the results workout for you.
Thanks for visiting our real estate blog. Do you need assistance with buying or selling a home, relocating for a new job or considering an investment property in the Champaign-Urbana area? Call Josh at CU Realty Group, LLC today at (217) 202-0571. Our team of trusted advisers will provide you with the expert counsel needed to make a more informed decision.