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Finding the right home improvement contractor
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Some basic questions to ask home improvement contractors:
- How many jobs have you performed like this?
- How much will the project cost?
- What is included in my contract?
- How long will the project take?
- What set backs should I expect?
- How long have you been in business?
Before searching for the right contractor, sit down and take the time to plan out your project, budget being a very important factor. Write down your ideas, including details and rough sketches to help you through the process.
Who is the best home improvement contractor for me?
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When choosing a contractor, it is important to find someone who values your project as much as you do. The right person should return all phone calls promptly, be on time for all appointments, and answer all
questions you may have. Remember, this person is working for you.
Some important questions to ask yourself when choosing the “right contractor:
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- Is the contractor doing what he wants or what I want?
- Does the contractor have the knowledge
and experience that I need to guide me, most cost effectively, to my goal?
Always:
- Listen to suggestions
- Get 3- 5 estimates before jumping into a project . Compare prices everywhere.
- Never select a contractor because he is less expensive. This is the biggest cause of ”home improvement disasters”
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Keep in mind that a highly reputable contractor with an expensive track record will lessen the chances of a “project gone bad”
How much is the project going to cost me?
-First off, talk to the contractor about pricing. Be upfront and let him know how much you can spend.
- Talk to friends and neighbors about how much their project cost.
- Always set initial project 10% -15% below your actual budget to allow for design changes.
What the contract should include: Have home improvement contractors respond to you.
- Get everything in writing, most importantly, the total contract amount and payment schedule
- Always be sure to get an exact description of all work being done, including a blue print, floor plan or sketch.
- A detailed list of all materials used, with brand name and type of warranty it comes
with. Included in the contract, should be follow up service, cleanup plan, and building agreement .
- Finally, a time table with a starting and ending date.
How long will the project take?
- Rule of thumb - most jobs take a week for each $4,000- $6.000 spent.
- Don’t rush the project. All projects have their fast and slow moments. Downtime should be expected.
How to deal with project glitches:
-Every Job will entail surprises and dealing with them might involve immediate decision making. During this time, communicate with your contractor and make sure to
set aside address immediate problems.
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