Asking the right questions

Choosing the perfect contractor can be a daunting task.  It could even be the make it or break it part of your home improvement project.  This can be a very stressful and over whelming for anyone finding a contractor to take on any home improvement project.  So many questions run through home owner’s minds when searching for that perfect contractor.  What if they mess up?  Can I trust them in my house?  Are they over charging me? The list goes on and on.  The best way to overcome this kind of emotional stress is to take it one day at a time and plan it out.  Here are some tips when it comes to finding a great contractor at a great price.    

                Tip #1 – Ask to have everything in writing

This helps to alleviate anything that would have a discrepancy.  Having a verbal agreement is good, however to have it written down is even better.

               Tip #2 – Check the company’s current license standing

Contractors who normally do home improvement have to have their license visible to the public.  Make a check through the states licensing board to see if its valid and up to date.  If the contractor in question is a bit iffy about showing you the proper licensing documents than buyer beware and are cautious about doing business.   

            

              Tip #3 – Ask to see photographs/written testimonials about past projects

During the initial phone call with the contractor ask him/her to bring photos and any reference letters to see previous evidence work well done.  Or, ask them to point you in the right direction of what the internet might already have available

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   Tip #4 – Get contact info for the sales person that made all the promises

See to it that the sales person in whom you’re speaking with at the estimate is going to be out at the project to check up on the progress.  Or, you should know who exactly is going to be charge at the job site so that you have a go to person if anything comes up

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   Tip #5 – Organize and Plan!

Before have a game plan or list of questions pertaining to the line of work that is going to take place.  This will help draw the foundation for which you and the contractor agree on.