Working with a Contractor: 4 Tips to Simplify the Process
There are millions of contractors and approximately half a million different remodeling businesses across America.
So how are you supposed to choose the one that is right for you? Don't worry, it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed during this process. We're here to help. Today, we will discuss 4 simple tips to simplify the process. Our goal is to make it so that you can worry about bringing your space to life, instead of picking up the pieces.
1. Know the Difference Between an Estimate and a Proposal
An estimate is a rough or detailed calculation of what a construction project MIGHT cost. They are usually intended to give a homeowner an idea of pricing, so they can know how much money they should expect to spend.
However, they can be weaponized.
Some contractors will purposely give low estimates, where they can…
A. Leave out certain details that are unlikely to be caught (crown moulding for cabinets, floor prep for flooring, mixer valves for shower trim kits, etc.)
B. Give low material allowances to win your business, then they raise prices later.
Or C. Lean on the “it was just an estimate” talking point
One of the worst I’ve witnessed was a woman who went with an “affordable” contractor for a bathroom remodel, only for them to increase the price 500% (yes, 6 times the initial price), and there was very little she could do, since their estimate was extremely vague.
A proposal is very different. A proposal is a formal offer to perform work for a specific price and under certain terms. They are significantly more accurate and easier for a homeowner to seek remedy for, if things ever go to court.
Estimates usually suffice if you are doing a very small project, or a project where you trust the contractor greatly
Proposals are typically recommended if you are doing a mid-size or large construction project, where you’re dealing with more money than you can afford to lose
2. Determine What Project Metrics are Most Important to You
Clients often have different needs for their projects. Some clients are focused on speed, others on price, and others on quality. It's crucial to determine what is most important and least important to you. It can also help to communicate what is critical for you from the first conversation with any potential contractor. Many will tell you what their typical timeline or price point looks like, and it can certainly help narrow the search.
3. Get Multiple Estimates
One common misconception is that getting multiple estimates is specifically for price shopping. That could not be further from the truth. Even if money doesn't matter to you at all, it's important to meet with multiple contractors. Some of them may give you more qualified insight into the plans of the others, some of them may recommend layout changes that you and the other contractors never even considered, and some, simply, may just be who you feel the most comfortable with.
4. Research Your Contractor
We live in a time when researching contractors is easier than ever. Utilize the opportunity. Look at their online reviews and, if they have bad ones, read them and decide for yourself if the complaints are indicative of potential problems with the contractor. Also, search multiple platforms. Most reputable contractors will be visible online in more than one place.
Avoiding shady contractors is extremely important. If you’d like to see our blog about what to look out for, check out our other blog, 5TipsToSpotAShadyContractor
The difference between the right contractor and the wrong contractor is HUGE! We hope the tips listed above are useful in helping you choose the right fit. Best of luck with your project!