Preparing is Important

Define what's important to you and what you want in your project.

• What type of work will you want done? (Addition? Remodel? Kitchen? Bath? Whole house ?...)
• Do you want the Design/Build approach where the Contractor works with the homeowner, designers, and construction team to accomplish your desired project OR do you want to work first with an Architect/Designer, and then work with the Building Contractor to finalize your scope. (In this model, the Architect/Designer would confer with Contractor as needed.)
• How much do you want to invest in your home?
• Do you want to be able to live in your home during construction or move out during construction?
• What do you "want" that's a necessity, and what would be nice to have but you can live without if it exceeds your budget.
• How important is quality, value, service, price?

Finding a Remodeling Contractor

• Ask your friends, neighbors, and business associates if they have remodeled or if they know of a contractor they would recommend.
• Look for jobsite signs in and around your neighborhood.
• Contact trade associations for names of reputable contractors in your area. (ie. NARI - National Association of the Remodeling Industry)

Visit the Contractor's Website

• Their web site is an indication of their professionalism and quality and gives you an introduction to that Remodeling Contractor’s Company.
• No web site? In this day and age, what does that say about their company?

The Initial Phone Call

• Call the companies that you feel are the best match.
• Let them know what sort of project you are thinking about and your budget range.
• Do they return your call promptly?
• Do they seem friendly, helpful, and responsive to this initial contact?

Meeting with a Remodeling Contractor

• Decide beforehand what you want to ask. Ask those questions at the meeting.
• When Contractors visit your home, do they arrive on time? Do they have a neat and professional appearance?
• Pay attention to the Contractors’ communication style. Do they listen well? Do they address your questions and concerns? Do they ask good questions about your proposed project?
• Is the Contractor’s presentation professional?
• Can you see photos or examples of their work?
• Do they have recent and former client references?
• Make sure you check references. Ask questions beyond, "Are you happy with the work?" or "Would you use this Contractor again?" Ask about the remodeling process - "How it was to work with the Contractor and his crew?" Ask questions only they as homeowners can address.

Things You Will Want to Learn Before Making a Decision

• Do they provide Design/Build services, or construction only?
• What types of projects do they specialize in? (type, price range) Do they do the kind of work you are looking to have done?
• How many projects like yours have they done?
• How long have they been in business?
• How long has the owner been in the industry and in what capacities?
• What about their staff and subcontractors?
• Are they and their subcontractors licensed and fully insured? (Liability and Workers Comp Ins.)

How do I select the Right Contractor?

• By carefully selecting the right Contractor for you and your project, you will save time, money, and frustration.
• Most important is the "fit" you need to feel with the Remodeling Contractor you select, as your Contractor will be a "part of your family" for weeks or months:
  1. Do you trust him or her?
  2. Can you communicate with them?
  3. Does he/she listen to you?
  4. How will problems be solved or handled by them?
  5. Are they a talker or a doer?
  6. Price is not everything... Are you getting good service and value for your investment dollar?

Eliminate "Most" Change Orders:

• By listing exact specifications for materials and finishes such as plumbing fixtures, floors, windows, appliances, tile etc., you can eliminate many "allowance" items which usually result in change orders. This may take some “looking around”, with assistance from your Contractor or Designer, or on your own, but it is well worth the time.