Member Login   Sponsor Login   News & Contact Us   Talk Radio   Video Channel   FREE Magazine   Select Region   Home  
Mohawk Valley Listing Service
 
Type search phrase, city, zipcode, or QSN number
Home Search Mortgages Featured Homes Open House
Search
Town/City
Property Type
Price From
Price To
Style
School
Min Bedrooms
Min Baths
Min Sq. Feet
Min Acreage
Agency
Realtor
Sort By

Reset
New Search
Life and Homes
Sponsor This Category
To have your business listed here, contact David Lisi
315-865-7418  |   david@lifeandhomes.com
Hiring a Contractor
August 03, 2010 - Builders
Making the Right Choice

If you have decided to remodel your home or build one from the ground up, hiring a contractor is the best way to go about it correctly. Now comes the task of finding the right one for your job. If you're like many others, this can be an overwhelming process, but take heart. This article was written to assist you in finding out what you need to know before choosing the right contractor.

Obtain Quotes

It is standard practice to obtain quotes from at least three different contractors prior to making a decision. Ask to see their portfolios, including examples of projects they've been a part of. That way, if you see something similar to what you're planning to do, you'll know they have first hand experience in that specific craft. It's also an excellent way to gather more ideas.

Check References

Ask for and actually call on references given to you by your prospects. This can provide you a wealth of information on the professionals you are potentially going to be dealing with. Check them out on online forums, and research them through the Better Business Bureau and your local Homebuilders' Association.

Bonded and Insured

Regardless of the extent of the projects you are hiring the professional to complete, you are well advised to choose only from those who are bonded and insured. This protects you from financial and legal responsibility if any of the workers become injured while on your property, as well as protecting you from monetary loss if the workers inadvertently damage your property during the course of the work.

Equally important is ensuring that the professional you hire is trained, licensed and certified in the specific skill or trade relative to your project. This is for the safety of your family as well as for that of the worker, particularly in regard to electric or plumbing work.

Other Considerations

When you finally hire a contractor for your job, it is best to include in your contractual agreement how payment will be handled, and on what date the work will be completed. Consider negotiating a reward for work completed early, as well as compensation for you if the job surpasses the end date unfinished. Always obtain everything in writing and be specific in your expectations of each other. This prevents miscommunications that can prove to quickly sour the deal.

By considering these tips and words of advice, you can be confident in the decision you make when hiring a contractor.

Article by: BMA Editorial Team 3. About the Author: A Philadelphia contractor is experienced and has an outstanding record. He is not only an expert in his field but will carry out his work with utmost professionalism. To know more, visit Local Yodle (Source: bestmanagementarticles.com)

 


Government Offering Independent Foreclosure Review
If you faced foreclosure in 2009 or 2010, the government may have good news for you. ...
Featured Homes
Mohawk Valley Listing Service now has a Featured Home section . If you would like to advertise your ...
Newest Articles
Six Tax Mistakes and How to Avoid Them This Year
 
Apply New Home Trends to Your Existing Home
 
Why Winter is the Right Time to Plan Outdoor Updates
 
Featured Homes
 
Government Offering Independent Foreclosure Review
 
Challenges Home Inspectors Face During Inspection
 
Luxurious Looks with Affordable Price Tags
 
Identifying Common Heat Repair Problems
 
Pros And Cons Of Modifying Your Mortgage
 
Six Tips to Keep Identity Theft in Check
 
 
Need Help!  Try one of our valued members   
 AccommodationsFeatured Homes Home Inspection Log HomesOpen House Stone and Landscaping
 Builders Fireplaces and Stoves Interior Design Money and Taxes Outdoors Lawn and Garden Windows
 Cabinets Flooring  Kitchen and BathsMortgages Real Estate
 Energy and Insulation Solutions Heating And Cooling  Local News News Shorts Safety
 
© 2010 Lisi Merchant Solutions. All Rights Reserved. Using this site means you agree to our Terms of Use.