So you've decided you're ready to remodel your home. But which individual or company will you choose? Where do you start? Finding the right remodeling contractor for your project can be easier than you think. Sometimes this individual is in your own neighborhood or maybe one of your friends has recently had a project or work done on his or her home. Referrals are one of the best ways to find a contractor.
Referrals:
Talk with someone you know for a contractor.
- Friends
- Neighbors
- Business Associates
- Relatives
- Lending Institutions
- Architects/Designers
- Real Estate Agents
- Suppliers
Home shows
Home shows are a great way to meet and pre-interview contractors. Pick up brochures and business cards so you can pick which ones to invite to your home and see your project.
Direct mail
Contractors will sometimes send direct mail to homeowners within a certain radius of a project they are doing in a neighborhood. They often list the address of the project. Go by and talk to the homeowners about their project and how the contractor is doing.
Local media (magazines, newspaper, radio, TV)
Tune in to your local remodeling talk radio show (HOMESTYLES REMODELING SHOW). Watch for articles on home improvement by local contractors in your local newspaper or local magazines; often they feature the contractor and pictures of the project.
Local organizations
Check with local organizations such as NARI, Dallas or Ft. Worth Homebuilders Association, Chamber of Commerce, and possibly the Better Business Bureau.
Here are some questions to ask during the pre-interview:
- Do you do this type of work? Specify what your project is. Do you need a general contractor or a specialty contractor?
- When could you start? What is your schedule like?
- Do you have design capabilities?
Just remember, take your time and look for a good company that has good credentials and credibility. Some remodeling companies are large and have in-house employees to do the work; others are small and may subcontract all or part of the work. Both ways are okay. The most important thing about any company is trust.
