Thinking about putting your home on the market--or just bought a home?
Need a little (or a lot) of help with some of your projects?
Thought you could do it yourself, but with a dog, a baby, a full-time job and a fantastic series on Netflix...well, maybe hiring this out would be better.
You're in luck! Check out our Client Resources page for a contractor referral.
If you have never hired a contractor before, and don't want to be featured on a Call 6 Investigation, read on.
Hiring a Contractor 101: Tips and Tricks
♦ "Word of Mouth" is the best form of advertising. Check with friends, neighbors, trade associations, and home improvement stores for referrals.
♦ If a bid is substantially lower than others, ask why. Will the contractor use inferior products, or are they too inexperienced to make an accurate estimate?
♦ Are estimates based on a fixed price or a “cost-plus” bid? In a fixed price bid, changes during construction are re-negotiated. In a cost-plus bid, the contractor does the job, then submits receipts along with an invoice for labor.
♦ Think carefully about hiring someone who has “just completed work in your area” and offers bargain prices.
♦ Hire someone who gives a written estimate, contract, contractor’s number, and local references.
♦ Arrange to make payments upon completion of defined amounts of work.
♦ Include written warranties. Note the name and address of the party responsible for honoring the warranty, as well as the warranty’s time period.
♦ Specify who is responsible for obtaining and paying for permits, and insist that local construction codes are followed.
♦ Every contract should include the following: 1) A detailed description of the work and the materials to be used; 2) the total cost of the work and a payment schedule (if necessary); 3) additional promises made by the salesperson/contractor; 4) start and completion dates, warranty information; 5) cleanup information; and 6) the signature of you and your contractor.
A few important notes:
Listen, most contractors are hard-working, honest and trustworthy. However, there are a few untrustworthy ones out and about. Educate yourself on common scams and don't hire anyone on the spot. If you've been duped into signing a contract, call the police and make a report to your Attorney General.
◊ Make sure you are satisfied before making final payment.
◊ As long as you have your money in hand, you call the shots.
◊ Still, be aware that some states allow subcontractors and suppliers to file a lien against your home if you hold payment unnecessarily.
Good luck!
Miriam
Miriam Odegard, Real Estate Broker
United Real Estate Indianapolis
1425 East 82nd Street, Suite 200
Indianapolis, IN 46240
text/mobile: (317) 220-5397
email: miriam@miriamodegardhomes.com