Do your homework before remodeling

You’re finally living in the home of your dreams, but a new deck just might make things a little dreamier.

Or maybe a new bathroom would add to the great look of your home.

Perhaps a home office could enhance the perfect home.

Regardless of the project, there’s no doubt that remodeling can add to the look and the value of a home.

But before the paint gets stirred or the foundations are dug, the customer must do his or her homework. After all, the consumer is entrusting the contractor with their most important investment — his or her home — and making sure everyone is on the same page is essential.

A reputable contractor won’t be afraid to give a potential client information,. An established contractor won’t be afraid to show a potential client examples of his past work or give the client telephone numbers of former customers. In fact, a reputable contractor will be more than willing to share this type of information with potential clients because it will enhance their chances of getting the job.

Professional remodelers sees references as a form of advertising and a way to increase business.

Encouraging potential clients to contact past customers is a way to enhance and improve your good reputation. Reputable contractors know that satisfied former customers open the door for future customers.

Consumers should always ask for references and take the time to call a contractor’s past customers.

Call the past customers and find out if they were satisfied with the work. This will help you determine if the contractor is reputable.
Taking a look in the back of the contractor’s truck doesn’t hurt either.

A reputable contractor won’t be afraid to let people look in their truck. By looking in the truck, a potential customer can see what kind of tools a contractor has to work on a particular job.

Making sure a contractor is a member in good standing of a trade association also helps determine a reputation.

Contractors who belong to trade associations are up to date on industry issues like building codes and mortgage rates. A reputable organization will be able to verify a contractor’s work.

Association membership comes with certain demands. For instance, BAMP members pay yearly dues and must maintain up-to-date information on liability as well as proof of workmen’s compensation insurance.

There’s safety in numbers, too.You should always get at least three bids on any project.

Knowing what you want is crucial as well. Compare apples to apples. If you’re looking to fix your roof, you don’t want to hire a guy who specializes in bathrooms. Get someone who specializes in what you want done. When everything else is added up, common sense, above all else still rules.