Identifying the right home improvement professional for your needs is never an easy task. After all, you are trusting someone with the well-being of your home and your investment. And, if you are to maximize the value of your home and enjoy a trouble-free experience, you need the right person for the job. Therefore, it is important to know how to pick the professional who is right for you.
The primary step is to locate potential professionals. Asking for recommendations from friends, family and other homeowners is a great way to start. If they have had a positive experience with a contractor, you know you are already further ahead in the process. However, a word of caution: don’t become over-reliant on referrals. Friends and family may not have the same tastes and standards as you, so it’s important to research potential home improvement professionals on your own.
It is also important to recognize your own capability as a homeowner. Ask yourself if you have the skills or the correct tools needed for a DIY solution. If not, then it’s time to start researching contractors. You can take advantage of websites like Yelp, Angie’s List and so forth to easily compare reviews and recommendations for a number of potential contractors. Additionally, contractors exhibiting a commitment to professional standards are members of organizations such as the National Association of Home Builders or the National Kitchen and Bath Association.
Once you have identified the potential candidates, it’s time to move to the next step in the process. Pinpoint their experience and expertise by reviewing their portfolio, license information, and reviews. These professionals ought to demonstrate professionalism, a commitment to customer service, and the ability to provide valuable insights. Additionally, they must have an excellent understanding of how the job will be completed and costings.
It’s prudent to check references. These should include previous clients, tradespeople they have worked with, and suppliers, if applicable. Use the opportunity to learn about the contractor’s communication skills and other soft skills as well. After all, they will be working within your space for a while, so its important to make sure that you can communicate and dialogue effectively.
Finally, ensure there is clarity on warranties and insurance. Ask as many questions as you need to so that you are not blindsided by any hidden charges or conditions down the line. Knowing the contractor’s attitude towards customer service will help you predict the level of assurance you can expect for the duration of the project.
In the end, your goal should be to hire the right person to align with your home improvement needs. The more research you do and questions you ask ahead of time, the better the outcome of the project. With a little patience and an eagle eye for detail, you will be able to find the right home improvement professional for your needs.
Next, consider the contractor’s location. Since you will be in contact with them during the home improvement process, you will want to ensure that the professional is conveniently located. Also keep in mind the geographic restrictions of the contractor and carefully research whether they possess the right tools and materials in order to properly reach your home and complete the job.
Moreover, you should evaluate the qualifications of the contractor. Check reviews and references to make sure they are qualified to carry out the job up to the highest possible standards. Ask to see copies of necessary paperwork such as accreditation’s, insurance documentation, or other related certificates.
In addition, you should assess the contractor’s requirements. Find out whether the contractor will need certain supplies, materials or other lump sum costs in order to begin and complete the task at hand. Make sure you get full details of their rates, fees and hourly labor costs.
It is also prudent to evaluate the best time frame to complete the home improvement project. Determine how long the project will last and when it can realistically be completed. Discuss potential setbacks, holidays and other unforeseeable events the contractor may need to take into consideration in order to assess the final outcome.
Lastly, inquire about any additional post-job services that the contractor provides and ascertain whether or not they will provide quotations and/or additional payments for additional work which may arise during the completion of the project. Make sure you fully understand the contract before signing it, and make sure that you are fully aware of any guarantees or warranties that may be included in the agreement prior to confirming it.