Are you happy with your home? If you want home renovations, you are not alone. Studies have found around nine out of ten homeowners plan to remodel their homes.
It can be hard to know where to begin with a construction project, whether it is starting from scratch or room remodels in your home. Hiring a general contractor can provide the help you need, but only if you pick the right one.
A general contractor, also known as a home contractor, or a remodeling contractor, takes charge of a construction project. They cover all tasks, such as project plans, sourcing materials, and managing labor.
But not all home and remodeling contractors provide the same service. The contractor you pick will make or break the project. So, read on to learn the steps you should take and what you should avoid when hiring a general contractor.
Investigate a Contractor’s Work History
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when hiring a general contractor is not checking their work history. A contractor may look great on paper, but have you checked they have the proper licenses, reputation, and experience to help you? In addition, you want them to be up to date with the latest construction and real estate trends.
Enquire about their past projects, contact past clients, and check reviews. You want to see if their work is aligned with your needs and have the experience to execute your project successfully.
Negotiating Payment
It is essential to spend time comparing prices between remodeling contractors to determine what works best for your budget. Do not pick the first option without reading the fine print. However, be aware that the cheapest option is not always the best deal, and the most expensive might not be the best.
One of the general rules that can help you is never to pay a contractor before starting the job, but it’s OK to pay them as they go if they are working for you over a long period.
When negotiating payment, remember that a professional contractor will be helping you save money. They have the contacts and expertise to complete the job with the best savings. Also, their fees are the personal income they take home, which they need to run the business.
If the contractor wants upfront payment, even if it’s for materials, be careful. Is that typical for the industry? For example, if you’re ordering kitchen cabinets or reserving granite countertops, it’s typical to pay 50% upfront and 50% after the installation is complete. If you’re having a new furnace installed, though, you pay for it once the installation is complete.
Be wary of being asked for more than one-third of the initial cost when no work has been done. This could be a scam.
Drawing up a Contract
It is essential to draw up a contract when hiring a general contractor. If you do not draw up a contract, you could end up with many issues, such as price changes, miscommunication, and even legal problems.
A contract lays out the payment terms and works agreement. Check local building codes and laws if they make any claims about liability release forms or not needing licenses and warranties.
Hiring a General Contractor Before Selling
If you follow this guide, you are on your way to hiring a general contractor to help with your home project. But what happens after the remodel?
Some people hire a home contractor to start the process of creating their dream home, whereas others are looking to sell.
SLC Homes in Salt Lake City, Utah, is here to help you sell your home. Contact us today to learn more.
