What to Look for in a Remodeling Contractor

Thinking of a remodeling project in 2020? Make your Southwest Florida home more appealing for your family, or get it ready to sell with a timely renovation. Just be sure to follow these 7 tips for choosing the right remodeling contractor. 

1. Consult Your Network
   Before you begin your search on your own, consult your network for advice. Ask fellow homeowners or other industry professionals, including your real estate agent, who've had renovations completed on their own homes or businesses. Your trusted network will give you honest feedback on their experiences and potentially let you view the completed project.
   
   
2. View Reviews & Portfolios
   After you've consulted those you know, seek out the feedback of other customers. As you vet potential contractors, go deeper than viewing reviews. If you can contact past clients online via message boards, consider asking for more detailed information about their experience. Although you can view photographs in a contractor's portfolio, you should try to see as many completed projects in person as possible. If any contractors have worked on commercial businesses, visit these buildings if you can.
   
   
3. Evaluate Credentials
   Reviews are helpful, but you need as much reassurance as you can get that your renovations will be completed to the highest standard of quality. You should only consider contractors who are licensed, bonded, and insured. Look for a contractor that belongs to reputable professional associations within their industry and that have earned additional certifications relevant to their specialty.
    
   
4. Interview Candidates
   Once you've narrowed your options down to a shortlist, it's time to meet these individuals in person. Interview between three and five contractors, preferably those who are revered in the area. Ask them as many questions as you desire regarding their qualifications, experience, and how they plan on completing your job. A good contractor will ask questions as well to get a good sense of what you want and whether or not they can meet your expectations.  
   
   
5. Collect Proposals
   Any estimate you receive needs to be broken down into an itemized list of all supplies, services, and other miscellaneous charges associated with your project. The proposal should also estimate a timeframe for the completion of the project. When you request proposals, ask each contractor to list the same information so you can compare each on a level playing field.
   
   
6. Get Everything in Writing
   When you're finally ready to sign a contract, you need to make sure everything is in writing. This includes more than the price breakdown. You need to have a contract that includes payment schedules, materials, services, timetables, who will complete the work, permitting, and other essential information. If anything is missing on the contract, don't sign it until it's amended correctly. If possible, ask your lawyer to review the document to ensure that you're protected throughout the project.
   
   
7. Trust Your Instincts
   Ultimately, you'll have to deal with the completed project long after the contractor has moved onto the next job. If you have any hesitation or concern about hiring a particular contractor or company, trust your instincts. Even if the "best" contractor rubs you the wrong way, it's better to be safe than left with a project that doesn't meet your needs or standards.

Remodeling your home to get it ready to list among other Naples homes for sale? Our REALTORS® are here to help! Contact us today.