Have you ever rushed into something and later regretted not taking your time? Of course we all have. It’s just a part of life. Sometimes we rush things because there really isn’t much time, such as buying a last minute flight for surprise birthday party. Sometimes we rush because we just want to get something over with, like choosing a smartphone from so many options that all seem great. Sometimes we rush because we’re excited, and we really want to get into a process. Like ripping open the box for a new gadget and damaging the goods in the process!
When it comes to choosing a professional remodeler, people rush through the process for any and all of these reasons. It often seems like a monumental task, and perhaps there are multiple aspects of your remodeling plan. Choosing a professional quickly gives you one less thing to worry about as the project continues. Or perhaps you’re really excited to get your remodeling projects underway, and you want to hire a professional as soon as possible to start planning the details. Or maybe you’re really in a pinch; you made renovation plans quickly, or you’re trying to “flip” a house, and you don’t have much time.
In all cases, choosing the right home remodeling company is hugely important and it’s something you want do get right. So how do you nail it? How do you make sure that you land the best possible remodeler for your job?
Let’s start with what you don’t want. For example, you don’t want an inexperienced or disreputable company at the helm of your projects; this could lead to poor quality materials, poor workmanship, and cutting corners. You might not even notice these problems at first, but as time passes, the faults will quickly come to light.
This brings is to another important point: Make sure any remodeler you consider hiring is licensed, experienced, and has proven to the community that it operates at a high professional standard. Nobody wants an unlicensed amateur spearheading their carefully conceived renovation project – but if you aren’t careful, you could end up with a contractor who simply doesn’t put your interests first.
Fortunately, there are a lot of reputable remodeling specialists out there. You just have to know where to find them! High review scores on popular web sites (e.g. Angie’s List, Google, HomeAdvisor, and many others) are a good indication of a quality remodeler. And when you reach out and make contact, you learn even more. Are they patient, friendly and cordial in the way they communicate? Do they answer all your questions, and give you insights you might not have considered?
When it comes time to make a bid, are they sensitive to your budget needs? Do they make assurances that they can deliver you a superior result, and the best long-term value? Too many contractors overlook the fact that your success is inextricably linked to their own. After all, if you have a mediocre or even a bad remodeling experience, there’s one powerful thing you have as a last resort: An honest review!