Home remodel contractors are vital to successful projects. But locating renovation contractors that are both reliable and affordable can be challenging.
Rather than simply choosing the remodeling contractor that submits the lowest bid, homeowners can use several tried-and-true methods to negotiate and save money on their projects.
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Ask for Multiple Bids
One of the most commonly used strategies for choosing a contractor during any home improvement project is to get multiple bids. This allows homeowners to compare pricing and ensure that they are not being overcharged for their renovations. Additionally, requesting multiple bids forces contractors to compete for their business, which can drive prices down as they strive to win your project.
However, a homeowner must carefully evaluate each bid to ensure that it is accurate and complete. If a bid is alarmingly high or low, it is wise to schedule a follow-up meeting with the contractor to discuss specifics and negotiate.
Additionally, a homeowner should ask to review each estimate in person as opposed to over the phone or through email. This provides the opportunity for a face-to-face conversation to clarify any misunderstandings and ensures that the entire scope of work is captured in the bid. This can help avoid costly surprises down the road.
Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate
When it comes to home remodel contracts, you should be prepared to negotiate. This is especially important if you’ve narrowed your choices down to two contractors, and their bids are extremely close.
Call them up and explain that you’re hoping to get the best possible result within your budget and you’d like to see if there’s any wiggle room in their pricing.
However, it’s important not to make the haggling feel personal. If you do, the contractor may take it personally and start looking for ways to cut corners in their work to compensate.
In addition, be sure to keep the contract cost as low as possible by negotiating things like materials, design changes, and payment terms before signing it. You should only pay a deposit when necessary for items that are specially ordered or non-refundable, or when state law requires it. This also helps you avoid paying for work that hasn’t been completed to your satisfaction.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for What You Want
Home remodel projects can take weeks and even months, so it’s important to find a contractor who you trust to work in your home. This means asking them for their credentials and experience. You should also make sure you understand what to expect during the project.
For example, you may want to know when their workday starts and ends so that you can plan accordingly. You should also ask whether they have insurance and what happens if they’re not able to complete the project on time.
Lastly, you’ll want to ask what kind of payment they accept. This will help you avoid any unnecessary surprises down the road.
