Before planning any major home construction project, it’s essential to know how to hire a contractor. Your general contractor will be in charge of your entire project, including labor, materials and timeframe. Having as much detail as possible is best to ensure everybody’s expectations are met.
However, it can seem overwhelming to find the right professional. To help, here are some basic tips for hiring a contractor:
As a client, you have full control over the process of hiring a contractor. To make the process smoother, make sure you have a realistic idea about what you would be interested in before talking to contractors.
For example, if there are specific architectural elements or styles you want to prioritize, make those priorities known early in the conversation.
Prepare three or more estimates before deciding. The more you know you can understand the cost, the better you're sure of their caliber and work ethic. For example, one company could offer the lowest price, but increase it based on specific requests like building materials.
Even if friends or relatives suggest an existing contractor, you need to establish the minimum qualifications just in case. Find out the full company address and ensure the company is registered with an active state license. Get information about their licenses and policies and ensure they are valid.
Communicate with your general contractor about what to expect on the job site. Have them confirm routine precautions are being taken and that their employees are protected by the company's policies.
Establish ground rules on aspects you care most about, such as timeframe and the number of workers you should expect workers on your property. Also, confirm who will be obtaining all the necessary permits.
Free quotes are tempting, but the project costs may exceed hundreds of thousands of dollars. Ideally, you want to get a detailed proposal with the project budget broken into line item expenses for labor and materials.
While it may require a fee for this cost breakdown, it’s well worth it to know what you’re paying for before approving the bid.
Shopping for general contractors can be a long process, but it doesn’t have to be overly complicated. To find the right contractor, keep these important steps in mind, and you’ll be in the best position to complete your project.
Max Mitchell epitomizes integrity, energy, hard work, and creative services in every detail of your real estate transaction. With over 40 years of experience in the Champaign-Urbana area, Max has established himself as a trusted and successful real estate agent. He is proud to be a Ramsey Trusted real estate agent, providing top-notch service to his clients.
Max's sales journey began at a young age, selling The News Gazette in his neighborhood. Since then, he has worked in every aspect of the industry, representing sellers, buyers, investors, and banks in both residential and commercial markets.
As a family man, Max holds a strong devotion to God and his beautiful wife, two children, and two lovely granddaughters. He's an adventurer by nature and enjoys floating over Champaign-Urbana in his hot air balloon, often traveling to attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and other events throughout the summertime. Max also challenges himself with early morning cycling classes at Mettler Center and the YMCA, finding it a great way to recharge and connect with others.
Max's sales expertise has been shaped by renowned mentors such as Dale Carnegie, Tom Hopkins, Mike and Tom Ferry, and Brian Bufini. He believes in giving back to both the industry and the community. Max serves on the Illinois REALTORS Board of Directors, has been President of the Champaign County Associations of REALTORS, and holds a seat on the Champaign County Board in district 5. He remains active within the community, contributing his time and expertise to organizations such as Visit Champaign County Board, Champaign County Economic Development Board, and the Willard Airport Advisory Committee.
When it comes to working with Max Mitchell, you can count on five key qualities: Love, Integrity, Commitment, Passion, and FUN. With Max as your real estate agent, you can trust that your transaction will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
