The home improvement industry is in excess of $400 billion per year. If you're planning on making improvements this year, it's important to find the right professional. Their experience and expertise will ensure the best possible outcome for your project.
Not sure which Sacramento general contractor to hire? Here are four factors to keep in mind during your search. Keeping these factors in mind will help you find the right professional for the job.
Otherwise, you might find your project is more costly, stressful, and time-consuming than it's worth.
Don't feel stressed out! Instead, find a qualified general contractor to work on your project.
Get started with these tips for an effective search today.
1. Experience
First, talk to other homeowners in Sacramento. Ask if they've recently worked with a general contractor. If they have, ask about their experience.
You can learn more about Sacramento general contractors by speaking with friends, family members, and neighbors. They might even provide you with insights you can't find online.
Make a list of questions you want to ask, such as:
- Did the contractor arrive on time
- Were they professional
- What services did you request
- How much did their services cost
- Were you satisfied with the outcome
- Would you hire them again
- Did you experience any issues
If your friend did experience problems, ask how the contractor resolved the issue. Choose a contractor who prioritizes their customers.
If your inner circle can't help, don't sweat it! Instead, Google "Sacramento general contractors near me." Start drafting a list of contractors to choose from.
Then, learn more about each contractor on your list.
For example, how long has each Sacramento general contractor worked in the industry? Try to find someone with years of hands-on experience. Make sure they have experience with your type of project, too.
Their experience and expertise can ensure the best possible outcome for your project.
Resources
An experienced contractor has likely gathered resources over the years as well.
First, determine if the contractor has a strong network of suppliers and subcontractors. You can rely on their network to streamline your project.
The contractor you choose shouldn't hesitate to let you know about where they get their materials from. If they're not honest and transparent, scratch that contractor off your list.
Make sure they have a team that suits the scope of your project, too. Do they have enough staff members to meet your deadline?
If the contractor doesn't have adequate resources, you might experience delays along the way.
2. Services
Take the time to review the services each general contractor offers. Make sure their services suit the scope of your project.
Ask how long it normally takes for them to complete projects like yours, too.
Otherwise, ask how many projects they're currently working on. Make sure they're not juggling too much. Otherwise, they might not have the time to dedicate to your project.
They might struggle to meet your deadline as a result.
Portfolio
Has the general contractor worked on projects like yours in the past? Ask if you can see before and after photos of their work. Check their website and social media accounts for photos, too.
Reviewing photos of their work will help you determine if the contractor can meet your expectations.
3. Reputation
About 93% of consumers read reviews to determine the quality of local businesses. You can, too.
Take the time to read reviews from each contractor's previous clients. Reading online reviews will help you gauge their reputation.
A Sacramento general contractor with a strong professional reputation will likely want to maintain it. These contractors are more likely to offer top-notch services for every client.
Ask the general contractor if you can speak with some of their recent clients. Was the client satisfied with the outcome of their project? Did they experience any problems while working with the contractor?
You can also find customer reviews on the contractor's Google My Business and Better Business Bureau listings.
If the contractor has any major complaints filed against them, take your business elsewhere. Instead, choose someone with a strong reputation. You'll have peace of mind knowing you're choosing a contractor other homeowners trust.
Communication
As you read reviews for each Sacramento general contractor on your list, look for comments about their communication skills. Find a contractor who can communicate effectively with their customers and team.
Proper communication will ensure the project runs smoothly. Otherwise, you might not realize there are problems until it's too late.
Remember, your contractor should remain honest and transparent, too.
You'll also want to make sure you and the contractor remain on the same page every step of the way. Otherwise, they might make assumptions about your expectations. If they fail to meet your expectations, they could waste your time and money.
Instead, find a contractor who understands the importance of communicating with their clients.
4. Pricing
Ask at least three Sacramento general contractors on your list for a quote. Make sure you know what's included with each estimate. For example, the quote will likely cover labor and materials.
If you ever discuss pricing over the phone, make sure you get the details in writing. Having a written agreement will help you handle future disputes. If there are ever any communicator issues, you can refer back to the pricing.
Review the details of the contractor's contract, too.
Don't choose the cheapest contractor you find. Chances are, you'll get what you pay for.
Instead, review your notes. Choose the general contractor most likely to meet your needs, expectations, and budget.
Financial Responsibility
It's not enough to find Sacramento general contractors who suit your budget, though. You'll also want to make sure they're financially responsible. If they can't handle their own business practices, they might not manage the cost of your project.
Start Searching: 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sacramento General Contractor
You don't have to hire the first Sacramento general contractor you call. Instead, use these tips to vet your options. Prioritizing these factors will help you find the right general contractor for the job.
They'll ensure the best possible outcome for your project.
Eager to start renovating your home? Rely on Sacramento's #1 home renovation experts.
Contact us today for a free in-home estimate.
