Isn't it terrific to live in the quad-city area? Hello, I'm Gary Edelbrock, the host of this real-estate column, and I'm talking to Tom Reilly about how to remodel your home. He's got some great tips for us today.

How to Choose the Right Remodeling Contractor in 3 Easy Steps

By Tom Reilly

If you're serious about getting your remodeling done right, we have some quick tips to help you choose the best contractor for the job.

Remodeling your home can be a stressful process! You may have heard a friend's remodeling horror story--or you might just feel nervous about navigating what you imagine could be an expensive and time consuming process. Your remodeling confidence begins with learning the 4 C's of Careful Contracting...

When you talk with the contractor, and his or her clients about their experiences, you will need to know what to ask. Four words are key: Consideration, Creativity, Communication, and Competence.

Consideration

Does the remodeling contractor listen to you? Does he understand your goals? You will know this by how he articulates proposed solutions back to you throughout the design process.

Creativity

Is the remodeler able to present solutions you may not have considered? Are your goals being met with fresh ideas? Does the remodeler have design training--such as an architecture degree or a specialty in energy-efficient design? Are his proposed solutions presented in a clear and professional manner? A creative approach will offer new design solutions that support your goals and budget.

Communication

Throughout the remodeling process you will need to know how your life will be affected. From scheduling to invoicing, you should not have any surprises--unless it is a pleasant one! Will the remodeler meet with you at least weekly if not more frequently? (The agenda of such meetings should include a brief synopsis of work completed, what is anticipated, and identify any issues that are unresolved). Communication begins with your initial conversation and doesn't stop until well after the project is completed. Even after the workers pack up their tools, communication is essential to monitoring how the project performs.

Competence

Of course the technical ability to perform the work professionally is a must. Professional competence extends beyond the bricks and mortar (or the cabinets and countertops), to include project administration. Completing the paperwork, obtaining the lien releases, and taking care of bookkeeping all need to be engaged with the same skill as trim carpentry.

So how do you find this out BEFORE you sign the agreement? Here are your 3 Easy Steps to Choosing the Right Remodeling Contractor:

1.) Contact the Registrar of Contractors in your area to ensure that you are only interviewing licensed contractors with good track records. 

2.) Review the remodeler's web site for information about his or her professional affiliations, associations, community work, and project portfolio. Call to ask for references and any information you do not find on the website. (No legitimate business person will be insulted--and most of us welcome the opportunity to share this information with you and answer your questions).

3.) Talk to at least three of the contractor's clients--aiming for a combination of past and current projects. Ask them the questions raised by the 4 C's in this article. If you can’t talk with past clients, do not hire the contractor. Your remodeling project requires a legitimate, skilled, and caring remodeling professional. Don't settle for anything less!

Follow these steps, ask a lot of questions, and prevent a remodeling nightmare from happening to you.

It's time to relax! Your dream home is right under your feet.

Tom Reilly
Prescott Renovations 

Prescott Renovations Business Profile