The key to a successful home remolded You have decided to do some home improvements around your home. The key to a successful project is to hire a good contractor. The first thing you should do is to collect as many referrals and recommendations as you can from friends, co-workers, neighbors and the folks at the local lumber yard.

The next step is to Contact all of the referrals and call each one. Make sure to find out as much information as possible. Ask if you can view the contractors work. It is important to find out if the contractor stuck to the promised budget and schedule. Were the homeowners happy with the work? Would they hire this person again? Also check with your local Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the contractor and, if so, how they were resolved.

Don’t forget to view the list of contractors and subcontractors at the www.marinlocalsearch.com. This is a great site with lots of potential businesses to choose from for your project.

A good contractor often schedules work advance, so you may have to call several to find someone available when you need them. Make sure to conduct a thorough interview with each of your prospective contractors. Find out how long they have been in business, what kinds of projects they specialize in and when they might be available for your project. Always ask to view photos of their finished work.

You need to make sure that the contractor you selected is insured for damage, liability and worker’s compensation.

Ask for bids or estimates from three or four contractors you feel comfortable with. Bids should include estimated costs of materials and labor, a schedule and any other fees. Make sure that each bid offers details on handling change orders and penalties the contractor will incur if the work falls behind schedule. Be suspicious of any contractor who offers to do the same work as others for considerably less money.
Small remodeling projects typically don’t require a formal contract, but something as big and expensive as a new garage should be put into a formal document. The contract should spell out all details of the project. Make sure you understand it thoroughly before signing, and don’t be afraid to negotiate the best possible terms for yourself