There dozens of Tucson remodeling contractors who could help you with your home remodeling needs. But which among them will do the best job for you? Whether your focus is just bathroom remodeling or you’re interested in a whole home remodel, finding a qualified and trustworthy contractor is key to your success.
Use the following tips to evaluate and choose the best Tucson remodeling contractor for your upcoming project.
6 Essentials to Choosing the Best Tucson Remodeling Contractor
1. Start with Referrals
Word of mouth referrals are the absolute best first resource when you’re looking to get help with a home improvement project. Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors who have recently had work done.
Who did they use? What was their experience like? Would they use the same contractor again? Did their contractor finish on time and within budget? Did any issues arise during the project? How did their general contractor handle those issues?
(Remember, remodeling a home is just like anything in life. Sometimes issues arise, even when you’re working with the most experienced contractor possible. The true test of a professional you can trust is how they handle issues.)
2. Check the Contractors’ Websites
Once you have a list of recommendations, hit the web. Check out each contractor’s website. Look at the past jobs they are showcasing. Read their mission statement and about page.
How long has the contractor been in business? Have they maintained the same mailing address and phone number for an extended period of time? While everyone has to get their start somewhere and sometime, a long history of business success bodes well for your potential working relationship.
3. Confirm Their Credentials
Credentials are essential. If a contractor does not have ALL the required licenses from the state and local municipalities, cross them off your list immediately.
Typically, a good home remodeling contractor will have these licenses listed on their website. But, you’ll also want to make sure you ask to see them when you interview them.
Furthermore, it’s also a good sign if the contractor has earned designations and awards from professional associations. Look to see if contractors have invested in ongoing course work to earn additional certifications. This shows an investment in the quality of their work.
Additionally, read online testimonials. Testimonials on a contractor’s website are always a good place to start. But they’re typically only showing the good. Try and also look at third party sites, like Google, Facebook, and Yelp.
4. Interview Potential Tucson Remodeling Contractors
Narrow down your list to just a few contractors. Try to keep the list to three. Three is a good number for options, without being terribly overwhelming. Go meet with each contractor in person. Ask to see the credentials me mentioned above.
Talk to the contractor about your wants and needs for the new space. Consider how you communicate. Do you feel comfortable with them? Have they done similar projects in the past? Do you like their style?
Just like every pair of shoes isn’t for every woman, not all contractor’s styles are for every homeowner. It’s important to make sure you find someone who matches yours.
5. Check References
Feel good about one (or all) of the contractors? Ask them for references. See if they have past customers with whom you can speak. How did the contractor do at executing their job? Were they on time and within budget? Were the customers pleased with the finished product? Was there anything they wish they’d done differently? And if possible, go see their work firsthand.
6. Get Any Contract in Writing
Finally, after you evaluate the contractors and select the best contractor for your home renovation project, make sure to get the contract in writing. The contract should outline all the home improvements you expected to be completed.
Additional Tips
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Moving to Catalina Foothills or looking to remodel? From the upscale shops and bustling restaurants to the posh neighborhoods, there are a lot of reasons to call this home!
6 Things We Love About the Sam Hughes Neighborhood
Rich in history, rife with color, and filled with stunning architecture, the Sam Hughes Neighborhood is a beautiful place to live and visit.
How Remodeling Can Help You to Beat the Tucson Housing Market
Our number one tip for prospective buyers is to focus on finding a neighborhood you love. Then, remodel your home to meet your wants and needs.