Contractors Are Not All The Same
Every contractor is different.
No two contractors are really the same. Every contractor has different equipment and different employees who know how to do certain kinds of jobs well. Every company has a different number of employees, each with different abilities.
Contracting is art and craftsmanship combined. Most people who hire contractors don’t truly understand that despite all of the technological advances, contractors still use the same quality work habits as twenty years ago. It takes craftsmanship to turn out quality work. Kitchen remodeling contractors have to measure, design and perform complicated calculations before they can start a job.
Communication is the key to picking the best contractor for YOU.
Ask if they specialize in kitchens and bathrooms.
Ask how long they have been in business.
Ask if they will provide references from past customers AND vendors.
Ask what is the timing required to finish the job.
Ask if they use employees or subcontractors do the work.
Ask if they are using skilled craftsmen or day laborers.
Ask any other questions that are unique to your needs. This will help you decide whether they are the best contractors for YOU!
After you ask your questions, it will become obvious which company you should choose. The company that wants your business will prove to you that they are the best contractor to do your work. Take your time to decide which contractor you would like to use – but when you decide, you should be loyal to them.
You may think this is good way to do business to have three or more contractors competing with each other for your work, and it is to some extent. But here is why it usually isn’t a good way to deal with contractors.
A good contractor has enough loyal customers so that they don’t have to deal with price shoppers. Once you find a good contractor, you should be loyal to them. If you flip-flop from contractor-to-contractor, a good shop won’t be too motivated to keep YOU as a customer, and you’ll be left “out in the cold” literally when you most need them.
Price is important. But price should not be more important than good quality and good service. This is what people typically like to do. They try to get everyone fighting for the same piece of pie. This might be an OK short-term strategy because you save a few bucks. But when you need a favor or super fast service, not one of these companies will instantly bend over backwards to help you. (And if you have been a price shopper in the past, they will probably charge you more!).
Every contractor expects to bend over backwards for their loyal customers now and then. He or she might have to work all night or on a weekend to do a super rush job or to pull off a miracle. Provided the customer is loyal, the contractor will do all he can to help you meet your needs.