Home ownership may slowly be getting the better of us, as we’ve recently discovered the need for some master bathroom repair work. Repair work as in even-we’re-not-crazy-enough-to-DIY-this type of repair work. We love to swing a hammer as much as the next guy, but there are some things that we realize must be left to the pros, especially when the safety and value of our home is considered.
We’ve been looking for someone who is trustworthy, affordable and on top of their game to come work some magic on a damaged shower wall. Since many of you may find yourself in similar situations and may even been new to the area we thought we’d share some thoughts on how we as newbies are going about asking for help:
• Of course, ask friends for recommendations. We’re doing it in person, over the Internet, via Facebook etc. Neighborhood listservs, if your neighborhood is lucky enough to have one, also are a great resource. The best way to find a great contractor is usually word of mouth from a happy customer rather than all those advertisements in your mailbox.
• Note to all contractors: If you don't have a website, get one. It helps us learn a little more about the company we’ll be inviting into our home for a few days – and giving some major coin to. We also use the Internet to search for negative reviews that may exist and also check out Better Business Bureau ratings.
• Check references that are available on websites or call and ask for references. Also verify insurance ratings and licensure status for those companies that are likely to make the final cut.
• After quite a bit of research, we usually like to narrow down to two or three choices and schedule in-person estimates. We always explain that we are getting multiple estimates on a job so that we will hopefully receive the contractor’s most competitive estimate.
We’re no pros ourselves, but with these tips in mind we plan to find just the right person for the job. If you’re finding yourself in the same got-to-hire-a-pro boat, we hope these tidbits are useful in your search as well.
