Whether you’re building your dream home or renovating your existing home, it’s a big step, and sorting through the general contractors in Chatham has to offer can be a daunting task. Many companies will say they’re the ones who can do the job, but you should have a lot of questions prepared for them and receive a lot of great answers before you sign on the dotted line to begin your work.
When can you get started?
Of course you’re anxious to get started, and most general contractors should have enough crews ready to go to begin as soon as all the details are hashed out. Make sure the contractor requires a contract signed by both of you as that protects both parties, assuring that you’re both committed to the job.
What’s the bottom line going to be?
Cost is always a major concern and it should be spelled out completely in the contract. Your contractor lives by the budget. The meetings you have with your contractor will allow him to make up a project plan spelling out all the details of the project costs. Here, he will communicate with you all the costs going into the budget, and you will convey to him your expectations and visions.
How is payment made?
In your contract, your payment points are clearly spelled out. Typically, they are made at evenly spaced out points during the construction process. Most people pay by check for the work being done on their house, sending in payments to the office, although some contractors are set up to accept credit cards.
Where do the products come from for the project?
The fun part of any project is picking out the cabinets, flooring, doors, shower tiles or fixtures. Based on the experience of the contractor, they have probably put together a list of businesses they typically work with to give you quality products within your price range. While you are usually free to shop alone, many consumers prefer to have the contractor shop along with them, asking him for suggestions. Ask your general contractors if that’s something he would be open to doing.
When you have all the answers to your questions, feel comfortable with the answers, make the leap of faith and get started on that project of your dreams.
