Choosing a Contractor part 1
Should I choose Company A, B or C? Tell me what really matters.
When several options are available, how can you be sure you are picking the right contractor? These few tips may help.
- Free Estimates: Take them up on their offer.
- Do not be afraid to wait.
- Ask for specs.
- Beware phone pricing.
In this first of a 4 part series, we'll be discussing Free Estimates: Take them up on their offer.
There are many professionals in the lawn and garden industry who
take time away from their busy schedules to offer free estimates. Home owners should capitalize on their offer. For one, this is a great way to weed out the non-professional, fly-by-niters that may not be around when you want them. If you have difficulty getting a contractor to meet with you, chances are you will have difficulty getting them to do the work. Secondly, an experienced professional will often have great ideas. Many people feel overwhelmed with the task of landscaping their home. A craftsman with a few years under his belt will notice certain details and their experience may benefit you highly in the long run.
Phone quotes can simply be unfair to the client. If you call for an estimate and that company offers you a quote over the phone to save them time, you can be sure the quote you receive is what that company thinks will make them money. How can you be positive this is a company with your best interest in mind? If someone overbids on the phone, you will be paying too much. If they underbid, you will have an upset contractor and worse, a rushed job. It is always best to get that all important FREE ESTIMATE.
We have heard several horror stories from people who have trusted their money to a seemingly good company only to be 'hoodwinked' by a fast talker. For this reason we list reputable companies as our partners. These companies are straight forward, not out to steal your money and ready to work for you.