Home Improvement Basics - Interview the Contractor

By Sheryl Landrum
Home Worth Columnist

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Home improvement projects add beauty and value to our homes. Whether you are considering a new kitchen, new windows, or redecorating, finding the right contractor is the basis of a successful and pleasant experience. How do you find the right contractor for your home improvement projects?

Depending on the size of your home improvement project, you may work with more than one contractor or need a general contractor to supervise the whole project. Referrals from friends or co-workers are always a good place to start; however, the yellow pages and TV and radio ads provide numerous opportunities to find a contractor as well. Another great source for finding a contractor for your home improvement projects is at your local building and material stores. Ask them if they can recommend any competent contractors.

You should avoid contractors who:

• Solicit door to door
• Accept only cash.
• Need you to get the necessary permits
• Do not list a local business phone number or address
• Ask for cash up front
• Is not licensed.
• Suggests you borrow money from a lender he or she knows
• Has material left over from his previous home improvement project

Begin by interviewing each contractor you may be working with and asking for a written estimate and references. Ask your contractor to explain price variations and don’t necessarily settle for the lowest bidder. Call references, and if possible, look at the contractor's previous work. Remember, choosing the right contractor protects and improves one of your top financial assets: your home.

About the Author
Sheryl Landrum is a Senior Loan Officer with First Capital Mortgage of San Diego at the Prudential Realty Office in Bonsall, California.