Before you remodel: Contractor selection tips

by Lisa Duguay, ABR, SRES 10/06/2024

If you’re planning a major home remodel, contractor selection should be at the top of your to-do list. Home remodeling contractors are specialists in working with your existing home to help you achieve your goals. They can also help you navigate logistics like obtaining all the necessary permits and selecting building materials.

But how do you choose the right contractor? Before making your home a job site, here are some tips to consider:

How to hire a remodeling contractor

The first step to finding a quality contractor is to ask others for recommendations. This will provide you with an excellent starting point, and help you get important information about the overall experience of working with them.

You can also research local contractors online. Try to find a contractor experienced in the specific projects you need help with, like bathroom or kitchen remodeling.

Some contractors work independently, while others might work with larger construction firms. Investigate both kinds of contractors and compare their credentials and reviews.

Questions to ask a remodeling contractor

Once you find some possible contractors, it’s time to interview them. Some questions you should ask include:

  • How long have you been in business?
  • Do you offer liability insurance?
  • What is the timeline for project completion?
  • What is your preferred method of communication?
  • Do you offer a warranty for service or building materials?

These are only some questions a qualified home remodeling contractor will be able to answer for you. Obtaining this information will help you determine whether you’re choosing the best person for the job.

About the Author
Author

Lisa Duguay, ABR, SRES

Lisa is a sales and marketing professional with over 20 years of experience representing buyers and sellers throughout Fairfield County. Her deep understanding of local residential markets and current trends along with the exceptional local and global networking resources of Berkshire Hathaway allow her to provide the highest level of personalized, professional and confidential services to her clients. An experienced listener and negotiator, she works with her clients to thoroughly understand and achieve the results they desire. Dedicated, discreet, ethical, honest and principled, Lisa has been consistently recognized as a top producing agent and is a trusted resource within her communities. * Certified Relocation Specialist *Accredited Real Estate Buyer’s Representative (ABR) *Accredited, Senior Real Estate Specialist Council (SRES) *Member, National Association of Realtors *Member, Connecticut Association of Realtors *Member, Greater Fairfield Board of Realtors * Member, National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Lisa is a lifelong area resident who grew up in Westport and currently resides in Southport. She is actively involved as a volunteer for several local organizations including the CT Alzheimer’s Association.