Building or remodeling a home is a major project. While you might have plenty of ideas regarding how you want things to look, you likely need help. A professional general contractor can be an incredible asset to your project, but they’re not all the same. You can’t just open up the phone book and pick the first one you see. Here’s how to choose the right contractor for you.

Get Several Quotes

You don’t have to go with the first general contractor that you come across. Instead, it’s recommended that you get at least three quotes from different ones. In addition to getting prices, you’ll get an idea of what each contractor can accomplish with the numbers provided. You’ll also get a good feel for the contractors and if you’re comfortable with them.

Ask Questions

It’s not all about price. To ensure the contractor is a good fit, you need to ask several questions. Common questions to ask include:

  • What types/sizes of projects do you take on?
  • Are you licensed and insured?
  • What’s the timeline for the project?
  • What can I expect during the day (work hours, noise level, etc.)?
  • What is the best way to get in touch with you?

Request Portfolios

As you meet with each of the contractors, ask to see previous projects. This can give you a good idea of what each one can accomplish and if their work fits with your goals. You can even ask for references from each contractor to see what previous clients have to say and read reviews online.

Find Out About the Team

Chances are that it’s not just the general contractor who will be doing all of the work on your house. Most likely, he or she will be working with a team of sub-contractors. The quality of the contractor’s work depends on the sub-contractors used. Find out who the contractor is working with and do your research on the team to ensure the members are proven and reliable.

Ask for Recommendations

Do you know a friend, family member, or co-worker who recently had a home built or had their home remodeled? If so, ask who they used for their project and what they liked (and maybe didn’t like) about the contractor. You can also ask for recommendations from your local home improvement store or lumberyard.

Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling your current one, you want quality results that you’ll love. The right contractor is one of the best ways to ensure your goals are met and your project is done correctly.