How to Choose the Right General Contractor for Your Project

Your home is your biggest investment. In order to get the most financial value out of your investment, keeping your home up to date and in good repair is vital. Something as simple as upgrading from carpet to wood flooring, replacing your kitchen countertops, or swapping out those bathroom fixtures that came with your house, can not only increase the value of your home when it’s time to sell, but it can also make living in your space more comfortable. Once you’ve decided it’s time to take on a home improvement project, it’s time to pick the right contractor for the job. This can be overwhelming as there are so many factors to consider. We’ve compiled a list of the most important things to investigate and ask about before hiring a general contractor so you can be confident that your project will turn out exactly how you envision it:

1. License: make sure the contractor is licensed. In New Mexico, you can check the contractor’s license by going to https://www.rld.nm.gov/construction-industries/

2. Insurance: The contractor should have a general liability insurance policy. This is just in case something on your property is accidentally damaged while they are on the job. Feel free to ask to see certificates of insurance.

3. References: Ask for references. Check their online reviews and/or check their reputation with the Better Business Bureau.

4. Get an in-home estimate: Have your contractor describe in detail the scope of work. From visiting the job site, the contractor should have a solid idea of what it’s going to take to achieve what you’re looking for.

5. Ethics: Don’t undervalue the importance of a contractor’s ethics. A professional will put his client’s interests as a top priority. Hiring an honest contractor is always less expensive than hiring a dishonest one. Be wary of an initially low price. An unethical contractor will hit you with subliminal costs that were not reflected in their original estimate.

6. Ask questions: for example, How long has your company been in business? What is the timeline for this project? Will you be acquiring a permit to complete this job? Better communication leads to a better end result.

The right general contractor will be skilled, experienced, trustworthy, and professional. Once you do your homework and you find a contractor with those characteristics your project can begin.

If you live in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, or the surrounding area and you’re looking for a contractor to complete a home renovation project, contact Allstate General Contractors, Inc. and we would be happy to provide a free in-home estimate. Contact us today to get started!