How to Find a General Contractor
Today there are many ways to find a general contractor - Internet, radio and TV ads, specialized magazines and catalogues, etc. Let’s look at several of the most popular.
Perhaps you have a friend, neighbor or colleague who has used a general contractor and been pleased by his work and price. This is someone whom you should definitely contact to bid on your project.
There are variety of services available in the Internet that can find you a general contractor in California, for example, to bid on your project, e.g. Home Repair California. It is important to keep in mind that the contractors who use these services pay a set fee for agreeing to get the detailed information on your project. Initially they are provided just your location and the general type of project involved. Once they express interest in your project they are provided with the more detailed information that you have provided to the service. It does, however, cost them anywhere from $50-$100 for this information. If you decide to use one of these online services, and if a contractor expresses interest in your project, it is simple courtesy to allow the contractor to bid on your project, since he has already paid a fee for the right to contact you.
Perhaps the least desirable means to find a general contractor is to look in your local yellow pages. Your yellow pages are most likely filled with multiple listings for general contractors. Your natural tendency may be to call the contractor with the flashiest ad. In reality, that may be the worst choice you can make. Some of the best contractors don’t need to advertise. They get enough business from their former clients who became referrals.
Remember: The process of search for a general contractor is not easy. Don’t be surprised if many contractors that you contact never return your call. Today this is a sellers market and many contractors have enough business lined up to keep them busy for months. A standard recommendation is that you get bids from at least three contractors.