Finding the best contractor for any real estate property is easier than you think!
Maintaining your real estate properties often means working with contractors to get the job done. Unfortunately, there are many contractors out there looking to make a quick buck and take advantage of you. Keep your real estate properties in great condition means screening prospective contractors to find the ones who are equally great. Here are some of our best time-tested tips for thoroughly screening prospective contractors.
Pre-Screen On The Phone
Just like you do with prospective tenants who have applied to live at your properties, take the time to speak with any prospective contractors multiple times before signing on the dotted line. How does the contractor carry themselves? Do they answer your questions directly or skirt around the point? Some of the questions you should ask include:
- How long have you been contracting?
- What skill are you the best at?
- What job elements do you not enjoy doing?
- Where do you work?
- How many employees work for your company?
- What is your workload typically like?
- Do you pull permits?
- If I hire you, when could you start working?
Search Around
The internet is a great tool when it comes to screening prospective contractors, and if you don’t take advantage of it, you are missing out. Do a simple internet search of their name and their business name. This is a great way to quickly find out a lot of information. Keep in mind that customers are more likely to write about negative experiences than positive experiences, but multiple properties having a bad experience should be a huge red flag. If you are concerned about any individuals that are going to be working on your properties, you can also typically run a background check on them (just like you would a tenant).
Ask For References
References are a great way to get a feel for how much work the contractor has actually done. Don’t just ask for homes that they’ve worked on, either—see if they have worked on similar properties or other complexes. Don’t just stop there either, take the time to actually call the references and see how the project went. What did they do? How long did it take? Were they professional? Would you work with them again? These questions will give you great insight into the contractor.
Trust The Professionals At Clagett Enterprises For Your Real Estate Needs
If you’re looking for the perfect realtor for your property or to assist during your purchase of any home, you can rely on Clagett Enterprises. Clagett Enterprises is a full-service real estate company with almost 30 years of experience in the Frederick and Western Maryland area. For assistant selling your home and getting the best possible price, contact us online or give us a call at 301-665-6009. To meet our team and see some of our beautiful homes, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.