Get Home Remodeling Work Done Right
Do you own a home? If you do, you have probably thought of doing some remodeling. If you are getting ready to sell, it might be the right time to do a little remodeling and updating, to improve the value. Of course, homeowners will try to get the most attractive changes done at the lowest possible cost. Saving money is important to most people, but that doesn't mean you want a cheap result.
Real estate is a serious matter. If you are not careful, you could spend too much in anything that has to do with home ownership. A project might be for just one room; even for a small job, you could get taken. Getting a good contractor is key to getting the job accomplished to your satisfaction and at the right price. When it's done there can be a great sense of satisfaction. There are, however, some pitfalls of which you have to be aware.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, homeowners should watch out for the tricks of dishonest contractors. The FTC warns about these signs which can indicate that your hired help will be a source of trouble:
- Requires cash payments
- Pushes for an immediate decision
- Offers a cheaper price for finding or referring more customers
- Has extra materials from another job, which will give you a great deal.
- Asks for full or almost full payment before completion
- Asks you to obtain the necessary building permits yourself.
Any one of those circumstances could be a sign that you should walk away from the deal. Sometimes a bad contractor will also try to get you to borrow for the work through a company that they recommend. The worst case scenario of a loan scam could put you out of house and home.
There are several precautions you should take to avoid being taken advantage of. Interview list of potential contractors rigorously. The FTC recommends that you ask how long they have been in business, their license details, and insurance offerings. Check with the city or local county permit authority.
Another very important technique is asking for recent references. You should not only get a list, but you should call and follow up on them. Ask the people about the quality of the job. This is one chance to get the real inside scoop.
Payment terms have to be clear before they start. Some local laws do set limits on how much higher the final cost can be from the contract estimated cost. Check into whether this is so where your work will be done. Don't pay in full until completion of the work.
Article provided through Automated Homefinder, the ultimate Colorado real estate experts.
|
|
Linda Zimmerman, GRI, e-PRO, SRES |
E-mail: