With the current state of the real estate market, remodeling or completing renovations on your home is a great way to begin putting value back into your property. However, it is a big investment and when you are hiring a contractor to complete the work, you need to be certain that they are reputable and that they will get the job done right.

There are unlicensed contractors operating that may not have the same standards as those that are licensed, and they may try to cut corners on the job in ways that will cost you money and cost you the structure of your home.

To avoid contractor problems like the ones above (and more), there are a number of things that you can do.

How to Choose the Right Contractor

• Check Qualifications – Don’t be afraid to ask contractors to show you proof that they are licensed and registered as required in your jurisdiction. If you want a testament to someone’s skills, consider selecting someone referred to you by someone whose opinion you trust.
• Don’t Choose Based on Money Alone – The person with the lowest bid may seem appealing, but it is important to recognize that with cost comes value. You do not necessarily need to choose a contractor that quotes the higher price either; just be skeptical of those that seem too good to be true.
• Ensure They Get Your Vision – When you communicate your needs to the contractor, make sure that before they start the job, they are able to communicate their understanding.
• Do Your Research – Not only should you do your research with regards to each contractor you interview, know what the job you want done requires. If you know in advance what part of the project will require permits, for example, you can be skeptical about a contractor that says the job can be done without them.

Whether you are planning to remodel your home in preparation to sell, to increase the value of your home, or for your own enjoyment, finding the right contractor is essential.