You and Your Contractor

You and your contractor. Over the years of working with many,many clients I have watched the relationships that develop between a homeowner and the person responsible for the work being done to their house.

First of all, it is truly a special person who can show up at your house every morning at 8 am and start messing with things, all kinds of things. Most of us are getting ready for work, putting kids on the bus or, if you are lucky, having a second or third cup of coffee. I know it is an invasion to have people there every morning but honestly most people are sad and relieved to see them go when the job is done.

The reason I paint this picture is that how all this turns out has a lot to do with you and how you perceive your relationship with them. First and foremost pick someone you like, feel you can work with, and trust. How you make this evaluation is up to you but I can tell you from experience, liking is not enough. Likable people don't necessarily have talent or a great work ethic. Just saying.

The key to a good outcome is to be honest, forthright and fair to yourself and them. Many times I have witnessed the relationship disintegrate due to micromanagement and fear.  Don't  use up their work time asking questions, wait and see what they do and then if you have questions, ask. They truly are the experts and would love to explain but not while they are working. Most of the contractors I have worked with will bend over backwards to make you happy if you don't demand more than you paid for. In fact they will give you more than you paid for if treated with respect and fairness. This happens so much you  wouldn't believe it but not if you expect it. Just like most relationships we all want to be respected.