Once you’ve researched and narrowed down your list of potential contractors, schedule a meeting to discuss the project. Be sure to ask for an estimate and be prepared with questions. An excellent contractor will be eager to offer references from prior customers. A red flag would be if they are reluctant to do so or have significant gaps between projects.
Ask for Referrals
Just as you wouldn’t hire the first applicant that walks in your door for a new job, you shouldn’t choose the first kitchen remodeling contractor you speak with. Reduce the number of candidates on your list by asking for recommendations, looking through portfolios of previous work, and verifying licenses. Ask your list of contractors to provide references from satisfied clients who can vouch for their work quality and reliability. Be wary of contractors who are hesitant to give out reference names or refuse to do so; this may indicate they have something to hide. If you are still looking for a contractor with a physical showroom, request photos and examples of past projects online. A reputable kitchen remodeler will be happy to provide this information.
Schedule a Consultation
The kitchen remodeling contractor will need to visit your home to provide you with a quote and action plan for your project. They may also want to see other rooms in your home if they need to make changes to accommodate the new kitchen. When meeting with contractors, ask them to show you samples of their work. The best way to determine how a contractor will perform is by seeing their work in person, which can be done by visiting a showroom or viewing photos on their website. It could be a red flag if a contractor needs more references or large gaps in their portfolio. Choose a contractor with plenty of experience, high standards and the skills to bring your vision to life within your budget, like Striking Remodels.
Do Your Research
When hiring contractors for your kitchen remodeling project, doing your research can help you find a pro who will be the right fit for your home and budget. Make sure to check for experience, licensing, insurance specifics and more. Once you have narrowed down your list of candidates, ask to see their portfolios and visit completed projects. You should also find testimonials from previous clients online, a great way to evaluate each contractor’s work. Pay special attention to any negative reviews and how the contractor responded. It shows how they would likely handle issues during your kitchen remodel. It would help if you also looked for memberships in industry organizations that require stringent professional standards. It can help you avoid companies with bad reputations and complaints.
Get a Quote
A kitchen remodeling contractor’s project estimate is a key information to review. However, it shouldn’t be the sole reason you select a contractor. The size of the kitchen, scope of work and other project details will impact a contractor’s quote. Also, consider materials, warranties and hidden costs like permits and tear-off fees. Once you have narrowed your list of potential contractors, schedule a phone consultation and an in-person meeting with your top picks. They will generally spend 1-2 hours reviewing your kitchen needs, taking measurements and photos to prepare an estimate. It may also include a design rendering (3D image).
Hire a Contractor
During your consultation, ask the contractor how long they’ve been in business and how many kitchen remodels they have done. It will give you an idea of their popularity. It’s also a good idea to look at the contractor’s portfolio, noting whether any work seems similar to your project. Pay special attention to the quality of artistry and materials used. You’ll also want to know how the contractor handles project timelines. Some contractors use strict scheduling, while others have flexibility. Lastly, you’ll want to know their contract and how much they charge for extras like refinishing countertops. The best contractors return phone calls promptly and keep their appointments. It is a sign that they have excellent client service skills.
