3. Avoid the Big Remodeling Contractors...
...by seeking out the one- or two-person operations. The big companies have the unemployment taxes, worker's compensation, advertising, and sales commissions. The smaller operations will negotiate. Not to mention, you'll probably get a better level of service. Start by making sure the remodeling contractor is licensed. One perennial problem with smalltime contractors--indeed any small operation--is that there are a lot of shady characters out there. The smaller the operation, the more you should concentrate on seeking many local references for that contractor. Gain even more knowledge about that contractor's quality of work by visiting examples of the contractor's remodeling work. It should go without saying that if the contractor is stingy about showing examples, cross that contractor off the list in a hurry.2. Use the "Free" Home Remodeling Consultants
You're seen them--the kitchen planners at The Home Depot, Lowe's, and local home improvement stores. Even if you don't plan on using them, you'll walk away with a nice printed kitchen design layout. Get product samples of siding from siding companies. Get hardwood and laminate flooring chips from flooring companies. For a short time commitment, flooring installers will come to your house and give you a dead-on floor measurement. Sure, these services come with a cost: the sales pitch. But you're not shelling out any bucks (though make certain that they're not charging you for the estimate, as some companies have begun to do recently).And For the Number One Way to Reduce Remodeling Costs (drumroll, please)
