How to Negotiate with Contractors
Everyone loves getting the best deal, and this applies when buying, selling or simply renovating a house. Even though quality jobs do not come cheap, you can settle on a friendly price that you and also your contractor will appreciate if you approach the matter smartly. Thus, if you have a tight budget and really want that home improvement project done right to satisfaction, this article is for you!
How to Negotiate with Contractors
Compare Multiple Bids
When it comes to the scope of work, never ever compare apples to oranges. But if presented bids are relatively the same, be sure to call your contractors and give each one of them the scoop on bid prices. Getting multiple bids will not only assist you to see the bigger picture, but it will also help you tell apples from oranges. Therefore, once you begin to compare the bids ensure they are alike in what they are offering so that you can effectively compare apples to apples. Occasionally, contractors might reduce or adjust their bids in order to meet your needs
Negotiate for Discounts
If more than two bids have close pricing, ask every contractor if there are any services they are willing to come down on in price in order to get hired. One or two contractors might be willing to cut costs in a few areas, especially if you have a big project. This could potentially help you save some money on the entire project.
DIY
To save some cash on your home improvement project, doing it yourself will be a sure bet! Some tasks like demolition can be pricey and time-consuming when added to the contract. So, if you got some tools, experience and don’t mind breaking a sweat, then get it done. If correct, a contractor will deduct those labor hours for the job part, hence lowering the cost in the long run.
Hire the Contractor as a Consultant
If you are a savvy DIY guy or gal, consider asking the contractor to act as your consultant where he/she will be giving specific instructions as well as checking details when you finish basic tasks. In fact, some contractors can permit you to use their licenses and be your own do-it-yourself contractor. This allows someone to do some personal touches on the home improvement project while sticking to their tight budget and having oversight. Should you prefer this route, nevertheless, do not expect any skilled labor fees’ reduction for the project’s portion that remains uncompleted.
Timing
It’s much harder to negotiate with a contractor for a discounted price at the height of the building season. Depending on your region, most building projects are done in summer, spring and fall. Therefore, contractors tend to have more downtime and be hungrier for jobs during the winter. Thus, if you obtain bids in the middle of winter, you will likely be in a position to get a better deal.
JAM PROPERTIES. LLC is a real estate solutions company that offers a wide range of services at no cost. We not only buy distressed properties, remodel them and sell them but also help and advise other real estate investors or folks interested in fixing and flipping homes. So, if you have any real estate questions, especially regarding selling a house in Orange County, CA, don’t hesitate to contact us!
Phone: 949-438-4343
Email: info@jampropertiesca.com
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