Do you know what to look for when choosing a contractor to do business with? Well, I promised that I would share my personal experience with you all in hopes to help you in some way & if you don’t need a contractor maybe you can share with someone you know who does! We all must help each other any way we can!
There are several factors I considered when it was time to choose a contractor:
- Make sure they’re licensed and insured
- Take note of their communication style (i.e. do they respond in a timely manner)
- Consider your project needs and determine if whether or not they have experience in your industry and commercial real estate
- Determine if they can meet your project deadline
- Check reviews and if you can obtain a reference that is even better
- Get multiple bids if possible
- Are they trustworthy and loyal
I actually called several contractors when I began searching. Two of my potential prospects didn’t follow through as promised so, to be honest, I was thankful for God allowing me to get a feel of how they “operated” before we go too far into the process. Rejection is God’s protection!
Eventually I decided on one particular company and they’ve been loyal since day one of last year and are still looking forward to working with me today! They have experience in my industry, good reviews, could meet my timelines, insured, and showed up for every walkthrough we had scheduled…and on time might I add!! One thing I paid very close attention to is their communication style. Were they easy to contact? Did they respond in a timely manner? Did they do what they said they would do? Yes, was the answer to all of the above! Another thing I would like to point out… Once I received my proposal, every question was answered and welcomed as well as every adjustment I requested too! They made certain that I understood everything in its entirety relating to my project needs and that was appreciated!
Needless to say, choosing a contractor is one of the most important decisions you will make on your entrepreneurial journey, if needed. Why? Because depending on the scope, a great deal of your project could be dependent on them so taking the time to choose the right contractor is a MUST. Do not try to cut any corners on this one! I’ve heard many “not so good” contractor stories so doing your homework and going with the contractor you feel is best for you is paramount!
Update:
I am still undergoing the SBA Loan process. Good things take time and I’m still believing that it’s already done and I’m doing what I can while I wait with expectancy!!!! Are you believing with me??? I hope so! See you next week!!!
