Building a structure for residential or commercial use is a complex and pricey endeavor. Whether you’re going the partial-DIY route or hiring experts for the whole thing, the cost of resources adds up. When you’re on a budget, every dollar must be allocated strategically, so finding the right construction team for your project is the first step.
If this is the first time you’ve attempted a build of this kind, you may not have the connections or knowledge to know how to narrow down the options and hire a trustworthy and reputable business. In this guide, we’ll share the must-knows to weed out the “budget” workers and find dependable experts who won’t break the bank.
Start With a General Budget
There’s a fine line between knowing how much you want to spend and having a reasonable idea of what your project is likely to cost. This step involves a little upfront research on your part before you begin reaching out for quotes from construction companies.
First, decide what your project goals are, including the finished structure, the non-negotiables, and the preferred parts that might cost extra but aren’t necessary. Then, find similar projects around the area, and research how much those structures cost to construct. How long ago were they built? How much have material costs changed since then?
Keep in mind that a building built a few years ago will likely cost more to construct today due to rising prices. However, knowing this information can help you determine if your budget is realistic. It will also guide you as you evaluate quotes from contractors.
Research Recommended Companies
Checking out the various construction companies in your area should be a mix of seeking recommendations and performing your due diligence using online data.
Yes, it’s a promising start if your close friends and family had a good experience with a particular company in the past. But don’t stop there. Head to the Better Business Bureau and reputable contractor review sites. One or two negative reviews in a sea of positive is to be expected. Yet, multiple warnings with similar problems is a red flag. Move on to the next company on your list.
Good reviews aren’t the final decision maker, though. Ask each company you’re considering for references, and call those individuals. Would they hire the contractor again? What suggestions might they have for you if you work with the company?
Finally, verify the business has valid credentials, including licensing and insurance. What are their safety policies, and are they certified in the areas you’ll need in your structure? In general, the more positive reviews and industry and community awards they’ve achieved, the more likely they are to be reputable.
Get Multiple Estimates
You’ve researched the potential contractors in and around your area, and eliminated the iffy ones from your list. Now, it’s time to get estimates.
When it comes to reviewing quotes to compare prices, the job is rarely apples to applies. Ask for an itemized estimate that includes all costs and potential cost overruns. The more detailed, the better, as some builders will lump material and resources into a general category.
But helpful contractors might suggest ways for you to save money. For instance, instead of pouring concrete on site, your project could benefit from precast concrete, a more budget-friendly alternative. (See this article by FMP Construction for more information on precast concrete.)
Choose Your Company
As you interview each contracting company, you’ll have a gut feel for those that you think would equate to a positive experience. Soft skills like friendliness, approachability, communication, and flexibility matter, and these skills aren’t judged on an itemized bid.
Don’t ignore your gut instinct. If the contractor you meet with seems untrustworthy, rude, or rushed, those qualities often carry into the project, leading to delays, increased costs, and cut corners.
Comparing quotes isn’t solely about the numbers, either. Look at the company’s practices. Do they work well with subcontractors, with a system in place to hire out other experts as needed without unnecessary delays? What is their warranty policy? Strong warranties show the company has trust in its workers and product, and a focus on customer satisfaction.
Out of the multiple bids you’ve received, you can confidently eliminate outliers that are too high or too low. Too high means unnecessary costs. Too low means they’re likely to cut corners or may have missed important line items.
From the two or three quotes remaining, which one is the best value? This term refers to the contractors with the best qualifications and reputations, a strong warranty, adherence to a deadline, and willingness to work within your budget. They understand that you want quality work at an affordable price, and they offer suggestions to reach your goal using cost-friendly alternatives to the usual approach.
Conclusion
From communication and dependability to budget-friendly, the right construction team for your project doesn’t have to be a unicorn. Instead, do your research before you meet with any companies, and trust your gut and the internet community to warn you of potential untrustworthy builders. With regular contact, openness about goals and your budget, and a skilled team, your finished structure is a contract away from becoming reality.
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