Monday, November 29, 2010

Seven Tips for Hiring a Contractor

Tip #3

Did the contractor walk through your home with you?


In other words, did they look at your home, ask questions and hear what you wanted as far as what they were bidding on?

It’s very important that you feel as if they are paying attention to what it is you want as well as need during the process of the job.

This is where you can test what kind of experience you’ll be getting during the remodel with this contractor.

In January I will be launching www.remodel411.info which will be featuring my blogs and they will be interactive, you'll be able to post. It will also let you know where you can get the Remodel 411 - Remodeling is a Relationship book. Stay tuned.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Seven Tips for Hiring a Contractor

Tip #2

Did the contractor arrive at the scheduled time?


Did you show up on time? I've had homeowners who did not show up for appointments. The contractor’s time is also valuable. If you set a time - be there. Give what you wish to get in return.

If the contractor did not show up on time, did he call to let you know he would be late? I scheduled a tree trimmer to come out to my home to give me a bid. I spoke to his wife and set the date and time. On Wednesday, the day of the appointment (4:30), the contactor called at 3:45 and said they were just finishing up a job and could they come around 6:00. No problem. They came at about 5:50. That is what I mean when I ask, “did they call to let you know they’d be late?” Professionalism. It also lets you know that communication is something this contractor is familiar with. Remember, the biggest part of the job and how well it goes relies on clear, open and honest communication.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Seven Tips for Hiring a Contractor

Tip #1
When calling for estimatesmake sure the contractors you are calling RETURN THEIR PHONE CALLS!

I know this seems like an “of course I know that” tip, however, you’d be amazed at how many people who’ve experienced nightmares didn’t follow that tip when selecting someone to work in their home. This can lead to what I call the Emotionology of Remodeling "syndrome".

Emotionology of Remodeling:

When thinking about remodeling your home I’d like you to think of the why’s of the project you’re considering. So many times people enter into a home improvement project
without any foresight of what’s involved. There are many things to consider depending on how big
the project is. Some of the questions to consider are:
How long is this project going to take?
How will I feel once it’s done?
What are the real costs and what value will it add to my home and my life?

If you are considering a remodeling project really ask yourself these questions before beginning and it will make the whole process much easier.

Please visit our newly updated Eye for Detail website
with more articles, publications and Reva’s bio as well as an excerpt from the soon-to-be-released book - Remodel 411 - The Relationship of Remodeling.
www.eyefordetail.biz

Monday, November 8, 2010

“I always check out a contractor’s license and won’t work with someone who doesn’t have one...

....because I’ve had problems with contractors before!”

When I got a call from someone who told me this, she was calling me for a bid not a coaching session, however, I still address these kinds of comments from a coaching mind.

I simply told her that I not only coach homeowners but contractors and I tell both parties to check out the other party thoroughly and “listen to their gut”.

I told her that a problem “with a contractor” isn’t ever one-sided. I said I’ve heard plenty of stories about “not so wonderful” clients. I’ve also experienced them (that’s another article, however).

She actually paused and said “I guess so, I’ve never thought of that as a possibility”.

So, you see, a remodel coach is still a genre that’s much needed. It appears many homeowners still view a remodel as a one-sided relationship and that’s the myth I’m open to change.

It’s far more than one-sided. It’s a conversation between ALL parties.

What I talk about in the chapter on Listening in Remodel 411 is: listening is the most important aspect of communication. Remember, we have two ears and one mouth for a reason!

If you or anyone you know isn’t sure about how the communication needs to go to create a successful remodel please call or “pass me on” to someone you know who may be thinking about a remodeling project. A great remodeling relationship will create a wonderful experience for all concerned.