When you're planning a remodeling project, it's important to have a clear understanding of the work that needs to be done and the expectations of both parties. Before you start a conversation with a contractor, it's essential to reach a consensus with your spouse about the remodeling issues you differ on. This way, your contractor won't have to play marriage counselor. It's also important to review the start and end times, who pays for what, items ordered, and other important details that need to be detailed in the contract.
Make sure you are correct before addressing your contractor. This will help you have a meaningful conversation instead of being overwhelmed by terminology or wondering if the contractor is doing more work than necessary. Your team may encounter unforeseen structural problems, or you may decide to include additional work as the project evolves. Any good contractor can handle these changes, just make sure they make them in writing first.
If you find it difficult to find a contractor to help you with your project, start by getting permission to work. Jobs tend to become problematic when a contractor doesn't know how to manage a job from start to finish or when he missupervises several projects. If one of your first sentences in your conversation with a contractor is about costs and a tight budget, you're giving all the wrong signals.
