Finding the Perfect Match

Finding the Perfect Match: Choosing the right remodeler to fit your personality and project. Kate Carbone. Remodel Portland Magazine 2004, page 6 (Published in cooperation with the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Portland & Strategy Custom Publishing LLC).

In 1961, Louise Heath Leber told the New York Post, “There’s always room for improvement, you know—it’s the biggest room in the house.” Now that the kids are gone, shag carpeting is out, and you really could use that sleek new home office – it’s time to remodel. So how do you approach the daunting task of choosing the perfect contractor to make your remodeling dreams a reality?

Word of Mouth
Word of mouth referrals are a remarkably effective way to find a quality contractor. Make inquiries among friends, family members and coworkers. Chances are you’ll find someone that’s had work done on their home.

Visit home shows and find out who worked on homes you particularly admire.

Also, contact the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Portland (HBA) at (503) 684-1880, or visit their website at www.homebuildersportland.org. In addition to a comprehensive online directory that allows you to search for a contractor based on your specific needs, the website also offers a wealth of tips and informative articles to help you navigate the process with confidence.

Formed in 1942, the HBA has grown to represent over 1,200 company members. What does this mean to you? A contractor’s membership in the association is a strong indication of professionalism and commitment to quality work and continuous improvement. The HBA’s Remodelors Council is comprised of the most skilled craftspeople in the area, and many have earned additional certification through rigorous study and testing. You can be confident that these remodelers are knowledgeable about the most current industry methods, because continuous education is required to maintain the certifications.

Do Your Homework
Next, call the Construction Contractors Board’s 24-hour contract referral line, or visit their website at www.ccb.state.or.us. The CCB will verify that the contractor is legitimately licensed, bonded and insured. You can even view the company’s history of insurance and bond claims.

Now that you’ve narrowed your list, it’s a good idea to get organized before calling anyone. Think of this project as a partnership between you and the remodeler; keep in mind that being prepared means that everyone’s time will be better spent. If you’ve clipped photos from magazines or jotted down ideas from home shows that you’ve visited, gather these together to show to the contractor. Organize your priorities by deciding which changes are vital and which can be postponed if you begin to run over budget.

Interview
As you meet individually with potential contractors, there are several points that should be addressed. First, be sure that the remodeler has plenty of solid experience. He or she should come prepared with a portfolio of completed projects and be enthusiastic about showing them. Don’t dismiss the contractors that don’t have exactly the same kind of job in their portfolios. Creative professionals will concede that they rarely see the same project twice, because each home is unique and deserves custom care. More important is that the contractor is confident in his ability to do the work and able to articulate his understanding of the project in a way you understand.

Don’t underestimate the importance of compatibility. You’ll be spending a lot of time with this person’s crew and investing a lot of trust in their professionalism, so good communication is vital. Select someone with whom you feel comfortable sharing your ideas and concerns. Finally, you should request at least three references-- and check them.

Check References
Knowledge is power, so be prepared with a list of specific questions for the contractor’s previous customers. Don’t just ask if they were satisfied, they wouldn’t be listed as references if they weren’t. The following questions will give you the answers that you need to make an informed decision:

Is the finished product what you envisioned that it would be?
Compared to other jobs you’ve seen, do you see measurable value in the quality that the contractor provided for you?
Was the remodeler creative about solving any problems or obstacles that arose?
Did he or she keep you updated on the status of the project and address any concerns that you had throughout the process?
Was the crew courteous and respectful of your property?
Do you feel that the company is run with integrity?

Ask around – Friends, families and coworkers may provide valuable tips and referrals.

Call the Homebuilding Association of Metropolitan Portland (HBA) at 503.684.1880, or visit their website at www.homebuildersportland.org to find relevant contractors in your area.

Call the Construction Contractors Board. The CCB can verify that a company is licensed, insured and bonded. Organize your ideas and your budget. Gather any photos, clippings, notes or illustrations that illustrate what you want.

Set up the interviews. Each contractor should bring a portfolio detailing previous work. Ask a lot of questions and make sure that you feel comfortable sharing your ideas with the contractor.

Check References. Ask specific questions of the contractor’s previous clients, such whether the contractor kept the client’s best interests in mind.

Trust your instincts. A remodel job involves a relationship based on personal compatibility in addition to craftsmanship and reputation. Hire someone that you like.