Hiring Contractors Under The Best Terms

GOAL:  To combine 3 estimates for any service to make the most well-rounded bid.

1. Get 3 quotes for the same service.  For example: Paint the exterior of your home.

2. Make a spreadsheet of all of the terms that are mentioned in the estimate.  

Example:

Pressure Washing:

Prep Work (filling in holes, etc…):

Brand of Paint:

How Many Coats:

How Long to Complete:

Payment Terms:

Warranty:

Price:

You will find that these will vary greatly when you look at the estimates and compare.  

3. Check references, reviews etc… you can go to www.buyersask.com to research and investigate the items as well!

4. Now make your own estimate combining all of the terms that matter to you.  

5. Present that to your 1st choice.  

If you only have 1 estimate for some reason, you can make this same principle apply if you will take the time to either research Estimates (look under images) on Google or dream what you want.  The goal is to make a detailed and complete estimate back to the Contractor that is both friendly and firm.  

You will see that many estimates start with a thank you.  Do the same with yours.

Ask them to put your offer on their estimate and check the details closely.