Remember - "You get what you pay for."

12/1/2011 at 12:21:45 PM

I agree with the comments and referrals as mentioned. What most consumers do not realize is that qualified people and good quality materials do not come cheap. That doesn't mean that the highest estimate is best, for some equate quality with price.

Do your due dilligence and get information on the contractor and the quality of materials that are to be used. Also, look for "loopholes" in the estimate. Some are cheaper than others, but not always do they fullfill the true scope of the work, and add -ons not included can be the deciding issue of staying within the budget.

Some people are appalled at the cost of contractors. Realize these issues that he deals with.

The cost of tools, not including his work vehicle can easily run over $10,000.00: his insurance and WCB premiums; his "FREE" estimate time: the quoting on projects time; the time spent doing his own accounting; no stat holiday pay; no holiday pay; no benefit package; no company pension!

Now let us mention experience, fees to belong to associations (mandatoryfor new home builders) and the New Home Warranty fees; time spent on courses to be aware of any changes in codes and policy.

When you are getting estimates, and one is significantly "cheaper" than the others, remember what you are or did earn along with the benefits that you may have had. If it is less than what you feel that you are worth, or what you feel is adaquate to maintain a normal standard of living, the project estimate either has loopholes in it, or it will be done on the very minimal side of the standard that you are expecting.

The other aspect to consider, is that the experienced contractor has the tools and knowledge to do the job efficiently. The cheaper rate can often take far longer due to lack of tools and knowledge, resulting in higher costs. This is in addition to the fact that the chances of a shoddy job are very high.

It's your hard earned nickel. Spend it wisely.

12/1/2011 at 12:27:36 PM

Well, I ran out of space above, but I have been self employed for a number of years in various business's. When fully explaining, as I did above, it takes a true type of person who wants to be self employed. A lot of people have questioned me on this topic, and why I enjoy being self employed. My answer, for years has been very simple: "If there weren't idiots like me, who would YOU work for"!

A thought to remember.