How To Choose A Remodeling Contractor For Your Next Project
- pgcbuilding+design
- Aug 12
- 11 min read
Dreaming and designing a new space or look for your entire home, a portion of your home, or even just your kitchen, is an exciting and rewarding endeavor. Finding the remodeling company or remodeling contractor to make your dream a reality can be another story.
There are many great remodeling contractors out there that can help you turn your current home into the home you’ve been dreaming of; the challenging part can be finding the right person to make it happen.
As an award-winning remodeling contractor in Bend, Oregon, we’ve been in the industry for years and have seen first hand how choosing the right remodeling contractor makes an incredible difference in the outcome and your satisfaction with the process. In this article, we’ll share our tips on how to find and choose a remodeling contractor that’s right for your project along with a list of questions you can ask when interviewing potential home remodeling contractors for your project.
Top Tips To Find The Best Home Remodeling Contractor For Your Project
With so many options to choose from, how do you know which remodeling contractor will be best for you? Here are a few of our top tips to choose the remodeling contractor that’s best for you.
Know What You Want
The first thing you’ll need to do before you start looking for a remodeling contractor is to have a general idea of what you are looking for. Are you looking to redo your owner’s suite? Do you want to refresh your bathrooms? Are you looking to remodel your home’s second floor, or maybe give your entire home a makeover? Knowing the type of remodeling project you’d like help will help you narrow down the options and find the best contractor for the job.
Create A Shortlist
Before you contact any remodeling contractors in your area, we recommend creating a list of contractors that you’d like to learn more about. Then you can do your research to narrow the list further to the handful of contractors that you’ll have an initial conversation with.
To create your list, it’s always a great idea to ask people in your network who have previously remodeled their homes if they’d recommend their remodeling contractor, even better if they’ve completed a remodeling project similar to what you’d like to do. When someone you trust has had a positive experience, it can reassure you about how well you might work with the same contractor.
A Google search for home remodelers in your area is another way to find potential options. You can also narrow your search to the type of remodel you’d like to do. As an example “best bathroom remodel contractors” or “best full home remodeling contractors”. You can also use trade sites like Houzz to search for potential options. Both Google and Houzz profiles have associated customer ratings that allow you to quickly see a remodeling contractor’s ratings and reviews, which can be useful in creating your initial list.
Read Remodeling Contractor Reviews
As you are researching, it’s important to read the remodeling contractor reviews associated with the builders you are considering. Not only will you get a sense of the types of projects the contractor works on, but you’ll also get a sense of their communication style and the quality of their work. It’s a great sign if you read reviews from customers who have worked with the same contractor on multiple projects.
Reading reviews can reveal both the strengths and potential red flags of a contractor. If the feedback seems fake or raises concerns, it might be best to consider other options. Ultimately, reviews offer valuable insight into what clients appreciated or disliked, helping you make a more informed decision when selecting a home remodeling contractor.
Review Previous Project Examples
As you are researching to find the best remodeling contractor, you’ll likely find that many contractors tend to have specific types of projects and styles they are known for. This is where having a general idea of what you’d like to do before you look for contractors can really help you narrow your options. If you have a style in mind, look for a remodeling contractor who has previously built something in a similar style. If you are looking for a kitchen remodel, look for contractors that specialize in or have completed many kitchen remodels.
If the examples of past projects you see aren’t in your style, that doesn’t mean the remodeling contractor can’t achieve what you are looking for. The range of projects and styles they’ve worked on can indicate the contractor’s ability to be flexible and undertake and understand different types of remodeling projects.
Understand Capabilities
Similar to style & project type, different remodeling contractors have different capabilities. For example there are contractors that specialize in bathroom remodeling and that is the only type of project they’ll do. Others focus on whole home remodels and may not take projects that are smaller in size. These capabilities are important distinctions that will help you choose the right remodeling contractor for your project.
Determine Cost & Inclusions
While cost doesn’t always equal value, you’ll want to understand the price range for your project so that you know if the remodeling contractors you are considering are within your budget. When you are considering and discussing price, you can ask how the remodeling contractor estimates the cost and how their payment and pricing terms work. This will help you as you compare your options.
It’s also a good idea to ask about inclusions and find out if there are any other costs that are not included that you’ll also be responsible for. If you know what is included in the estimate you can make a more informed decision when comparing your options.
Consider Timing
Depending on the remodeling project, the timeline can be months or years versus a single week. This timeline can be extended based on the remodeling contractor’s schedule. If they are able to start right away versus if there is a project schedule and your project can’t be completed for a few months.
When you are talking with remodeling contractors, be sure to ask them about the timeline for your project. If you have a tight timeline you are trying to work within, be sure to mention this right away with contractors you are considering. This way you’ll understand if your timeline is realistic or have the right expectations about the timeline before you select your contractor.
Knowing more about the timeline upfront will help you to better choose the best remodeling contractor for your project given your timeline.
Determine Communication Preferences
The phrase “communication is key” is as true for building a custom home as it is for home remodeling. There are a lot of decisions to make and coordination required before and during your project. You and your remodeling contractor will need to talk often from the beginning of the project to the end.
It’s important to know how and when your remodeling contractor will talk to you about the project. They should let you know how and when updates, changes, and delays are communicated. They should also communicate with you any choices you need to make and when.
When you first talk with a remodeling contractor, you’ll get an idea of how they like to communicate. You should feel comfortable asking questions or speaking up if something is unclear. Good communication will help make sure things go smoothly and that you choose the right person for the job.
Check Licenses & Insurance
This one may seem obvious but it’s one of the most important things you can do when selecting a remodeling contractor. The last thing you want is to sign a contract and get started on your project only to find out that your contractor isn’t in good standing or that something has happened and you are on the hook for the expenses. Before you sign any agreements, be sure to look up your contractors license to ensure it is current. You should also request a certificate of insurance for verification.
Any remodeling contractor in Oregon should have an active CCB license, workers’ compensation insurance, and general liability insurance. You can check that any Oregon remodeling contractor licenses are up to date using the contractor license search.
Key Questions To Help You Choose A Remodeling Contractor
As you think about what you would want and expect in a remodeling contractor, it’s a good idea to write down questions you want to ask and information you want to confirm before you make a decision. That way you’ll have your own set of questions which include the items most important to you.
The following questions are a few of the key questions we recommend everyone ask when going through the process of choosing a remodeling contractor.
How long have you been working as a remodeling contractor in Bend or Central Oregon [your local area]?
This question can provide insight into a contractor’s experience and their knowledge of local permitting and regulations that may impact your project. Being in business in the local area for a longer period of time may also indicate the contractor’s connections with trustworthy subcontractors and suppliers which can be a benefit for you.
Are you licensed and insured?
This is an essential part of the due diligence process. Be sure to look up licenses and registration are current after before signing any agreements.
Do you have a portfolio of remodeling projects you’ve completed?
A portfolio will give you insight into the types of projects a remodeling contractor has worked on and an idea of the styles they’ve worked on previously.
Do you have previous client references?
Of course, any references provided should have great things to say about the remodeling contractor that provided them, but talking with previous clients can provide additional insight into a remodeling contractor’s communication style and project outcomes like remaining on schedule or how any issues were resolved.
What does your remodeling process look like?
Understanding the remodeling contractor’s process will help you have the right expectations going into your project.
Can I pick all the materials and fixtures or are there limitations in what I can select?
There are times when a remodeling contractor may have preferred suppliers and limit you to those suppliers for your choices. Others may not be able to work with specific materials, especially those that are more rare. If this is the case, you’ll want to know in advance. This is particularly important if you have specific material requirements.
What is the estimated timeline for my remodeling project?
An important question for any remodeling project to help you understand when your project might be completed and how you might need to plan and rearrange your personal schedule around the construction timeline.
What is communication like during the remodeling process? Will there be a designated point of contact for my project?
Communication is critical during your remodeling project, so understanding what you can expect regarding progress, potential problems, and who you’ll be communicating can help you choose the contractor that’s best for you.
What is your preferred method of communication with clients?
Related to the above, asking this question will help set your expectations. If you have a preferred method of communication, you can also share this with your potential remodeling contractor to understand if it’s realistic to receive communication that way.
How are changes in cost handled?
With any construction project, it’s not uncommon to run into issues that were undetectable before the project started. Knowing how changes in cost are handled will help you to be prepared should a cost change occur during your remodeling project.
Will you obtain any necessary permits or inspections for my home remodeling project?
This is always important to know before you get started so you know what you will be responsible for. As permitting and inspections can impact the timeline of your project, you’ll want to know in advance if these are your responsibility so that you can submit timely information to keep your remodeling project moving.
Will you assist with any Architectural Review Committee or HOA approvals?
Similar to permits and inspections, any HOA or architectural review committee approvals can derail your project’s timeline. To be fully prepared, you’ll want to know if it will be your responsibility to secure these approvals and when.
What is included in my remodeling project?
Knowing what is included in a remodeling contractor’s work will help you to better understand the value you are receiving and better compare estimates from multiple contractors.
Are there any items I should budget for that are not included in your work?
Just as important as what is included is what is not included. Be sure to get the details on any items that are outside of the contractor’s scope to avoid any surprises about additional costs while your project is underway.
When will I know the final price of my remodel project?
The final price will likely depend on the type of agreement the remodeling contractor uses. For some projects, you won’t know the final price until your last bill comes in. Other projects may have a flat rate that you know up front. There are pros and cons to both types of contracts and payment models, the important thing is to ask about it so that you know what you can expect.
What is the payment schedule?
The payment schedule is also important. How much you pay up front and how frequently you make payments during the project will help you as you are budgeting for your remodel.
How do you approach cleaning and protecting my home during the project?
You’re making an important investment in your home, so asking how it will be cared for during your remodeling project is important.
How and where are tools and materials stored?
The materials and equipment can take up a significant amount of space depending on your remodeling project to help you plan, you’ll want to know where and how that will be stored. If it’s on site, this may mean you have a storage container located at your property for the duration of the project. It’s always good to know for planning purposes.
Who will be onsite each day?
Depending on your project who is on site each day may change. Whoever is there will be in your home regularly, so it’s worthwhile to ask about this before you get started.
Will subcontractors work on my project?
This question is related to the above, but will also help you to understand how the work will be done, if specialists will be working on particular aspects of the project or if everyone is employed by the same remodeling company you are hiring.
What is your typical workday schedule?
Most communities have noise ordinances that might dictate when work can start each day, but for interior work, these types of ordinances may not apply. For your own knowledge and scheduling purposes, it’s important to understand when work will typically start and stop each day.
Can we continue to live in the property during the remodeling process?
This is another question to help you with scheduling during your project. If the work being done would require you and your family to live elsewhere for all or a portion of the project, you’ll need to make arrangements and be able to plan for this accordingly.
Do you have a warranty or guarantee for your work?
Most remodeling contractors have a warranty or guarantee for their work, but it’s always best to ask so you know up front what the warranty covers and what it doesn’t.
Choosing the Best Remodeling Contractor Makes All The Difference
Doing the research upfront before you choose a remodeling contractor can completely change your experience. The remodeling contractor you choose will have a huge impact on the process and outcome of your home remodel. Having the right expectations and being able to effectively communicate with your remodeling contractor will make the complicated process of remodeling more seamless and enjoyable.
Take your time making your decision and considering your options, and you’ll be able to choose the best home remodeling contractor to bring your vision to life.
If you are considering remodeling your home in Bend or Central Oregon, we’d love to talk with you about your project. You can learn more about our work as a remodeling contractor in Bend or contact us to learn more and discuss your remodeling goals.
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