When looking for a remodeling contractor, one of the most common pieces of advice you’ll receive is to compare multiple bids before making your choice. In today’s post, the home remodeling contractors at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Central Texas explain why this strategy usually doesn’t work, and how you should go about choosing the right remodeling contractor for the job.
Why Comparing Bids Doesn’t Work
Most of us are wired to do some comparison shopping before buying something. If you’re buying a new car that’s a specific year, make and model, this is a good thing, as you will be comparing the exact same product across multiple dealers.
Applying the same logic to home remodeling bids, on the other hand, may not work. Even a small project—a bathroom remodel, for instance—involves many variables that make it virtually impossible to get multiple bids with the exact same specifications. The following are some of these variables:
Materials
Remodeling contractors source tiles, countertops, fixtures and even construction supplies, like tile adhesive and concrete, from different suppliers. This means you’re likely to get bids that approximate your project requirements, but not all of them will match. Some bids may come from contractors who choose high-quality materials. Others—usually the ones with a lower price—may use the cheapest available materials.
Design
It’s rare for a homeowner to have very specific requirements with their remodeling request. Consultations with homeowners often begin with them simply needing to remodel their home, but in a more general sense. This is why remodelers have their own interior designers: they translate ideas into a plan that can be broken down into tangible components. The cost for a good design varies, and is included in the bid costs.
Quality of Installation
Interior remodeling requires a different skill set than other construction work, like roofing or siding installation. This is why remodelers with a proven track record of quality installations charge more — but the investment can pay off in the long run. Skilled remodelers can also manage project times more efficiently, which means less risk of your project getting delayed.
Installation Experience
Remodeling projects can take weeks, depending on the scope and complexity of the project. Some remodelers take care to make the process as easy on their clients as possible through proper communication and time management.
What Should You Do?
Considering all of the above factors, it makes more sense to choose your remodeler instead of soliciting multiple bids for your project. You have to make sure that the remodeler is properly licensed, insured and bonded. You will also have to do your homework and look up customer reviews, call references and check their certifications. The process can take some effort but you will get better results.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Central Texas offers a wide range of professional remodeling services, including kitchen, bath and closet remodeling. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (254) 262-0087. We serve homeowners in Waco, TX, as well as the surrounding communities of Gatesville, Whitney, Lorena and China Spring.
