Remodeling a home is a huge aspect of real estate. When you buy a new home, you may want to change something that doesn’t fit you or your lifestyle. Perhaps you’ve lived in your home for years and your needs and/or wants have changed. No matter what the case, remodeling your house can the perfect solution.

If you’re doing small repairs, some things you can do yourself. For those that you don’t know how to or want to do, please feel free to use our Gotta Guy Recommended Contractor list. This way, you can find the right guy for the job. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, email us and we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.

If you’re doing a massive repair job and want to higher or a contractor, here are some good tips for you.

1. Get three or more written estimates from good, solid contractors.
2. Get references and actually call to check on the work they did. If you get time, stop in and see it for yourself.
3. Check with the Chamber of Commerce for any complaints. Ask around – Murphy is a small town! If folks were treated bad by someone, they’ll let you know.
4. Be sure the contract says what exactly is to be done for the job and how changes will done.
5. Make as small of a down payment as you can in the even the contractor fails to complete the job. “Milestone” payments may also work well so long as they are not too large. You want to keep the contractor’s interests the same as yours.
6. Be sure the contractor pulls all the correct permits, is licenses, and has insurance.
7. Have the timeline in the contract that states when work will be completed and what recourse you have if it’s not finished on time.
8. Find out if the contractor’s workers will do the job or if subcontractors will be hired to do certain parts.
9. Have an agreement for the contractor to indemnify you if the work doesn’t meet building codes and/or other regulations.
10. Have in the agreement for the contractor to be responsible for cleaning up the site and be responsible for any damage done.
11. Have a guarantee that the materials used fit the specifications you set.
12. Do not make final payment till the job is fully completed and you are satisfied.

Remember that the contract is an agreement between you and the contractor and it will be a give and take until you both are satisfied. If you made sure you got the right person for the job from the beginning, you’ll be able to enjoy your new renovation for years to come.

John Poltrock, Certified Residential Specialist – www.MyMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-687-7496 – JohnPoltrock@gmail.com -The Poltrock Team at RE/MAX Mountain Properties in the Mountains of Murphy, NC