1. You don’t have to wait until you sell the house to do a kitchen and bath upgrade. Do it early, so you can enjoy the upgrade and retain the value of the upgrade at the same time.
2. Bundle your fix list.
2. Get a fixed price. Avoid per hour charge.
3. Background check. Call the number on the business card, or reference. Call the contractor’s office and make sure the person is employed and authorized the use of license number.
4. Get the work description and payment details in writing.
5. Compare prices with three or more contractors. Try a couple licensed and a couple unlicensed ones. If the difference is less than 15% go with the licensed handyman or contractor. The extra cost is like buying insurance and get a protection and guarantees that the work will be done. Did you know that a licensed contractor needs to have money in the bank so the protect consumer from a take (your money) and run.
6. Retain the locations of plumbing and electrical fixtures. Focus on replacing worn and old vanities, mirrors, tile sinks, faucets and cabinets.
Links
http://hawaii.gov/dcca/areas/rico/licensedcontractor
http://www.hurricaneprotect.com/
