How to Find a Good Contractor for Your Home Remodel
There are a lot of things you can’t choose in life. You can’t pick who’s going to move in next door, even if they’re the type to mow their lawn at 6am on a Saturday morning. Other things in life give us the illusion of choice, like grocery store checkout lanes (the one you pick will always be the slowest). However, you do have a legitimate and meaningful choice to make when it comes to renovating your home. Don’t be fooled into thinking that you have to DIY the project, or that you have to hire your cousin Greg, or that you even have to hire us! The contractor that you choose for your home renovation will determine the cost of the project, the speed of completion, the stress you’ll have to endure, and—most importantly—the quality of the work done. If you’re at least 6 years old, you’ve likely heard a story or two about nightmare renovations or contractors.
The nightmares are real, but so are the dream teams. Here’s what to do in order to find the BEST contractor for your home and family.
Step 1: Know What You Want
Before you start your search, take the time to sit down and determine what you want out of your renovation. We don’t mean that you have to nail down every detail imaginable, but the more you know the better! Here are a few things to consider before speaking with a contractor:
What do you want to renovate? Kitchen, bathroom, whole house, etc.
What’s your desired budget? Cost per project can vary greatly based on a lot of factors, but here’s a general guide to average project costs in our region.
Do you have a strict timeline? When do you need the project to start and end?
Do you want custom solutions? Custom cabinetry, built-ins, or high-end finishes?
We’ve helped many homeowners walk through these questions, so don’t be intimidated if you’re not sure how to start. Generally speaking, if you have a good idea of what you want before contacting a contractor, you’ll be able to get more accurate estimates and protect your interests.
Step 2: Check their Reputation
Opting for a local company with a great reputation is always a good choice. When it comes to building and renovating, local experience matters! A contractor based in Sacramento or the Bay Area will have intimate knowledge of:
Local building codes and permit requirements.
The best materials and suppliers in the area.
The specific needs of homes in the Sacramento climate.
Here’s how to check for a strong reputation:
Read online reviews – Take a look at their Google Reviews, Yelp, and even the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Ask for referrals – Talk to your neighbors, family, or friends who have worked with contractors.
View completed projects – Reputable contractors will showcase their work on their website or social media.
Step 3: Verify Licensing and Insurance
There are contractors who operate illegally in the state of California. Hiring one of these puts you at risk since they aren’t licensed or insured. You can always quickly check a contractor’s verifications on the Contractors State License Board website. Make sure that they:
Have a valid CSLB license.
Carry liability insurance to protect against property damage.
Have workers' compensation insurance (if they have employees).
If the contractor in question can’t or won’t offer you proof of licensing or insurance, immediately walk away.
Step 4: Watch for Red Flags
Truth be told, not all contractors can be trusted. This list of red flags isn’t exhaustive, but it’ll give you a good idea of some common things that could be signs of problematic business practices:
Are they asking for full payment upfront? It’s normal to pay an initial deposit or percentage, but the rest should be paid once the work is completed.
Are they unable to provide references? If they ignore or dodge requests for references or completed work, they could be inexperienced or have a poor track record.
Is their bid much lower than others? Anytime the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of contractors who inflate the cost as the project progresses.
Are they pushing you to act quickly? You’ll want to work with a contractor that is patient, understanding, and caring. No two ways about it!
How HEX General Contractors Can Help
When it comes to your home, you can’t afford to cut corners or go for anything less than the best. It will take time and diligence to select the right team for your home renovation, but it will make all the difference.
At HEX General Contractors, we’re a small, family-owned business that has been remodeling homes in the Sacramento and Bay Area for decades. Our team of renovation experts are an extension of our family, so you’ll always be treated with patience, respect, and care by everyone you speak to. Whether you know exactly what you want from your renovation or simply have a million questions, we’re always happy to help! We check every box to earn your trust:
Top-Rated – Read through our Google reviews to see what previous customers have to say!
Licensed & Insured – We meet all CSLB requirements for safety and professionalism, just search us up and see for yourself!
Experienced Team – With decades of local experience, we know what works best for Sacramento homes.
Transparent Pricing – Simply reach out to us for a free, accurate estimate.
Custom Designs – Whether it’s a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, or even an ADU, we have the craftsmen expertise to turn your dreams into reality!
If you’re ready to start your renovation, or just want to chat and learn more, contact us today. We’d love to help you build something together.
