Welcome to the world of interior design and remodeling, where spaces are transformed into stunning works of art!
Undertaking any remodel project is an exciting adventure worth the investment, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare without the right team by your side. Good contractors are the superheroes of your renovation journey, with the power to bring your vision (and your designer’s vision!) to life. Which is why having the right team to execute your project is essential! Whether you’re looking for a tile installer to redo your kitchen backsplash or custom builders to help you to build on your lot, you’ve come to the right spot!
In this blog post, we’ll unveil a few secrets to finding those elusive good contractors and tradespeople, ensuring a smooth and successful remodel. I’ve compiled some fave fab resources below that are designed to support you in your search to connect with quality professionals from general construction services to luxury custom homes, and everything in between be it an electrician, plumber or painter.
So buckle up and get ready for a thrilling ride filled with tips, tricks, and a dash of creativity!
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NARI
Otherwise known as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, this organization has chapters all over the country with qualified remodeling professionals likely near your. All professional remodeling members of NARI are all properly insured and are held to the highest standards of following all of the local, state and federal regulations. You can search for a pro by visiting their website above.
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NAHB
The National Association of Home Builders is another organization that represents a large number of remodelers and builders. Their mission statement is to protect the American Dream of housing opportunities for all, while working to achieve professional success for its members who build communities, create jobs and strengthen our economy. You can search for a pro by visiting their website above.
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NAPAC
The tagline for the National Association of Professionally Accredited Contractors is that they “provide honest, reliable contractors for homeowners across the United States”. So it’s got to be worth a shot to find a contending contractor! Their application process to become a member includes meeting their criteria for minimum 7 years experience and 100% customer satisfaction. They have also filtered out “handymen” from their list of members. While they do not yet have members in all 50 states, you can search for a pro by visiting their website above.
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Houzz
Houzz features more than just design inspiration, they feature interior designers AND general contractors and builders across the nation. Because Houzz has made a mark in the design and build industry, they have a wonderful database of skilled and talented GC’s and builders with honest reviews from homeowners and colleagues they’ve partnered with. You can search for a pro by visiting their website above.
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General Contractors
www.GeneralContractors.org
This is a publication that is shared in every state and showcases the best general contractors for residential, commercial and even hospitality remodeling projects. While it is likely that these professionals are paying to be featured, General Contractors requires an application process and once approved will include work examples for their viewers and audience. You can search for a pro by visiting their website above.
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Home Advisor
Think of Yelp, but specifically for the home project professionals. Home Advisor is a free and very intuitive website that allows homeowners to find various professionals including appliance install/ repairs, carpentry workers and even architects and engineers. If your project is much smaller that might not require the help of a general contractor, say a fence installation or countertop replacement as an example, Home Advisor is a great resource for you. Please read the reviews and vet all the service providers offered. Search for the right tradesperson by visiting their website above.
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Angi www.ANGI.com
Formerly “Angie’s List”, ANGI was bought by Home Advisor but kept as its own entity. Their listing style and search is thought to be more efficient than Home Advisor and their rating system is a letter grade (from A to F), as opposed to starred reviews that you can research. Please read the reviews and vet all the service providers offered. Search for the right tradesperson by visiting their website above.
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Thumbtack
While Thumbtack made the resource list, keep in mind that professionals here tend to be starting out or looking for pick up work. They may be less dedicated to full time work and pricing is driven by the client. If you have a small project and can verify licensing and insurance, along with references, this could be an option for you to find the right tradesperson for your project! Search for the right tradesperson by visiting their website above.
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Good ol’ Google
www.Google.com
When we need to find the closest grocery store or look up a recipe, most of us go straight to the phone or laptop and “Google” it. Why would this be any different when finding your next home remodeling contractor!? Google offers honest reviews and image insights into the contractors work. Check out their websites… and hey, sometimes they don’t have one or it’s awful. This doesn’t necessarily mean their work is poor, they just aren’t known for their business acumen!
Pat yourself on the back, because you’re now equipped with the knowledge of how to find some good contractors for your next remodel project. From knowing where to look and what questions to ask, to evaluating their reliability and craftsmanship, you’re on your way to a successful transformation.
Remember, a great contractor is more than a skilled craftsman; they’re a team member, collaborator and dream-weaver, turning your visions and your designer’s visions into reality. So go forth, with confidence and excitement, and embark on a remodeling journey that’ll leave you in awe of your newly transformed space.
Have your top 3 (or more!) contractors narrowed down, be sure to take them through the vetting process. Check out our article “Mastering the Art of Selecting Superior Contractor & Trades”.
Rock on remodelers!
Xoxo,
Megan
