When it comes to remodeling your home, you’re well aware of the investment that you’ll be making. 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!
I’ve compiled a few fabulous 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.
While it’s always wonderful to have a firsthand referral and rely on word-of-mouth, which of course is a worthwhile pursuit, that may be a limited approach that could leave you stranded. It’s happened- my aunt and uncle’s bathroom was left unfinished after working with a contractor that their neighbor used! Referrals are always great to entertain, but it’s always a good rule of thumb to interview at least 3 different professionals to consider.
1. NARI
www.nari.org
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.
2. NAHB
www.nahb.org
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.
3. NAPC
www.napac.org
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.
4. Houzz
www.houzz.com
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. You can search for a pro by visiting their website above.
5. GeneralContractors.org
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.
6. Home Advisor
www.HomeAdvisor.com
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.
7. ANGI (formerly Angie’s List)
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.
8. Thumbtack
www.Thumbtack.com
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.
9. 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!
Now you have all the resources you need to feel good about your search for the perfect tradesperson, general contractor or luxury home builder. Once you have your top 3 (or more!) narrowed down, be sure to take them through your vetting process. Check out our article “How to Vet Your Top Contractor Contenders”.
Rock on remodelers!
Xoxo,
Megan
