Finding a good, licensed contractor to do work for you can be a long and difficult journey. Whether you are searching for the first time or fiftieth, here are a few tips to keep in mind as you go through the process.

Know what you need the contractor to accomplish.

Before asking for recommendations or calling around, sit down and write out a detailed plan to firm things up in your head, and determine the type of contractor you need to complete the project.

Start asking around.

Ask someone you know has had this kind of project done recently who they used to do it and what they thought. If no one has any recommendations, then do an internet search.

Research them.

Once you have a list of contractors, research their backgrounds. Review sites like Angie's List and Consumer's Checkbook can give you a better picture of their reputations. Check the  Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) website  to verify their licensing status.

Question them.

After narrowing your list down through research, reach out to the ones left on the list. Have a list of questions prepared for them, like:

• How often do you do this kind of work? (important if they do more than one type of work)
• Do you have a list of references to ask about your work that you can give me?
• When can you start work?

Do not be afraid to ask for clarification. If something seems off with their answers, take them off your list.

Multiple estimates are a good thing.

How much time do you spend looking for the best product and price when you make a major purchase, and how many places do you search for it? The same process should apply to any work you are looking to have done for a contractor. Two to three estimates will give you an overall idea of how much you can expect to spend, but do not just look at the total price.

Check the estimates thoroughly.

Go over the estimates you receive to make sure they've included things like a list of materials they intend to use, their anticipated timeline, the total price for the work, and a timetable for payments. You should also look into the cost and quality of the listed materials to make sure they using the materials you want and are not overcharging you for them.

If you have any more questions about the process, let us know in the comments below!

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