How do I know if my general contractor is good?

Here are six signs that you’re working with a good contractor.

1. 1 – Willingly Provides Requested Information.
2. 2 – Provides Written Estimate.
3. 3 – Doesn’t Ask for Upfront Payment.
4. 4 – Upholds Contractual Agreement.
5. 5 – Respectful of Property and Ground Rules.
6. 6 – Communication Is Key.

Is it worth hiring a general contractor?

Is It Worth Hiring a General Contractor? It’s worth hiring a general contractor for large projects that require more than a week, several pros or multiple permits to complete. For example, a kitchen remodel takes about 5 to 6 weeks. A general contractor ensures smooth management and execution of the project.

Is it more expensive to use a general contractor?

A general contractor usually charges a higher rate than a construction manager. Construction managers charge 5\% to 15\% of your total for small-scale and under 5\% for larger-scale construction. General contractors charge 10\% to 20\%+.

What should I look for when hiring a contractor?

This checklist compiles the top 10 tips to consider when selecting a contractor:

• Get Multiple Estimates.
• Hire Local, Licensed Contractors Whenever Possible.
• Check Their Past Work.
• Take Your Time Making a Sound Decision.
• Check Their Insurance and Bonding.
• Get Everything in Writing.
• Understand Your Right to Cancel.

What is the difference between a general contractor and a residential contractor?

Generally speaking, a general contractor is someone who manages a team of subcontractors to help do various types of construction projects in your home. A home builder will usually have a team of people in-house to pull in throughout the project, such as a project manager, to greatly streamline the overall process.

What are the benefits of being a general contractor?

The Advantages

• The potential to earn more. Working as your own boss offers more control over the hourly rate or per-project price being charged to clients.
• More freedom on and off the job. Qualified contractors get to choose which clients they want to work with.
• A flexibile career path.

What is a typical general contractor markup?

Average General Contractor Markup. Most general contractors are looking at about a 35\% margin and so they need to a mark-up of 54\%, or 1.54. Subs can often get a profit margin of 50\%, so they need a mark-up of 100\% or 2x, as the table on the right makes clear.

Can you negotiate with a general contractor?

A: Yes, you can negotiate with a contractor; the trick is doing it without making it feel like a negotiation. Anytime you’re haggling over someone’s work (versus a mass-produced product like a car or flat-screen television), look for a way to ask for a lower price without any suggestion of insult.