1. Check for a contractor license.
In Minnesota, remodelers are required to have a current Minnesota contractor license. Check online at the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry for details. Use their license lookup tool to locate all licensed builders and remodelers and find if they have any complaints or judgments against them.
2. Look up online ratings.
The internet can be a trove of great information about prospective remodelers. Take advantage of the many online resources to read reviews and help you find remodelers that build the type and style of projects that appeal to you. Just remember that not all third-party ratings are fully accurate, so always take these with a grain of salt.
3. Experience the projects on the Remodelers Showcase
Seeing a remodeler’s work in person can make a huge difference. Whenever possible, it’s always better to experience remodeled spaces firsthand instead of only in photographs. From the design and scale of the layout to the quality of construction and finishing, seeing a remodeler’s work in person on the Remodelers Showcase can seal the deal!
4. Don’t just ask for bids.
If you’ve got what seems like a simple job, asking for bids can help narrow down your choices. But, for larger remodeling projects, there can be issues behind the walls that a simple bidding process can miss. Working with budget parameters while having an open mind about how to solve your remodeling challenges can result in an amazing end product you’ll love but may not look like you originally expected.
5. Contact references.
Every remodeler will give you the names of past clients. Don’t ignore them. Make calls and send emails to ask how the remodeling experience went, what were the best and worst parts, and would they do it again. If you skip any step, don’t skip this one, past customers are always your best resources.
6. Communication is key.
Make sure to meet and get to know the key people who will be handling your job. Whether it’s the owner or a project superintendent, a designer, salesperson, or project coordinator, you’ll want to make sure you always have open lines of communication. Find out who to contact if your primary liaison is unavailable and discuss invoicing and selections expectations. Make sure all your questions are answered. Never sign a contract until you’re absolutely certain you fully understand your remodeler’s plans and promises, and you’ve confirmed you can meet all your obligations!
7. Professional memberships.
When a company makes the effort to be a part of an industry association, they have access to education and connections that let them keep up with the latest trends, codes, and products. All the remodelers you meet on the Remodelers Showcase are members of Housing First Minnesota. That means they adhere to a code of ethics, are educated, and are committed to the industry.
Use these tools to help you find a team of trustworthy professionals. Once you find the right remodeler, there’s nothing quite like turning the home you’ve lived in and loved into your dream home that you will enjoy for years into the future!
