Building your home is the single most expensive item you will ever purchase. It is your sanctuary, your place to call a home base and where you may raise a family. When you are considering building a home choosing a general contractor is an essential part of the process. It is a good idea to spend some time vetting the contractor to find one that will be the best fit for your budget, style and time requirements. Spending this time upfront can save hours of your time. Cost is a very important factor to consider, but don’t let this be the only factor in your decision.
Here are four key points to consider when choosing a general contractor:
Experience
Does the general contractor have the experience required for the project?
- With any project, it’s important to align the skills of the general contractor with the work that needs to be completed.
- Ask the general contractor about their unique capabilities and if they’ve performed similar types of work.
- It’s certainly appropriate to ask for referrals.
Resources
Does the general contractor have adequate resources at their disposal?
- A strong network of subcontractors – it’s important that your general contractor has a network of reliable subcontractors that they work with regularly.
- Self-performing work – find out what unique capabilities, such as being onsite and hands on or other self-performing work, your general contractor can offer that would give them greater control over the process, schedule and costs.
Communication
Does the general contractor effectively communicate with customers?
- You can never underestimate the value of effective communication between your general contractor and customers. It’s what keeps projects running smoothly and on time.
- It’s important to choose a general contractor that is skilled at effectively communicating what needs to be done with subcontractors to best achieve goals.
Value-Engineering Ideas
Can the general contractor bring a construction-specific perspective to project planning?
- When working with architects and engineers, a good general contractor is able to offer a different perspective from a construction standpoint.
- This perspective allows the general contractor to make specific recommendations for how to construct something differently that is more effective for the project and/or will save a considerable amount of money. Beote Construction in Merrimack NH has a proven track record of success in the construction field.