­
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

5 Tips for Winning Negotiations with Your Contractor

Big home improvement projects can leave a big hole in your pocket, but you can lower your costs by negotiating the contract price and terms. If you are looking for ways to save money on home improvements, take a look at these five tips for winning negotiations with contractors. 

Research

Always make sure to verify contractors’ credentials and experience before you hire them. If you are comfortable working with a contractor with less experience and less time in the trade, you may be able to secure a much lower price. Just understand that there may be a quality and timeframe tradeoff. You can also research the costs of the materials needed for the project for a bargaining chip. A material cost list will help you decide whether or not the contractor is charging higher prices for the supply portion of the project.

Shop Around

It’s hard to tell whether you are getting a great deal on your home improvement project without having anything to compare the price to. Get at least three comparable bids or estimates for the project. Contractors may be willing to lower their cost or negotiate particular terms in the contract if they are competing for the work. Make sure to provide the contractor with as many project details as you can and read each estimate thoroughly.

Buy Your Own Supplies

Many contractors offer to buy the supplies needed for the project and tack the cost onto the estimate or bill you for them later. Contractors often buy supplies from the same supplier, meaning they may not be getting them at the best price. Save yourself money by offering to buy the supplies yourself to make sure you are getting the best deals.

Timing

The cost of your home project will depend somewhat on the season you want the work done. You might be able to save money by seeking estimates during a slow construction season when contractors will be more willing to negotiate the costs. If you live in a cold climate and you want to add a room to your home, consider calling contractors for an estimate in the winter. The work may not be able to start until warmer weather, but you may be able to lock in their winter rates.

Approach the Contractor as an Ally

If you approach the pricing as if the contractor is against you, this will establish a hostile relationship. Treat contractors as allies and they will work with you to find the right price for your budget. Show them respect and ask for changes that may help you save money on the projects. For example, you may be able to find less expensive countertops or a different type of flooring at a better rate.

Keep these tips in mind the next time you comparison shop for a home contractor. For even more ways to save on home improvements and repairs, do not hesitate to contact us today.

SHARE
Share the Post: