Sunday, March 16, 2008

Ask a Contractor

How to hire a Contractor with 10 easy Questions...

Are you a business? Never hire someone who is not an actual business, a good follow up question is Are you incorporated?

How long have you been in business under this name? 4 out of 5 contractors will not be in business within 5 years.

Are you insured? This is the time to ask who they get their insurance from and whether it is up to date. Get involved with the insurance certificate to find out what they are exactly insured for and for how much.

What are your typical projects? Always think, “Does this particular project seem to fit within the realm of their usual business?

Do you have a yellow page ad? This question shows whether or not they are stable enough to support a marketing and advertising campaign. It helps to look at the ad and see if would take a steady income to maintain it.

Do you have local references, and pictures? References are great, but pictures are worth..you know. Can they actually accomplish what they say they can? The proof will be in the pictures.


Are you from the area? If they are from the area the likelihood of them leaving mid-project with all your money, is much less if you are pretty likely to see them at Wal-Mart Saturday morning, and their parents at church.

Do you have a website?
If anyone is doing business in they must have a website, it's not necessary but it's a way of getting a feel for the company character and business investment. Its also a great way to keep in contact without demanding immediate time from both parties involved.

Do you have a process? This can be very important if there is a streamlined and organized way to do business, you are much less likely to have issues during and after the project.

Does it feel right? Ask yourself, (not the contractor). Gut feeling goes a long way, your intuition is almost always right. If you feel the contractor is sincere, he (or she) probably is.

Standstrong Construction: Joliet Il, Room Additions To Build

Standstrong Construction: Joliet Il, Room Additions To Build

Joliet Il, Room Additions To Build

Outlook Great for 2008

13% Increase in home improvement spending -study shows


As Americans look to spend record amounts on home renovation and remodeling, they are relying on credible, licensed, and reputable builders to meet their needs. Home improvements for home expansion and changing lifestyles, as well as investment benefits, are key reasons for strong growth trends in home improvement spending.

It is expected that American's will spend over $11,000 on home improvements and repairs, on average, in 2008. This is a 13 percent increase over spending during 2007. This trend is expected to continue through 2015. A struggling housing market is a strong contributor to renewed interest in additions. Many home owners are choosing to create the homes they want by investing in their own homes at a time when lumber prices are at their lowest in over a decade.

"Our mission is creating new living spaces and providing our clients with the highest possible quality products and services, while providing a wonderful experience," says Stand Strong founder and owner Hans Meckley . "For us, building and remodeling is a great experience with each new project, and people know that a priceless addition is now affordable with materials at a historic low"

One unique reason behind the strong growth in home improvement spending is an increase in specialized programs targeting specific home owners. For instance, renovating homes to meet accessibility needs, and building room additions to remain independent, serves the needs of an aging population.

At some point the housing market will stabilize and return to normal growth. In the meantime, well done home improvements and additions are a great investment and offer great return for future resale.

Established in 2002, Stand Strong Inc. is a certified general contractor that serves Livingston and greater Will counties of Illinois with the highest quality home building and remodeling services. From room additions to remodeling kitchens Stand Strong has earned a reputation for full customer satisfaction and artisan-level quality. http://www.WeBuildForever.com.