Why is it so hard to find a good contractor??

[Tim McGarvey]

In your opinion, what is the reason(s) why finding a good contractor is so difficult? What could a contractor do to retain your business? Why do you recommend a contractor to a friend or associate?

It's clear to me from reading the forum and listening to the podcasts on BP that finding good, reliable, and cost effective contractors is a huge problem in our industry. 

[Justin Godlewski]

Hey Tim, I rely heavily on the advice of my father who's been a contractor, business owner and general contractor for over 35 years when it comes to my own investing. What I see most having an inside view both in the business and within the bigger pockets community my opinion is that the biggest problem with finding a good contractor is both cost and time. The good guys who are honest, easy to work with and know their stuff are going to be more expensive because they can be, like any profession. Those guys are in high demand and have enough work lined up that they can charge more. Secondly, people trust them and refer them consistently, so they have work lined up for a couple months. People wait for them because they're good. Good contractor don't like to cut corners to save a dollar as some flippers prefer because their name and livelihood are on the line. As an example, I'm not taking about using a low-cost vanity. I'm talking about using two coats of tape instead of 3 or skipping on a primer coat when they think it's needed.

If you want a good contractor don't wait at a big box store, you're just hoping to get lucky. Go to a small lumber yard good contractors use more consistently and ask for referrals. Ask for referrals from specialty stores like cabinet vendors and privately owned plumbing stores. Those guys will have connections to people who have been in business for years and they've worked with for a long time. Don't trust anyone who gives you a firm estimate on a first visit. One can estimate a new hot water tank install will cost say $50 for material and install, but if they estimate the whole project in person without crunching numbers at home or at the office, they're not a good contractor and you can expect your project expenses to go up once you begin working with them. My recommendation once you get some referrals is to see the quality of their work and try and reserve someone once you sign a contract. That way if you have to wait say a month for them to finish their current project there's some wiggle room. If they come out to look at your project, don't expect them to give up their time for free. At least offer to buy them lunch and you can pick their brain more while you're there. That act of kindness will go a long way with them and their subs. Good luck in the search!!