Getting Estimates from Contractors?

[Scott Bartlett]

I tried calling a few Window places, but they will not come out to the property until I own the property (which is understandable).

So, what is my best option for getting repair estimates before I actually own the property or make a bid on it.

Call a local Home Improvement Contract and offer $50-$75 for their time to do an estimate on the things I point out or they see?

[John Espinosa]

Scott here are some things I have done in order to find good contractors who can give you ballpark estimates on the fly. However, I am a firm believer that if you are going to be in the rehab business you need to start learning the pricing for all the trades in your area. After a while, and a bit of experience you will be able to start adding these numbers in your head during initial walkthrough. (keep in mind, this doesn't save you from unforseen problems)

1. Drive through neighborhoods and spark up conversation with crews you see already working on other properties. This strategy works great if they are working near a home you are rehabbing or have interest in. Here is a quick conversation starter I use all the time

"Hey man! Those windows your putting in, they look great and I'm looking for a good window guy myself... you see that house right over there? (pointing) Yea you think you could do something like that for me? mind coming by and taking a look when you get the chance?"

This has worked for me before, and it is how I found my current siding guy and roofer. Not only is it convenient for the contractor, but you get a first hand look at the quality of their work right off the bat. Can't beat that

2. A tactic a lot of wholesalers use will be calling up general contractors on craigslist asking for a quite or bid on a property. They will say something to the effect of, "Hey I'm trying to put together some estimates for rehab on so and so street, are you free sometime to come by and take a look? I can pass on your estimate to the investor who purchases it..." something like that. Of course you could always offer these contractors lunch or 20-50 dollars for their time. I've done both.

3. The best way I have found reliable and accurate contractors to give me bids is by simply asking other investors. This is when being part of and active in your local REI group becomes valuable. In my REI group its not uncommon to find contractors and subs attending our monthly gatherings. When you mingle with these contractors usually the first thing they tell you is "oh yea, I've done work for so and so and so and so"

Write their number down and then of course verify with whoever it is they tell you they've worked for.

4. On very big jobs I will sometimes put an ad on craigslist myself!

Title : MULTIFAMILY rehab now accepting bids...

Big project accepting bids for following trades
FOUNDATION WORK
FRAMING
HVAC
ELEC
PLUMBING
ROOFING
ETC...ETC...

In my experience your phone will ring off the hook, gather emails and phone number... send a mass email, and have yourself a big contractor party!

Good Luck!