What makes a contractor stand out?

[Beth D.]

As an investor, what are the most important aspects you look for in a contractor? What makes them stand out among the dozens of others doing the same trade?

When you have a contractor you use regularly, what would make you consider trying a different person for a job?

Do you respond more to/prefer one-on-one marketing and "elevator pitches" or by receiving professionally prepared, informative materials? Or both?



(I am asking this because my husband - who is a contractor - is looking to expand his investor accounts. We've decided to move more predominately into that niche versus homeowners as the "busy" season starts to slow down).

I greatly appreciate your input!

[Dev Horn]

My rehab general contractor stands out by (almost) never surprising me.

We'll walk a house and he'll say, "I'll do it for $12K and it WILL BE $12K.". He's got so much experience, he doesn't miss HUGE problems like the guys on Flip this House ("I didn't realize it needed a new roof! Oh my! That's another $6,000! ... whimper, sob..." - tight camera shot, fade to black.

For us investors, SURPRISES SUCK. Consistency and predictability ROCKS!