Bathtub replacement: how to find the right contractor?

[Yixue Zhao]

I just bought my first rental property (currently living in it myself) and wanted to convert the original bathtub to a shower (to make it look more appealing and it's a college rental so my tenants are probably college students).

The bathtub has stress cracks and we're worried about the potential water damage. It's fiberglass and is an original with the house (built in 1973). I plan to keep this rental for a long time and manage remotely, so I decided to replace it (instead of repair) to have peace of mind.

However, as a newbie, finding someone I can trust and not overpriced seems pretty challenging... :( The home improvement companies I found online have very strong sales tactics and it's clear that they're overpriced (10k+ for the new shower). They also pressure you a lot to sign the contract, which makes me a bit uncomfortable. Is this the only option we have as a beginner? (I opt out DIY b/c I won't have time to do it)

Another option I can think of is to hire a local contractor. But I just started out and I have no connections. Not sure what's the best way to find someone I can trust (and hopefully build a relationship with) to tackle a bathroom remodeling job?

Any advice is much appreciated! My location is Amherst, MA. Thank you so much everyone!

[Chris Seveney]

Quote from @Yixue Zhao:

I just bought my first rental property (currently living in it myself) and wanted to convert the original bathtub to a shower (to make it look more appealing and it's a college rental so my tenants are probably college students).

The bathtub has stress cracks and we're worried about the potential water damage. It's fiberglass and is an original with the house (built in 1973). I plan to keep this rental for a long time and manage remotely, so I decided to replace it (instead of repair) to have peace of mind.

However, as a newbie, finding someone I can trust and not overpriced seems pretty challenging... :( The home improvement companies I found online have very strong sales tactics and it's clear that they're overpriced (10k+ for the new shower). They also pressure you a lot to sign the contract, which makes me a bit uncomfortable. Is this the only option we have as a beginner? (I opt out DIY b/c I won't have time to do it)

Another option I can think of is to hire a local contractor. But I just started out and I have no connections. Not sure what's the best way to find someone I can trust (and hopefully build a relationship with) to tackle a bathroom remodeling job?

Any advice is much appreciated! My location is Amherst, MA. Thank you so much everyone!

I grew up in the area. You can use sites like angies list etc. to find decent contractors. Make sure they are licensed.

Also  Go to home depot or lowes at 5 AM and you will find one.