down payment contractors before job started?

[Itay Heled]

So it is a busy season... contractors often don't return calls. you book appointments with them  and they never show up , or show up gives a bid and then say they actually  booked...

I have two properties in Kansas City right now that needs exterior and interior paint job.

its about 4000-4500 budget for each

I purchase all paint

finally two  contractors bid and ready to do it but  insist on getting 1000 to 2000 upfront  for each property before they start .

I am not too excited paying someone I dont know those amounts.

can any of you who are experience in rehabs have a creative solution not to lose

those contractors but reduce the risk?

thanks

Itay