Masonry Work Cleveland

[Ryan Collins]

I've never contracted out any work for my home and I wanted to make sure i am getting a good rate for some masonry work I need to have handled. The ******* who lived in the house before me decided his DIY work would include smearing excess mortar everywhere SMH!

As you can see per the attached images the damage to my front stairs is pretty extensive from the mortar and winter salt. I had a guy quote me approx $2700 for the work to remove the mortar and tuckpoint the stairs and chimney, and another contractor quote me almost half of that at $1400 for a complete rebuild (all new) of the steps and tuckpoint of the chimney. 

Of course I'm leaning towards the guy with the cheaper rate pending the guarantee of his work. He seems to be reputable and has a A+ rating with the BBB. However, I just wanted to check around with others who may have had to have this type of work done to see if they think the rate is high, low or just right. I'm in the Cleveland, OH area. 

Your opinions are greatly appreciated!