is it ever okay to go with the only bid?

[Sam Burrell]

Hello! We just bought a place in a rural and extremely seasonal area but would like to get a bathroom in before we rent it (we already have renters lined up if the bath gets done). We have had a few contractors look at it and none have the time to do it in the next few months except one, whos quote was actually decent. 

He's licensed and insured and answered all the questions right, but we're leery of going with the only person in town who can do it with only one estimate to bargain. Better to wait or take the chance?

[Wendy Forbes]

I live in a very rural part of Vermont where it's really difficult to find contractors who respond, maintain communication during the project, show up when they say they will, etc. I would say you should go with him if his quote works with your numbers. I would also clarify how firm his quote is. There seems to be a big vagueness factor, especially in carpenter's quotes. A bathroom remodel is probably an excellent opportunity to check this guy out - it's a relatively small project usually, so less risk, and it's typically fairly specific without too many unknowns. You'll get a good sense of how easy he is to work with and how accurate his quote is. Good luck!