Searching for a tried and true contractor in Buffalo NY

[Holly Ann Hoff]

Hello BiggerPockets community. I am getting close to my first deal (eek!) and would like to start interviewing some contractors for my project, in Buffalo NY. A true overhaul of the property will be in order, so a general contractor is a must. Thank you for your input.

[Ryan Walley]

Hi Holly Ann,

Congratulations on getting close to your first deal!  Finding a contractor and a property manager, if needed, are the two most important parts of investing.  Any property can be made or broken with a bad contractor or PM.  Look for those who come with referrals, hopefully from people you trust.  You'll want to find a balance of cost vs skills and professionalism.  A kitchen gut could run anywhere from $5k to $25k+ for the same finishings with different contractors.  Beware of contractors who are available to start right away, or obviously who need a large deposit up front.  Contractors are notorious for getting paid, starting a project, then never finishing.  Let us know how you make out and if you have specific questions along the way.

Ryan Walley

Licensed Broker

Parker Cardinal LLC