Contractors: How to get them to make you their priority!

[Bryan Clement]

Hello, 

When you are a property manager that has to have third-party contractors, what do you do to have them make you a priority? Contractors are notoriously busy, and when you have a limited amount of time to turn a unit around (usually two weeks) you can't wait a couple months for projects to be done. Any tips here? Many contractors are putting me off a month or more and it isn't satisfying the needs of my business. Kind of desperate here. Thanks!

[James Mc Ree]

One thing you may need to do is plan ahead more.  You really can't expect a contractor who doesn't know you to drop everything they have for established customers just because you called.  I began talking with my regular contractor in September and firming it up with him in mid-November for a house renovation I expect to be doing starting in January.

Next, establish a relationship with a few reliable contractors and regularly feed them work.  That will make them more inclined to take your call or work you in because you have become a regular customer.

Always have a backup or two for the skills you need regularly.  Assume your regular contractor is completely booked for the next few months when you need him/her.  Who would you call next?  Establish a relationship with that contractor the same way and call both next time.

Of course, this last point is crucial - treat your contract well.  A customer who is constantly nickel-and-diming the contractor or complaining about something becomes the customer only the desperate contractor wants.  It's rare that a person self-identifies as a nickel-and-dimer, so think about how you portray yourself --- in the contractor's eyes!!!  For example, the contractor is backlogged for 2 months and the customer who was a non-stop complainer is calling for help needed now.  That contractor is going to be too busy, probably for more than the next 2 months.  ;-)