Odd behavior from electrician?

[Nat C.]

I met with an electrician about upgrading and updating all the electrical at my house. He sent me the quote the next day and I agreed. That evening he turned up at my house to collect $500 cash to buy materials. I said I wouldn't be handing over $500 until he physically turned up with the materials to start the job. He became quite angry and said he wouldn't be spending his own money to buy materials. I said no problem, I would meet him at the supply store and pay for all the materials. He left in a vexed state. Spoke to him the next day and he said he's not doing the job because I don't trust him. He's correct, I don't trust any contractor in South Florida.

[Account Closed]

Originally posted by @Nat C.:

Originally posted by @Doug N.:

@K. marie P. often says what I am sometimes too reticent to say... I always struggle with being too frank, thinking I should somehow be 'nicer' to the reality show contestants that often post here. 

But then I wonder why they post at all, the completely hilarious ones... really, are they expecting anything more than sympathetic replies, or are they truly seeking a solution to what are clearly systemic errors in thinking and judgement? The answer is in their responses (or lack of) to the many helpful and concerned follow-up posts.

I am looking forward to that wonderful and historic day that @Nat C.posts about a moderately successful subcontractor that produces quality work at a fair price. 

I wonder of there is a keyword alert for that scenario.

 I appreciate there are many people that use Bigger Pockets for boasting, enhancing their ego and networking. I really have no need for this. Why on Earth would I write a post about a "moderately successful subcontractor that produces quality work at a fair price". Seriously, WTF? That kind of conversation starter would be as exciting as cabbage.

I've said it once and I'll say it again, I solely use BP for advice from the myriad of wise people who have had much more experience than me. I'm only in my 20s and have less than 10 years under my belt.

In Miami I have an AMAZING contractor and I know I will never in this life time find anyone as good. He is highly experienced, his work is meticulous, he's 100% reliable and and he is honest to a fault. Unfortunately he's only one person and can only do so much. Also he's not a licensed electrician so I cannot put him on this job.

I also had a fantastic all rounder contractor in Las Vegas for 4 years who looked after all my properties. I offered to sponsor him to come to Miami when I sold my properties there but unfortunately he has family in Vegas and doesn't want to move. 

I could start writing posts about how I become a millionaire through real estate in my mid 20s but ego and boasting is NOT my style. I am a quiet, hardworking person who likes to stay in the background, drives a modest car and lives a modest lifestyle. 

@nat chan  From reading your posts, it does seem that you have an inordinate amount of difficulties with your projects and I think that's what some people are responding to (with varying degrees of kindness).  I don't think it's fair nor helpful to just blame Miami, after all: you've written about your troubles in many other locations and I'm sure Miami has many good contractors.

It is always useful to periodically 'self-exam' one's business.  I'm not sure where you're going wrong with finding contractors but you clearly are.  Some of it may be due to your relative inexperience with construction matters, some may be due to your budget and choice criteria but no matter what the cause, you should re-think your methods (if for no other reason: your own sanity!).

If your Miami contractor friend is as awesome as you say, why do you not get referrals from him?  Great contractors always know and use great subs. Birds of a feather always flock together.  

Finally, criticism from peers can sting but try not to take it personally.  Rather use it to learn and grow.   I, for one, would not find it boring were you to write of a good contractor experience.  I would be glad for you.  Good luck!