When general contractors stopped working, what should I do

[Jingmin Zhang]

Hi all,

I have a situation that I really need everyone's advice on. I bought a flip in Maryland a couple months ago and hired a licensed Maryland contractor for the reno. It was supposed to be completed at the end of May according to our contract and is now 2+ month late (due to under estimating the amount of work needed) and only about 60% complete. The project was to be $77k and we have paid him $60k already, which is a lot more than what the contract stipulates. The contractor has slowed down considerably on the project due to a "lack of funds". I hesitate to pay him anymore until I see more progress.

Has anyone had similar experiences? Any advice on how I can push the project forward?

Worst comes to worst, how easy is it to get some of my money back so I can hire someone else to finish the project?

Thanks in advance for any advice!