Rehab while working full time?

[Jef A.]

I am interested in purchasing a single family unit but have concerns about dealing with a contractor to perform the work when i work full time. Any advice for finding a reliable/trustworthy contractor? The home needs Painting, Windows, Carpet, and a new Kitchen. The property is a 3/2 and ~1500sq ft. My end goal is to keep the property as a rental. This is my first project so i am a bit nervous dealing with a contractor and not being able to stay on top of him/her to make sure i dont have my money stolen and the job is getting done.

[Chris Brown]

Hi @Jef A., I would say the best method is to speak with someone you trust who has work done. Get their contractors name and give them a call. See what kind of feeling they give you over the phone. If you like them, ask for references and to see examples of work. 

Your concerns are understandable. Horror stories abound about contractors and I had my worries when I started out rehabbing. My experiences have not been that bad, but maybe I vet my people more thoroughly than most. As for the work I do for others, I want to get in, make sure I, the owner, and all my workers are on the same page from the beginning on the written and agreed to scope of work, get the work done as quickly and professionally as we can and then move on to the next project. I leave the customer happy, increase my good reputation, and find more quality jobs. 

Most contractors fail because they are underfunded.  They are always taking from Peter to pay Paul and themselves and eventually that will catch up with them and bite them in the ***. If a contractor looks like he is living paycheck to paycheck, he probably is and may be one to avoid. 

I work with other investors here in Atlanta on their flips and rentals. I just finished a rental for a BP member in Kennesaw and another rental for another member in Reynoldstown. Give me a call if you would like to discuss the possible project. 

Best of luck!