How/Where to find contractors to build whole stuctures.

[Jon Christian]

I'm looking at building whole houses and detached garages. Where would I begin my search for contractors that I would want to continue to use project after project?

[Kevin Bennett]

Hey Jon,

I'm a general contractor in Connecticut. We often do projects of those size. Here would be my recommendations for finding a general contractor or builder in your area:

1) Local town Facebook groups. We have a "Newtown Neighbors" here and a "Wilton 411." It is probably the leading source for local contractor recommendations. Ask specifically what you are looking for and look for consistent recommendations from people who are not the contractor themselves!

2) Local lumber yard. Not Home Depot. Not Lowe's. Go to a local building supply that sells lumber and ask the sales rep behind the counter who they would recommend. They'll give you an honest opinion of the guy who treats them right, pays his bills on time, and has a good reputation. You may find that a solo carpenter or a small firm is better than a larger crew of contractors.

3) BiggerPockets! It is a great place to start off looking for someone local who can help you out.

4) HomeAdvisor/Angie's List/Houzz. They cost money for the contractors to advertise there, but the reviews from clients allow for reputable contractors to rise to the top. Many of the subcontractors I use don't advertise on these sites and primarily work for General Contractors or have been in the business long enough to not need these sites.

Good luck with the search! Building new is always a fun undertaking.

Kevin