Looking for a contractor

[Maricruz Romero]

Hi BP,

I am currently in search of a contractor for investments I plan to make in Philadelphia through the BRRR strategy. Although I haven't acquired my first property I would like to get aligned with a contractor to facilitate the process once I find a good deal:

- What are some questions I should be asking contractors to determine if I should work with them on my first project? 

- How do I compare different contractors aside from price (because I know cheaper does not mean effective)?  

- What are some things you've experienced that you wish you would have known when looking for a contractor?

- Given that I do not know the extent of the work that will be needed on my first project how do I go about asking for price ranges?

If you have any recommendations on general contractors in Philadelphia please feel free to message me. Thanks in advance!

[Marc Izquierdo]

@Maricruz Romero

Check out the app/website 'Thumbtack'.  I have found a variety of good contractors on their phone app.  There are a bunch of different contractors on there with lots of reviews.  I've never looked for a GC on there but I've been able to find a subs.  It's worth a look.

I feel like contractors are a different breed.  Unlike a lender or a broker, personally I don't feel like they are the type to sit down at starbucks and have a conversation with you about what you're working on or plan on working on.  With contractors, I feel like it's difficult to establish communication without having a job ready for them.  A lot of them are busy self employed people, running all over from job to job, fielding calls, etc so I believe they can't really afford to just chat about a hypothetical job which is unfortunate.  So referrals are the best way to go in order to feel out a contractor.  I know it sounds harsh but I try not to waste their time if I can avoid it as much as possible. 

Once you find a few contractors that were referred to you by other investors, have them come and look at your project during a walk through or an inspection while you have it under contract.  Get each price from each contractor as well as their anticipated timeline and make your decision from there about who to go with.