If we get a sizable correction in stocks and bonds, it may suck some of the oxygen out of RE.

First of all, my apologies for the lengthy post.

I frequently use the high yield bond market and private debt market yields to pencil it in myself, primarily because I have the data and it is comparable from an underlying company perspective.

If there is a bond, tell them you will be contacting the bonding agency.They also cannot lien a job for work that has yet to be performed.

I weight in already on the larger scale projects, but I din't mention you can make the contractor to be insured with a bonding company. 

I have an i401k and all the money is in stocks and bonds.

Dollar General is a public company with investment grade bond rating. 

That is a much safer bet. not only that if things do get worse the heloc's can be frozen or called those are NOT fixed term loans the loans length is at the unilateral discretion of the lender ( read the fine print of your mortgage note). 

Yield in any investment vehicle...bonds, dividends, businesses...and yes real estate is a function of the markets perceived risk in that investment. 

Then 1) check their license with the State website. 2) Ask for liability insurance and insist you are named as additional insured. 3) Make sure they are bonded as well. 4) Check their Workers Comp policy, make sure it is current. 5) Always get a lien release before you pay in full for a certain phase of the work like plumbing/framing/electrical etc...6) Never pay upfront, other than possibly materials...a decent Contr should have enough in savings to get going on a job.