Finding the perfect contractor might seem like a daunting task. With so much information available and so many choices to compare, the process can be long and tedious. However, there are some ways to make the process simpler while keeping your best interests in mind. Here are some tips for how to find a contractor:
Personal Recommendations
Start by trying to find a personal recommendation for a contractor. If a relative or friend has had a positive experience with a particular contractor, there's a good chance you'll be satisfied with them, too. Ask for information about customer service, pricing and how long it took to complete the job. Getting advice from somebody you know personally is a good way to make sure your best interests are valued.
Professional Recommendations
If you're working with a real estate professional, ask them if they recommend a contractor. You can also try this approach with other professionals you might be working with, such as home stagers, appraisers or inspectors. Real estate is all about networking and there is a good chance your agent knows somebody who can help you with your project. If not, they may be able to point you in the right direction.
Online Research
Online research is always a smart option for finding a contractor, but best when combined with one of the other two options. Relying on review websites alone can give you a skewed opinion of an individual or service, whether positive or negative.
However, there are some important facts you can find online to help your decision. The best one to begin with is if the contractor has a website or another place with their contact information readily available. You can also find certifications and accreditation info to determine whether a contractor is associated with any major organization or professional network.
About the Author
Kimberly Hering
Kimberly Hering's devotion to helping people achieve their real estate goals stems from her genuine enjoyment of the process. Whatever the task, Kimberly makes it her mission to get it done, however she can, without compromising her client's needs. Often, that means thinking outside the box. After working with Kimberly, clients describe her as being Trustworthy, Creative, Patient, Highly Skilled, Attentive to the Process and having a lot of Integrity.
After spending more than 15 successful years working on Wall Street, Kimberly transitioned into Real Estate, joining Alain Pinel Realtors, then moving to Zephyr, now Corcoran Global Living, in 2018. During her career on Wall Street, Kimberly was a Vice President working as an Institutional Equity Salesperson for Montgomery Securities for 10 years. She covered the top money managers throughout the US and Canada. She joined Jefferies & Co as a Senior Vice President managing the Western Region Institutional Sales group, while continuing to cover the top money managers.
Kimberly leverages her extensive experience selling equities to top money managers throughout the US and Canada, to successfully negotiating any Real Estate transaction seamlessly for her clients. Kimberly is well versed in Marin's neighborhoods, towns, cities, and education system.
Living in the Bay Area for 35 years, 25 years in Marin and having 2 sons in local Marin schools, Kimberly spends a lot of time volunteering in the community and serving on various local Boards. Kimberly has a collection of resources ranging from the best local breakfast spots to vetted contractors. With her reliable list of valuable resources, Real Estate experience and unsurpassed knowledge of Marin's many communities, Kimberly can guide her clients through every aspect of a Real Estate transaction seamlessly.
Relocating to Marin, downsizing, upsizing, first time home buying, final home purchase or sale, or a lot to build a dream home, no matter the undertaking, Kimberly works seamlessly until the job at hand is completed with 100% satisfaction.