One of the stranger adjustments to homeownership is realizing there is no maintenance department to call.
When the deck needs repair, the bathroom needs updating, or a mysterious water stain appears on the ceiling, finding someone to handle the work is now your responsibility. For a first-time homeowner, hiring a contractor can feel intimidating simply because you may not know what is normal. How many estimates should you get? What should be in the contract? And how can you tell the difference between a busy professional and someone who is difficult to work with?
A little preparation can make those decisions much easier.
Start by Defining the Job
Before calling contractors, get as specific as you can about what you want done.
“Fix the bathroom” leaves plenty of room for different interpretations. “Replace the tub surround, install new flooring, and replace the vanity while keeping the existing layout” gives contractors a much clearer starting point.
You don’t need to know construction terminology. You simply want each contractor pricing roughly the same project so you can make a meaningful comparison.
For larger projects, also decide which features are priorities and which are optional. That can help if estimates come back higher than expected.
Don’t Choose Based on One Number
Getting multiple estimates can reveal more than the going price for a project.
Look at what each estimate actually includes. One contractor may include demolition, cleanup, materials, and disposal while another quotes primarily for labor. A noticeably inexpensive bid may therefore represent a smaller scope of work rather than a better deal.
This is also your opportunity to evaluate communication. Did the contractor arrive when expected? Did they listen to what you wanted? Were they willing to explain the estimate?
Price matters, but so does your confidence that the person understands the project.
Check the Contractor Before Work Begins
A polished website or truck doesn’t tell you everything you need to know.
Requirements for contractor licensing and registration vary by state and locality, so find out what applies where you live. Depending on the project, you may also want to verify insurance, ask for references, and look into the contractor’s history with similar work.
Before hiring someone, consider checking:
- Required state or local licenses and registrations
- Proof of applicable insurance
- References from recent customers
- Experience with your specific type of project
- Who will actually perform and supervise the work
For specialized electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or structural work, make sure the person performing it has any credentials required in your area.
Get More Than a Handshake
Once you choose a contractor, put the details in writing.
The agreement should clearly describe the work being performed, price, payment schedule, anticipated timeline, materials or product selections when applicable, and how changes to the original project will be handled.
Change orders deserve particular attention. Home improvement projects sometimes uncover surprises after work begins, especially in older houses. If opening a wall reveals damaged plumbing, for example, you should understand how additional work will be approved and priced before the contractor proceeds.
Keep copies of contracts, estimates, receipts, warranties, and major communications. They may be useful long after the project is finished.
Be Careful With Upfront Payments
A contractor may reasonably need money before starting, particularly when materials must be ordered. That doesn’t mean you should automatically pay the entire project cost upfront.
Payment arrangements vary depending on the job and local requirements, but you should understand exactly what each payment covers and when it is due.
Be particularly cautious about pressure to make an immediate decision or hand over a large payment without a clear written agreement.
Expect Homeownership to Involve a Learning Curve
The first contractor you hire probably won’t be the last. Over time, you may build a list of electricians, plumbers, roofers, handymen, and other professionals you trust.
Until then, don’t feel rushed simply because something needs attention. Ask questions, compare your options, and make sure you understand what you are agreeing to before work begins.
Learning how to hire contractors is part of learning how to manage a home—and getting comfortable with the process can make future projects much less stressful.
Make Room for Homeownership in Your Budget
Repairs and improvements don’t stop once you receive the keys. Having room in your budget for maintenance can make it easier to handle projects without relying on money intended for everyday expenses.
At Mortgage Solutions Financial, we can help you look at the financing side of becoming a first-time homeowner and choose a mortgage that fits your broader financial plans. If you’re preparing to purchase your first home, connect with our team to explore your options and start planning for ownership beyond closing day.
