How to Choose the Right Contractor for Your Next Home Project

Why hiring the cheapest contractor might be the most expensive mistake you'll ever make.

Let’s just say it: most people spend more time choosing a paint color than they do choosing the person who’s going to knock holes in their walls.

Crazy, right?

Home renovation is an investment—financially, emotionally, and logistically. And the wrong contractor? Can turn your dream kitchen into a lawsuit. Your new bathroom into a mold factory. Or worse… leave you mid-project, broke and blaming yourself.

If you’re planning to remodel, this guide will walk you through how to choose a contractor who won’t ghost you, cut corners, or upsell you into oblivion.

Because yes—home remodeling services should make your life easier, not feel like a second full-time job.

1. Experience > Enthusiasm

We all love a go-getter. But when it comes to contractors, don’t hire the guy who “just started but is super passionate.”

You want someone who’s done this before—many times.

Look for:

• A portfolio of past projects
• References from real clients
• A license that didn’t expire during the Obama administration

Just because someone “seems nice” doesn’t mean they’re ready to handle the complexity of a full remodel.

Pro tip: Go with a seasoned provider of home remodeling services that offers detailed planning, timelines, and oversight—not vague promises and verbal quotes.

2. Get It in Writing (Seriously)

Handshakes are great… for poker games. Not contracts.

Before work begins, demand a clear, detailed agreement that includes:

• Scope of work
• Payment schedule
• Project timeline
• Change order process
• Warranty terms

It should also list the exact materials and finishes—because “tile included” can mean a $2 clearance box from the bargain bin or a $12 porcelain stunner.

3. Ask the Questions No One Else Does

Yes, everyone asks about experience and pricing.

But here’s what you should ask that most homeowners don’t:

• “Who will actually be on-site every day?”
• “What happens if you fall behind schedule?”
• “How do you vet your subcontractors?”
• “Have you worked in homes with similar layouts/challenges?”

You’re not being rude. You’re protecting your budget—and your sanity.

And if they get annoyed? Huge red flag. Quality contractors welcome transparency.

4. Online Reviews Are Only the Beginning

Checking reviews is smart—but don’t stop there.

Dig deeper:

• Look for patterns. Multiple complaints about poor communication? Believe them.
• Ask the contractor for references—and call them.
• Search for their business license and verify insurance.

Most importantly? Drive by past projects if you can. Seeing finished work in person is worth 1,000 Yelp stars.

5. Communication Style Matters More Than You Think

Ever tried texting a contractor and got a response five days later?

Yeah… that’s how “I thought you said tile” becomes “I installed carpet.”

Look for someone who:

• Responds quickly and clearly
• Doesn’t talk down to you
• Can explain technical stuff in a way you actually understand

Even better? A company like Ben There Remodeling that assigns a project manager to oversee communication, scheduling, and quality checks—so you’re never left in the dark.

6. Don’t Let Price Be the Dealbreaker

Sure, you’ve got a budget. But don’t confuse “affordable” with “safe.”

• Low bids often mean:
• Unlicensed labor
• Inferior materials
• Rushed work
• Zero warranty

Instead of picking the cheapest estimate, compare value. Ask yourself:

• Who provided the most detailed quote?
• Who seemed the most prepared?
• Who took the time to ask you questions?

Paying a little more up front can save you thousands in rework later.

7. Red Flags You Should Never Ignore

If you spot any of the following—walk away. Quickly.

• They demand full payment up front
• They can “start tomorrow” (good contractors are booked out)
• No written contract
• Can’t or won’t provide references
• They only accept cash

Also, trust your gut. If something feels off—it probably is.

8. Look for Specialization (Not Just General Labor)

Some contractors are great at building decks. Others crush kitchen remodels.

You want someone who’s done your type of project, repeatedly.

So if you’re planning a bathroom overhaul, find someone who knows how to:

• Handle waterproofing
• Navigate tight plumbing setups
• Work with tile tolerances down to a sixteenth of an inch

The best home remodeling services offer specialized teams who know the nuances of each kind of remodel—so you don’t end up with kitchen-grade cabinets in a humid bathroom.

9. Check Their Vision, Not Just Their Tools

At the end of the day, you’re hiring someone to bring your vision to life. That means they need more than tools—they need taste.

Listen to how they talk about materials, finishes, layouts.

Do they offer ideas that excite you—or just nod and say yes to everything?

The best contractors push back when needed. They’ll tell you if something won’t work. And they’ll suggest smarter, better options that align with your goals.

10. The Final Gut Check

Before you sign anything, ask yourself:

• Do I trust this person in my home, around my family, and with my money?
• Did they take the time to understand what I actually want?
• Do I feel confident they’ll show up—physically and mentally—for the whole project?

If you hesitate, don’t do it. Keep looking.

Ready to Hire Smarter?

Choosing the right contractor isn’t just about building a better kitchen or bathroom—it’s about protecting your peace of mind. And the team behind Ben There Remodeling’s home remodeling services understands how high the stakes are.

So whether you’re planning a small refresh or a full-gut dream reno, take your time. Ask the hard questions. And only sign when it feels right—not just when it fits the budget.

Because the right contractor doesn’t just build beautiful spaces.

 They build trust.