4. "I Don't Have Any Recent References"
Imagine going to a restaurant that has zero reviews or a doctor who can't tell you where they went to school. You’d be a bit nervous, right? The same logic applies to your home.
A seasoned contractor should have a portfolio of past work and a list of references you can call. If they say they’re "too busy" to provide references or that their past clients "prefer their privacy," it might be because those past clients weren't very happy.
When you do get references, don't just ask, "Did they do a good job?" Dig a little deeper with these questions:
- "Did they stay close to the original budget?"
- "Was the job site kept clean and safe?"
- "How did they handle it when a problem arose?" (Because in construction, problems always arise: it's how they're handled that matters).
Insider Hint: Don't forget to check online reviews on Google or Houzz, but take them with a grain of salt. A few "difficult" customers happen to everyone, but a pattern of complaints about communication or unfinished work is a major red flag.
5. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
"If you sign right now, I can give you 20% off!"
"I have a crew finishing a job down the street, but they can only start tomorrow: you have to decide today."
Construction is a big decision, and a reputable residential contractor knows that. They should give you the time and space to review the bid, compare it with others, and talk it over with your family. If someone is pushing you to sign a contract before you’ve had a chance to breathe, they are likely trying to lock you in before you notice other red flags.
High-pressure tactics are often used by "storm chasers" or contractors who move from town to town. They want your signature and your deposit as fast as possible. A pro who takes pride in their work will let their reputation and their bid speak for itself. They want you to feel confident in choosing them, not pressured into it.
Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, your intuition is one of your most valuable tools. If something feels "off" during the initial meeting: maybe they were late, they were dismissive of your questions, or they didn't seem to have a clear plan: listen to that feeling.
Your home is your sanctuary, and whether you're planning a small remodel or a massive addition, you deserve a partner who is transparent, professional, and fully insured.
At Farris General Contracting, we believe in building relationships as much as we believe in building homes. We pride ourselves on clear communication, detailed contracts, and a portfolio of happy clients who would be glad to vouch for us.
Ready to chat about your next project without the pressure? Contact us today for a consultation. We’d love to show you what quality craftsmanship construction really looks like.
Don’t forget to check out Part 3 of our series! We’ll be diving into "The Power of a Detailed Estimate: Why Itemization is Your Best Friend." See you then!