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Mike Gatschet
Michael Gatschet is the owner of Heartland Home Improvements, which opened in 2000, but has 15 years experience in the construction remodeling industries. He is one of only two remodelers in Kansas recognized by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) as having earned the designation of a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR). Michael is also recognized by the NAHB a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS). He believes in a well educated work force to provide the kind of service that clients deserve. You can reach Michael at (316)-264-7744.
Home Improvement
2006-10-01 15:18:00
Hiring a professional contractor
ANSWER: When considering a remodeling project, how do you find a professional remodeler among the many people that seek your business? Your home is too important to entrust to anyone but a Professional Remodeler. Do you know what to look for when looking for a remodeler? There are many advantages to hiring a professional. Some are obvious, others are not so obvious. A professional contractor can save you money by doing your job right the first time. If the contractor has to keep coming back for repairs, or keeps making mistakes, it can get costly. Custom cabinetry, windows, and various other items involved in remodeling are non-returnable, and if not ordered correctly, can be expensive to fix. Professional contractors understand that effective communication will ensure your comfort during the project, and the successful completion of the project. Your comfort level is very important when dealing with people, as well as safety in your home. A Professional will maintain a safe and neat work site to protect your family, pets, and home. This helps you to continue with your day to day activities without worrying about the project being completed, and the welfare of those you love and value. When looking at Professionals, be sure that the remodeler can: Provide the best possible materials within your budget and assist you in making selections through the vendors they work with. Ensure that your job meets or exceeds applicable building codes and regulations. Provide a warranty for their craftsmanship. Respond promptly to service calls and inquiries. Provide a copy of proper licenses and comprehensive liability insurance upon request. If the contractor can provide you with these services, and fulfill these requests, then you know that the contractor is indeed a Professional. There are, however things to consider before you decide to remodel. Like buying your home, you didn’t just wake up one day and say “I think I’ll call a realtor, and buy a house today”. So why do that when considering remodeling your home? After you have a good idea of what you want, and can afford, speak with friends and family who have remodeled. Get their opinions of different contractors in the area. Use your resources, not just the phone book. Use a search engine online, and look for remodelers in you’re area. Go to the websites of different contractors. Does the site “feel” professional? Look for important information such as Professional Designations, and memberships to the Chamber of Commerce, NAHB or WABA. A good local search engine is 360wichita.com, or you can look on NAHB.org. You can also call the Wichita Area Builders Association or the local Remodelors™ Council and ask for them to recommend a remodeler. Most importantly, once you call on a contractor, seek out references! Call any and all the references they provide that have similar projects to yours. Once you decide which contractor(s) to call, you need to have a good idea of what to look for upon meeting with the contractor, as well as what questions to ask them. Like hiring a babysitter for your children, who you wouldn’t trust to just anyone, you need to interview your contractor with the same train of thought. A few sample questions to ask include: How long has the remodeler been in business under this name? Does the remodeler have strong relationships with experienced independent trade contractors such as plumbers and electricians? What, if any, does the remodeler give back to the community? Ask the contractor for references. Don’t just ask for them… call them! Would they hire them again? Did the remodeler maintain a neat jobsite? Minimal setbacks and delays? Stay on time and on budget? How were problems handled? Does the contractor understand your needs and wants? Does the contractor show an interest in staying on budget? How is the contractor’s communication? Availability?Is the contractor in compliance with Local, State, and Federal laws? After the interview is over, sit back and think over the contractor’s responses. Ask yourself and/ or your spouse: Are you comfortable with the remodeler? Are you satisfied with the answers to your questions, the estimate, and the project? Was there a prompt response to phone calls? Was the contractor on time for scheduled meetings? Did the contractor emphasize service and developing a trusting relationship with you? Was the contractor enthusiastic? Be sure to look for a good track record of a variety of excellent projects, and plenty of experience in your type of project. Always beware of exceptionally low prices. The contractor should provide you with a written estimate as well as an explanation of the specifications and plans and any and all company procedures. Remember, this is your home, you should be completely comfortable with who you hire to make your dreams come true.
 
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