Choosing to remodel your home can be a huge, complex project.

While some property owners enjoy the process of creating their dream home, or improving property value so they can sell, others get overwhelmed just thinking about a home remodel!

Finding the right general contractor is arguably the most crucial piece of the home improvement puzzle!

And it isn’t easy. 

You want to find a contractor you 100% trust to bring your vision to life, who matches your communication style, and creates a stress-free experience through every step of the project. It’s their job to lead. 

At Laurelless, we’re on a mission to redefine the remodel as Denver’s leading home renovation and design company.

So we’re sharing 8 questions you should ask a general contractor before signing a contract to ensure the end result is your dream home and a dreamy experience. 

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Question 1: Is my remodel project in your wheelhouse?

Every contractor has their specialty, even as a “general contractor.” 

Some specialize in custom design-builds, others in historic remodels. Others make their bread and butter in super simple cosmetic updates. And others stick to the commercial world. 

And most contractors have a project budget they typically work within. If your home remodel is over this budget, they may not have the insurance or capacity to take on your project.

But just because your friend at work “knows a guy” doesn’t mean he’s “the guy” (or gal) for your job. 

Ask your potential contractor if the project is inside or outside the parameters of home remodels they typically work on.

If your contractor has worked on similar home remodels, you can even ask them for a list of references. Bonus points if you actually call them 😉

Question 2: Can I see photos of completed projects similar to my home remodel design?

A general contractor’s portfolio should include a range of photographs from previous projects. Asking to see visual examples of past work can give you the confidence that they’re able to meet your expectations. 

If you have a specific style in mind, seeing a portfolio of similar work can ensure they understand what you’re looking for.

For example, Laurelless works on a range of different projects for many different clients, but there’s still a common thread you can identify in our portfolio.

Question 3: Who will be assigned as Project Manager?

You’re not just hiring a general contractor; you’re hiring their entire team and the team member you’ll have the most face-time with is the project manager. The relationship and line of communication you develop with them is crucial. 

It’s 100% kosher to ask to meet the PM before you sign a project. Make sure you feel you can communicate open and honestly with them, and that they give you their full attention. 

Remember -you’re the client; you should never feel like your needs take a back seat to someone else’s agenda. 

If you can’t communicate specific concerns and feel like they won’t get lost in translation with the project manager, it’s a lose-lose relationship from the start. 

Question 4: How much hands-on input do you expect from me? 

And ask yourself, “how much input do I want to give?” 

Some homeowners want to choose every last finish and give approval for each measurement. Others want to share a general vision and then hand over the reins. 

Part of Laurelless’ Concierge Contracting experience is clarifying how much you’d like to be involved with decision making. 

You give all the input you want, and don’t need to be bothered with what you don’t care about.

Every contractor should be sensitive to your communication style and desire to be involved (or uninvolved). If they’re not, move on. 

Question 5: How do you and your team react when things go wrong?

No home remodeling project is without its hiccups. Delays happen and can sometimes be unavoidable. Costs might overrun due to materials, labor, and unexpected changes.

Contractors are used to navigating these challenges and should have the skills and experience to keep your project on track.

The right contractor will keep a cool head, communicate challenges proactively, and do everything they can to stick to your deadline. 

Ask the contractor for an example of a project where something went wrong and how they handled it. 

Then ask them for another example! Most experts will have at least one go-to story to address this question. 

If they can give you multiple scenarios, you know you have an honest, experienced leader on your team.

Question 6: What does the design process look like?

You might have a super detailed plan for your dream home. Or maybe it’s just a fuzzy daydream, or a Pinterest board of inspiration. 

Either way, you’ll work with your contractor to finalize your home remodel design. 

Ask if they handle design in-house or if they can recommend a designer or architect to work with, depending on what’s needed. 

If you’re looking for a streamlined experienced, look for contractors who manage their design in-house (pssst – like Laurelless)

Your contractor should be a part of the design process as they can highlight any concerns and make suggestions for potential improvements.

Laurelless’ “Concierge Contracting’“ streamlines the home remodel process with in-house design, smoothing out the rough edges and decision-making that often make remodeling feel overwhelming.

We’ll roll out the red carpet and be with you through every step – from the first design sketch to the final paint strokes. 

Question 7: What measures do you take to ensure my property is protected during the remodel process?

Whether you’re staying in your property or moving out during construction, you want to ensure it’s protected.

Basic safety, noise, and mess can become a headache for homeowners during a remodel, and a primary source for remodel horror stories.

Ask your contractor what safety measures they put in place and how they guarantee cleanliness. You don’t want to be walking around a messy construction site during your well-deserved downtime. 

More than one of Laurelless’ past clients have remarked that they “barely even knew we were in their home working,”

That’s exactly the way we like it, and should be the bar every contractor sets!

Question 8: Do any aspects of my home remodel project present a challenge?

Very few remodeling projects are without their challenges. You want your contractor to be honest and up-front about potential challenges and how they will address them. 

If the contractor skirts this questions or doesn’t seem to give it true thought, they may be trying to gloss over challenges to win your business.

Or worse, they haven’t thought critically about the project’s needs!

If they do say “no, it seems like a pretty cut and dry remodel,” make sure they follow up with reasoning on why they feel that way. 

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Bottom Line: Don’t settle for “good enough” when it comes to your home remodel. 

Before that initial meeting with a potential contractor, make sure you outline the questions you have for them. If you don’t get the answers you’re looking for, don’t be afraid to say “thanks but no thanks.”

You’re taking the first steps to creating your dream home. You shouldn’t settle for “good enough.” 

P.S. If you’re in the Denver Metro area and ready for Concierge Contracting, Laurelless is ready to roll out the red carpet and be your trusted partner from concept to completion. Click here to get the ball rolling. 

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