Two Things Homeowners Should Avoid Asking Contractors

This doesn't apply to every contractor, but there are some unscrupulous ones out there that will take advantage of every opportunity if you let them. Here's a couple of things that homeowners should avoid saying to contractors at all costs.

1. How much money do you need to start the project?

Let the contractor explained their payment schedule before you suggest giving them any money to start the project. The Honorable contractors will work out a payment plan that suits you and them and won't have problems altering the contract if you're not comfortable. The minute that you ask a contractor that might not be entirely honest,” How much money do you need to start the project?” You could find them asking for an unreasonable amount of money up front and this could create problems in the future, if you decide to use them.

2. Do you have any references?

References can be falsified by anyone, including contractors. If you need to ask your contractor for references, ask them for a list of people whom they've worked for in the past year. Try to avoid asking them for a couple of references, because there is a very good chance that they will give you a couple of clients that were extremely happy with their services. Most contractors won't give you the client's information that were dissatisfied with their services.

Use common sense when hiring contractors. If you don't feel comfortable with them or they can't answer your questions, it wouldn't be a bad idea to start looking for other contractors who you do feel comfortable with and can answer your questions.