How to Choose... Your guide to everything

ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS

Before agreeing to receive any services from a contractors, it is important to ask questions. This is a business transaction. You are interviewing this professional to perform a service for you. View it as a job interview. The contractor is the interviewee and you are the interviewer.

Like any employment interview, asking the right questions will help you find a reliable professional. The answers to these questions will help formulate a clearer idea of the needed work and the philosophy of the service provider.

You should know the contractor's experience, background and expertise. Ensure that they are telling you the truth.

Sometimes contractors will hire others to perform jobs for them. You have a right to know who is in your home and on your property at all times. Ask who will be performing the actual work.

The contractor should have proper licensing. Most states require all general and specialty contractors be licensed and registered in the state where they perform work.

Verify the contractor has insurance. Ask to see the certificates. Also, the contractor should show you the proper permits before work begins.

GET EVERYTHING IN WRITING

You don't want to get stuck paying for unexpected expenses. Avoid this problem by requesting a written estimate before work begins.

This detailed estimate should describe all fees, expenses, and costs. It will avoid confusion or disagreement later.

Your written estimate will also tell you about the finished project. Will there be cleanup or repainting included in the project? Inquire about any additional finishing touches, such as wood trim or drywall restoration.

When a bid sounds too good to be true, cross that contractor off your list. When professionals are interested in getting the job, they will provide you with estimates that are unrealistic. After work is completed, homeowners will often find the contractor used second-rate materials or skimped on labor. It is vital that only quality materials are used during your project.

A low bid may also indicate that the contracter is unqualified or not licensed for the job. A written estimate will give you valuable legal evidence should a dispute arise. Save all estimates and receipts related to the project.

BACKGROUND CHECK

Once you have finished your interview/initial consultation, perform a thorough background check on the prospective contractor. Be certain the professional has all the certifications and business licenses required for the services provided.

It is always a good idea to ask for a list of previous clients. Contact the client to talk about their experiences with the contractor. Were the clients satisfied? The Better Business Bureau (BBB) will also inform you about the contractor's work history. The BBB can tell you if there is a record of formal complaints filed against the contractor and whether the complaints were resolved.

Remember this person is working inside your home with minimal supervision.

Finally, all professional contractors are bonded. They carry insurance against accidental property damage as well as personal liability coverage. If a contractor doesn't have this documentation, then keep looking.

WARNING SIGNS

There are specific warning signs you should know before hiring a contractor to perform home maintenance or repairs. These signs don't necessarily mean you are dealing with an irresponsible contractor. It simply means you should be extra cautious.

The most important sign is when a contractor uses pressure tactics to secure a contract. Contractors might intimidate the homeowner into making an immediate hiring decision. Wait until you feel comfortable.

Another red flag would be the contractor insisting you pay a large portion of the bill in advance. Pay the bill in portions as work is completed. Only pay the last portion when you are completely satisfied with the finished work.

Anyone who only accepts cash as a form of payment should be considered extremely suspicious. Always pay by check and get a detailed receipt.

Any contractor or worker who appears at your residence uninvited should be considered very suspicious.

It takes time to complete these steps, but it will be worth it in the long run. By taking time and following these guidelines, you can be confident that the repair job will be completed to your satisfaction.

It is vital that you find a dentist who makes you feel comfortable, someone who will help you improve your dental health in a hygienic environment.

Finding a dentist near your home or workplace will help you make your appointments on time. As well, their office hours should accommodate your schedule.

So how should you start your search? First off, ask your social network for recommendations. Friends, family and colleagues can be a great resource.

Searching on the Internet for dental offices in your area will also help. Professionals often have their own websites, which include the backgrounds of those working there. The website may also tell you about how they handle procedures and appointments, as well as specialized services they offer.

Once you have gathered a list, begin calling each prospective dentist. You can talk to a receptionist or other staff person if the dentist is unavailable.

Check that he or she has earned the necessary degree from a reputable school and are current on all licensing and continuing educational requirements. Ideally, he will be familiar with the latest dental technologies and trends.

Ask if the dental office provides emergency services. If you break a tooth or need to have a root canal done right away, it is vital to find an available dentist.

Lead time for appointments is another consideration. Some offices might be able to see you right away, while others may have a three-week wait time.

Your prospective dentist should accept your dental insurance. If not, you may need to cross that person off your list. If you have no dental insurance, inquire about payment plans. The office should give you an estimate before performing any work.

When someone meets all of your requirements, visit the office. The staff should be professional and friendly. Every dentist should be willing to answer all of your questions.

Some people are afraid of dentists or pain. If you have any concerns, communicate with the staff and dentist. Many professionals are willing to go above and beyond to help you work through these issues.

A basic oral health history should be taken by the dentist or staff. They should tell you about future treatment and prevention options. A quality dentist will help you feel comfortable during your visit. If you experience anything less, cross that person off your list.

The best dentists offer friendly, happy dental experiences.

Teeth are extremely important to your overall health. They can also help or hinder your appearance. Finding a good dentist is like finding a friend who consistently brings out your best smile. 

There are hundreds of options to choose, but you can still find a texture and color that will match your family's lifestyle and budget.

Carpeting is a long term purchase, and you should expect it to last for many years.

To make a wise choice for your home and to ensure you receive the best value for your investment, keep the following tips in mind.

1. Think about the pros and cons of wall-to-wall carpeting versus area rugs.

One of the most popular choices is wall-to-wall carpeting. Because it is a permanent, it tends to be more costly. Not only do you have the carpet itself, there is also the padding and installation.

Area rugs are easier to maintain. They can be picked up and cleaned. You can move them at your convenience. Anyone with pets or children will appreciate its mobility.

If you relocate frequently, you might consider an area rug. After all, you can pack it up and take it with you.

2. Calculate your budget.

Always choose the best carpeting you can afford.

While carpeting lasts longer, wears better and is more stain resistant, sometimes area rugs are the best options for your pocketbook.

Carpets are priced according to how much material is used.

To figure out the cost of an area rug, measure the room and determine how much of the bare floor you want exposed. Area rugs come in standard sizes, 5-by-8 or 9-by-12, and so on. You can find beautiful textures and tasteful colors at reasonable prices.

Wall-to-wall carpeting also comes in standard widths. If you have an especially large or oddly shaped room, you may have waste or seams.

If you can't get an accurate estimate, bring the dimensions to the carpet store and ask them to help you. Most carpet stores will give precise estimates for free or little cost.

3. Consider the color and texture that will most suit your needs.

Deciding on the color and texture of your carpet is probably the most enjoyable part of the process.

You might want to give the room a warmer feeling, lighten a dark room or match existing decor.

The pattern will determine the effect the carpet has on the room.

If you have children or pets, consider getting carpet with specially-made fibers for easy cleaning. It will help you in the long run.

4. Look into carpet stores in your area.

There are many places where you can purchase carpeting, such as large stores, warehouses and small niche carpet dealers. You can even purchase carpeting online.

Each has benefits and drawbacks. Typically, any place with the lowest costs will have the most limited services.

Smaller suppliers might bring samples to your home and make measurements prior to quoting a price. Visit showrooms and ask questions.

Small flooring stores usually focus on service. They might have discounts for services after the sale, such as carpet cleaning and stain-resistant protection.

Big box stores often have financing plans. These large retailers can also afford to give you a package deal on padding and installation. But they tend to have average, limited and sometimes bland options. Their low prices can be attributed to their bulk purchases of standard carpets. Then they pass their savings along to consumers.

No matter where you purchase your carpeting, take time to learn about the latest trends and options. It will help you make the best decision for your family's needs.