Time frame for hiring contractor

13 years ago

We would like to start our Kitchen Project this January 2011.

Should I be looking to hire someone this far ahead or should I wait till November. I expect to get at least five estimates, is that about right...

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Comments (3)

kitchenkrazed09
13 years ago
If you wait, you may have the benefit of getting a lower estimate because it is usually slower around the holidays for contractors. I usually start with three estimates and see if I like anyone. If not, I continue looking. I would start calling for appointments by the beginning of November because sometimes you can't get an appointment the weekend you need and sometimes it takes 1/2 a week or so to get an estimate back. This will give you time to set new appointments if you don't like any of the contractors you've met. If I'm scheduling them on the same day, I usually schedule them far enough apart so they don't run into each other. Also, make sure you discuss the same work to be done with each contractor, so you can compare apples to apples. Keep in mind if you choose someone to hire, they can be busy with other jobs for a couple of weeks or more in advance. Here's a link to a recent thread about questions to ask a contractor.

Here is a link that might be useful: What to ask a GC
User
13 years ago
I would start now! The best folks will be booked 3 to 4 months in advance. Also, getting 5 estimates is a really high goal. Expect to have at least 8 guys out to accomplish that, given the number of flaky contractors.

You will find a lot of them just don't call you back, don't do a detailed bid, etc. Or, if you've selected materials in advance, they don't like that you're not using "their" cabinet vendor, etc.

I feel really lucky with my GC -- we seem to have gotten a great one so far. When I talked to him back in April/May, I thought it was way too early, but the timing was actually just right.
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bostonpam
13 years ago
It depends what part of the country your in. My contractor is busy for the next 10+ months. Around here you need to contact at least 6+ months before your start date if you want a good contractor. Also if you're doing any bump outs, additions, etc. you may have to add another 3+ months for zoning approval, fire dept approval, historical board approval (any house over 50 years old), etc. I was in zoning purgatory and that added 4 months.

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Time frame for hiring contractor

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kitchenkrazed09

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