Beware the Contractor!!

In case you missed it!!!    Another article on being careful on who works on your home.

As the article notes, call or email me if you need a contractor.   As a Realtor, we have some one for almost any job.

CONSUMER WATCH: IF IT'S TIME TO CALL IN THE PROS- WATCH OUT! (courtesy of Al Clark's Newsletter)

Topic Summary: When it comes time to hire a professional to fix major systems in your home, there are several precautions that you should be aware of. The first, don't let your systems degrade to the point of having an emergency. Do some periodic maintenance. Second, look to your HomeActions sponsor as a source of local trade pros that will do the best work. (On the left side panel, just click SEND EMAIL) In this NBC undercover video, (click on image)(can't do anything about the ad)  a staged homeowner calls six contractors to come out and check her AC unit that has been found to be working just fine.  Watch and see how the situation can quickly get out of hand. The Air Conditioner Contractor Association has some good tips here  It's not just air conditioner contractors. Anytime you are dealing with professionals there is a chance of inflated estimates, bait and switch on parts, shoddy workmanship or poor follow-up maintenance. But it doesn't have to be that way.  There is a Network!  Your real estate professional that provides you this service probably has a network of plumbers, roofers, electricians and other trade professionals that they deal with on a daily basis. Part of the process in helping consumers sell and buy homes involves working with these types of professionals. This informal network can help you because these professionals need to be referred by real estate agents all the time. If word gets around, and Realtors talk to other Realtors, that a particular contractor is fly-by-night, or a painter is very sloppy, a lot of potential business is at risk. Ask your Realtor for recommendations before you hire a professional. Houselogic.com, a service of the National Association of Realtors has some great resources on the topic