Other pages coming soon... Did you know, home product to save big money, A guide to hiring a Qualified handyperson

Empowering Homeowners

When embarking on the journey of homeownership—whether you’re a first-time buyer, a current homeowner, or looking for a vacation property—it's essential to recognize that every home will require some level of maintenance or renovation. These projects can range from simple repairs to complete transformations, and often, you'll need to enlist a skilled tradesman or woman to bring your vision to life. However, it's crucial to navigate this process wisely to avoid falling victim to handyman or contractor fraud. This page aims to provide you with valuable information and resources to ensure that you find reputable professionals and make informed decisions. With the right knowledge, you can turn your house into the dream space you've always wanted, all while protecting yourself from potential pitfalls.

This is the areas I wish to address

The number of qualified people/businesses to complete your project(s) dwindles by the week Since approx 1992 there are 3.6 million less trades workers world wide, this was before Covid. I have heard it time and time again "Your the 14th+ Handyman I have called, no one answers the phone or calls back". I understand this is truly frustrating, but that is why you need to see/talk with at least 3 if possible

Call/meet at least 3

Reviews

Ok you have talk with the contractor/handyperson, they are scheduling you in, sending you an estimate. What does the rest of the world say about this business? Word of mouth tradesperson referrals are great, looking for one is the scary part. It pains me to say, but there are a lot of shady tradespeople out only for your money. All reputable Contractors/tradespersons have a pretty fair past in the form of customer reviews. They are there for you to read and explore.

The down side of the reviews is they may not be a clear as they seem. With A.I. widely available some reviews "maybe A.I." generated. Some are ultra hard to tell apart from the real "Organic reviews". Equally important, did the business reply to the reviewer? What did they say? Are all the reviews sunshine and roses? I dont care who runs a contractor/handyperson business not "every project is sunshine and roses, but what was the cause and how was it resolved, or why wasn't it resolved?

Example of an Organic review

Terry responded to my call quickly, explained what he was doing and why. He was friendly, professional and made sure that the job was done correctly.

this was straight to the point from a customer, No fluff and elaboration of any detai

A.I Generated review

Terry demonstrated exceptional responsiveness to my call, addressing my concerns promptly and thoroughly. He took the time to explain the steps he was undertaking, ensuring that I understood the process and the rationale behind it. His friendly demeanor made the interaction pleasant, while his professionalism shone through as he meticulously worked on the task at hand. Terry’s attention to detail left me confident that the job would be completed to the highest standard. It was evident that he was committed to doing the job correctly, which provided me with peace of mind. Overall, my experience with Terry was not only efficient but also reassuring, and I would highly recommend his services to others seeking reliable assistance.

Details Matter...

When you plan your project, how detailed is the project? just a simple repair, is it an upgrade/remodel or is it a complete tear-out remodel? Set your limits and be open to a unforeseen change. It happens to the best of contractors/handypersons from time to time.

Be realistic in material costs Prices fluctuate a lot. Supply and demand plays a big factor in 2025 Prices could exceed 35-50% more after April 30th 2025.

Noteworthy info

Growing up I remember in 1976 my father paying 0.90 cents per 2x4x8, in 2000 we where paying $2.39, Covid-19 hit and it shot up $3.49 Today March 31,2025 it is $3.85. If the tariffs are imposed I have been told prices will be at a record high of $5.25-$9.00 (depending on location and state fees). All building materials will become very costly (future price is only speculation)

Estimates/Contracts

In today's ever evolving world That estimate/contract is a requirement NOT an option. A handshake and verbal agreement is so 1940's, You can not afford this type of contract. Even my small projects are typed out on a contract. The contract protects the business as well as the customer. The contract should spell out what the tradesperson/business is going to do as well as state their Terms of conditions. warranties, and legal statements.

With larger projects be specific, details matter, with bathroom, house remodels, Never assume the person has ESP and knows what you want. If it isn't on the contract and you didn't specified you will need to work that out with the contractor Handyperson.

ALWAYS read the contract, Make sure it includes all that you are expecting to happen and expectations to final outcome. If there is something that isn't on the contract let them know to put it on there and send you the new revision to sign.

If the project is structural, The customer has the right to request a copy of the Business Certificate Of Insurance (COI) before the project starts. If Business can not provide a copy with in a reasonable time 2-3 days, this may be a RED-FLAG. Most reputable contractors/Handyperson have a General Liability Insurance to protect themselves and their customers. Not all estimates or contracts will be on an official leatherhead, but they should not be on a plain piece of paper or napkin, RED-FLAG.

Never ever pay for all the money upfront, I request material cost and 1/3 labor 4-5 days before project start, unless materials are special Order and have a 2-4 week lead time. In that past 4 months November 24 to present I have met with 4 people that gave the contractors all the money up front or paid in cash with or without a contract. The end result was anger and total distrust of everyone. These meetings where painful, as I can't help them. There is a unwritten rule a reputable business has to follow when confronted with a project gone wrong by another contractor/handy person. This rule is the main reason most of us trades people will not correct the defect without doing the project over or something beyond a patch job. The anger most often follows thru the repair and ends poorly for the person making that repair.

Noteworthy info

Home repair statistics by state

Read that contract

Before you sign that contrat READ it! If it is done correctly it will say who is responsible to do what.

Example staining a deck may list the process and state (home owner agrees to clear deck furniture and personal affects) You not read the contract and assume the person will clear it for you. Hired person come to start and deck is not cleared, work is delayed and may incur a change order charge to clear the deck which may also be indicated on contract. All my contracts spells out who has what responsibility.

The contract may specify that Item is special order and requires a lead time of 2-6 weeks Project starts but stops if product has not arrived yet. Covid cas caused a lot of product delays, I am willing to guess we will be seeing more delays coming this year 2025. I have seen some delays upto 3 months in 2024. Not the contractors/handypersons fault. it should be included in the contract if it is known before ordering.

There also should be a statement about change orders as these happen form time to time. Home owner is notified of the unknown issue shown pictures or the issue and explained what the repair will entail. Change Orders are paid in full before the project can move forward. rare occurrence but can happen.