I was at the gym a few days ago and a friend of mine was talking about her fear of hiring a general contractor after a nightmare experience that she had with what ended up being a 2-year kitchen project.  I reflected back on my experience about 7 years ago with a contractor who after getting paid by me decided not to pay his subs and my nightmarish experience began.  So… I wanted to take a few moments and make a quick list of suggestions by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB):

1. Before hiring a contractor, check with California CSLB to make sure their license is solid and there are no complaints against them.
2. Never give more than 10 percent of the total home improvement contract price or $1,000, whichever is smaller.  It is illegal for a painter, landscaper, or any other type of construction contractor to accept a higher down payment.
3. Never pay for work before it is completed.
4. Never pay for materials before they are delivered to the property.
5. Make sure the written contract contains a progress payment schedule that outlines project phases with all costs and estimated completion dates.

Hope you find this useful.  If so, please share with your friends and family.  No one should have to go through a nightmare remodel! If you have suggestions for other articles or helpful hints, email me here.

READ MORE:  Pasadena California real estate market and housing review 2012

Thinking of selling your Pasadena area home? Interested in finding out the current market value of your single family home, condo or investment property? Then call Irina Netchaev at (626) 629-8439 to discuss what is happening in today’s Pasadena Real Estate Market.