Scheduling contractors to show up at the same time? good or bad?

Question

I'm interested on everyone's opinion of scheduling multiple contractors to come out to a property - at the same time - to bid on work.

I've always spaced them out with different contractors in the past, and I'm a little tired of contractors not showing up. (Even the ones that were referrals) I enjoy building relationships and filtering out the bs ones. With a group of contractors showing up at the same time, it will be difficult to do that.

For the contractors out there, if you see other contractors at the property at the same time, does that make you mad? or are you more motivated ?

I always have good success with showings with multiple groups of tenants (again tired of people not showing up). But it's a lot trickier with contractors, especially when there seemed to be plenty of jobs out there!

How do you do it?

Chris Mason · Answer

I don't know how supply/demand for contractors is in your area. Here in the Bay Area, contracting is absolutely a "seller's market." Contractors get what they want, period.

I've heard of contractors simply not showing up, or turning around and leaving immediately, as soon as they catch wind that someone is getting multiple bids and talking to multiple contractors (if supply/demand is similar in your market is like mine).

You need their business, they don't need yours at all, because there are 10 other people lined up behind you for their services.

Specific to this:

In your area, housing may be a "seller's market," so you as the housing provider get what you want. Roles are reversed here: they need your business, you don't need theirs at all, because you've got 10 other tenant applicants just like them lined up for the housing you are providing.

Just like you might throw a tenant's app in the trash if you discover they applied to 3 different units and are trying to go back-and-forth with 3 different landlords, that contractor might not have any reason to spend time with you if you're talking to 3 different contractors.

No one gets to ALWAYS be on the advantaged side of supply/demand. :)

Chris T. · Answer

@David Michael

Thank you. Yes, I agree with you 100% as this is a relationship business.

However, the 2 areas I need bids on are well water related, and masonry/foundation repairs. Both of which I seldom deal with.

I do have relationships with GC, which I have asked for referrals.

David Michael · Answer

Hello @Chris T.!!!!

First  I would recommend to stick to one contractor and build your relationship with them as opposed to working with a new one every time. After two or three deals there is a solid relationship and therefore you will be able to get a constant price. The contractor will be more inclined to work with you because of the volume.  As far as over booking, Everyone is can take this differently. Make sure you mention that you are shopping around.

Any questions don't hesitate to contact me