Has anyone had issues getting a contractor out to a project?

Question

I'm having issues getting a contractor out to my project. So far, I have the plans and permits ready to get started, however, whenever I introduce my intentions, they are not so keen in taking the job since it's an investment property. Does anyone have experience with this or any advice on how I should approach individuals. Granted, I do look young for what i'm doing; how do I handle or show my competency as a new investor?

Garrick Oconnell · Answer

I am in AZ as well

It is a busy time for all contractors and the build season is in full swing.

Call the contractors and interview them-

How many jobs do they currently have, when could they potentially start on yours, how many men will the have on the job, How do they bill for projects, have them meet you at the property to bid the job and provide plans and Scope of work before you meet so they can come with a rough number and then provide a line item bid. I generally know what I want to spend before I have the contractor out.  Dangle the start date in front of them " I am ready to start construction next week." Ask them how they bill? Cost +%,

I always tell contractors I am an investor, I will not pay retail like Cost + 20%. That a contractor or sub might as well stay home.

If you have already pulled permits with city are you acting as GC on the project? Are you looking for a GC or to find subs to complete the work? This may be the issue.

PS

I am 30 y/o and look young. It does not hold me back.

Matthew Paul · Answer

@Fernando Garcia  first dont tell them you are an investor , to a contractor this means that you are cheap  . Its spring , dont expect anything to get done fast , or cheap , with all the work out there GOOD contractors are getting a premium . As @Jay M. said contractors are busy , extreeeeeeeeemly busy .

Tahj Brown · Answer

Actually the contractors that I use are pretty good and they stay busy but are organized to get to us quickly

Jay M. · Answer

This is arguably the 2nd busiest time for contractors in the past 40+ years (I'm still convinced 2004-2006 in MA was busier).  EVERYONE is having a hard time getting subs / contractors to return a phone call / bid a job / or show up.  It's to the point in MA that if someone is available or shows interest in the work I would be suspicious........

Stone Jin · Answer

@Fernando Garcia what type of work are you looking to have done?  Maybe the forum can help recommend some people.

Rob Oliver · Answer

Hello Fernando, live here in the AZ area and have dealt with the contractors out here for years and honestly the best way to get them out to your the area that you are looking to incest in, is to send out an invitation to bid and set up the day you want to do the walk through. When you do so you send out a mass email to numerous contractors with an RSVP. By doing this they know you mean business and that they will now come at you with a reasonable offer knowing they are bidding up against other subcontractors........ I do this regardless if I'm in Phoenix, Prescott, Flag and Yuma. Note you will also have plenty subs that will travel the distance for you as well once they get to know you.

Matthew Paul · Answer

Say you bought it and want to get it ready to move in

Stone Jin · Answer

@Fernando Garcia PM me and I will provide some contacts.  I'm a buy and hold investor, most of the work I have right now are maintenance type work and small upgrades.  I've used all these contractors in the past on remodels.

If you are knowledgeable on construction then you can sub out the work yourself.  Most good subs will provide guidance as to what needs to happen next.

Fernando Garcia · Answer

@Stone Jin I would love those contacts. Have you found most success subbing the work yourself?

Fernando Garcia · Answer

@Matthew Paul How should I approach future contractors? The first question i'm asked is whether I'm a home flipper. I always respond with a no, since I'm interested in rentals.

Has anyone had issues getting a contractor out to a project?

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