Curious How People are Finding Their General Contractors

[Nick Affronti]

When it comes to fix and flips, or just turnovers between tenants, how are investors in this area finding their licensed general contractors? I'm not looking for just an "Angie's list" contractor. How are people finding a serious contractor that specializes in working with investors? 

[Javier D.]

Hi Guys,

I'm a real estate investor in Miami and also a contractor. I've dealt with other investors before and frankly hate it nor do I want to deal with them but here is my suggestion:

Contact a local Foreclosure specialist agent and ask them who their REO contractor is. Us as reo contractors specialize in fixing up foreclosures for banks and hedge funds. We pretty much only deal in 1-4 unit properties. I pretty much know what to recommend to the client by just seeing the property. if its low income I know to bid on basic cabinets/laminate countertops, low end tile, white appliances etc. Do they want move in ready? patch job? just by telling me i can get them a price and no unnecessary additional repairs. Higher end properties 18x18 tile, wood cabinets/granite and so on. Just my 2 cents. Please take care of your vendors. If you want a great contractor whos the cheapest and fastest and you want to nickel and dime them and expect them to work with you good luck. I can't tell you how many times I've done bids as favors for my clients for their investors who are aggressive and negotiate without even knowing what they're talking about. Try to get yourself the Fannie Mae price guideline online and figure 10-20% on top of that as a great price. Those prices are for when they give us 10-20 properties to repair a month so don't expect those prices. good baseline though. Good luck my fellow investors!