Is it better for contractors to provide materials vs investor?

Question

Hello all,

Currently doing a medium scale renovation on a newly acquired rental and it crossed my mind to asked here- to find out what has worked best for fellow buy and hold investors- Is it better for contractors to provide materials vs the investor? All answers are appreciated especially from experienced investors with several rentals.

Thanks,

Festus

Stephen J Davis · Answer

Let them do it all as a rule. I have personally only provided the appliances a few times over the years. Take the time saved and  find you next deal.

Ralph Justiz · Answer

@Greg Bennin is right. When I first started I would buy all the materials for a rehab and then drop it off at the property that needed work. That only lasted two jobs. It became a hassle and I decided to just let the contractor charge me a bit more. The amount of money I ended up saving was not worth the time I had to invest.

Henish Pulickal · Answer

This depends on how you leverage your time. Do you have time to measure and order the right amount of material? What about ordering material that may or may not be in stock?  How confident are you that you could order the right plumbing or lighting fixtures that match the hardware you've got in the walls?   Are you concerned that delays in receiving materials could delay your contractors construction timeline?  Is it the best use of your time to find, order and deliver materials, or would you be more productive letting the pro do what he does, and you spend the time finding your next deal!?

Greg Bennin · Answer

If you want more responsibility that material isn't wasted/stolen, for a little reduction in price then buy material yourself.  If you want contractor to do everything and take more responsibility then make contractor buy everything for a bit higher cost.  Generally to get any type of warranty the contractor will have to both provide and install material.  Flooring, air conditioners etc.