14 Questions to Ask Before You Hire a General Contractor

Dusty Rhodes • April 18, 2022

When looking to hire a contractor for your building or remodeling project, you may feel a little overwhelmed and unsure of how to guarantee they are not only legit but also the best at what they do.


Do you remember playing the game 20 Questions as a kid? Hiring a contractor is similar. You have to use questions, deductive reasoning, creativity, and tact to ensure you are getting the most for your dollar (or couple hundred thousand of them).


First, how do you find the right contractor to interview?


How to find the right contractor


Whether you are hiring a remodeler for a residential or commercial property project, the first thing you want to consider is a contractor’s reputation.

  • Do you know anyone who has hired them previously?
  • What did previous clients say about their work and the value of it?
  • Their reliability?
  • Their communication and punctuality?


Having a friend or family member who can vouch for a contractor they have personally used is great, but you must check into their public reputation for yourself. This can easily be done online.


Once you have some confidence in their skills and competence, based on your investigation, it’s time to get on the phone and start interviewing.


When you first meet them, don’t hesitate to shoot the breeze a little bit.


It’s nice to know about a contractor’s family, their priorities, and what they like to do. Only spend a few minutes doing this though, as you want to be respectful of their time, and good contractors are typically very busy. Once you’ve broken the ice, get right into the questions.


A good contractor understands how important your property and projects are and knows that you will have lots of questions. If they won’t answer your questions, they are not your contractor. Run!


If they don’t show up for your appointment or interview, do not give them a second chance. If they are 30 minutes late, they had better have a good reason. If it’s acceptable to them to be late or not show up before you hire them, you can bet that this behavior will remain consistent or even get worse after you hire them.


When you meet a contractor, take note of their appearance and, if possible, the state of their vehicle. This can say a lot about a person’s organization and attention to detail. If there are fast food bags, empty water bottles, paperwork, and trash scattered everywhere, it seems likely that this is how your house is going to look if you choose to work with them.


It’s essential to thoroughly vet your contractor in the interviewing process.


What to look for during your search


If you aren’t careful about who you hire, it could cost you everything. Here are several tips to keep in mind for your initial search.

  • Get multiple estimates. You want to make sure you initially get estimates from more than one contractor, preferably around three.
  • Go local. If possible, local contractors are your best option because they will be more familiar with local building codes and will always be close by if you have to contact them for an emergency.
  • Check for proper licensing. If unlicensed, they will not be able to pull necessary permits, which will mean that your buildings are not up to local building codes and will not pass inspections. Unfortunately, you would then be held financially responsible for the repairs to meet those codes. Licensing is essential!
  • Check for warranties. Warranties are great for both parties because they protect the contractor from having to come back for multiple repairs over a long period, and also ensure the homeowners that the work of the contractor will not be shoddy or sub-par. You want a warranty in writing.
  • Check their past work. Look them up on the Better Business Bureau to check their reputation. You want a contractor with more than five years of experience, preferably. Ask for a list of references from their previous projects and follow up with these. You can also check their reputation and reviews on social media platforms or Yelp.
  • Utilize best payment practices. Don’t pay in cash or the full total upfront. Be wary of any contractor who demands either. An initial payment should be about a third of the estimated costs and should be given in the form of a check written to the company, not an individual.


Getting multiple estimates and carefully vetting your contractor may take some time, but at the end of the day, it is more than worth it for your peace of mind and your bank account.


Now that we’ve discussed a couple of tips to help you vet your contractor, let’s nail down some questions you will want to ask them.


Questions to ask during the interview


We have gathered a list of the best questions to ask a contractor during the interview process.


How many people work for you, and what is the structure of your company like?


This will tell you how large their organization is, which can be a good indication of how long they’ve been around and how well-established they are.


It can also tell you what type of support they have. Having administrative personnel who help manage project schedules and billing, a project manager, assistant managers, and other support will likely make it easier for you to get in touch with the company when you need to. You won’t have to worry about an individual being your single point of contact.


How long have you been running your own crew?


This question helps give you a better idea of how experienced they are at what they do and if they have a track record of being dependable over a long period.


You may want to ask them about turnover on the crew as well. If they have to fire their framer every other week, you may have a hard time getting that part of your renovation done.


Are you licensed?


Definitely make sure their licenses are up to date and they are registered with the state you’re in.


Are you insured?


This includes General Liability Insurance and Workers’ Compensation. There is only one right answer to this question. Once they hopefully say yes, ask to see a copy of their policy.


Will you be using subcontractors on this project?


Ideally, the contractor can do the entire project with just their own team, whether for a residential property or a commercial real estate property. This allows the general contractor to have more control over the timeline and the budget.


If they have to sub-contract specific parts of the project out, then they cannot control, for example, this plumber or that painter’s schedule.


Regardless, you need to make sure that each person conducting work is trained, licensed (if applicable), and insured. While subcontractors aren’t a red flag per se, they can create more work for you and also increase your timeline.


Have you ever had to declare bankruptcy or operated your company under a different name?


If they say yes, you will need to do a little more research to ensure they are not going to go bankrupt again. You also need to check on any previous companies as there is probably a reason they are not still in operation.


When you research and conduct interviews, it is not enough that they “pass the test.” You need to answer two questions: Are they a good person? And can you work with them?


Once you have a good idea of the contractor’s reputation and experience, you can start to figure out scheduling, timelines, communication, and organizational structure.


Have you ever had to deal with lawsuits?


Even though this question is delicate, you need to know the answer. This question consists of three parts.

  • Have you ever been sued? A “yes” answer is not an immediate reason to cut off the interview then and there, but you’ll want to dig a little deeper to find out what the suit was about, how it turned out, and how this contractor handled or responded to it.
  • Have you ever sued a client or filed a mechanics lien against a property? You need to understand the details. At the very least it will give you an indication of their transparency and character. You can always follow up with the public record.
  • Has your company ever had serious accidents that caused hospitalizations or injuries? Again, it is okay if the answer is yes—accidents happen. What’s important is how the contractor dealt with the situation and what they are continuing to do to ensure it doesn’t happen again.


Will you agree to sign lien releases before I pay you?


This answer needs to be “yes.” If your contractor does not want to sign a lien release to be paid, for any reason at all, their intentions are probably not what they should be.


How often do you communicate with your customers?


You need to get a sense of how often they will communicate with you. Will you get a daily report of progress or a weekly one?


It’s important to ask them first, rather than leading them to the answer you want to hear. Their answer will quickly give you an understanding of their professionalism.


You could even offer to have them text you pictures of their progress in lieu of a daily call.


How do you clean up your job site?


Don’t lead on this question by saying, “Do you clean up your job site daily?” Instead, ask them what they do at the end of every job day.


If they give some kind of half-answer, then you might say, “Would it be an issue if I wanted my job sites cleaned up at the end of every day?” It’s important to see what they say to your request, and then make your hiring decision based upon how they respond.


If the job site is a mess, it’s a liability for you and also makes you look like a slob to passersby.


How many projects do you have going on right now?


If your contractor says they are juggling three jobs at once, they will likely not meet your deadlines.


Your next question should be, “How will you handle my job at the same time as those other three jobs?”


Your soft costs will start to eat up your profits every day if you have to wait for them as they juggle other jobs as well.


What would our contract look like?


A lot of contractors don’t even use contracts (believe it or not), so it’s important to have this conversation at the beginning.


It’s best to always draft the contract you use and ensure that everyone signs before work begins or any money is exchanged.


Not every contractor will be okay with this, but you need to have a lawyer review any contract before you sign it. If it is written by your contractor, it is to protect them, but not necessarily you.


Who would be at my house and when?


You need to ensure that no one is allowed access to your house if they have not had their background checked by the company.


Additionally, you want to ensure that there are only contractors working when you give them express permission and within the boundaries that you’ve laid out.


How and when would you like to be paid?


An upfront payment of 50% is not reasonable, no matter what they say. A fair amount to pay upfront is roughly 30% of the estimated costs. Make sure you both agree to and sign a predetermined payment schedule before the start of the job.


A good contractor has enough in reserve to cover expenses to get started but occasionally will need money for some materials. If this is the case, you can order the materials and have them delivered directly to you. This way, you have what you paid for.


You need to be able to work well with your contractor. At the end of the day (or project), you want this contractor to have respected your property; been open and honest; treated you fairly; and completed the job within budget, on time, and to your personal standards.


If you find that you need to report a problem contractor, the Federal Trade Commission’s “Consumer Information” webpage lists several options for you to do so.


However, you shouldn’t have to worry about having to report a contractor if you properly vet them in the first place.

Source: BiggerPockets Blog


Dusty Rhodes Properties is the Best Realtor in Myrtle Beach! We do everything in our power to help you find the home of your dreams. With experience, expertise, and passion, we are the perfect partner for you in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. We love what we do and it shows. With more than 22 years of experience in the field, we know our industry like the back of our hands. There’s no challenge too big or too small, and we dedicate our utmost energy to every project we take on. We search thousands of the active and new listings from Aynor, Carolina Forest, Conway, Garden City Beach, Longs, Loris, Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, and Surfside Beach real estate listings to find the hottest deals just for you!

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How to Move Out After Selling a House

By Dusty Rhodes • October 13, 2025
From the first coat of paint you used to freshen up your house’s trim to the stress of wrangling your way to a deal, you’ve been through a lot in that place. Now you’ve made it to the final hurdle of selling a home: moving out! Don’t worry, this is the easy part… but you want to do it right. Here’s how to get through the last leg of your journey without any bumps along the way. How to move out on time Once the paperwork is signed at closing, the buyers will officially own the house—and you won’t. That means that, technically, if you or your stuff is still there after the close, “the buyer could evict you,” says Joshua Jarvis , founder of Jarvis Team Realty in Duluth, GA. So make sure to have your exit strategy in place! Still, most buyers will understand if you need a bit more time and have a legitimate reason—like if you can’t move until the weekend due to your work schedule. Just be sure to discuss these issues as soon as possible before the close, so your buyers can plan accordingly. Decide what to leave behind To make sure you’re leaving behind everything the buyer wanted—and that you agreed to—double-check the closing documents . There should be an itemized list of what comes with the house . And even if the buyers didn’t formally request them, it’s just good form to leave certain types of things behind. Such as? “Generally speaking, you should leave anything that’s bolted to the wall,” says Jarvis. “Some homeowners want to take their fans and blinds to the next home, but generally if it’s screwed in, it stays.” Also, if you and the buyers agreed to transfer any services—such as alarm monitoring or pest control —be sure to set that up before you go. Leave the buyers a detailed note in the house, or ask your agent to get in touch with theirs to make sure the transfer goes smoothly. If you do inadvertently take an item that the buyers had requested, they have the right to ask for it back—and they could potentially sue you in civil court for the cost of a replacement. So, when in doubt, feel free to check with the buyers before you grab and go. But don’t leave anything else behind Just as important as what you leave behind is what you don’t. Your buyers have a right to move into a home that’s been cleared of furniture and other movable items they didn’t expressly request. “Some folks leave all kinds of unwanted clothes, furniture, paint cans, and other items, thinking they are helping the buyers,” Jarvis says. If you truly think your buyers might love to have your old planting pots or kiddie equipment, go ahead and ask—but please don’t assume they’ll welcome your leftovers. Even if you’re careful, you might forget something—at which point the buyers may contact their agent to get it back to you, but they also have the legal right to just keep or get rid of it. So double-check areas (e.g., the attic, garage, basement, storage shed, kitchen, and bathroom drawers) where people commonly overlook items. Clean up It’s common courtesy to leave the place not only clear of your possessions but also clean. However, that doesn’t mean you have to leave it immaculate. “Generally, you shouldn’t have to pay to have it deep cleaned,” Jarvis says. In most cases, a simple broom-clean will do. That means wiping down the countertops, cleaning out drawers, sweeping or vacuuming all the floors, and giving the bathroom and kitchen appliances a once-over so the new owners aren’t grossed out when they arrive. Are you forgetting anything? Before you close the door for the last time, run through a quick checklist. Did you eyeball every room for stray items? Have you forwarded your mail and turned off the utilities? Is the water running in the jacuzzi? We all get in a bit of a rush even in the best planned moves, but you won’t be able to get back in, so it can’t hurt to do a final run-through before you move out. Once you’re ready, it’s time to leave. You can drop a line to your real estate agent to let them know you’re out, although it’s usually a courtesy more than a necessity. If you’re feeling truly gracious, feel free to leave a note, card, or bottle of bubbly congratulating the people who’ve inherited your former home. Given all the fond memories you’ve built between those walls, wouldn’t it be nice to start the home’s new owners off on the right foot? And buy yourself some Champagne, too. Make it the good stuff—you’ve earned it. 

When Are You Considered a First-Time Homebuyer Again?

By Dusty Rhodes • October 6, 2025
Buying a home is an exciting time, whether this is your first time purchasing a house or you’re a repeat buyer. But if you’ve owned a home before, you may be wondering if you can be a first-time home buyer again. In some cases, yes, you can. In this Redfin article, we’ll go over what qualifications you need to meet and when you can be considered a first-time homebuyer again. Whether you’re buying a home in Atlanta, GA , or a condo in Portland, OR , read on to find out if you’re eligible to be a first-time homebuyer twice. Key takeaways Usually, you’re a first-time homebuyer again if you haven’t owned a home in 3 years. Some special situations may also qualify you as a first-time buyer. Benefits include down payment and closing cost assistance and lower interest rates. When are you considered a first-time homebuyer again? Typically, you’re considered a first-time homebuyer again if you have not owned a primary residence for at least three years. There are several additional reasons you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer again, which we’ll explore below. Some first-time homebuyer programs have different definitions of “first-time homebuyer,” so check with the specific program before proceeding. Qualifications to be considered a first-time homebuyer There are other reasons you may qualify as a first-time homebuyer twice. Let’s take a look at them: You haven’t owned a primary residence for 3 years: This means if you owned a home, but sold it and rented for 3 (or more) years, you can be considered a first-time home buyer again. If you’re buying with another person, only one of you needs to meet the criteria to use most first-time home buyer programs. You’re a single-parent buying on your own: If you’ve never purchased a home by yourself and are a divorced single-parent, you may qualify again. Even if you purchased a home with your former spouse, you likely still meet the criteria. You’re a displaced homemaker/family caregiver: If you are a displaced homemaker who doesn’t or didn’t earn wages from employment and has only owned a home with a former spouse, you’re likely considered a first-time homebuyer. You previously owned a mobile home: If you owned a mobile home or property not affixed to a foundation, then you likely qualify. Your previous home was out of compliance: If your home had building code violations or safety issues that could not be repaired or brought into compliance for less than the home’s value, you’re likely eligible. Benefits of being a first-time homebuyer again There are benefits to being a first-time homebuyer twice. Let’s take a look at them: Access to first-time homebuyer programs: One of the biggest benefits is the ability to use first-time homebuyer programs such as down payment and closing cost assistance , grants, credits, or loans. Every program has different qualifications, so make sure to research each program or speak with your agent and lender to explore options. Options for low down payment mortgages: There are several loans available for first-time buyers that offer lower down payment amounts. For example, Freddie Mac’s Home Possible and Fannie Mae’s Home Ready offer down payment amounts as low as 3%. Potentially lower mortgage rates: Sometimes, lenders will offer slightly lower mortgage rates to first-time borrowers to help them buy their first home. FAQs about first-time homebuyers Can I be a first-time homebuyer again if I previously owned a home? Yes, as long as you haven’t owned a primary residence in the last 3 years, or you owned a home while previously married. Do both homebuyers need to be first-time homebuyers to qualify? No, in most cases, as long as one homebuyer meets the qualifying criteria, then you’re considered a first-time homebuyer. However, some programs require both homebuyers to be first-timers. Can I qualify for a first-time homebuyer loan again? Yes, for the most part, if you qualify as a “first-time homebuyer,” you can get another first-time homebuyer loan. Every lender and loan is different, so be sure to read the eligibility criteria thoroughly. Are there income limits for programs? Yes, many first-time homebuyer programs have income limits. This means you won’t qualify if you make more than the specified annual amount.

10 Home Renovation Projects Under $1,000 That Add Lasting Value

By Dusty Rhodes • September 29, 2025
Enhancing your living space doesn’t always require a hefty budget. With the right updates, you can add real value to your home for under $1,000. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home in Grand Rapids, MI , or looking for some easy DIY projects for your house in Portland, OR , these cost-effective upgrades can breathe new life into your space. To dig deeper into this topic, we spoke with Kevin Brasler, executive editor at nonprofit Consumers’ Checkbook , a consumer advocacy group that helps homeowners save money and make smart choices. With decades of experience evaluating service providers, Kevin shares insights on how to budget wisely, avoid common renovation mistakes, and know when to hire a professional versus taking the DIY route. 1. Add fresh paint to the walls of your home Painting is one of the most affordable ways to refresh your home. A gallon of quality paint costs $30 to $50, with a full room averaging around $350 . Neutral shades like gray, beige, or white appeal to most buyers, while accent colors such as navy, forest green, or mustard add personality. For a calming vibe, try sage or powder blue. Brasler notes that painting is one of the best DIY-friendly projects homeowners can take on. “Good DIY projects are those that involve mostly labor: painting, basic tile work, installing fixtures that don’t require new wiring or plumbing, landscaping, and most flooring jobs,” he says. 2. Update your cabinet hardware A cabinet hardware update is a subtle yet effective strategy to elevate your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Swapping outdated or generic cabinet handles and knobs for modern, stylish alternatives instantly transforms kitchens and bathrooms. Consider sleek brushed nickel handles for a contemporary touch, or opt for vintage-inspired brass knobs for a timeless charm. This modest investment typically costs between $2 to $10 per piece. 3. Change the kitchen backsplash A new backsplash can quickly refresh your kitchen while protecting your walls. A custom kitchen backsplash protects your walls from daily wear and creates a focal point that elevates the entire room. Opt for affordable ceramic or glass tiles, which can be found for as low as $1 to $5 per square foot. Staying within a $1,000 budget for a standard-sized kitchen is doable with those materials. Or you can go for a peel-and-stick backsplash that is not only budget-friendly, but a quick solution to make your kitchen stand out. Brasler stresses that getting multiple estimates is critical for even small-scale projects like this. “The biggest mistake homeowners make is not getting multiple bids. Even for smaller projects, you should get at least three written estimates; five is better,” he explains. 4. Switch to energy-efficient lighting By making the switch to energy-efficient lighting, you’ll not only improve the sustainability of your home but also create a more comfortable and inviting living environment. Switching to LED bulbs, which typically cost between $2 to $10 each, saves energy and reduces utility bills over time. Beyond the financial benefits, the crisp and vibrant illumination of energy-efficient lighting can effortlessly enhance your home’s overall mood and appeal. 5. Create a beautiful landscape A simple landscaping update is another low-cost project that adds value. Try planting vibrant flowers, shrubs, and trees, which can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on the size and variety. Add mulch or decorative stones to create a polished look for approximately $50 to $150, while adding affordable outdoor lighting options typically range from $50 to $200. Low-maintenance features lower costs down while still making a strong impression. For most landscaping updates, DIY is both practical and cost-effective. Still, Brasler advises calling in professionals for anything involving gas, high-voltage electrical, or structural work. 6. Install a smart thermostat A smart thermostat, such as popular models like Nest or Ecobee, typically costs between $150 to $300, depending on the brand and features. Homeowners can often handle the installation themselves, avoiding additional labor costs. Once installed, these intelligent devices learn your preferences, allowing for automated temperature adjustments, and can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps. 7. Refurbish or paint the front door Refresh your curb appeal by refurbishing or painting the front door – a low-cost project with instant impact. Sanding and restaining often costs under $100 and requires just a few materials. Another choice is to use high-quality exterior paint, which typically ranges from $30 to $50 per gallon, providing a fresh, vibrant color that suits your home’s style. 8. Add floating shelves or built-ins Consider adding floating shelves or built-in storage solutions to maximize space and keep your home organized. Floating shelves, available for as little as $20 to $50 per shelf, provide an affordable and stylish way to showcase decor or organize essentials. For a more customized approach, DIY built-ins can be crafted using plywood or ready-to-assemble shelving units, typically ranging from $100 to $300. 9. Upgrade your kitchen sink and faucet Breathe new life into your kitchen with a sink and faucet upgrade. Faucets usually run $100 to $300, and sinks $200 to $500. Consider a sleek pull-down faucet and a resilient stainless steel or granite composite sink to improve both function and style. Spending $300 to $800 on a sink and faucet upgrade can instantly refresh your kitchen’s look and make daily tasks easier. 10. Add safety measures to protect your home Smart security cameras or a basic surveillance system now offer affordable and effective protection. Investing in a home surveillance system, typically from $200 to $500, allows real-time monitoring and deterrence against potential threats. The addition of smart cameras, with features like motion detection and remote access via smartphone apps, can improve your home’s overall safety and convenience. With a budget-conscious investment of $500 to $1,000, you can create a comprehensive security network covering critical areas of your property. Tips for finding good contractors Even for smaller projects, working with contractors requires careful planning. Brasler emphasizes the value of comparison shopping. “Get proposals and detailed pricing from at least three reputable, licensed contractors,” he advises. “The only way to ensure you’re paying a fair price is to initiate competition.” He also suggests: Check references thoroughly. Ask questions like: Did the company follow plans? Did it finish on time? Was the work professional? Did the contractor offer low-cost solutions and stick to agreed prices? Were problems handled promptly and effectively? Did the team communicate clearly throughout the project? Was disruption to your daily life kept to a minimum? Did the finished results meet your expectations for quality and appearance? Was the contractor flexible and fair about changes if you adjusted plans? Ask neighbors and friends for referrals. Word-of-mouth often uncovers the best local contractors. Look for complaints. Check ratings at Checkbook.org or your local Better Business Bureau and be cautious with online reviews as they can’t always be trusted. Common mistakes when budgeting for small renovations Brasler states the biggest budgeting mistake is skipping multiple bids. “A contractor charging $800 might be using premium materials while the $500 bid uses builder-grade stuff. Try to get prices from each business for the exact same work,” he explains. He also reminds homeowners not to assume that a low price means low quality. “For decades we have evaluated all kinds of businesses and often find some of the best companies have the lowest prices,” he says. When to DIY vs. hire a pro While DIY saves money, Brasler stresses knowing your limits. “Call in pros to deal with anything involving gas, high-voltage electrical, or structural changes. Ditto for work that requires a permit and inspection,” he advises. For tasks like painting, basic landscaping, or adding shelves, homeowners can usually manage on their own. Keep expectations realistic since DIY projects often take longer and may not match professional results. The bottom line Budget-friendly renovations under $1,000 can make a big difference in your home’s look, comfort, and value. From painting and landscaping to updating fixtures and adding smart technology, these projects prove you don’t need to overspend to refresh your space. As Brasler reminds homeowners, “the key is balancing creativity with caution.” By comparing bids, avoiding common budgeting mistakes, and knowing when to call in the pros, you can achieve lasting results without stretching your wallet.