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Porch Pro Headshot Cutting Edge Construction Today LLC
Many envision their dream home, but know not the road that leads there. Perhaps a remodel is all that is required; a new kitchen layout, a bathroom with extra amenities, a family room, or a new patio design. Others may wish to remodel or upgrade their business structure, visualizing transformationa...Read more about Cutting Edge Construction Today LLC
Many envision their dream home, but know not the road that leads there. Perhaps a remodel is all that is required; a new kitchen layout, a bathroom with extra amenities, a family room, or a new patio design. Others may wish to remodel or upgrade their business structure, visualizing transformationa...Read more about Cutting Edge Construction Today LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Platinum handyman Services , LLC
We are a company with excellent service and years of experience. We communicate with our client the whole way through. There is no job to small.
6.25% response rate
We are a company with excellent service and years of experience. We communicate with our client the whole way through. There is no job to small.
Porch Pro Headshot Queen Anne Painting & Carpentry Inc
Serves Seattle, Washington
(210)
"Alejandro did an amazing job on the house. Really great attention to detail (especially considering the starting state of the house/siding). It looks really good. He did a great job communicating, did extra work to resolve the look of the paint against new vs old siding, and they put in a long las...Read more about Queen Anne Painting & Carpentry Inc
"Alejandro did an amazing job on the house. Really great attention to detail (especially considering the starting state of the house/siding). It looks really good. He did a great job communicating, did extra work to resolve the look of the paint against new vs old siding, and they put in a long las...Read more about Queen Anne Painting & Carpentry Inc
Porch Pro Headshot High-Tech Restoration
Serves Seattle, Washington
(46)
"The appointment went well, he came and finished in less than 2 hours. I have to admit it was a little awkward…not sure if he was upset that he had to come back but I felt a little weird. He asked if I got the right color paint this time and if I tested it. I told him I didn't test it but the color ...Read more about High-Tech Restoration
"The appointment went well, he came and finished in less than 2 hours. I have to admit it was a little awkward…not sure if he was upset that he had to come back but I felt a little weird. He asked if I got the right color paint this time and if I tested it. I told him I didn't test it but the color ...Read more about High-Tech Restoration
Porch Pro Headshot 'Infinity' construction
Serves Seattle, Washington
(58)
"I just wanted to send a quick note to say thank you for the fabulous job you did! It looks absolutely wonderful and we are so pleased. We had company in town right after you left and they could not believe how fast you had completed the work and how perfect all the cut in lines looked. We are so gl...Read more about 'Infinity' construction
100% response rate
"I just wanted to send a quick note to say thank you for the fabulous job you did! It looks absolutely wonderful and we are so pleased. We had company in town right after you left and they could not believe how fast you had completed the work and how perfect all the cut in lines looked. We are so gl...Read more about 'Infinity' construction
Porch Pro Headshot Steve's Home Services LLC
Serves Seattle, Washington
(58)
SHS is your 'go to' source when it comes to your home. We can help from curb appeal to an addition, Detached garage or shop. We do absolutely everything. Remodel is our specialty, and we are skilled in all trade work. We use our own employees, and we guarantee our work and our prices, ultimately pro...Read more about Steve's Home Services LLC
SHS is your 'go to' source when it comes to your home. We can help from curb appeal to an addition, Detached garage or shop. We do absolutely everything. Remodel is our specialty, and we are skilled in all trade work. We use our own employees, and we guarantee our work and our prices, ultimately pro...Read more about Steve's Home Services LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Sound Home Services
Serves Seattle, Washington
(31)
"Andrew was very professional and provided a wonderful remodel experience. He had great communication and he took the time to make sure I was comfortable with all the work being done and the costs. He made a stressful remodel process bearable. The final product was awesome and got lots of compliment...Read more about Sound Home Services
"Andrew was very professional and provided a wonderful remodel experience. He had great communication and he took the time to make sure I was comfortable with all the work being done and the costs. He made a stressful remodel process bearable. The final product was awesome and got lots of compliment...Read more about Sound Home Services
Porch Pro Headshot Pathway Design and Construction
Serves Seattle, Washington
(18)
Pathway is a Seattle-based remodeling company with a focus on healthy building design: - We can manage the entire remodel process from design through construction. - We work in close collaboration with our clients and with our architects and tradespeople who share our commitment to craftsmanship an...Read more about Pathway Design and Construction
Pathway is a Seattle-based remodeling company with a focus on healthy building design: - We can manage the entire remodel process from design through construction. - We work in close collaboration with our clients and with our architects and tradespeople who share our commitment to craftsmanship an...Read more about Pathway Design and Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Old Town Builders LLC
Serves Seattle, Washington
(20)
"Quick, professional service at reasonable pricing! Craig and Matt have been a pleasure to work with (I've used them for a few projects around my house), and am very pleased with the results! I will continue to use Old Town Builders for any future projects that I may have down the road. "
"Quick, professional service at reasonable pricing! Craig and Matt have been a pleasure to work with (I've used them for a few projects around my house), and am very pleased with the results! I will continue to use Old Town Builders for any future projects that I may have down the road. "
Porch Pro Headshot All Vital Construction LLC
Serves Seattle, Washington
(14)
All Vital Construction LLC is the culmination of years of individual success by three brothers, Lucas, Jared and Samuel Cook(CCC Construction, Rundquist Remodeling and Earth Works Custom Tile). We learned our work ethic by growing up in a large family with a single mother who worked hard. Early on, ...Read more about All Vital Construction LLC
All Vital Construction LLC is the culmination of years of individual success by three brothers, Lucas, Jared and Samuel Cook(CCC Construction, Rundquist Remodeling and Earth Works Custom Tile). We learned our work ethic by growing up in a large family with a single mother who worked hard. Early on, ...Read more about All Vital Construction LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Seattle Custom Contractors
Serves Seattle, Washington
(4)
"I have used SCC multiple times and always with great results. We used them for the complete remodel of a building with a tight budget and timeline. Both were met as promised despite unexpected setbacks along the way that were out of SCC's control. We have had SCC out several times since the remodel...Read more about Seattle Custom Contractors
"I have used SCC multiple times and always with great results. We used them for the complete remodel of a building with a tight budget and timeline. Both were met as promised despite unexpected setbacks along the way that were out of SCC's control. We have had SCC out several times since the remodel...Read more about Seattle Custom Contractors
Porch Pro Headshot Savant Builders LLC
Serves Seattle, Washington
(6)
Design Build Remodel - We can guide you through the complete process of remodeling your entire home or just your kitchen or bathroom. Our services include room additions, kitchens, bathrooms, whole house remodels or even small custom projects. With over 25 years of experience, we get the job done ri...Read more about Savant Builders LLC
Design Build Remodel - We can guide you through the complete process of remodeling your entire home or just your kitchen or bathroom. Our services include room additions, kitchens, bathrooms, whole house remodels or even small custom projects. With over 25 years of experience, we get the job done ri...Read more about Savant Builders LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Dyna Contracting, Inc.
Serves Seattle, Washington
(17)
Dyna Contracting provides design, remodeling and home building expertise to residential and commercial clients throughout the greater Seattle area. Established in 1999, Dyna initially specialized in kitchen and bath remodels. Today, we offer full-scale renovations and new custom construction. Our p...Read more about Dyna Contracting, Inc.
Dyna Contracting provides design, remodeling and home building expertise to residential and commercial clients throughout the greater Seattle area. Established in 1999, Dyna initially specialized in kitchen and bath remodels. Today, we offer full-scale renovations and new custom construction. Our p...Read more about Dyna Contracting, Inc.
Porch Pro Headshot Harjo Construction Services
Serves Seattle, Washington
Harjo has built its reputation on being personally attentive to the unique goals and perspective of each client, with an equal commitment to quality people and construction. We have longstanding relationships across the industry with architects, subcontractors, and tradesmen of every skillset that a...Read more about Harjo Construction Services
Harjo has built its reputation on being personally attentive to the unique goals and perspective of each client, with an equal commitment to quality people and construction. We have longstanding relationships across the industry with architects, subcontractors, and tradesmen of every skillset that a...Read more about Harjo Construction Services
Porch Pro Headshot First Call Construction
Serves Seattle, Washington
First Call Construction Lynnwood, WA 98087 (253) 318-4802 First Call Construction is a Construction Company that provides good quality of services such as kitchen and bathroom remodeling, sun decks installation, garage makeovers, room additions, drywall installation and framing.For more informati...Read more about First Call Construction
First Call Construction Lynnwood, WA 98087 (253) 318-4802 First Call Construction is a Construction Company that provides good quality of services such as kitchen and bathroom remodeling, sun decks installation, garage makeovers, room additions, drywall installation and framing.For more informati...Read more about First Call Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Harbor Home Improvements
Serves Seattle, Washington
(5)
Hello my name is Dwayne owner and operator of Harbor Home Improvements .We strive to give you the very best outcome at the most reasonable price.I have been in business for over 30 years in different trades .HHI has been in business for over ten years and we continue to improve the quality of your h...Read more about Harbor Home Improvements
Hello my name is Dwayne owner and operator of Harbor Home Improvements .We strive to give you the very best outcome at the most reasonable price.I have been in business for over 30 years in different trades .HHI has been in business for over ten years and we continue to improve the quality of your h...Read more about Harbor Home Improvements
Porch Pro Headshot Homes Northwest LLC
Serves Seattle, Washington
Porch Pro Headshot Pioneer Home Services
Serves Seattle, Washington
Porch Pro Headshot NURA Construction
Serves Seattle, Washington
Greetings from NURA, We are a residential and commercial new construction and remodeling company based out of Seattle, WA. We're a young ambitious team with years of experience in construction management and field work. Our post-customer relationships and reviews speak for themselves.Our main focus...Read more about NURA Construction
Greetings from NURA, We are a residential and commercial new construction and remodeling company based out of Seattle, WA. We're a young ambitious team with years of experience in construction management and field work. Our post-customer relationships and reviews speak for themselves.Our main focus...Read more about NURA Construction
Porch Pro Headshot Ed’s Construction and Services LLC
Serves Seattle, Washington
No job is too big or too small for us.
No job is too big or too small for us.
Porch Pro Headshot Tersuli Construction Services LLC
Serves Seattle, Washington
Tersuli Construction is a full service general contracting business. We are locally owned and operated, serving the greater Puget Sound area since 2012. We manage projects in King, Pierce, Snohomish, Skagit and Island Counties. Our mission is to complete projects in a timely fashion while providing ...Read more about Tersuli Construction Services LLC
Tersuli Construction is a full service general contracting business. We are locally owned and operated, serving the greater Puget Sound area since 2012. We manage projects in King, Pierce, Snohomish, Skagit and Island Counties. Our mission is to complete projects in a timely fashion while providing ...Read more about Tersuli Construction Services LLC
Porch Pro Headshot Tavo’s construction
Serves Seattle, Washington
Improving homes and creating smiles!
Improving homes and creating smiles!
Porch Pro Headshot Mendoza's Professional Painting
Serves Seattle, Washington
Porch Pro Headshot ISLANDER CONTRACTOR
Serves Seattle, Washington

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Frequently asked questions about general contractors

What do general contractors do?

A general contractor oversees building and remodeling projects from start to finish. Their main priority is making sure that a project progresses according to the schedule, is on budget, and that all work is done properly. All other contractors and workers answer to the general contractor and they answer to the client who hired them.

Start by getting bids from different contractors. Bids lay out your expected cost and the extent of the project, including materials, labor, and when the project will be done. If you have a local contractor in mind, feel free to work with them in negotiating the terms of a bid, rather than putting out a competitive bid request. Terms typically outline payment installments, an expected timeline for milestones, and the expected outcome at each phase of the project.

Once you've signed the contract with the general contractor, they bring in the workers and begin on the project. Throughout the course of the project, the general contractor manages all workers and subcontractors. General contractors generally own or work for a company that handles one or two aspects of building and remodeling. Very few do framing, finishing, electrical, concrete, plumbing, and landscaping on their own. So, it's quite common for general contractors to outsource work from other companies. The general contractor handles the hiring of these subcontractors, as well as paying them and their own workers. You only have to worry about paying the general contractor.

Should I hire a general contractor or use multiple subcontractors?

Hiring multiple subcontractors for a job might seem more economical, but it would put much of the decision-making on you. What you might save in money may be offset by the amount of time and mental energy you'd have to put into the project. An experienced general contractor knows the ins and outs of the construction business. They understand how to structure a project and work with subcontractors to get projects completed safely, and on schedule. This leaves the day-to-day decisions to someone with more experience.

The licensing rules in some states require hiring a general contractor for certain projects. If the state doesn't require a general contractor in your case, it makes good sense to hire a licensed and insured local contractor.

General contractors live by their reputation. They work hard to build trust with their clients and honor that trust through their management of construction projects. Even if they never lift a hammer during the course of a job, they feel a great sense of ownership of the whole operation.

General contractors usually have a vast knowledge of local building codes. Their understanding of construction and people management helps all subcontractors to work together. They see how each piece fits together to make a completed project. Subcontractors may take a narrow view of their role, which could cause problems for other subcontractors working on the next step. General contractors work closely with their crews, subcontractors, and you to prevent costly miscommunication.

How to work with a home contractor?

Whether you're hiring a home contractor to build your dream house or searching "general contractors in my area" to oversee a remodel project, you'll be working closely with whomever you choose.

When you get underway with your contractor, you'll begin by sorting out every possible detail. Before work begins, the contractor will work out a project plan with you. The project plan may include determining fixtures, finishes, and furnishings — to avoid any cost gaps in the initial bid. The more specific you are, the more realistic and accurate the bid will be.

Make sure it’s OK to call or text your contractor throughout the day. Even if they aren't always available, they should provide you with contact information for a lead person or someone else you can discuss the project with. When possible, visit the job site. This gives the contractor or lead the opportunity to bring up any issues and ask any questions about specifics that weren't covered in the project plan.

It's also helpful to keep a project journal. Write down product order numbers. Jot down questions and ideas, and note delivery dates. This can make it easier to sort out any disputes that may arise later. Track any changes to the initial project plan in writing. If unforeseen changes occur, make sure to get a bid change in writing.

Other helpful tips:

  • Check on work as it progresses
  • Pay only for completed work
  • Be a fair customer by paying bills on time, responding quickly to questions, and treating your contractor and their workers fairly
  • Know the workers’ names, and make sure they have what they need
  • Establishing a good working relationship with your contractor from the beginning will lead to a more successful project

How do general contractors get paid?

Some general contractors charge a flat fee. Most charge a markup, which is a percentage of the overall completed project cost. The markup amount covers their overhead, including advertising, insurance, office expenses, and their own salary. The contractor should outline all payments and expenses in the contract at the outset.

Contractors typically ask for a percentage of the total project cost upfront. This initial fee covers the cost of getting the project started, provides workers with their wages for the first phase of the construction, and helps serve as a deposit for the needed materials and supplies. Fifteen percent is a fair and decent initial payment for getting a project started. Most states cap this initial fee at 33%, and a good contractor should have good enough credit to cover remaining up-front costs.

After each phase or "milestone" gets completed, your contract will likely require you to pay more money toward the project. These installments are an expected part of the construction process to cover wages, additional supplies, and materials the contractor may need to continue. Even the most well-off contractor would quickly run out of money to move forward if they didn't include installment payments into their contracts.

A big project is a costly endeavor and a long-term investment. When choosing a general contractor, it makes sense to look beyond just the contractor’s fee. Be sure to hire someone that can provide proof of licensing, insurance, and references. Take the time to look into their track record. A good general contractor will leave a trail of stellar online reviews, and when you talk to former clients, they'll have only good things to say. When you enter a project with a contractor, you need a pro you trust with your home, so it’s wise to do your homework ahead of time to ensure a successful outcome.

How to find a good remodeling contractor?

Begin with a plan that lays out the scope of the remodeling work you want done. By the time you hire a contractor, you should have decided on materials, fixtures, appliances, and other items. If you've decided on any changes to the floor plan, be sure to add the specifics to your plan. The more details, the better. Add everything you can think of, down to the brass pulls for the kitchen cupboards.

Once you have this plan, start talking to contractors to get estimates and formal bids. Ask around for local contractor recommendations at your local hardware store, or go online and read client reviews. Good contractors tend to be very busy, so expect a waiting period from the time you contact them to the time they can start on the project. Be sure to seek out a contractor with experience in the job you need done. If you need a patio installed, scroll past them if they specialize in kitchens and baths.

When speaking to the contractor, make sure you're clear on which parts of the project the contractor will handle and which will go to a subcontractor. Ask for proof of licensing, insurance, and any relevant subcontractors' licenses. Check contractor credentials with your local Better Business Bureau.

Only sign a detailed contract, and be sure you understand every detail of the contract before signing. Be sure to get the proper permits for your project. A good contractor will be able to talk you through getting permits. In some places, contractors are able to get the permits themselves. Check in with the contractor regularly during the course of the project to avoid errors and miscommunication.

How do I hire a contractor in my area?

Searching online for "good general contractors near me" or getting referrals from a hardware or home improvement store is a first step to hiring a contractor. Take certain precautions before hiring a contractor to prevent costly headaches later on.

Begin by working with a professional architect or designer who's able to provide all the information a contractor will need. A designer or architect can also create the necessary drawings to submit for obtaining a permit. Include details like finishes, fixtures, plumbing work, electrical installations, and possible millwork.

Come up with a specifications list in advance. Write down the details of every element you want placed into the project, from the front door to the floor tiles that you want. Calculate to make sure all your selections fall within your budget and meet your personal requirements.

Make sure your contractor has the proper licensing and insurance. Check out a potential contractor’s previous work. They should be able to offer examples. When you interview contractors, remember that you'll spend a lot of time working with this person. You need to feel you can trust them because unexpected situations are bound to come up. Perhaps you didn't consider what style of door handle you want for the master bathroom, or the carpet you selected for the living room is no longer available. These types of situations happen with any project, so do your best to remain patient throughout the construction process.

See to it that your contractor provides a timeline that they can stick to and that works with your needs. Get a list of subcontractors they use, and look into their history. Use careful consideration when choosing your contractor for the most successful outcome.

What insurance does a general contractor need?

Be sure your general contractor is licensed and insured. They should have both contractor’s liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. An insured contractor will take responsibility for the project and for anything that happens at the worksite. Make sure their insurance covers any subcontractors or that they only work with insured third parties.

Ask for proof of insurance right away. Hiring an uninsured contractor may seem less expensive, but it could cost you down the road. In the event of a job-site injury or property damage, a properly insured contractor will shield you from potentially catastrophic costs. Depending on the state you live in, if a worker is injured on your property and their general contractor didn't carry the proper insurance, you might be liable for the cost of treating their injuries.

Homeowners’ insurance policies cover property damage. Some also cover limited injury liability, but these policies have limitations. Even in the unlikely event that your policy covers 100 percent of liability, your premiums would most certainly go up. Contractors insurance ensures that you don't have to cover any costs unrelated to the project completion itself.

If a contractor is reliable, they'll be licensed and carry insurance, and if they don't have a license, no company will insure them. Proof of proper licensing and insurance is a sure sign of a reliable contractor.

Recent reviews for

65788

My husband and I were astounded by the work Jon completed on our bathroom and kitchen. He kept costs low, provided details on how our renovation was progressing, and finished ahead of schedule! He took the time to get to know our family and added special...

- Mandy Nowlin
70145

My two jobs were done with excellence. The re-siding of the SW side of the house that had been done just 2 years ago by a different general contractor had dried and warped off the house. He did the job the RIGHT way and it will last. He was willing to do ...

- Kristi Buchman
72616

We hired Jon Taylor of Savant Builders to install doors and complete trim throughout our house. Our experience with him and his work was exceptional. His workmanship is of the first quality, he is prompt and timely in his communication and follow through ...

- Tom Rasnack
519043

The people who come are knowledgeable. The people they send out are very patient in answering my questions.

- Joey Cox
72468

Jon was exceptional from the very first email. He was fast at replying, fast at scheduling me for a quote, and fast at completing the job. He didn't drag our small project on. He gave us a quote and stayed with that price until the end. No surprises. He c...

- Amanda Vander veen
65655

Jon was very professional, knowledgeable, conscientious and timely. He was able to complete our job in one weekend! Hiring him again for other projects around our house.

- Cindy Batistich
142927

We hired Doug (owner of Cutting Edge Construction Today LLC) to complete 2nd floor addition. This ended up being a year-long project with and there were some pros and cons we would like to share. The pros: 1) Doug is an overall nice guy. Easy to talk to ...

- Nathan Baccellieri
71989

Quick, pleasant, did exactly what I needed in a very timely manner.

- Tony Robertson
299270

We hired Doug to replace the posts on our carport. We found him to be responsive and the work was excellent. We plan on reaching out to him again for larger jobs.

- Karla Smith-Jones
1349

Would recommend.

- laura morris
40894

Queen Anne Painting is great. There were a couple of things that were off but I told them what the issue was and they came back to fix it right away. I have worked with them a lot and will continue to do so because I love them so much!

- Sheila Park
40846

They did a great job and we were very happy, especially with the high level of customer service. They were very communicative with us throughout the process and they were flexible when it came to scheduling which I appreciated deeply.

- Sharon Ramey

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