Interviewing Renovators

Once you have a list of renovators, your next step is to meet them and discuss your project. These initial interviews will help you determine who is qualified to handle your project, and what each can offer in terms of ideas, suggestions and guidance in developing your plans.

Initial interviews provide the opportunity to get to know renovators - their background, experience, business stability and trustworthiness. Take your time and ask lots of questions. Don't be afraid you will offend potential candidates. Professional renovators welcome the opportunity to tell you about their experience and services.

Many homeowners wonder how many renovators they should interview before deciding who to hire. While there is no simple answer, normally three should be adequate. If you can't establish a comfortable rapport with a renovator, or if you feel your questions are not answered properly, then you should talk to someone else. On the other hand, if you find someone who you have a high level of confidence in and are certain they are right for your project, don't hesitate to choose them.

It is important to be organized for these interviews and to bear in mind that your goal is to find the right renovator for your job. Use the questions provided on Worksheet "E" as a starting point.

Use Worksheet "F"  to record the information you gain during renovator interviews. That makes it easier to remember the details of each conversation and compare the renovators using Worksheet "H".