Got questions?

(321) 960-3547

or E-mail: ldsliwa@gmail.com

Space Coast Real Estate Blog

Stay in the loop about the latest Real Estate news and advice for the historic Florida Space Coast!

Welcome to our real estate blog, dedicated to exploring Florida's beautiful Space Coast and the ever-changing world of real estate.

Here, we will take a deep dive into the local market, providing valuable insights on everything from home buying and selling, to market trends, home décor and things to do on the Space Coast.

Whether you're a buyer, a seller or simply curious about real estate and what the Space Coast has to offer our blog is for you.

So, come along with us as we explore the exciting world of real estate on Florida's Space Coast.

7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Contractor | Brevard County Real Estate Tips

7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Contractor | Brevard County Real Estate Tips

September 25, 20244 min read

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Hiring a Contractor

Embarking on home improvements can be both exciting and overwhelming. One of the most critical decisions you'll make is choosing the right contractor to turn your vision into reality. However, many homeowners fall into common pitfalls that lead to delays, unexpected costs, and unsatisfactory results.

In this guide, we’ll explore seven mistakes to avoid when hiring a contractor, from navigating the contractor bidding process to ensuring proper home improvement permits are secured, so your project on Brevard County home runs smoothly.

1. Skipping the Research Phase

If you rush into hiring a contractor without conducting proper research, you risk hiring someone who might not meet your expectations or budget.

What To Do Instead:

  • Research best practices for your project, from materials to timelines.

  • Interview multiple contractors and ask about their approach to the project.

  • Get referrals from trusted sources, and always check reviews. We can provide reliable recommendations for contractors in Brevard County .

2. Choosing Based Solely on Price

Choosing the contractor with the lowest bid might be tempting, but extremely low bids often result in poor-quality work, low-grade materials, or surprise costs.

What To Do Instead:

  • Consider the contractor's experience and reputation.

  • Review each bid in detail to ensure clarity on what’s included and excluded.

  • Remember, choosing a reputable contractor may save you money in the long run.

3. Failing to Confirm Credentials & Insurance

Hiring a contractor without verifying their license and insurance coverage can leave you financially vulnerable.

What To Do Instead:

  • Always request references from past projects and follow up with those homeowners.

  • Confirm the contractor holds a valid license in Brevard County.

  • Ensure they carry proper insurance coverage, including general liability and workers' compensation.

4. Proceeding Without a Written Agreement

A handshake deal might feel simple, but it can lead to misunderstandings, especially when it comes to the scope of work, timelines, or costs.

What To Do Instead:

  • Always have a written contract before starting the project. This should include scope, materials, timelines, the contractor payment schedule, and warranty details.

  • Review and clarify any terms you don’t understand before signing.

5. Paying Too Much Upfront

Paying a large sum before work begins can leave you vulnerable if the contractor fails to deliver or disappears.

What To Do Instead:

  • Avoid contractors who demand a large upfront payment or cash-only deals.

  • Tie payments to project milestones in your contractor payment schedule.

  • Never pay in full until you’re completely satisfied with the work.

6. Failing to Get Necessary Permits

Skipping the home improvement permits process may seem like an easy way to save time and money, but it can lead to serious consequences, such as fines, forced removal of the work, or even legal issues.

What To Do Instead:

  • Discuss required permits with your contractor before starting the project.

  • Ensure obtaining the permits is included in your written agreement.

  • Make sure the contractor arranges the necessary inspections to keep your project on track.

7. Ignoring Red Flags After the Project Has Started

If problems arise and your contractor is unwilling to address them, it’s crucial not to ignore these issues.

What To Do Instead:

  • Keep detailed records of any problems and communication.

  • Meet with the contractor to discuss the issues and request a solution in writing.

  • If necessary, consult a legal professional for further advice.


FAQs

What is the contractor bidding process?
The contractor bidding process involves soliciting bids from multiple contractors to understand the costs, materials, and timelines they propose for your project. It’s essential to compare these bids carefully, considering the quality and scope of each proposal.

Why is a contractor payment schedule important?
A contractor payment schedule ensures that payments are tied to project milestones, keeping the contractor accountable and providing financial protection. It also helps avoid overpayment before the job is completed.

Do I need permits for home improvements in Brevard County?
Yes, most home improvement projects in Brevard County, such as electrical, plumbing, or structural changes, require permits. Securing these permits ensures your project complies with local regulations and avoids costly fines or rework.

Bottom Line

Hiring the right contractor is crucial to your home improvement success. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smoother process from start to finish. If you need help finding a reputable contractor in Brevard County  or want to know how your improvements may affect your home’s value, reach out for a free consultation!

Sources:

  1. MarketWatch

  2. LegalZoom

  3. The Washington Post

  4. Bob Vila

contractor bidding processcontractor payment schedulehome improvement permitsbrevard county real estate
blog author image

Lourdes Sliwa

Lourdes Sliwa has been in the forefront of the Space Coast Real Estate scene for over 14 years. She is now Branch Leader at Avanti Way Melbourne, where she keeps working hard to bring the absolute peak of the Consumer Real Estate experience to the community she loves and calls home.

Back to Blog

Check out our older blog posts

7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Contractor | Brevard County Real Estate Tips

7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Contractor | Brevard County Real Estate Tips

September 25, 20244 min read

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Hiring a Contractor

Embarking on home improvements can be both exciting and overwhelming. One of the most critical decisions you'll make is choosing the right contractor to turn your vision into reality. However, many homeowners fall into common pitfalls that lead to delays, unexpected costs, and unsatisfactory results.

In this guide, we’ll explore seven mistakes to avoid when hiring a contractor, from navigating the contractor bidding process to ensuring proper home improvement permits are secured, so your project on Brevard County home runs smoothly.

1. Skipping the Research Phase

If you rush into hiring a contractor without conducting proper research, you risk hiring someone who might not meet your expectations or budget.

What To Do Instead:

  • Research best practices for your project, from materials to timelines.

  • Interview multiple contractors and ask about their approach to the project.

  • Get referrals from trusted sources, and always check reviews. We can provide reliable recommendations for contractors in Brevard County .

2. Choosing Based Solely on Price

Choosing the contractor with the lowest bid might be tempting, but extremely low bids often result in poor-quality work, low-grade materials, or surprise costs.

What To Do Instead:

  • Consider the contractor's experience and reputation.

  • Review each bid in detail to ensure clarity on what’s included and excluded.

  • Remember, choosing a reputable contractor may save you money in the long run.

3. Failing to Confirm Credentials & Insurance

Hiring a contractor without verifying their license and insurance coverage can leave you financially vulnerable.

What To Do Instead:

  • Always request references from past projects and follow up with those homeowners.

  • Confirm the contractor holds a valid license in Brevard County.

  • Ensure they carry proper insurance coverage, including general liability and workers' compensation.

4. Proceeding Without a Written Agreement

A handshake deal might feel simple, but it can lead to misunderstandings, especially when it comes to the scope of work, timelines, or costs.

What To Do Instead:

  • Always have a written contract before starting the project. This should include scope, materials, timelines, the contractor payment schedule, and warranty details.

  • Review and clarify any terms you don’t understand before signing.

5. Paying Too Much Upfront

Paying a large sum before work begins can leave you vulnerable if the contractor fails to deliver or disappears.

What To Do Instead:

  • Avoid contractors who demand a large upfront payment or cash-only deals.

  • Tie payments to project milestones in your contractor payment schedule.

  • Never pay in full until you’re completely satisfied with the work.

6. Failing to Get Necessary Permits

Skipping the home improvement permits process may seem like an easy way to save time and money, but it can lead to serious consequences, such as fines, forced removal of the work, or even legal issues.

What To Do Instead:

  • Discuss required permits with your contractor before starting the project.

  • Ensure obtaining the permits is included in your written agreement.

  • Make sure the contractor arranges the necessary inspections to keep your project on track.

7. Ignoring Red Flags After the Project Has Started

If problems arise and your contractor is unwilling to address them, it’s crucial not to ignore these issues.

What To Do Instead:

  • Keep detailed records of any problems and communication.

  • Meet with the contractor to discuss the issues and request a solution in writing.

  • If necessary, consult a legal professional for further advice.


FAQs

What is the contractor bidding process?
The contractor bidding process involves soliciting bids from multiple contractors to understand the costs, materials, and timelines they propose for your project. It’s essential to compare these bids carefully, considering the quality and scope of each proposal.

Why is a contractor payment schedule important?
A contractor payment schedule ensures that payments are tied to project milestones, keeping the contractor accountable and providing financial protection. It also helps avoid overpayment before the job is completed.

Do I need permits for home improvements in Brevard County?
Yes, most home improvement projects in Brevard County, such as electrical, plumbing, or structural changes, require permits. Securing these permits ensures your project complies with local regulations and avoids costly fines or rework.

Bottom Line

Hiring the right contractor is crucial to your home improvement success. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smoother process from start to finish. If you need help finding a reputable contractor in Brevard County  or want to know how your improvements may affect your home’s value, reach out for a free consultation!

Sources:

  1. MarketWatch

  2. LegalZoom

  3. The Washington Post

  4. Bob Vila

contractor bidding processcontractor payment schedulehome improvement permitsbrevard county real estate
blog author image

Lourdes Sliwa

Lourdes Sliwa has been in the forefront of the Space Coast Real Estate scene for over 14 years. She is now Branch Leader at Avanti Way Melbourne, where she keeps working hard to bring the absolute peak of the Consumer Real Estate experience to the community she loves and calls home.

Back to Blog

MEET LOURDES SLIWA


As a veteran realtor in the Space Coast of Florida, Lourdes Sliwa and her team have sold hundreds of homes since entering the field in 2008. As a Branch Leader and Owner of Avanti Way Space Coast, Lourdes has put together an unbeatable team whose primary focus and goal are happy clients.

The Lourdes Sliwa team, which includes a digital marketer and marketing specialist, puts maximum effort into each client’s home regardless of the listed selling price. Every property receives basic or full staging, a digital marketing platform, professional photography, videography, and drone photography, as well as property-specific websites, full-color brochures, virtual reality tours, and so much more!

Originally in corporate sales, Lourdes' love for helping people has followed her into her real estate business. She always remains ahead of the trend curve and has opened Avanti Way on the Space Coast to coach and help real estate agents succeed in their real estate business. Lourdes' ultimate goal is to help clients, fellow agents, and the community in any way she can.

Lourdes Sliwa | Branch Leader & Listing Specialist

WHAT DO WE DO DIFFERENT ?

Here are just SOME of the things we do

Are you looking for the best Realtor to market your home? Well, you're in luck!

WHAT ARE PEOPLE SAYING?

GET IN TOUCH!

GET IN TOUCH!

  • 2825 Business Center Blvd., Suite A-1, Melbourne, FL 32940

  • Telephone : +1 (321) 960-3547

  • Web : lourdessliwa.com

  • Email: ldsliwa@gmail.com

Follow us!

Follow us!

© 2023 Avanti Way Space Coast