Should a homeowner always get multiple bids on a project?

We generally recommend that homeowners should get multiple bids on any project. Would you support this recommendation? Why or why not?

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Yes, a homeowner should always seek at least three (3) bids on their project. One, this allows you the opportunity to see if the contractor is knowledgeable in his or her field, and two, to seek the price estimate that fits your budget . This process also enables you to discern the credability of the contractor as well to review his or her credentials, ie. certification(s), license, registration with the state (Pa. id#), insurance and references. This multiple bid process may take time but it truly safeguards your better interest when it comes to hiring someone to undertake a project within your home.

Yes, the homeowner should get 2 or 3 bids depending on how well the homeowner is knowledgeable about the type of work to be performed by the contractor. This is because the homeowner is not only seeking a fair price to pay for the service rendered but also the homeowner is being educated about the type of work to be performed. The bids can initially be verbal in nature so that the price can be given to the homeowner quickly(very important for a timely response), but then a written bid should be presented in person to the homeowner quickly as well. Quick response is imperative to bidding success. Getting more than 3 bids is OVERKILL!! The homeowner will probably get bid prices that are anywhere from very low prices to very high prices, and of course some will fall in between the two. The homeowner needs to assess the credentials of the contractor (experience in the field, knowledge of products and services offered, licenses, insurance, and of course testamonials from other satisfied homeowners, availability as to when the contractor can perform the work, and even customer references for the homeowner to call themselves). Homeowners must then use their information to formulate a decision based on this credentials criteria. Follow up contact by the contractor is extremely important to the customer which shows his/her continued interest in wanting to perform the work. The homeowner should be able to exercise a good decision to use a specific contractor based on the information provided in this answer. THANK YOU!

I would say that depends on the size/cost of the project and the knowledge of the home owner

if its a small job you have knowledge of how its done and what you would feel comfortable paying and someone comes to bid and its close to what you wanted to pay why go thru the hassle of wasting your time waiting on more bidders over $150 or less

if its a large job which you have minimal knowledge of (no one you know has had the job done to their property) its best to get 3 bids not only to price compare but also to educate yourself in what is actually going to take place once the job is underway …it also can help you spot someone who really should have no business being in the business

personally I do most of my work by word of mouth so most customers seen something in a friends house and already know what they paid to get it done …really saves time in the bidding process

You should always get a minimum of 3 quotes

We agree that homeowners should get multiple bids on any project because it will help them decide if the price is right and get a few opinions from different companies just to feel at ease.

It is always wise to compare at least 3 proposals. Don’t automatically take the lowest estimate. especially if two of them are comparable and the third is alot lower. A low bid may reflect a lower quality of work or a lure to make sure they get the project initially but a strong likeihood for increased costs during construction. Each constractor will have a different format for providing the estimate, I would recommend after reviewing the proposals the Guy for me would be the most detailed and specific that you feel very confortable their are NO gray areas or opportunities for the contractor to bill you for hidden extras.

Its advisable to get multiple bids probably 3 would be a good number just so you can average out a price not pay to much or to little. Make sure they are reputable contractors first!

Yes. Always get bids from at least three contractors.

Receving multupul bids is highly recomanded for every homeowner no matter the size of your project. During this process the homeowner has the opportunity to meet the people you will be working with and esentially, allow them into your most personal space. Additionally, exploring with your budget is recomanded as getting a fair deal always feels good. Ultimatly, hiring a costractor is not an easy task but worth the research.

A homeowner should undoubtedly get multiple bids for a project. This will reinforce their confidence in the company they ultimately choose to complete the job and ensure that they are getting the best deal for the highest quality. Also, word of mouth speaks volumes. Ask around to friends regarding what companies they used on their home improvement projects. Friends are a great resource because they will give you straighforward, honest tips and advice. Hope this helps!

When I get asked about hiring, I always recommend soliciting at least three bids. But I know how difficult it can be to get one bid, let alone three. Your time is valuable and in most cases, you just want to get the job done. I get it. But making a decision based on just one or two price points could actually cost you more time and money down the road.

Whether you’re planning a big remodel or just want to get your gutters cleaned every few months, you have to arm yourself with enough knowledge to make an educated hiring decision. If you only talk to one contractor how will you know if you’re getting the best deal?

Yes, you should recieve multiple bids so that you can see if the contractor is knowledgable in the field and to see which bid fits your budget best.

If you find a contractor that you trust implicitedly to work for you and represent your interests, you have found the right one. Getting ten bids may not necessarily find that person.

I would support this decision.

A homeowner should receive at least 2 bids for a job. Not all contractors are the same. Pricing, knowledge of the project, and customer service vary greatly. The lowest bid doesn’t always win.

Yes I agree however I will say that the cheapest bid is not always the best bid. Sometimes you get what you pay for. The multi-bid though is a good exercise to make sure you are not being ripped off for sure.

Yes. Always get multiple bids so you can compare types of products and services. Be sure to review all bids carefully, and also realize in some industries you cannot always compare “apples to apples”. Always be sure to ask questions, and if you are comfortable, feel free to ask about a certain product that maybe the other contractor recommended. Also, if you have two bids that are relatively close in price and one that is much lower, be sure to check into the contractor, as sometimes they may not be around long to warranty their work. Overall use your best judgment and use the contractor that you not only feel confident will do the best job, but you are comfortable with them as well.

We recommend getting several bids, however, cost does not necessarily indicate value of work (ie high cost = great work and low cost = bad work). You should move forward with a company that gives a clear outline of pricing and expectations, that you feel comfortable with and that you have researched. A great way to find someone to work on your home is asking friends or neighbors if they can recommend anyone that they have used. Beware before you open your house up to just anyone!

YES, it is always good to get 2 or 3 bids from contractors.