Choosing the Right Roofer
As we set our eyes toward spring, homeowners all across the country are looking forward to warm-season home sales, and the curb appeal projects that come with listing your property. One of the top pre-sale improvement projects is updating your roof.
Why? A new roof has the highest return on investment. In 2005, Remodeling magazine’s cost-value survey revealed that you could expect a return of nearly 85 percent on a quality re-roofing job. While the most recent survey showed a pretty substantial drop – stating the predicted return is closer to 63 percent – this is still an important project in terms of selling your home for the best price. So much of your project’s success, however, can hang on your hired help. Below are several tips for choosing a winning roofer.
Get at Least Three Quotes. It’s important to shop around before you make a decision. Don’t just hire your neighbor’s roofer or the first company that shows up in your Google search. It’s best to reach out to at least three companies, and compare quotes.
Do Not Feel Pressured to Take the Lowest Offer. This can be tempting, but you need to keep in mind that contractors with more experience and higher quality work may be pricier.
Ask for References. Once you have found your three companies, ask for references from all of them. And be sure to follow up, as well.
Don’t Pay Cash. Contractors should be paid with a credit card or check. Do not pay in cash, and be wary of anyone who demands that you do.
Leave Ample Time. If you’re rushing on your project, you may make a hiring mistake. Be sure to leave enough time to do research, call references, and meet with potential roofers before you sign anyone on for the job.
Get a Written Contract. Be sure to get your contract in writing before your roofer begins working. Your contract should go over the exact job that is being done, what materials will be used, all cost, any offered warranties, how all parties will be paid, and both the starting and end dates. You can also arrange for cleanup and disposal, so you’re not left with a yard full of roof scraps you have to lug to the dump yourself.
Inspect the Work. Once the job is done, be sure to check it out and refer back to the initial contract. Were all specifications met? Are you satisfied? Be sure you are fully pleased before making that last payment.
As a Member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network®, I have a wealth of real estate and homeownership information that may be of help to you. Feel free to contact meany time to learn more about this important information, and be sure to forward this article on to any friends or family that may be interested as well.