On Thu, 18 Mar 2021 16:59:31 -0400, jmcquown >
wrote:

>On 3/17/2021 10:11 AM, Gary wrote:
>> bruce bowser wrote:
>>> Get 4 or 5 separate installers over to the house for estimates
>>> for you - yes - literally - at the same time. That way you get them
>>> to quote prices to you at the same time and one can tell if the
>>> other one is padding expenses or not.* Then, you get the cheapest price
>>
>> Getting a few estimates is good but not all at the same moment.
>> If I showed up for an estimate and saw other contractors there, I'd just
>> leave. Screw your job.
>>
>> And don't always pick the cheapest contractor just based on price.
>> Sometimes, you get what you pay for. Inferior products and substandard
>> work for a cheaper price.
>>
>I wouldn't have everyone there at the same time, either. Definitely get
>several different estimates for the exact same scope of work. It's easy
>enough to figure out which ones might be trying to gouge you on the
>price. If possible I'd also get recommendations from neighbors. Screw
>online reviews; you never know who is writing them.
>
>Jill

Since living here I've gotten recommendations from neighbors.
I'll give a tradesman a small job at first to get an idea of the
quality of work. I needed a carpenter to replace two boards on our
wooden deck. He did a great job and used quality lumber. Next we had
him replace the wooden steps and he did a better job than we expected
and at a fair price. Now we know who to call for carpentry work. Next
we asked him to replace the door and door frame on our detached
garage... he installed a steel door and replaced the rotted wooden
frame with a steel frame, another great job. He recommended I have
the door and frame painted, he doesn't like to paint. I gave it all
two coats of white Rustoleum. I can get a good idea of the kind of
work a mechanic does as soon as I see how they keep their tools.