The Nuts and Bolts of Choosing a Handyman

CINCINNATI, Sept. 9 /PRNewswire/ — Ready to start in on that next big home improvement project? The timing couldn’t be better, as home prices rose 1.7 percent during the second quarter and gains were seen in every part of the U.S. for the first time in two years. Though the decision to improve your home may be a natural one, finding the right person for the job is anything but.

“A home is one of the biggest investments you will ever make so when you want to make repairs, it’s important to hire contractors as committed to protecting it as you are,” said Joel Bell, executive vice president of Cincinnati-based Handyman Connection, a franchise system with over 100 North American locations specializing in worry-free small- to medium-size home improvement, repair and remodeling services. “It’s a common misconception that handymen are masters of every trade – in reality, most focus on one or two skills instead of dabbling in many – but you won’t know what their specialty is until you ask! The right questions will give you a good sense of the handyman’s strengths, weaknesses, reliability and character. Remember: A reputable contractor will never resent you asking good questions.”

Here are a few tips from Bell and the experts at Handyman Connection to keep in mind when selecting a handyman:

1. Get it in writing. Insist handymen provide estimates and guarantees on company letterhead. If the work is sub par or if more money is demanded later, you’ll have documentation of the previously agreed upon terms.
2. Do your homework. First impressions are important but looking beneath the surface reveals what a company is made of. References, licenses, certifications and insurance should all be verified ahead of time; reviewing feedback on sites like Yelp, Angie’s List and the Better Business Bureau and speaking with past clients is also helpful.
3. Choose plastic over paper. Always pay with credit cards or checks because doing so creates a record of each transaction. If the handyman will only accept cash, decline their offer and look elsewhere for your home improvement needs.
   

For more handyman selection tips, visit http://www.handymanconnection.com/handyman-contractor-service-questions.aspx. To find a Handyman Connection near you, call 800-884-2639 or visit http://www.handymanconnection.com/find-local-handyman-connection-us-canada.aspx

www.handymanconnection.com

SOURCE Handyman Connection