Building Smart

You’ve finally decided to make a big change—whether that means upgrading your current place or starting from scratch to build the home you’ve always wanted. Maybe you’re dreaming of a fresh kitchen remodel, a new wing or even an entire custom-built home. A space crafted just for you, bringing both comfort and added value should you ever decide to sell. A lasting investment with real benefits.

These projects add significant value, whether you’re remodeling or building from the ground up, and with that kind of commitment, it’s essential to hire the right professional. When you invest in quality work, you’re securing a space built to last, without the worry of cut corners or unfinished details.

With this in mind, where do you start to look for a contractor you can trust? You can ask friends and family who may have recently done some work, or you can ask your trusted industry experts: the CFE Lumber team. Over the years, CFE Lumber has seen many contractors come and go in the industry—those who do quality dependable work and those who are not so dependable. But one thing that stands out in selecting the right one is knowing the homeowner’s lifestyle.

“When a customer comes to us to inquire about choosing a contractor, I first try and understand who they are and how they live,” shares Jerry Schoo, manager at the CFE Lumber location in George. “For example, I ask questions about everything from entertaining and design they like to timelines and how they like to be communicated with. Some people just want the work done and some want to be a part of all the decisions. Getting that information helps me align them with a contractor that would be a good fit for them.”

Jerry emphasizes that, above all, it’s essential that customers feel heard. “The most important thing when making the final decision is to ask yourself, ‘Did they take time to listen to me?’” he explains. “A good contractor will be willing to explain construction decisions and what costs to expect. They will have good ideas to bring to the homeowner.”

Whether you are remodeling or building new, choosing the right contractor is a significant step in creating a home that truly reflects your vision. With CFE Lumber’s experience and dedication to connecting homeowners with trusted, reliable contractors, you have a partner in making that decision. In the end, your home should be a place of quality and comfort, built by professionals who understand the importance of craftsmanship and trust.

Hiring the Right Contractor

Here’s how to find a contractor who will deliver excellence, from start to finish.

Know Your Budget
Before you start looking for contractors, decide what you want to do and how much you’re willing to spend. Whether it’s a remodel, a new room or building from the ground up, decide what you can afford and work within those limits. If you’re building from scratch, costs can add up quickly. Figure out which materials, finishes and features are most important to you, and budget for those first.
Determine the Contractor You Need
With your budget in place, the next step is to identify the type of contractor you may need.
- Specialty Contractor: Perfect for smaller projects like cabinets, windows or other specific installations. This is ideal if you’re
  just remodeling a room or two.
- General Contractor: Good for larger projects, whether it’s a remodel or building an entire home. They’ll handle hiring subcontractors (plumbers, electricians, etc.) and keep the whole project running smoothly.
- Design-Build Contractor: A one-stop shop with in-house designers and builders, taking care of everything from plans to the finishing touches. This might be the best route if you’re looking to build a home from scratch or complete a major remodel.
Once you know who you’re looking for, ask around for recommendations from friends, family or your local CFE Lumber team, as we’ve worked with some of the best. You can also do a local search online and check reviews on sites like Angie’s List, Yelp or the Better Business Bureau. Aim to gather a few names to give yourself options if one doesn’t work out.
Dig Into Their Background
Once you’ve got a list, do a little digging. Look over their websites, read reviews and make sure they specialize in the type of work you need. If you’re building an entire home, check that they’ve done plenty of new construction. If it’s a kitchen or bathroom remodel, look for examples of that kind of work. Look for a solid portfolio with before-and-after photos to see their quality firsthand. As you narrow down your list, make sure each contractor carries the right insurance. General liability and workers’ comp insurance are essentials; you don’t want to be on the hook if there’s an accident on your property.
Gather References and Get Quotes
Ask each contractor for references, especially for similar projects. Call past clients and ask how things went. Did the project get done on time and within budget? Has the work held up well? Are they still happy with the outcome? The more you ask, the clearer picture you’ll get of what it’s like to work with them. At this stage, it’s essential to address costs. Schedule site visits with the selected contractors to assess the project and provide formal bids. Review each proposal in detail, making sure it covers everything from project description and timeline to materials and payment schedule. Go with the contractor whose bid fits your budget and project goals. Just remember, the lowest price isn’t always best if it means sacrificing quality.
Do a Final Walk-Through
Before the project wraps up, schedule a final walk-through with your contractor. Look over every detail together and bring up any issues that need fixing. Once you’re happy with everything, there might be a couple of documents to sign, like a “final payment affidavit” or “lien waiver,” which confirms that the job is done, the contractor’s paid and you’re happy with the work. <<