subject: Looking for a quality Granite fabricator [print this page] Finding someone to perform a home improvement project is always a stressful situation.
Will they do a good job? Will they make me uncomfortable in my home? Will they steal my jewelry when I go to the store? Are they being honest?
These are just some of the things running through our heads when we take on a home improvement plunge. Some of us look through sources claiming to prescreen their subcontractors. The screening process generally consists of the subcontractor paying money and then being certified as a stand-up outfit. The BBB charges about $900 a year to give me the same service they already give me for free. Which leaves us to word of mouth or just blind luck?
If you have a friend that refers you to someone then that's great. I often tap those types for my own home improvement projects. But sometimes I'm force to look for a company all on my own. This is what I look at when purchasing service/products for my home.
1. Who are you? Is this a locally owned company, is the boss involved in the projects?
I like working with companies that have an owner who is involved. I operate my business like that, so it speaks to me on a personal level. If the owner is directly involved then I won't have to play phone tag with 20 people if an issue occurs. Plus, the owner should have the most invested in performing a great job.
2. Who will be doing the work?
I am involved on 99% of the installs Granite by Design does. Since I sold the job, worked with the customer to determine what they want, then it seems fitting I see the
the job through.
3. Am I ever going to see this sales person, the guy I made a connection with, the one person who promised me everything will be done right?
With Granite by Design you will. I do not release a job until I have inspected the finished work with the homeowner. If there is a problem I want to eye ball it then and resolve it there if possible.
4. Will I get what I paid for?
The old saying "you get what you pay for "is as true in the Granite Business as it is in any business. I often lose jobs to customers because they get an estimate for $700-$1000 less then my price. Doing the math I know the competitor is doing the work for nothing, and therefore will be less likely to use the best products or resolve any issues. I don't buy on price, simply because it's not an actual indicator on total cost. If your choice is to buy a $5000 dollar car that runs great or a $3000 dollar car that needs work then what do you do? Buying the $3000 car might be cheaper today, but what's the cost over the next few years? Don't allow the price to dictate who you use. Generally the cheaper a company will go the more corners they cut to deliver their product at the lowest price.
