At NJ Dream Builders, we have been in the remodeling business for over 10 years, serving our local community with quality that excites and bringing unique innovation to every project we complete.  Over the years, we have heard the horror stories on working with a contractor that overlooks things that end up leading to a poorly done project. We like to think we raise the bar, and with that we came up with a list we call “The Big 5”, a list of five key company characteristics that can serve as indicators when choosing a contractor for your next home project.

From your initial conversation, if you are immediately bombarded with messages, or follow-ups from someone who seems like a sales-person rather than a key company member, that’s a pretty good tell that their company values are geared more towards quick sales rather then sitting and discussing your project down to the details. We find that its very difficult to determine if a project is a good fit off of one phone call, and typically we have our owner Mike come out and visit on site to truly comb through your ideas and work through it with you before jumping the gun on things.

You can tell a lot from a company based on the work they show, if your contractor is reluctant to provide a portfolio or shares photo’s that lean on the edge of something you may have found on google before, its probably worth digging deeper before agreeing to a project.

As craftsman, any contractor worth their salt should be proud to show you their work, we know personally getting to see the reactions of people in the consultation stage is a feeling that is unmatched. We are artists at the end of the day, whether it be one of our high-end bathroom remodels, or something like this custom home addition we did in Galloway, providing work is a must!

The last thing you want during a home remodel is a contractor that is late to deadlines or doesn’t communicate effectively. Working in your home means we are on your rules and timeline, so clear communication is a must. If you find that your contractor is late to the phone, or takes weeks to send estimates out, that should be a tell for what’s to come in the future.  Its worth noting as contractors our time can be very busy, but once again what separates a great one from an average one is the extra time they spend to ensure you feel heard and taken care of.

Now, its almost impossible to see what’s underneath a remodel from a photo or what their portfolio has but you should ensure they follow the fine details associated with carpentry and home remodeling. This means looking in their portfolio for the things commonly overlooked such as: gaps in tiling, bruised trim, off-centered pieces. Now let’s say you find something, its worth noting that while mistakes do happen, its still something that should be spoken about. A real contractor is willing to talk about their mistakes, as great contractors don’t start great they start by learning just like every other skill in life!

Now this should come without thought but unfortunately its common for a home-owner to go with a cheaper contractor only to find out they are not licensed, now the home doesn’t pass inspection, and worse if someone get’s hurt on the jobsite there is no insurance.  Always double-check the contractor you are working with has full licensing, including an HIC (Home Improvement Contractor License) issued from the state of New Jersey, and a valid insurance policy with their company name on it. Skipping this step of the vetting process can cost you thousands in re-doing work or legal fee’s.

Also, for your peace of mind our team at NJ Dream Builders is fully above book, including a HIC license, home builder license, and full insurance coverage making sure your project is safe and secure.

When your planning a home remodel, having a great contractor and an average contractor can mean the difference between everything done right down to the finishing details, or having to call another contractor in a few months down the line to fix the previous contractors mistakes. Your home is something special to you, and you should make sure the people that work in it are as committed as you are to keeping that safe charm a home provides remains.  While there is countless tips we can provide you on how to determine a good contractor vs a great one, we find it easier to just show you.

If your in the area near Ocean City, reach out to us! Whether its a kitchen remodel, a small bathroom remodel, or something larger like a home addition. Our team is eager to please and has a well established track record of high-end projects, showcasing our commitment to the little details that make a home remodel perfect. You can call us today and have a meeting set within a few days, bringing you that much closer to a home remodel out of your dreams! Our estimates are always free, and served with a no-pressure attitude, we simply provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision and leave it in your hands. Summer is typically the time to start planning, so we encourage you to reach out today, call us directly or use our contact form below! We hope to hear from you!