Do I Need A General Contractor Or Not?

If you have ever worked with us, you know that we are committed to not only helping you buy and/or sell your home, but making sure that the results pave the path for a lifestyle you love. That typically happens by ensuring that you land in an ideal location, and also in a place that has the potential to truly become your own.

Depending on the size and scope of your to-do list (either prior to moving in or at some point down the road), you will likely find yourself wondering if you really need a general contractor. We often see our homeowners struggle with the juggle of managing multiple home projects, and also ponder if there improvements projects are ‘big enough’ to warrant the services of a general contractor. We’ve included links to some helpful resources below to get your food for thought lined up on your plate, but we wanted to highlight 5 key considerations in deciding if a general contractor (GC) might be right for you.

#1: Scheduling & Coordination: The #1 reason many people opt to hire a general contractor is to eliminate stress (think one-stop shop). Whether you are remodeling a kitchen or planning a series of small repairs, there is an order to everything. If you understand that doors have to come before floors and the like, being your own GC might work. Also, be prepared for lots of coordination, calendaring and juggling several sub-contractors. If time is money, consider the cost of managing downtime when lining up different specialties back-to-back. If your floor guy and tile guy are running four weeks apart… can you afford to wait it out?

#2: Materials Cost & Labor: The #1 reason that people opt not to hire a general contractor is arguably money. But be sure to weigh the costs of hiring a general contractor versus the savings they bring to the table – which may range from contractor pricing for materials & supplies, negotiated pricing with certain sub-contractors and their vetted expertise in project estimation realities.

#3: Liability Protections: Did you know that when you act as your own GC, you need a builder’s risk or fire policy? Be sure to let your homeowner policy holder know when you are performing work on your home, and make sure the appropriate policy is in place BEFORE materials arrive on site. If hiring a GC, be sure to ask about their liability coverage and type. It should include coverage for the workers they bring into your home.

#4: Warranty Considerations: A quality contractor always stands behind their work and is proud of their reputation, often including a minimal if not extended warranty on the work they complete in your home. If something goes wrong down the road, big or small, would you enjoy the convenience of being able to pick up the phone and know it will be made right? If you choose to be your own GC, make sure you know what, if anything, is covered by the sub-contractors you employ.

#5:Comprehensive Control: Let’s admit it – there is a control freak in all of us, especially when it comes to what goes on in the walls of our home. But while you might love being in control of every material shape, size & color option... (and retain the ability to change your mind on a dime), you might not love having control of the permits and codes process, nor of flying solo in solving every problem. Make sure you consider your personality type, your time commitment and your knowledge of municipalities navigation when deciding to be your own GC.

To follow the work and home improvement tips of one of our favorite general contractors, be sure to follow and like Bryan Enterprises on Facebook!

For additional reading and considerations, check out the following resources!

Should I Hire a General Contractor or Serve As My Own?

Residential General Contractors – When to Hire

What Kind of Contractor Do You Need?

Being Your Own General Contractor

All our best,

Mark & Jason