Taking on a home renovation or remodeling project can be exciting, but it can also be daunting. From planning and budgeting to sourcing materials and managing workers, there are a lot of moving parts to keep track of. That’s where a general contractor comes in. But is hiring one worth the investment? Here are some things to consider.
First, let’s define what a general contractor (GC) is. Essentially, a general contractor is a professional who manages the overall construction or renovation of a project. They oversee all aspects of the work, from hiring subcontractors to ordering materials and ensuring that the work is done to code.
One of the main benefits of hiring a general contractor is that they can save you time and hassle. With a contractor on board, you don’t have to worry about hiring and managing individual workers, sourcing materials, or dealing with the inevitable setbacks that can come with any construction project. Instead, you can focus on the bigger picture of what you want your home to look like and leave the details to the professionals.
Another advantage of working with a general contractor is that they can often get better prices on materials and services than you could on your own. Contractors have established relationships with suppliers and subcontractors, and they know how to negotiate for the best deals. This can save you money in the long run, even after factoring in the cost of the contractor’s fee.
Of course, it is no secret that you could do the general contracting yourself. Some people initially look into this option to potentially save time and money. Depending on the project, this could be true. However, when dealing with larger projects such as a detached garage or a pool house, where permits are involved, if you don’t know what you’re doing, you could actually cost yourself more time and money than had you hired a general contractor in the first place.
Another potential reason people consider doing the GC work themselves is that they want to have more control over the project. If you are working with a good general contractor, they will keep you informed and involved in the decision-making process; ultimately, they’re the ones responsible as far as the structural integrity of the building. If you’re the type of person who likes to have a hands-on approach to your projects, if you decide to hire a general contractor, you will want to set the right expectations upfront to make sure everything is a good fit to work together.
So, should you hire a general contractor for your home project? Ultimately, the decision will depend on your individual circumstances, such as budget, time, etc. Either way, it’s important to do your research and choose a contractor who has a proven track record of success and who you feel comfortable working with.
If you decide to work with a GC for a detached garage, pool house, pavilion, pergola, patio, outdoor kitchen, or other custom building project, Lonestar Backyards & Buildings would love to get you a quote. Feel free to reach out with any questions.