Pros and Cons of Being a General Contractor
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
The general contractor on a kitchen renovation project often earns 20 to 30 percent of the project cost. Many home owners look at that fee and think, "Gee, I can do that myself." Before taking that step, examine the pros and cons - and the contractor's job description.
Control is another benefit. When you do the hiring and the scheduling, you can (hopefully) control when the workers arrive and how quickly the kitchen renovation is completed. This works well if you have workers you have dealt with for many years. Otherwise, some workers may not take you seriously - and the work might suffer.
While everyone wants to save money on home improvement, not everyone is cut out to be a general contractor. The job requires several mechanical skills that many home owners do not possess. Before taking this step, weigh the pros and cons carefully.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
General Contractors Oversee Kitchen Renovation
In essence, the general contractor is the overall supervisor on a kitchen renovation or other home improvement project. The contractor handles everything from hiring and supervising workers to ordering materials and working with the customer.Pros of Being General Contractor
The two main benefits to being your own general contractor involve money and control. You can save money, although the amount depends on how well you do in the contractor's job. If you budget $5,000 for the plumber, for example, and those costs run over, your "earnings" shrink.Control is another benefit. When you do the hiring and the scheduling, you can (hopefully) control when the workers arrive and how quickly the kitchen renovation is completed. This works well if you have workers you have dealt with for many years. Otherwise, some workers may not take you seriously - and the work might suffer.
Cons of Overseeing Home Improvement Project.
One main disadvantage to overseeing a home improvement project is the amount of work involved. The general contractor has to make sure all the pieces fit together. If the tile installer walks off the job, you will have to find another one. If the electrician appears to be charging too much money, you will have to investigate the work and resolve the situation.While everyone wants to save money on home improvement, not everyone is cut out to be a general contractor. The job requires several mechanical skills that many home owners do not possess. Before taking this step, weigh the pros and cons carefully.
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
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