Since buying our house in 2004, I’ve interviewed dozens of contractors for many of the numerous projects our poorly neglected 1865 house needs. I’m continually disappointed with those few (thankfully, few!) contractors who insist on meeting with both me and my husband. I tell them that I’m the one gathering information and ultimately responsible for choosing contractors, but some are not convinced. Today I had a contractor say that “we need to consider our economic position, you understand? If we come out for a free estimate, we want to make sure we answer all of your questions.” When I assured him that I would be the only one who he need to talk to, he said he was “sorry that you have to miss out on such a good opportunity!” I wonder if such a contractor would insist on meeting with both my husband and I if it was my husband who had made the call. I think not.
On a side note, I think the entire construction industry is one major racket. It’s almost impossible to get any prices for doors, windows, siding or any other component of construction without going through the time consuming “Free Estimate,” which is really just a way for contractors to “get in the door.” You really need a thick skin to deal with these folks.
I’ve been told the cost of construction in the Boston area is approximately $175 a square foot. For that much money, they should be able to write off a few unsucessful “free estimates.” I’ll continue to work only with those contractors who don’t think I’m wasting their time.