In general, do not pay up front - run, don't walk, away from any contractor demanding that you pay up front. That being said, "milestone" payments are generally acceptable for large jobs. Contractors get a payment when certain items are completed - maybe 25% when the slab is poured, 25% when the walls are up, 25% when the roof is finished, and a final 25% when EVERYTHING is done. You negotiate how much and when (what milestone) but keep at least 25% of the total contract as a final payment. Seniors Vs Crime can provide you with some useful information concerning construction liens that comes from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) - the folks that license contractors in this state.
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