For a complete makeover, I would use a reputable contractor. You said it migh cost more and you are probably right, but the old theory of “you get what you pay for” falls in there as well. I have done several upgrades over the years and gotten several quotes for it all and always fall back on my GC who uses the same people all the time for electrical, plumbing, tiling etc. The thing I like most is we have a detailed contract, which we review. There is no money up front unless its for material that is being delivered i.e., new cupboards from a company, we pay him the cost up front as the cabinets need to be paid to place the order. Each week, he submits an invoice for work completed that week, i.e, if the plumber was here and did all his work, we would meet on Monday, review the work, and pay that agreed upon amount. We follow that process through to the end of the job. Yes he charges a percentage above the work, but that is figured into his estimate. I have had a couple things over the years where it wasnt right, or something wasnt completed to his/our satisfaction and they immediately assure us it will be taken care of and it is....and no additional charge to us of course. So unless you are putting tile down in one room, or painting a room, etc. I say the GC is the way to go, less worries, less headaches, and with ours, I pay more but I am always happy. He did my outdoor kitchen and its absolutely beautiful.....He is thorough, and most times, his estimates are pretty accurate and usually a bit less.
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