Getting quotes for completed projects is generally accepted as the best and most sure way of doing things.
One problem with that method, is the contractor always has to build in padding in the quote for running into unforseen problems. This often makes a quoted fixed price job come out higher than what can be done by an hourly rate quoted job.
I personally like to just find a contractor I have confidence in to be honest and competent. As long as he is both of those things, then I know he will treat me right in the job he does. And he does not have to pad the quote to cover the unexpected. If the unexpected happens then it is on my problem and tab. A good operator should be able to give a pretty good "ballpark" estimate in the beginning of the project.
Both ways of doing business have advantages and disadvantages. I personally like taking on the risk of the project myself rather than paying up front for the cost of protection for the contractor taking on the risk. Personal preference and ability to handle risk of project budget overruns.
Last edited by snrub; 06/26/15 12:26 PM.
