Zona Teal, REALTOR® - General Contractors

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From the Seller Info section: "Remember, prospective buyers will be 'comparison shopping' and keenly aware of subtle differences in houses for sale in the area. Be sure to tell your listing broker why yours is special - from any home remodeling to afternoon winter sunshine."
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From the Buyer Info section: "The obvious source of money for your down payment is either your savings or the proceeds from the sale of a home you already own, but there are some other not so obvious sources. In recent years, for example, 'parent power' has taken some new twists for first-time buyers."
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From the Marketing Plan section: "If your agent is not a good negotiator, not only will you not get the best deal, often your house won't get sold at all. We take pride in this aspect of our business experience."
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From the Home Inspectors section: "Even if the home inspection is to be for informational purposes only, it is your duty to get a solid general knowledge about the property you are about to purchase. To date, the state of Maryland does not require a formal home inspection. The more you know the better."
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GENERAL CONTRACTORS

A general contractor is required to have a license in the state of Maryland to allow him or her to oversee new construction, remodeling, full renovation, basic repair, plumbing, electrical, and heating and air systems. All structural and mechanical aspects of a project are to be considered. The sound general contractor has an experienced professionally trained team to complete assigned work/tasks. In addition, the general contractor establishes timeline, materials needed, and workforce required to complete the project.

These licensed heavyweights can be gained through referrals, word of mouth, testimonials, and the yellow pages. Always make sure their license is active and in good standing. Make sure that the contractor you hire is fully qualified to do the job and not working under someone else's license as an apprentice or subcontractor.

Only provide a deposit of one third of what the total estimate of the work outlines (it's the law). Make sure your written estimated details all projected costs. Please remember that the contractors always pad their price for the unexpected. The contractor cannot ask for more than one third to begin the project. Establish formal dates that the work is to begin and end. If the time line sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always be prepared for snags and delays. Never make the final payment before the work has been completed to your satisfaction. Check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure no complaints have been lodged against the company. Ask to go out to other job sites to see the quality of their work. Get receipts and remain focused on your budget. When possible, go with your contractor to make the purchases for your projects. Get many estimates and remember that the lowest or the highest price should not be the only factors you consider.