Getting and Comparing Bids

Best practices for getting bids, what to look for, and red flags in contractor bids.

The 3-Bid Rule

Always get at least 3 bids for every trade. This ensures you understand the market rate and gives you negotiating leverage.

What to Look For

• **Detailed line items** — A good bid breaks down labor and materials separately
• **Timeline** — When can they start and how long will it take?
• **Inclusions/Exclusions** — What's specifically included and what's not
• **Payment schedule** — How and when they expect to be paid
• **References** — Ask for 3 recent project references

Red Flags

• **Extremely low bids** — Could indicate cut corners or bait-and-switch
• **No written contract** — Never proceed without a written agreement
• **Demands full payment upfront** — Professional subs don't require this
• **No insurance** — Uninsured subs are a massive liability risk
• **Won't provide references** — Usually means unhappy past clients

> TIP: The lowest bid isn't always the best bid. Consider quality, reliability, and reputation alongside price. A slightly more expensive sub who shows up on time and does quality work saves you money in the long run.