My wife and I did more than our due diligence in researching a contractor for the renovation of our home.
We interviewed 14 different contractors over several weeks. We used HomeStars, other directories and word of mouth referrals determine the ones we were interested in and ultimately had each over to our house to walk through the project. We were baffled at the variety of quotes we received and the approaches that we met with.
Unequivocally, Natanael and Rafael stood out as distinctly superior.
Superior in their affability, professionalism and honesty.
They were the only company to lay out a detailed, itemized scope of work categorized by area of work (demolition, framing, electrical, plumbing etc)
They were the only company to lay out a payment schedule based on projected completion of work not on arbitrary percentages (what does 25% completion mean anyway?). They did not take a large up-front deposit but rather had initial payments made for material purchase once the project had started.
Rafael was on site every single day and did not take on other projects throughout the duration of our contract. Natanael and Rafael were extremely available by phone, text and email.
We met every Friday with both Natanael and Rafael to walk through the project and discuss issues as they arose. Any issues that arose (needing to move a stack, knob and tube electrical more extensive than our home inspection had let on) had options for resolution and were demonstrated physically on those Fridays. As such we were in control of the What, When and Why of our reno. We never felt betrayed or misled.
Rafael introduced himself to our neighbours on both sides and made himself available to them if they had questions or concerns.
In the end both neighbours were so impressed by Rafael and his team that they asked for Rafael's number for work on their homes.
Their workmanship was meticulous and the finish excellent. Rafael even came back after the project was completed to install shelves we got made into our marble backsplash.
Choosing a contractor to work on your home, with all the cost and emotional investment, leaves you vulnerable. Natanael and Rafael made us feel comfortable and confident. We feel fortunate to have picked them because of the horror stories we've heard people go through.