Hiring a contractor? Watch out for these red flags!

This article provides tips on how to hire a trustworthy contractor for home improvement projects. It emphasizes the importance of conducting a background check, reviewing references, confirming licenses and certifications, requesting insurance certificates, avoiding unusual sales tactics, obtaining written estimates and contracts, ensuring compatibility with personal style, and obtaining proper permits. The article also warns of red flags, such as unusually low bids, exaggerated ROI, bad-mouthing of competition, and unusual down payments. The author notes that building permits provide safety and liability protection, as well as a record of approved work for future sales.