Low-price ads can be deceptive, and often the lowest price is not the best value. So, when comparing remodeling prices, compare the bottom line, make sure it includes everything you want installed. Unfortunately, some retailers and remodelers will advertise very low prices on specific products, then hit you with high prices for extra materials, installation or even delivery. The only fair way to compare is to compare the bottom line – that’s the total price for everything – for all products delivered and installed.
Trying to compare individual prices for each item in the estimate is usually unnecessary if you are hiring one company to do the total job. The total price for the total job, that’s what’s important. For example, the price of new flooring material is only part of the whole project. You need to include the cost of removing the old flooring, installing the new material, plus the cost of moldings and transition strips and hauling away the old floor. Ask to keep all left-over materials; they may come in handy for future repairs.
For any remodeling job, shop carefully and always compare the bottom line and be sure to use a reputable licensed contractor.
