The thrill of starting a construction project can quickly turn into frustration if you rush the process, especially when it comes to choosing a general contractor (GC). While the temptation to hire the first available contractor might seem strong, remember: waiting for the right one can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.

Here's why:

A License Isn't Everything: In Washington State, a GC license simply signifies that an individual paid a fee and has the necessary insurance. It doesn't guarantee any specific training or education. Don't be fooled by a license – do your due diligence!

They're Your Project Manager: A qualified GC is much more than just a builder. They handle essential tasks like:

• Procurement: Purchasing and storing materials for installation.

• Subcontracting: Finding and coordinating with qualified specialists like electricians and plumbers (who require separate licenses!).

• Plan Communication: Identifying any discrepancies between the plans (your legal contract) and reality. They bring these issues to the designer first, not you. Your designer acts as your advocate, ensuring alterations align with your vision and the agreed-upon plan. This creates a smooth-moving process with as little stress as possible.

Beware of Rush Jobs: A contractor offering immediate availability when others are booked solid is a red flag. This eagerness often indicates a lack of demand, which can be a sign of poor quality, unreliable service, or even potential licensing issues.

Remember: The "low bidder" might seem appealing initially, but these savings often come at a hidden cost. You (or your designer) may end up having to pick up the slack due to a lack of expertise or planning on the contractor's part, ultimately eroding any initial financial advantage.

Prioritizing a Smooth Partnership: We understand that you may have a trusted contractor in mind. To ensure seamless collaboration, we maintain a list of our preferred contractors. If you'd like to work with your own GC, we'd be happy to meet with them and discuss our standard practices. This helps ensure a smooth process for everyone involved.

Building a Cohesive Team: It's important to remember that your general contractor should be a collaborative partner on your design-build team, not an adversary. A successful project requires open communication and mutual respect between the designer and contractor. This collaborative approach eliminates the "designer vs. contractor" mentality, reduces stress, and ultimately leads to a more cohesive and successful project.

The Bottom Line: Choosing the right general contractor is an investment in the success of your project. Be patient, thorough, and prioritize quality over immediate availability. Taking the time to find a qualified, well-established contractor will not only save you money in the long run, but also ensure a smooth, stress-free construction experience, allowing you to enjoy the final product with peace of mind.