Meet Your Perfect Designer: 3 Ways to Find Them

Looking for the perfect designer or general contractor? We’re here to help! Finding them can be a lot like dating. You want to have the same values, work ethic and style. Not to mention, when it comes to being a homeowner, designing and contracting is a foreign practice. You don’t know where to start, stop, end or begin! And that’s totally fine. Don’t Google it any further. We’re here to help you (basically) write a love note to your ideal designer and how to find them.

They should know what they’re talking about (certification is key) but on top of those two core items, they should give you all the details that matter. They should be able to show you construction details for anything you’re remodeling and discuss the quality of soil, warranty, the right plants to go into that soil and any other landscape structure details you are going to consider. The more information the merrier!

You will want to date your designer (we don’t mean this in a weird way). But, when you call, they need to answer or return your call right away. A valuable designer is willing to set up an appointment if you want to chat in-person and show up on time. In this day and age, they will offer their cell phone number along with email, for easy access to any questions you may have. Most importantly, they should listen to your wants and needs and ask genuinely about your budget so you don’t waste any time. A red flag for a designer is if they’re too busy telling you what they think will look good first. In the first steps of the design process, you get the stage and they are all ears.

A great sign of a quality designer is quite simple – a clean car! Contractors trucks should be shiny and well-kept, showcasing care and organization. Employees should support their company and wear items that showcase the logo; wear them with pride. All equipment should be in good shape, offering you full trust in the process and work. Professionalism is also key! Their business cards down to their email signature should be unified and impressive.

Ok, now you know what to look for. So, how do you find them?

Firstly, stop Googling. Great designers are right in your backyard (almost, hehe). Mom’s Design Build is the most award-winning design firm in the twin cities metro and always happy to assist. A few quick tips:

1. Before talking to a designer/contractor know what you want before you get estimates. This will guarantee a more accurate estimate.
2. Interview three contractors. It’s important to find one you really jive with and have a connection with.
3. The best designers/contractors are busy ones, so expect that. However, the best ones also really care about the business and will communicate well.
4. Verify your insurance coverage. Know what’s covered on your homeowners’ insurance and through the contractor’s business insurance. Get a copy of the company’s insurance policy.
5. Once you choose the designer/contractor of your dreams, negotiate the ground rules (i.e. when the contractor will be working at your home, etc.). Transparency is key and you and the designer/contractor will appreciate it.

Schedule a consultation with our team today!

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