Hiring a contractor who can successfully build what you’re planning, at a favorable price, is the most important step in any remodeling project. You need to get bids and proposals from at least three companies, then take the time to check out any possible candidates. We’ll walk you through the process, explain what should be in the contract, and help you avoid fly-by-night contractors.
Read Checkbook’s full report on how to find a good contractor, plus see our ratings.
The process has changed for anyone looking to hire a real estate agent; new rules took effect in August that are designed to bring transparency and competition to the marketplace. Consumer advocates hope agents will be more willing to negotiate their commissions, but the new process and unfamiliar paperwork could create confusion for a while.
In this episode: A look at the new rules and what they will mean to both buyers and sellers. Also, things everyone should know when they’re hiring a real estate agent.
More from Consumer Federation of America:
Consumer Alert: How Home Buyers and Sellers Can Cope with New Real Estate Broker Rules and Practices
CFA Releases Criteria for Evaluating Home Seller Contract Forms
CFA Releases Criteria for Evaluating Home Buyer Contract Forms
More from Ilyce Glink:
100 Questions Every First-Time Home Buyer Should Ask
Love, Money + Real Estate Newsletter
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Kitchen and bathroom renos are the most common home improvement projects—and they can be mighty expensive. If the layout of your kitchen or bath already works for you, and its cabinets and other features are in decent shape, you might be able to save a bunch of cash by doing what’s called a “light remodel.”
In this episode, how to decide if light remodeling is the way to go, the savings to your wallet and the environment by going this route, and how to keep most of what you have. Plus, some specific ideas on ways to freshen up kitchens and baths.
Read Checkbook’s full report on redoing your kitchen or bath for less.
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Moving is always a hassle. But if you hire the wrong movers, it can be a nightmare. An alarming number of consumers tell Checkbook they’re disgusted with movers who arrived hours or even days late, lost or broke their possessions, reneged on promises, and demanded more money than the quoted amount.
In this episode: Tips on choosing a moving company that provides fair and reliable pricing, gets the job done on time, and takes good care of your belongings. Plus: Why to avoid moving brokers and how to spot moving scams.
Read Checkbook’s full report on how to find a household mover.
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Roofing work is expensive. If you hire the wrong contractor, you can overspend by thousands of dollars and still get terrible work done. It takes time to find a good roofer who will do the job for the best price—you don’t just hire the first company that gives you an estimate.
In this episode, we’ll explain how to find a reliable roofing company, how to review proposals for that job, and how to compare warranties. Plus, ways to avoid getting ripped off by a shady contractor.
Read Checkbook’s full report on roofers, including unbiased ratings and price comparisons.
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Today’s windows are technological marvels. They provide better insulation, reduce drafts, are easier to clean, and help lower home energy bills. But all these benefits come with very high price tags.
Window companies generate numerous complaints about high-pressure sales tactics and substandard installation. Checkbook cautions that some companies greatly over-promise the energy savings that will result from their windows.
In this episode, Kevin Brasler, Checkbook’s executive editor, cuts through the marketing hype, compares the pros and cons of various types of windows, and explains how to find a reliable contractor.
Additional Resources:
Buying & Installing New Windows
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Sooner or later all appliances will need to be repaired or replaced. But when the fridge is on the fritz or the oven is burnt out, how do you decide what to do? New home appliances are expensive, but it’s not always easy to know how much repair work will cost.
In this episode, how to decide whether to fix what you have or buy something new. When it’s time to go shopping we have advice on how to avoid the misleading sales hype to get a real deal.
Read Checkbook’s full reports on appliance repair services and appliance stores.
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