We've bantered about on previous threads about how important it is for buyers in Sun City (especially those just moving here) to find good contractors to work with. Way too many of us have learned the hard way (often translated to shoddy workmanship). Personally I am a huge fan of the word of mouth method' you know, where a friend or neighbor recommends someone who has done a good job. I want a person who will commit to doing a job, be there everyday, do it well and clean up after themselves. We've had several projects where they went on weeks and weeks after these said they would. Unacceptable. When we set out to remodel the kitchen, I contacted a friend who also runs SCHOA. He had put on a major addition to his home and the contractor he used had done a brilliant job. We got a couple of bids for the kitchen but the one that stood out (not from just price) was the same individual who did the addition. I've been hesitant to post his name because he is a guy who has just one employee and wants to stay that way. He's picky to a fault and that's a good thing. He knows if he gets bigger he will lose some of that quality control. I've posted pictures of the kitchen remodel in this thread and I know Archer posted a contractor she was delighted with. I encourage you to get at least two bids (more if you need), so here is the name and number of the one we used on our kitchen. He is without doubt the best we've done business with in the 14 years we've owned our house: JR Hochstetler Home Improvements LLC. 623-521-4814 jrhochstetler@cox.net
I'm usually hesitant to recommend a contractor, or plumber, or any tradesman because my expectations/experience with someone may be very different than someone else. It helps that my husband was a remodel contractor and also does electrical, plumbing and most anything else involved....he is also a perfectionist. So....when we find ourselves hiring someone for that type of work, he is knowledgeable and can judge their competence by the work they do. I would not recommend anyone do what we did....take one recommendation and run with it, but time constraints forced our hand. Always get a couple bids, and go with your gut on who you think you can work with and trust. And never, ever, pay everything up front....agree on a timetable for payments that are tied to verifiable completion points. We divided ours in 4 equal payments and held the last payment till absolutely everything was completely done to our satisfaction.
Sometimes I get a bad contractor - -and hire a lousy company - - However.... When I replaced my Sun City Roof - - I used Peoria Roofing located in Peoria They were recommended to me by a couple of close friends as well as SCHOA. I had priced at least 5 other roofers and found Peoria Roofing to be a nice price and the owner who also does the roofing appeared honest, helpful, etc. Wonderful Roofing Job ! I needed a New Air Conditioner, Air Handler, Heater... last year -- I used Sun City Mechanical (located in Youngtown) I met this company at one of the Sundial Fairs as well as a previous handyman of mine recommended them. They also do pluming and will drain my water heater yearly (included in my service contract with them). Also recommended by SCHOA. Again, I had several other A.C. companies -- give me estimates... I am glad I decided on Sun City Mechanical... Great Service. I have also used Parker and Sons both in Sun City and Peoria Homes. AND pleased with them as well. All three companies are licensed and bonded.... with LOC #'s you can verify.
