How to find reliable tradespeople
In this article, we'll share tips to help you build a team of trusted tradespeople. That way, if a problem ever comes up at your property, you can get it fixed asap, with all work completed to a high standard.
Better still, you'll create a team of experts who can advise you on future renovations and property purchases and possibly save you thousands of dollars in the process.
Most homeowners need a reliable plumber, builder, electrician, handyman, and possibly a gardener. Here is how to build your expert property team...
Ask for recommendations
This is an obvious tip, but you should start by asking friends and family who they trust.
If you only search online you might miss out on the highly-experienced local tradesperson who offers old-fashioned service at a fair price and gets all their business via word of mouth.
The best builders in town usually don't have a website because they don't need one.
Ask local property professionals
We work with tradespeople on a daily basis. We are happy to put you in touch with professionals who we trust to work on our own homes. We love supporting local small businesses and know the reliable options in the area.
You need them more than they need you
Good tradespeople are hardly ever looking for more work. They are in constant high demand. So you aren't doing them a favour if you give them your job. In fact, it's usually the other way around. They are the ones helping you. This switch of the normal business-to-consumer dynamic helps frame the next few suggestions for building your network of trusted tradies.
Work with their schedule
A busy tradesperson has their calendar booked out weeks in advance. Whatever time they offer to visit you, try everything you can to make it work.
Be loyal. Don't shop around
Expert tradies don't have time to run around quoting jobs and getting into price wars. Make your selection based on recommendations and use that professional for your next job. If you aren't comfortable with the price, you can use another option next time. The goal is to build loyalty and trust.
Look after them
Take time to chat and get to know your tradesperson when they visit your home. Offer them tea or coffee or snacks if you have them. This is the start of a long-term relationship and if they like you they are far more likely to answer the phone when you ring in future.
Don't haggle
A tradesperson who is flat-out busy isn't interested in debating the price of a job. It is what it is. If you don't like the quote then don't go with them. Remember, they have built a word-of-mouth referral business by treating people fairly. Their reputation is built on it.
Why go to all this effort?
Imagine being on a first-name basis with a builder you trust. How good would it be if you didn't have to bother shopping around, and getting multiple quotes for every job around the house?
When you trust your chosen tradesperson you can sleep easy knowing you won't get ripped off. You'll have that internal comfort that every job has been completed to a high standard.
You'll have access to expert advice before any major renovations or future purchases, along with suggestions that can make your life easier and add value to your property.
Best of all, your tradesperson will be there for you when you need them most.
Need recommendations to get you started? Get in touch today. We love talking property!
