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Getting contractor-contracts for being your own general contractor

There are many homeowners who make their own contractor-contracts because they want to be general contractors of their building project. This is just fine as long as you know the local contractors and the usual amount they charge for labor. Being a general contractor takes experience, but there are a few brave homeowners who are making a go of it. Contractor contracts are very important these days to protect all parties involved. A very basic contractor contract looks something like this. Remember, contractors and homeowners need very involved and very detailed contracts.

contractor contracts


There are many things to consider when drawing up contracts with contractors. Such things are like cost overruns, payment release schedules, deadline failures, injuries, parking and insurance issues just to name a few.

Once you get through all the contracts, there are many other things to consider when being a general contractor for your home project.

Some of the important things to know before being your own general contractor are these:

  • Know the local subs and their reputations
  • Know the cost of materials
  • Know the average cost of labor
  • Know the local codes
  • Know your house plans thoroughly
Without a good knowledge of these things, new homeowners acting as general contractors can and probably will get taken advantage of by the subs.

Subcontractors can skim a lot off your equity by overcharging on materials and labor. If you can't find contractors locally, you can always find reliable subs at Service Magic.

Hey, here's an excellent site about a couple who did this very thing and it has been working for them.

be your own contractor



Home-built4u.com gives some valuable "heads up" advice for people wanting to build a home, but not pay the high price for a general contractor.

build a home



I know the owners of this home and have seen every part of the construction process. This is a beautiful home with a full basement and all the extras.

I'm familiar with the struggles they had as being general contractors for their own home. I really have to say that I am proud of them for taking all the steps to see this through from start to finish.

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