Homeowner’s Contractor Connection Blog

Entries tagged as ‘Contractor Referrals’

Screening Contractor’s so You Don’t Have Too

February 5, 2010 · Leave a Comment

After many years in the construction industry and working on large jobsites I have come to know what a good contractor is and what good contractor isn’t. I know what quality work looks like and can see where shortcuts have been taken. I have heard the catcalls, seen the gestures and felt the uncomfortable stares. For those reasons and many more Urban Referrals has adopted the policy to personally interview each one of our prospective contractors. I often meet them on site to get a feel for their respectfulness of privacy and property, quality of work, and to observe their staff. I call client and trade references to further our knowledge of the contractors work history, quality of work and payment history. Urban Referrals expects our contractors to meet our high standards when it comes to communication, customer service, and work ethic. We may ask to join 2 of every 10 contractors we meet with.

We look forward to connecting you with exceptional remodeling companies for all your home projects.

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The celebration continues… It’s day 5 and it’s 5pm, let’s see what 5 people will win!

November 20, 2009 · 7 Comments

Happy Friday all! D

I mixed up our giveaway time yesterday and today, as I wanted to make sure all Urban Referrals customers have a fair shot at winning!

How to win today?

The first five people to leave a comment below will win the following:

Kill A Watt

Electricity bill are rising. Now you can cut down on costs and find out what appliances are actually worth keeping plugged in. Simply connect these appliances to the Kill A Watt™, and it will assess how efficient they really are. Large LCD display will count consumption by the Killowatt-hour, same as your local utility. You can calculate your electrical expenses by the day, week, month, even an entire year. Also check the quality of your power by monitoring Voltage, Line Frequency, and Power Factor. Now you´ll know if it is time for a new refrigerator or if that old air conditioner is still saving you money. With the amazing Kill A Watt™ you´ll know “Watts” killing you.

I will confirm you won today via email.

***Please note – our day six and seven celebratory giveaways will be held on Monday and Tuesday. Check the blog each morning for details.

Have a wonderful weekend and thank you for helping us celebrate seven years in business!

Happy Remodeling!

Marla

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Let’s Talk Budget

August 17, 2009 · Leave a Comment

It happens so many times… I am talking with a client and ask the big question; “what is your budget” and there is a silence on the end of the phone. Why is everyone so hesitant to talk about it?

At Urban Referrals we ask the budget question for a couple of reasons. Please keep in mind, all reasons, are designed to provide the customer and contractor with the best possible home renovation experience.

Foremost, knowledge is power (haven’t we heard that since we were in middle school!). Homeowner’s (including myself) need to be educated on the costs of remodeling our homes, from minor plumbing repairs to adding a two story addition.

Second, we want to help alleviate sticker shock. We don’t want clients getting their hopes up for that new kitchen that cost three times what they have to spend. Discussing budget allows for discovery about renovations that can be completed based on available funds.

Third, we want to match consumers up with the best possible company, for all of their home improvement projects. For every referral we provide we’ve reviewed desired time frame, project location, trade, and of course budget. Each contractor prices their services differently; services different areas and some have project minimums that need to be met.

Contact us for a copy of the 2009 Cost vs. Value report to learn what renovations cost in the DC Metro area and what your return on investment can be. Fill out this form and we’ll email it to you right away.

Happy Remodeling!

Erin

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Montgomery County Landscaping Rebates

April 6, 2009 · Leave a Comment

Spring is finally here and it’s that time of the year to start planning your landscaping and hardscaping projects. We wanted you to know that Montgomery County, Maryland is offering eligible residents up to $4,500.00 in Landscaping rebates. This program was created to encourage sustainable landscaping and low impact expansion. To view eligibility requirements or to print an application visit www.montgomergycountymd.gov/rainscapes

Urban Referrals (www.urbanreferrals.com) have contractors that specialize in many of the projects associated with the landscaping rebates. Our network of contractors can install rain gardens, shade trees, permeable pavers and driveways, rain barrels and green roofs. To find a contractor for you next landscaping project, submit your job request online at www. urbanreferrals.com/job.html

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