Hiring a contractor is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a homeowner. The right team turns your vision into reality. The wrong one can turn a dream project into a nightmare. After decades of building and remodeling in the Minneapolis area, here’s our honest advice on finding the right fit.
Start with Reputation, Not Price
The cheapest bid is rarely the best value. A low price often means corners will be cut — in materials, labor, or both. Instead of leading with price, start by asking neighbors, friends, and coworkers who they’ve worked with and whether they’d hire that contractor again.
Look for:
- Consistent reviews — Not just five-star ratings, but detailed testimonials that mention communication, cleanliness, and follow-through
- A portfolio of completed work — Photos of finished projects, ideally in your neighborhood or a similar style
- Longevity — A company that’s been building in the area for years has relationships with local subcontractors and suppliers that benefit your project
Ask the Right Questions
When you’re interviewing contractors, go beyond “how much will this cost?” These questions will tell you a lot more:
- Who will be my main point of contact? You want a dedicated project manager, not someone juggling six other jobs.
- How do you handle change orders? Changes happen. A good contractor has a clear process for pricing and approving changes before work begins.
- What’s your warranty? Look for at least a one-year warranty on workmanship, with longer coverage on structural elements.
- Can I talk to your most recent client? Not their best client — their most recent one. That tells you how they’re performing right now.
- How do you handle permits and inspections? A reputable contractor manages all permitting. If they suggest skipping permits, walk away.
Red Flags to Watch For
- No written contract — Every detail should be documented before work starts
- Large upfront deposits — A reasonable deposit is 10–20%. Anyone asking for 50% or more upfront is a concern
- No insurance documentation — Ask for proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance
- Pressure to sign immediately — A confident contractor doesn’t need to rush you
- No physical address — If they can’t be found, they can’t be held accountable
The Design/Build Difference
One approach that simplifies the process significantly is working with a design/build firm. This means your designer, architect, and builder are all part of the same team. The benefits include:
- Single point of accountability — No blame-shifting between designer and contractor
- Better cost control — The builder is involved in design decisions, so there are fewer surprises at bidding time
- Faster timelines — Design and pre-construction can overlap, reducing overall project duration
- Consistent communication — One team, one process, one set of expectations
License and Insurance in Minnesota
In Minnesota, residential contractors are required to hold a license from the Department of Labor and Industry. You can verify a contractor’s license status at the Minnesota DLI website. Make sure they also carry:
- General liability insurance (at least $1 million)
- Workers’ compensation insurance
- A current contractor’s license
Trust Your Instincts
Beyond credentials and portfolios, pay attention to how a contractor communicates. Do they listen more than they talk? Do they ask questions about your lifestyle, not just your budget? Do they show up on time?
A great contractor is a partner in your project — someone who cares about your home almost as much as you do. Take the time to find that person, and the project will take care of itself.