Wiser Handyman of Northville, NY

Q. What are the most common jobs you do for your clients?

A. Painting is the number 1 service. I also do quite a few small bathroom remodels (tub install, shower surround, tile vanity replacement). Window install or replacement is also a common issue. Popcorn (acoustical) ceiling removal is another popular project to update a home. Drywall repair and texturing is also high on the list of projects I get calls for. A few customers have decided to update their homes with tile floors and tile backsplashes.

Q. What information do you recommend customers have ready when contacting you?

A. The most important information to have ready when contacting a contractor is having a pretty good idea of what is the project you want accomplished and a general size (ie. number of rooms and if possible square footage). This gives the contractor an idea of what the project is, how long it may take, and materials needed. It is always best to get an in home estimate from a contractor. Most (depending on the size of the project, are free estimates.) Always be specific down to the smallest detail of what you want the contractor to work on. If you're not sure if something is included, always ask the contractor to specify. A contractor general charges for the time and material they think it will take to do the project. Any Add-ons (or things that were not listed in the estimate may cost more in labor and material.

Q. What makes you stand out from other contractors in your area?

A. Three things that I have heard from my customers that makes me stand out from other contractors is;
1. answering their calls and questions
2. showing up on time and being on the project daily
3. doing the little extras or showing compassion for my customers

Things that I think make me stand out from other contractors;
1. I offer customized quotes (choices of materials used and of services provided) not just a one size fits all quote
2. I am a small business (no dealing with a middle man or passing the buck). Personal interaction from planning to project completion
3. Veteran owned business ( I am dedicated to showing up on time, giving the best service I can, and helping my customers complete their home improvement needs)
4. Referral rewards (I offer my customers discounts off future work or gift cards for projects preformed from their referral.

Q. Describe three recent jobs where you made your clients really happy

A. Popcorn ceiling removal project. While I was at the customers' home, I also replaced a window that had been broken for 3 years, replaced gutter downspouts that were in bad shape or missing, and replaced old door knobs. The customer had been trying to get these things taken care of for years. She was thrilled to have everything taken care of all at one time.

A customer had a duplex that needed to be placed on the market to sell. All other quotes were to completely remodel the duplex when the owner just wanted it painted. I gave the customer a quote for what they wanted, a new paint job. Painted the duplex and got the job to replace the flooring. The customer had offers on the duplex in no time. She was grateful.

Painted an homes exterior for a young couple. The previous home owner purchased the home to flip it and sell it. The flipper did not understand the fundamentals of pressure washing wood siding and gouged and scared the wood. I filled the wood and primed it without charging extra to the young couple, as it was their first home and they had no experience dealing with home improvement contractors. It was not their fault for the damaged wood. And as a result I received call backs to complete other home improvement projects .

Q. What are the most rewarding aspects of being a local contractor?

A. The most rewarding aspects of being a local contractor are;
1. meeting new people and helping them complete their home improvement projects
2. working with my hands to customize, update, and create new things on projects
3. Having clients that are happy with their home improvements.

Q. Can you give advice to homeowners on how to find the best contractor for their project?

A. The best advise I can give to homeowners on finding the best contractor is;
1. can you work with their personality first before hiring them
2. do they show you respect by showing up on time and answering your questions
3. do they do the type of work that you are needing done
if yes to these questions, then
4. verify work references or check reviews for the contractor
5. does the contractor need a license to perform the work ( do they have license)
6. is the contractor insured or bonded or both to protect you
7. is the contractor going to be on site to check progress and deal with issues or problems
8. does the contractor explain the project scope/details and try to easy the pain (as much as possible) of prolonged projects in a customers home.