How to Choose the Right General Contractor
- Teague
- Jan 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 21
Your GC should have the expertise to manage the balance between budget, timeline, and quality without compromising communication.
Choosing the right general contractor (GC) for your project can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. A great GC not only delivers quality work but also makes the entire process smooth and stress-free. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect fit for your home remodel, ADU, or ground-up construction project.
#1 Ask about their capacity and commitment
Have you ever seen a contractor’s truck parked at a job site for weeks without visible progress? That’s often a sign of overcommitment.
To avoid delays, ask questions like:
Are you equipped to handle this job?
Do you have the bandwidth to focus on my project?
How many other jobs are you juggling right now?
A reliable contractor will have a realistic workload and won’t leave your project dragging on unnecessarily.
#2 Trust and references matter
In smaller towns like Durango, word of mouth goes a long way. Talk to your GC and see if they’re someone you trust.
Ask them:
Can you provide references from similar projects?
How long have you lived and worked in the area?
Are you rooted here, or are you likely to move on before the project is done?
Reaching out to past clients is invaluable. You’ll get firsthand insights into their experience, the quality of work, and the contractor’s communication style. For projects like Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs) or a custom home build, it’s especially important to work with someone who has relevant, local experience.
#3 Oversight and project management
A great GC doesn’t just coordinate tradespeople—they ensure your project is on track from start to finish.
Ask:
Will someone from your team be on-site when subs show up?
How do you ensure design decisions are executed properly?
What’s your process for addressing issues that come up during construction?
Without proper oversight, details slip through the cracks, leading to delays, errors, or frustration for homeowners. This is especially critical for complex projects like ground-up construction, where attention to detail early on is key.
#4 Billing practices: Peace of mind over pressure
Some contractors ask for large deposits upfront but fail to show up for weeks. At Top Drawer Construction, for example, we bill only for work that’s been completed, providing peace of mind and a sense of trust. When vetting GCs, ask about their billing policies to ensure you’re comfortable with how they handle finances.
For Durango homeowners, especially those investing in ADUs or ground-up construction, transparent billing practices can make all the difference in building trust.
#5 Communication is key
Your first interactions with a GC can be revealing. Pay attention to how quickly they respond and how well they listen.
Look for:
Timely communication. Do they get back to you quickly and professionally?
Active listening. Are they genuinely interested in what you want, or are they focused on what they think should be done?
Respect. Do they answer your questions without making you feel like a bother?
A strong GC-client relationship is like a short-term marriage—you’re going to spend months working together. Choose someone whose personality meshes well with yours.
#6 Look for versatility
Being a great GC is more than just being skilled in one area—it’s about wearing many hats. A fantastic GC can seamlessly navigate between managing tradespeople, communicating with architects, and discussing design details with homeowners.
Ask about their experience across different trades and their approach to project management:
Have you worked in multiple areas of construction?
Do you understand both the big picture and the details?
An "expert generalist" who balances these skills will have the flexibility and insight to manage your project effectively. This versatility is especially valuable in projects like ADUs or custom homes, where managing multiple moving parts is crucial.
#7 Due Diligence: Scope, scale, budget and timeline
Finally, make sure their previous work aligns with your project’s scope and scale.
Look for:
Examples of past projects similar to yours.
A realistic budget and timeline that aligns with your goals.
Your GC should have the expertise to manage the balance between budget, timeline, and quality without compromising communication.
Are we the right fit for you?
A great general contractor is more than just a skilled builder—they’re a communicator, a problem solver, and someone you can trust to bring your vision to life. By asking the right questions and doing your homework, you’ll find someone who not only delivers exceptional work but also makes the entire process enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a contractor who values transparency, communication, and top-notch craftsmanship, feel free to reach out to Top Drawer Construction. We’d love to help make your dream home a reality.
