How to Choose the Right Contractor for Your Fix and Flip
When you’re flipping a property, your contractor is more than just a hired hand - they’re a partner in your investment. The right contractor can help you stay on budget, hit timelines, and elevate the final product. The wrong one? They can cost you profits, delay your sale, and turn a promising deal into a financial headache. Here’s how to choose the right contractor for your next fix and flip - and how a lender like Barnett REI Finance can help you fund your renovation with confidence.
Start with Referrals and Reviews
Word of mouth is powerful. Ask local real estate investors, agents, or even building inspectors who they trust. Don’t skip online reviews either - sites like Houzz, Angie’s list, and Google can help you spot patterns of reliability or red flags.
Pro tip: Look for contractors with experience specifically in investment renovations, not just high-end residential projects.
2. Check Licenses, Insurance, and Credentials
Always verify that a contractor is:
Licensed to work in your state or municipality
Insured, including liability and workers’ compensation
Able to pull permits if your project requires them
Hiring a properly licensed and insured contractor protects you from liability and ensures your project is up to code.
3. Ask the Right Questions Up Front
Before signing anything, ask:
How many fix-and-flip projects have you worked on?
Can you provide references from investors?
What’s your typical project timeline?
How do you handle unexpected issues or cost overruns?
Will you provide a detailed scope of work and payment schedule?
You want someone who is communicative, organized, and understands the fast-paced nature of investment real estate.
4. Review the Scope of Work in Detail
A vague bid will cost you. A strong contractor will give you a line-item estimate, outlining materials, labor, timelines, and responsibilities. This helps you:
Budget more accurately
Avoid miscommunications
Track milestones for payment
Barnett REI Finance often reviews scope of work documents as part of your loan funding, so you’ll need this level of clarity anyway.
5. Work with a Lender That Understands Construction
When you’re flipping, time is money. Choosing a lender like Barnett REI Finance means you’ll get":
Fast funding for your renovation
Draw management aligned with your project stages
An experienced team that understands contractor relationships
Our funding process is built for investors like you, so you can hire confidently, manage efficiently, and scale your flipping business faster.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in any fix-and-flip. By vetting thoroughly, asking smart questions, and working with a lender that understands the renovation process, you can reduce risk, and maximize return.