Enjoying Your Home - Do Your Homework on Contractors

Today, if you DON'T REALLY NEED to sell your home, perhaps you are taking the time to REALLY ENJOY your home. There may be a tendency to do some updates, some decorating, some shifting around of chatchkees (- decorative dust-collectors that are pleasing to the eye of the beholder, but serve no functional purpose).
You may be doing the work yourself and for that I am inspired by you. For those that need the help of a handyman, a painter, or other service provider - I repeat here the words of caution "Do YOUR Homework and CHECK THEM OUT!" Over the last few months I have either heard or read about unlicensed folks being arrested or working in homes and buildings where the work done was more expensive to fix than if the owner did their homework on the worker. Just like in the Real Estate Profession being licensed means something. A code, a level of service and accountability by which we are held.
Here comes the disclaimer, each field has issues. Practicioners are human. But when it comes to contractors, do your homework. Ask people you know for a referral, but don't stop there. Check into their Business License (insured and bonded). To research local contractors, a good place to consider calling is your local trade association of local contractors, suppliers and service providers. You also may want to give a call to the Chamber of Commerce in your area and they may be able to help as well.
The Santa Clarita Business Exchange 888-757-7229 http://www.scbx.us
The SCV Chamber of Commerce is http://www.scvchamber.com
Here is the Story on Unlicensed Contractors:
http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=news/local/los_angeles&id=6483054

I hope you find the information above helpful.
Enjoy the day!
Regards,
Leah Pollack
Elite Professionals Real Estate Services, Inc. website: http://www.eliteprosre.com
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