STX Contractors What is the secret?

Most of the contractors are so booked up with jobs far into the future that many don't actively pursue additional work. It finds them. It took me over 3 months to get Roof Tops to even come out to look at my roof to come up witha quote on resurfacing my roof. Then it took another 6 weeks for them to mail the quote. At that rate of speed, I knew it would be 2 years before they'd find time to actually schedule the work and didn't bother with them any further. Centerline Doors also takes 2-4 months to get to come out to do even a very small job on door repairs for condos. We need more contractors!

Alexandra, You do have to laugh at this because the first question they ask is are you ready to move now on this or are we talking future. We've stated numerous times that we are ready to move now, it just never seems to motivate them. I guess only big expensive very upscale homes big $$$ will motivate.. Thanks,

At least people aren't promising you things they cannot deliver. Alexander is correct, there is a big home building boom on STX right now. Island contractors have there plates full.

I know for sure this will be a long exciting adventure. Maybe we'll just go sailing for a while. Theres always tomorrow. Thank you both for your input.

Good attitude

The entire building process can be a challenge so you have to be persistent (nicely) and patient. I got some good info from www.phvi.com. The permit process can take some time so if you can you should get all that set and then talk to a builder. Then perhaps they would be more responsive. Good luck

We recently purchased a large property in need of repairs, both small and large. We have had a difficult time getting trades people to call us back or show up when promised. As previously stated, they are all so busy, yet in the local paper, it was stated a few days ago that the unemployment rate on STX is about 40%. (Can that be right?) Maybe some of the contractors could hire some laborers to help move things along.

We finally realized you need a "referral", kind of like going to a specialist. If you can drop a name along with your message, you will have a better chance of a call back in a timely manner.

We couldn't get the fence man to get us a quote until we told him that our yard man recommended him very highly. After that, our fence was put up in record time. The electrician came when we told him he was recommended by our home inspector. They still don't come as quickly as we would like, but they get here eventually.

BTW, if anyone needs a fence, we used Nelson Fencing. Highly recommend! It was quick, well done, it looks great and Nelson is delightful.

Juanita, been there did that .. dropped names. I'm beginning to think we need to be on island. Can you do your work at you house by yourself. We've learned to do everything from tile work to putting in windows and doors and it really helps. Keeps the cost down. Bombi, did you use phvi? It was an interesting site. If you did, I would be interested in your thoughts. Thanks,

I am not using them as I'm doing most of the building myself. I suggested them because I received a fast response and a great bid price. They handle the project turnkey and the owner has been involved in construction on STX for years. I got a good vibe and when I've asked opinions from others they were positive. The product they use has a long lead time but looks good and very energy efficient. Your post suggested you would not be on island for the process is the reason I thought you may be interested.

Thank you Bombi, we are very interested espcially in the fact that they build green. Right now we are just talking to as many people as we can. Ideally we would like the structure built with all the rough in plumbing and electrical and then we would do the finish work. We'll see. I've already emailed PHVI. Thanks again.

How do you get in touch with Nelson Fencing?

Nelson Fence 340-692-2100 best to call after 5.