Hiring a general contractor removes a lot of stress from you, the client. Contractors understand the timeline and work flow of the entire project and have experience dealing with the various sub-trades that will be present on the work site. This experience helps them to keep the project on time and on budget. Here are some tips to make sure you choose the right general contractor for you:

Always hire licensed and insured quality contractors to work on your projects. Be sure their insurance is current!

Make the call. Talk to your contractor. Ask about similar projects they have worked on. How long have they been in the business? Trust your gut - make sure you are comfortable with your contractor.

Meet your future home builder. Getting a perfect story over the phone is great, but before the building starts, you and your contractor must have a clear channel of communication. Meet them in person for more detailed discussions and get to know your contractor to be sure that you are comfortable communicating with them.

Get more than one quote or bid. Ask each contractor to outline their plan and break down the major costs (labour, materials etc.).

Get some references, References will help to confirm that your contractor is reliable and honest. If you already have a home inspector, ask them, they may help you avoid hours with the phone book.

Don't settle for lowest price. The lowest price can translate into low quality materials, a rushed job, or simply inexperienced estimation. Take everything into account: make sure you are comfortable with the personality of your contractor, the price, the methods they will use, and the follow-up service. What happens if a problem develops months from now?

Negotiate a reasonable payment schedule. Be wary of contractors who demand large amounts (50% or more of the cost) up front. This may indicate financial instability.

Get it in writing. Everyone has good intentions, but real life happens. Get your contract in writing so that everyone is on the same page.