HAHAHA successful trolling!

Actually, In all due respect, you guys are probably the good guys and if
all the contractors were like you, the world would be a better place. You
guys are volunteering your time to help DIYers like myself out. I applaud
that and wish you all the best.

But in my defense, I have had bad luck with contractors...a lot of people
have, thats why there are stories on the news telling people to always
verify contractors and check their past work. I know it isn't just
contractors, it seems like most people are pretty scummy. Very few people
actually do live up to their word. I always try to be honest and straight
forward, maybe I have a big sign on my head that says young rich yuppie that
makes people want to take advantage of me. I do my honest work and live
reasonably. I can only afford to take a vacation once every few years or
so, so I am no rich boy.

As an example, I have had a couple of gardeners. I was willing and happy to
pay the money, but they always slacked off and never finished what they
agreed to. If thats the case, I am willing to save the money and do it
myself. I know the job is done better and I get some exercise.

More of a direct example for you guys. I called 8 contractors to get
estimates to replace the tub. 1 said that he was too busy and couldn't
handle it. I RESPECT that and would probably give the guy a call in the
future if I find something beyond my capabilities. 5 of them said they
would be there...I took time off work and they never showed up. My time is
money too. I will NEVER call those guys again. One guy made it a point to
say that his time was money and to make sure that I was there. He even
called the day before to check and the day of the appointment. When I give
my word, I will be there, so I didn't like his constant nagging. Granted he
probably had the reverse of my experience. Two others came as agreed but
several hours late. Only one guy felt decent, but he was also the highest
bid. Maybe $5k is about right to replace a tub, but it seems alfully high
when the 3-piece tub only cost $300 at HD. A day to demo and a day or two
to put things back. When he provided an itemized pricing and I saw $500 for
the permit and a week to demo, I knew he was lying somewhere and I decided
against him.

I decided it was worth it do do the job myself. In the process I learned a
heck of a lot more about electrical work and tiling and plumbing. By the
way I was able to demo the tub in a few hours, so 1 week is a gross
over-exageration. I also upgraded to a jacuzzi tub and added a sub-panel in
the garage, all for about $2k. Would I do it again...I don't know If I
know that I could have a contractor do the job as well as I did, I would
probably pay the $5k. If I expect to see the same garbage workmanship that
I have seen from the home builders, I certainly would not. How do you know
who is going to do the good quality work?


"trainfan1" wrote in message
et...
Nathan wrote:
I saw this thread from over a year ago. It brought up some issues.

Why are so many of the contractors upset that DIY customers *MIGHT* get
their precious contractor discount?

Just go to the county office building & file a d/b/a "Nathan's
Construction".

There. Now you are a contractor. Go to Lowes & get the 50% off.

Rob