Where do Contractors rank among your mental list of respected professionals? Near the top or at the bottom? While ContractorPosse.com aims to educate you—the homeowner—on how to avoid bad contractors, we also hope you'll see the value of working with the best in the business. And if you think you can't afford it, think again. Working with a top-quality service professional for your home project will save you money, time and hassle. Its that simple.

So how do you find the best? We suggest you use BestContractors.com. Its a free service to homeowners. Member carpenters, electricians, plumbers and other service professionals are carefully prescreened for licensing, insurance and more. You can review detailed "showrooms" of each member and even view photos of their workmanship. Then, when you find some that interest you, request estimates from them online. Its a painless and easy process and a great way to get your project off to a good start.

• Friendly, personable, doesn't complain about past clients
• Is neatly dressed and prepared
• Interested in your project, asks questions and makes helpful suggestions
• Thoroughly walks through and inspects project site
• Makes detailed notes
• Has a clean service vehicle with in-state license plates
• Readily shows you his trade license and offers references when asked
• Takes time to explain in detail the steps he will take and materials to be used
• Detailed paperwork, legible and free of blank form fields
• Offers realistic and specific timelines
• Agrees to be held accountable in writing for budget and timeline
• Offers payment terms by check or credit card and gives receipts

Work with the best at: