I only use local traders rather than the big firms..
They come along .. give me a price and I say ' Errm.. errm .. what about this price.'.. !!
They usually come down to my offer.. I am well chuffed.. but . then again.. perhaps they start higher because they have 'spotted' a haggler. !!
They've 'spotted' a haggler. !! :yay: although many tradesmen will start high because they know you have no idea what the price should be - talking about myself here :grin:
I do most if not all jobs myself. If looking to have something done I'd at least get more than one quote.
I use my local Nexdoor site.. Or recommendations from locals..
I try not to use anyone who does not live nearby.. That way , they can't do a 'runner'. :grin:
I'm on my Nextdoor site too. I've made a list of tradesmen who've received good reviews. I will never need a 'tree feller' (fella) but I've got one just in case :yay:
Although it's good to have recommendations, the tree fella for example could have asked all his rellies and mates to post nice things about him, who knows ?