Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do you serve my area ?    Home Resource Network of Seattle, Inc. (“HRN”) is currently serving the greater Seattle area. Our contractors are happy to work in all areas of Seattle, the eastside, north end, West Seattle and many surrounding areas, as well. Please inquire about your particular location.

 

What is the cost?     Nothing. Our service is free for homeowners (no membership fees) and we charge a pre-determined finder’s fee to the contractor for work secured through our network. The contractor does not pay for the listing or referral.

Are HRN contractors high or low end, as far as pricing?    We work with contractors who are known for their reasonable prices, quality, and professionalism. Our contractors’ fees vary, as they are all independent contractors and set their own prices without interference from us. In addition, we also work with builders who are well versed in high end custom homes and unique, tailor-made finishes. We may, indeed, work with a contractor who would provide the lowest bid, but if the lowest cost is your first and only priority, our service may not be the best fit for you. Quality and appropriate matches are our first priority, but we believe that the prices charged generally represent a good value.

 

How is your referral service unique?    As a local, established (since July of 2004) service, HRN provides and maintains a network of contractors who meet our qualifications. To be included in our service, contractors must meet HRN’s screening criteria (*See Process). Contractors cannot buy into our network (or advertise with us). This maintains the independence, quality and integrity of our work.

 

In addition, most referral services charge what is called a lead fee, up front before the work is done. Any contractor willing to pay can be part of such a program. Instead, HRN promotes personalized connections. Because we do not receive our fee until the contractor has been paid, we are invested in making appropriate and thoughtful connections between contractors and homeowners, from the start.

 

HRN charges no annual or monthly membership fees to either the homeowner or the contractor. Many other companies charge membership dues and, in some cases, also charge the contractor through fees tacked on to contractor invoices.

Why do successful contractors want to work with HRN ?   Established, quality contractors enjoy working with HRN because we are a personalized service. We bring them the kind of work and clients they want, in the areas they want to work in, and connect them with projects and people that are a good match for their skill set. We have a very good rapport with our contractors.

Is personal information shared or sold to outside sources ?  No.  Never.

How does your service work ?  * See Process

What are the benefits of using Home Resource Network ? 

• Besides being free, our service will save you hours of legwork identifying and confirming potential contractors. Time is energy and money.
• We put you in touch with contractors you can hire to meet your needs, while freeing you up to do the things you love.
• Because there is no charge to the homeowner for using our service, and homeowners are under no obligation to hire the contractors, our service is easy and requires no long-term commitments. You always remain 100% in control of which contractors you hire, and are completely free to use a contractor you locate on your own.
• You are in control.  We put our homeowners in touch with very qualified candidates who are appropriate to your specific job needs. The hiring decision is 100% yours and you can conduct whatever additional due diligence you desire. Our service just gives you a head start in the process.
• We are an established, locally owned and operated service.   Living in Seattle and having had multiple remodeling/renovating experiences ourselves, we understand the unique, Seattle homeowner perspective.
• Our service is personalized and professional.  HRN is all about quality and integrity. We will remain in touch with the homeowner throughout the project to help things go more smoothly between you and your contractor.
• Our contractors can’t pay to be represented by HRN, or advertise with us. HRN has screened and selected each contractor (*See Process). Therefore, we believe their affiliation signifies a high level of craftsmanship and professionalism.
• Our company has grown out of personal and professional experience and a love for the home improvement process. People do well at work that they love. HRN is an outstanding business in its field.
• HRN makes sense to both homeowners and contractors. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Does HRN periodically check to make sure its contractors continue to meet HRN’s screening criteria?  Each March and September HRN will reconfirm with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries that each contractor in our network has a valid contractor’s license and is insured and bonded.

 

Does HRN guarantee the contractors’ work?  HRN cannot guarantee the work of the contractors we refer because they operate independently from HRN, but we will work as a liaison between you and your contractor if a problem arises.

 

Is HRN a general contractor?  No, HRN is strictly a referral service that connects homeowners with contractors.

 

At Home Resource Network, we are devoted to building long term relationships with homeowners and contractors, alike.

 

 

 

We look forward to working with you.

 

P  206.524.4981  |  michelle@HRNseattle.com