Living in California, we needed someone we could rely on to help us with updates to a home in Boca Raton, which was in escrow. We had a couple of calls and emails with Sharon to discuss the project, but nothing too specific as we were still trying to decide our priorities. After a few contacts with Sharon, we felt like she was guilting us into paying her for consultation, reminding us that she had already spent time on the project. We were a bit confused given that she didn't provide us with any specific advice, and that our initial discussions were mainly going over what we were hoping to accomplish, i.e., project scoping. And their website clearly states "Free Consult". But because we needed help to complete the updates before moving in with our twin 2 yr old girls, we decided to send her an initial payment 2.5x higher than what she asked for along with a detailed list of items we wanted completed prior to our move-in date and other items to be completed after.
When making arrangements to visit the home, Sharon informed us that she would bring 2 individuals from the same company to scope the same task: painting kitchen cabinets. Because we wanted to respect the current owners (as they are in the midst of packing) and not invite too many contractors at once, we asked Sharon to not bring both of them and that maybe they can give us an estimate based on photos alone. I had mentioned this approach with her previously via phone and email. We assumed she was bringing only a general contractor to scope other tasks. She responded defensively with "I think it's going to be better if you find somebody else, I've spent a lot of time on this project and I just don't think this is going to be a good fit for you or for me". Again, why keep mentioning that she has spent a lot of time on the project? I mean we sent her a check; we never asked her to work for free. We were quite surprised by her reaction to our simple request of respecting the current owners; seemed like a complete over-reaction. We felt it was a bit dramatic and unprofessional to quit on us. Therefore, if you want someone you could rely on, we do NOT recommend Sharon as she might abandon you on your project without hesitation. read more