During a basement remodel in Columbus, Ohio, a homeowner got three quotes. One was cheap, one was average, and one was higher than expected. The cheapest option promised speed. The most expensive promised perfection.
The homeowner chose the middle quote. Not because of price, but because the contractor asked the most questions. They talked about permits, moisture, timelines, and what could go wrong.
Good trades do not rush to impress you with numbers. They slow down and explain the process. They point out problems you did not notice and plan around them.
When hiring a trade, pay attention to how they communicate. Skill shows up in conversation long before it shows up in the work