Still Here
January 8, 2008
The visit with Mike was fun, as always, and the baby looks more like me every day. Not really, just a standing joke.
Yesterday, Carlos, Oscar, Linda and I went to San Jose and Heredia to buy materials. We have most of the stuff now, and hope to get the rest in Esparza today. It was a very hectic day, driving in heavy traffic, which I am used to and don’t mind too much, and shopping in seven or eight different places, which, as a man, I am genetically inclined to hate. We still have to make another trip for the kitchen counter and window bars. I think I have to go with him. We have had a few problems with money. I don’t want to comment too much before the house is done, but if you decide to build here, go with the builder to buy all the materials, and pay for them yourself. Front him some money for labour costs, and pay that in sections, with a reserve at the end when the house is completed.
According to Jose, when you give a Tico money for materials, he might solve another financial problem first, and worry about the materials later, when it’s too late. Apparently, that’s what happened here. I’ve paid for a few things twice, and Carlos assures me he will pay me back, IF he can. I never built a house in Canada, and I have know there can be problems there, too. This house has taken more time and money than we ever expected. My friend Luis had his house built, and the builder stuck to the price, even though it was low. He finished much of the work himself to save money at the end. Other people have had houses left unfinished when the money runs out. I guess I’m somewhere in the middle. At least it’s getting finished, and the quality of work is superior to any I have seen. And we’re still here!
January 9th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
That is worth remembering and emphasizing. When you are building, the first problem everyone has is with the materials. They arrive to the site, but go missing. They never arrive to the site. You pay too much.
You have to be firm and insist on paying for the materials yourself. There are many reasons the contractor may pull out to get the money from you: you’ll have to drive yourself over there; my brother (cousin, in-law, compadre) gives me a great deal; I have to see what they have available, and many more. But one way or the other avoid giving the contractor money to buy materials.
You often can pay the driver upon delivery. I used to call the depot in the morning, after getting a list from the contractor, and place my order. They would bring the receipt and I would be able to cross check the delivery.
Many builders are honest, but bad with money. As Bob said, some have “liquidity” problems. And some are dishonest.