Looking for a local contractor to build a simple screen in porch. Came across Ben's business through Craigslist-Charlotte (first mistake) called Ben to see if he could provide a rough estimate for this project. During the initial conversation, I noticed his approach was a little odd. Ben kept emphasizing that he was going to give me the best price and would underprice than other contractors, he's a one-man show and does most of the work himself, he doesn't haggle with the price because it's not his M.O. Bla, bla, bla. Keep in mind, Ben's is a talker, a real big talker and at times, I found him to be a little unprofessional. Boy was I right.
During this process of locating a general contractor for this job, I have priced out labor and cost, so I had a basic rough idea of what this project was going to cost and it helped us prepare for budgeting purposes. I knew what materials would be used and why I even had pricing for electrical and cement for the concrete pad down to the last penny. What Ben fail to realize that 90% of potential clients are doing their homework and working the referral with regards to contractors and their quoting system. Because Ben does not include concrete services, we needed to contract out to a cement contractor. Ben called a gentleman out of Monroe NC for the work. We found it odd that Bobby didn't even remember or knew Ben Torres even though Ben swears Bobby had worked with him in the past. Later, we realized Bobby wasn't all that keen on working with Ben. Wonder why? Moving forward, my husband and I had questions with regards to the material used, what services would be included in his quote (which wasn't much, not even the painting) Ben's replies were extremely condescending, unprofessional and over the top. I just had this uneasy feeling about Ben and how he would talk to me and my husband. He more or less stated if we don't like him, pricing or anything else, we needed to find another contractor, but keep in mind that I'm the best, I have the best pricing and I'm a better builder. It was weird!
After deep soul searching and finding other contractors who were professional, had great referrals, and offer exceptional value with flexibility, we decided not to go with Ben's Home Improvement. However, Ben texted me to inform me that we were not a good fit and we should pick another contractor. Hmm, now why is that? Because we started to question things, asked for more detailed information on construction processes, what was actually included in his quote. Or maybe why we were not quick to select him after he gave us a quote? Sorta like, if you don't sign with me today, don't bother. BTW, once I informed Ben that we were going with another contractor, Ben's blocked my cell number. Hmmm, that was strange. After giving my encounter with Ben some serious thoughts, I decided to snoop around to see if I could find out if there were any other potential clients that had the same issues. Oh boy, did I ever. Ben puts on a good show, makes promises he cannot fulfill, not even listed through BBB, ( sorry no A rating because he isn't rated by BBB) Need huge down payment.
Good news, a police officer who lives in our sub provided us the name of a wonderful contractor who constructed a beautiful screened in porch for his home and was very happy with the construction, pricing, and flexibility. We are in the process of construction and we're looking forward to our new backyard oasis I would strongly advise not using Ben Torres as your contractor based on my assessments and experiences. Word of advice? If your potential contractor is giving you a weird feeling, then send them packing. Second, talk with local law enforcement and find out what contractors they use. Seriously, who going to screw a cop.
Benjamin
Sherrills Ford,#2REBUTTAL Owner of company
Tue, July 10, 2018
Kirt Podschine and his wife of (((REDACTED))), Charlotte, NC 28273, phone number (((REDACTED))) called me to give them an estimate for a Sunroom. When I arrived there I had learned that they did not have HOA approval to do the work. They wanted to extend their concrete pad and had asked if I had new anyone that did that work so I referred someone to him that I had used on a few occassions. I immediately dialed his number and he came that same afternoon to give them an estimate. I had showed them videos of my work along with customer video-recorded testimonials for them to see and hear. They have alleged that I stated that I was the lowest price and that I would beat anyone. I would never make such a statement at all. Instead I simply give a prospect my price, show them evidence of my work, produce proof of my insurance and they could not decide at that time what they wanted to do and could not do anything anyway given the fact that they never got HOA approval. I even offered to assist them with that task as well. Less than a week later they had me return to now tell me that maybe they want a screen porch instead. In their complaint they stated that I am not with the Better Business Bureau. I am with the Better Business Bureau as an accredited member and proudly hold an A+ Rating. I receive many praises from my many happy customers and many times have been referred to as the best contractor they have ever hired and I have the videos to prove that to be true as well. In my opinion what motivated this person to file this false report was the fact that it was I and not them that decided to walk away. I respectfully declined to do business with them because I was not comfortable with these two individuals that did not seem to be clear on what they wanted entirely. Additionally they spoke to me in a manner that was a bit unpleasant to say the least. They stated that they too have served in the mlitary as I have and I find that hard to believe for how they treated me. I treat people with respect and dignity, something they perhaps lost somewhere in their career paths. In short I believe they felt insulted and angered over my turning them down. They allegedly own a collection agency which probably explains their behavoir and inability to be respectful toward others. This persons wife kept texting me disrespectul comments and I had to block this crazy person which in my opinion, has serious behavioral issues.