10 Things You Should Never Say to a General Contractor in Phoenix

Telling a general contractor Phoenix is your only option can unintentionally reduce your bargaining power. Without healthy competition, a contractor may feel less incentive to offer competitive pricing or prioritize your project.

Instead, get at least three estimates from licensed professionals. According to the Better Business Bureau, multiple bids help ensure you receive fair pricing and better overall value. As one of the largest and most respected companies in the Arizona construction industry, Infinity Builders recommends this smart approach.

Keep it professional by communicating that you’re still in the review process. This encourages contractors to present their best service package—on budget, quality, and timeline.

Here’s My Budget, Can You Work With It?

While it may feel honest to share your budget upfront, doing so could lead to price inflation. If a general contractor in Phoenix knows your maximum, their quote may be adjusted to match it rather than reflect actual costs.

Instead, request detailed bids based on your project’s scope. This way, you can compare labor, materials, and schedules from multiple contractors. In the Phoenix construction market, transparency and professionalism define the top companies. Keeping early budget talks broad helps you catch inflated estimates before signing a contract.

Can You Give Me a Discount if I Pay Everything Upfront?

Offering to pay everything in advance might seem like a trust-building gesture—but it often backfires. Paying a general contractor Phoenix in full before work begins may remove accountability and increase your financial risk.

State guidelines and industry standards recommend a small deposit upfront—typically 10–15%—with payments tied to clear milestones. This model is common in Arizona and ensures work continues on schedule. With every project, our team at Infinity Builders prioritizes safety, excellence, and trust by following this structured payment system.

There’s No Rush on This Project

Telling a contractor there’s no urgency may seem generous, but it can result in delays. A busy general contractor in Phoenix is often juggling multiple jobs, and without a clear schedule, your project might take a back seat.

Establish expectations early. A solid timeline with set milestones shows you’re serious about the project. Contractors tend to prioritize clients who have clear expectations and defined schedules—especially in fast-growing markets like Arizona.

You Can Choose the Materials for Me

While your contractor may be knowledgeable, leaving all material choices up to them isn’t always wise. Not every general contractor Phoenix will automatically prioritize high-grade supplies—some may choose more budget-friendly (and lower quality) options to save costs.

Take control of your build. Specify material types and brands in your contract, especially for finishes that affect the look and longevity of the space. According to HomeAdvisor, this step reduces disputes and leads to better client satisfaction.

Are You Sure This Shouldn’t Take Just a Day?

This comment might sound harmless, but it could insult the expertise of your contractor. Construction, even for small jobs, involves variables like permits, inspections, material availability, and labor management. Your general contractor Phoenix has likely planned every step based on years of experience in the local market.

Instead, discuss your concerns about timing respectfully. Understanding the complexity of construction work helps strengthen the builder–client relationship.

I’ve Found Someone Who Can Do It Cheaper

It’s perfectly fine to compare prices, but telling your contractor that you’ve found a cheaper option can come off as disrespectful. Many top contractors, especially in the Phoenix area, invest time into crafting detailed, honest proposals.

If you have budget concerns, talk openly about which parts of the bid might be flexible. Rather than comparing to others, work with your contractor to explore lower-cost materials or phasing options. Quality work often comes with fair costs—and clear communication helps both parties align.

Summary Table: The Impact of Saying the Wrong Thing