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September 2, 2009

Holmes On Homes-Not my Expert

Holmes on Homes is planning on gaining additional market share in the USA, so to do this they have to scout for people who own homes and who feel that they were cheated by their contractors. Let us walk through the mechanics of how they staged this 'tragedy of errors' faux paus.

A much-watched TV talk show host Interviewed Mike Holmes, and one of her questions of interest was: Mike, what was wrong with this project? Homes cried out in forced, stunned amazement, What Wasn't Wrong, (Holmes, we are asking YOU, we really do not know . . . ). I have read your contract, Holmes states. (Holmes implication with this statement is that he is efficient and versed in contract law . . . Interesting schematic playing itself out here).

Folks, I will give you a tip that will save you thousands. Do NOT sign a contract written by a contractor who thinks he knows more than a contract lawyer. A contract lawyer will tear holes in a contract written by other lawyers. When did the star of Holmes of Homes attend a Law school and specialize in Contract Law?

Sloppily handling a set of blueprints, Holmes says several times, I know I saw 17 foot 1. Dimensions on a blueprint are easily spotted if you know what you are looking for and are trained to read blueprints. Looking confused in locating a dimension is not representative of good blueprint reading skills.

Continuing, Holmes states, the common nail should not be used. The year was 1958 when my father built our house with common nails. Today, that house is still solidly standing. To Wit " Every fastener has its place. To over generalize about common nails shows a disinterest in knowledge about building theory and building practices then and now.

Sadly, the contractor in question by the Holmes on Homes show is never allowed to tell his side, or address any of the information deemed to be so 'incorrect' by Holmes himself, as Holmes laments the 'job done' by the contractor. But wait " then there is this " That contractor in question actually went on to another large job within that exact neighborhood where he performed earlier (but not up to Holmes 'standards') and complaints of his work on that project were "Zero"

Does anyone see that this show may not be entirely telling us the truth about "Real Life" contracting. In my opinion Holmes is an actor and a good one. He is not in my humble opinion an accredited and experienced contractor. Be careful what you believe while watching these types of TV shows.

Finally, for those of you who think he has helped so many people. Here are the numbers: - 6 Seasons, approximately 12 episodes. (That is 72 people helped over the years, if they actually helped someone every episode) - I have helped literally 100's of people over my 32-year career span. And that's not to mention the hundreds of thousands of people, trusting contractors in North America have helped over the past 100 years.

The Holmes on Homes Show has put a strain on the contractor and homeowner relationship. Emotions have been carefully played. Consumer psychology has been mastered. My customers only watch the show as entertainment. It's great to hear them say" you wouldn't believe what that Canadian guy said yesterday".

Johnny Kowal has been a successful Contractor for three decades which also includes working on numerous projects in the Film Industry. He owns and operates his companies in the United States and Canada. Get Johnny's valuable Remodeling Bad Guy Arsenal. This free newsletter will save you thousands of dollars on your next Remodel.

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