How to Hire a Contractor Without Getting Robbed

A practical class for Florida homeowners, taught by a licensed general contractor. Learn how to vet contractors, spot red flags and protect your money before you sign anything.

Florida CGC #1530352U.S. Marine Corps Veteran22 Years in the Trades
$99
Buy the ClassQuestions? (863) 488-7145

What You'll Learn

  1. Why Homeowners Get Burned – the common ways projects go wrong and money disappears.
  2. Know Your Project First – budget, scope, permits and inspections before you call anyone.
  3. Hidden and Soft Costs You Need to Know – design, engineering, permit and impact fees, surprises behind walls, code upgrades, and how to protect your budget.
  4. Finding Candidates – where to look for qualified contractors.
  5. Vetting Step by Step – license check on myfloridalicense.com, insurance and workers' comp, references, reviews and lawsuits.
  6. Red Flags – cash-only, big deposits, no permits, pressure to sign, storm chasers.
  7. Florida Deposit & Lien Rules – how to keep from paying twice.
  8. Contracts – what belongs in writing and which clauses to look for.
  9. Closing Out a Job – final inspections, lien releases and final payment.
Mark DeGraw teaching a class

What's Included

Every student gets the class plus these ready-to-use handouts and tools:

About Your Instructor

Mark DeGraw is the owner of FL Groundup Construction LLC in Lake Wales, Florida. He is a Florida Certified General Contractor (CGC #1530352), a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, and has 22 years in the trades, licensed since 2012. He built this class from what he sees on job sites: homeowners who lost money because no one showed them what to check before hiring.

You can verify his license any time on the official DBPR lookup at myfloridalicense.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this class for?

Florida homeowners planning a remodel, repair, addition or new home who want to hire the right contractor.

How do I get the class after I buy?

You'll receive access to the class and all handouts right after checkout.

Is this Florida-specific?

Yes. Licensing, deposits, liens and permits are covered under Florida rules, though most of the vetting steps apply anywhere.

Is this legal advice?

No. The class is practical guidance from a licensed contractor. For legal questions about a specific contract or dispute, consult a Florida attorney.

I have another question.

Call (863) 488-7145 or use the contact form.

Buy the Class – $99