Whether you're planning on moving in the future or you're fixing up your forever home, garage door and entry door upgrades are among the Top 5 home improvement projects that generate the biggest bang for your buck at resale, according to the Remodeling 2020 Cost vs. Value report . Garage door upgrades provide a nationwide average return on investment of 98.3%.

1.  Hire only state-licensed contractors.
2. Check a contractor’s license number online at www.cslb.ca.gov or by calling 800.321.CSLB (2752).
3. Get at least three bids.
4. Get three references from each bidder and review past work in person.
5. Make sure all project expectations are in writing and only sign the contract if you completely understand the terms.
6. Ask to see the contractor’s pocket license and a current photo ID.
7. Ask whether the contractor carries workers’ compensation insurance for employees and general liability insurance.
8. Try searching your contractor’s name online for additional reviews, but consider the source.
9. Make sure the contractor gives you an estimate in writing and the contract lists his/her name, contractor license number, address, and phone number.
10. Never pay more than 10% down or $1,000, whichever is less. Don’t pay in cash.
11. Don’t let payments get ahead of the work.
12. Keep a job file of all papers relating to your project, including all payments.
13. Don’t make the final payment until you’re satisfied with the job.
    

• Only hire state-licensed contractors.
• Any contractor performing work of $500 or more (combined labor and material costs) must be licensed by CSLB to work in California.
• Avoid being caught up in high-pressure sales tactics.
• Avoid rushing into repairs. Take the time to get at least three identical bids and verify testimonials.
• Ask to see the contractor’s “pocket license” or their representative’s “Home Improvement Salesperson” registration. All contractors are issued pocket licenses that show the type of trade for which they are licensed, and the license expiration date. Ask to see a photo identification to confirm their identity.