1. Observe and protect
Record what you're seeing at the property, limit additional damage if it's safe to do so, and note anything relevant from the home's history.
2. Evaluate the house and site
Cracks and sticking doors are clues, not diagnoses — around Grand Rapids, glacial moraine soil along the Grand River makes grading, drainage, framing, and foundation type all part of the same question before any repair plan is proposed.
3. Define a written scope
Put preparation, protection, materials, access, permits, testing, cleanup, restoration, exclusions, and change-order rules in writing before anything starts.
4. Compare providers
Look past the bottom line to the reasoning behind each Grand Rapids proposal, and check credentials independently.
5. Inspect closeout
Before signing off, confirm testing, cleanup, documentation, warranty terms, and whatever maintenance responsibility remains yours.