The You know that feeling when you feel like you can take on any task and succeed, climb any mountain and prevail, approach any challenge and conquer it? The sort of feeling that makes you wonder if you’re the main protagonist of a Greek tragedy about hubris. It’s a natural feeling. We all get it. Regardless of gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation, we all feel like Icarus at times. We just have to stop and remember that we’re flying with wings made of wax. We have to remember that it’s okay to ask for help. Whether you’re making home renovations or flying too close to the sun, there’s always a professional to help you out. Here’s some tips to know how and when you should contact one.

There’s certain phrases that make you cringe when you hear them. Like when your barber says, “oops”. Well, as it turns out, there’s also some phrases in the independent contracting world that you should make yourself privy of. We’re going to go over five tell-tale signs of home maintenance contractor scams. So without further ado, I present: 5 THINGS YOU NEVER WANT YOUR CONTRACTOR TO SAY 1. “I NEED THE MONEY UP FRONT TO PAY FOR MATERIALS” 2. “IT LOOKS LIKE YOUR ROOK IS ABOUT TO CAVE IN” 3. “WE JUST FINISHED RESURFACING YOUR NEIGHBOR’S DRIVEWAY AND CAN DO YOURS CHEAP” 4. “IF YOU EVER HAVE A PROBLEM, JUST CALL ME DIRECTLY” 5. “IF YOU PAY CASH, I CAN GIVE A BETTER PRICE”