This is what ChatGPT actually looks like. It’s a simple tool with powerful technology behind it.
Google’s Out. ChatGPT Home Renovation Search Is In.
Are you willing to spend extra money, waste time, and possibly set your project back months because you didn’t hire the right contractor?
Probably not.
But it happens more often than you’d think—because folks skip the deep dive. Maybe a contractor sounded great online or came with a great referral, but then the project snowballed into budget blowouts, timeline delays, or even having to start over.
That one missed step? A relible process for choosing the right contractor. Don’t worry, here’s your chance to avoid this by using one tool: ChatGPT.
Getting Started with ChatGPT (It’s Easier Than You Think)
This labeled screenshot shows exactly where to start—just type your question, like you would in Google, and watch it go to work.
What Is ChatGPT, Anyway?
ChatGPT is a free AI assistant that works like a super-smart, super-patient research buddy. You ask it a question (called a “prompt”) and it gives you a clear, detailed answer based on what it’s learned from across the web.
It has a few benefits over traditional Google search:
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It won’t show you ads
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It learns your preferences over time, the more you use it the better it gets
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You can ask follow up questions and it can respond back
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What You Can Ask It:
To start your contractor research, try asking ChatGPT a few smart questions about your next renovation.
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- Who are the top remodeling contractors in Tallahassee?
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- Summarize the reviews for the top contractors in Tallahassee.
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- What’s the difference between a design-build firm and a general contractor?
And you can keep the conversation going by asking follow-up questions. It’s like texting a remodeling researcher who never gets tired.
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- Which contractros have a design team in house?
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- Which is more budget friendly?
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- etc…
How to Try It:
1. Go to chat.openai.com
2. Create a free account
3. Type your question into the box
You can also upgrade to ChatGPT Plus for $20/month—it gives you faster answers and extra tools, but the free version is a good place to start.
Here’s An Example
Okay, now let’s put ChatGPT to work. Here’s our game plan to help you plan your remodel. No tech degree needed.
Start with this simple prompt:
“Who are the top remodeling contractors in Tallahassee for a kitchen remodel?”
Then follow up with:
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“Which ones do both design and build?”
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“Do any specialize in older homes?”
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“Can you summarize their reviews from Google and Houzz?”
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This is a great way to get started—especially if you’ve remodeled before and know what you want.
What a Real ChatGPT Answer Looks Like
Here’s the response we’re starting with. It’s specific, local, and gave ChatGPT the info it needs to give you solid answers.
But here’s the catch (its a big one)
ChatGPT does produce errors — up to 25% of the time actually. Always verify by visiting the contractors website once you have a short list.
If someone puts misleading information on their website ChatGPT won’t know the difference. Similarly if a contractors website is missing information sometimes ChatGPT might try and “fill in the gaps’ and get things wrong.
They way you ask questions can also influence how it answers.
Use This Advanced Prompt to Get Even Better Results
Just update the details:
“Act as a home renovation expert in Tallahassee and help me find remodeling contractors for a [kitchen remodel.] I need a full renovation, including cabinets, countertops, electrical, and plumbing, in a [1960s ranch] home. Budget: [$75K–$95K.]
I want contractors who offer both design and build, and have experience with [older homes.] Priorities: quality work, clear processes, and local licensing.
Please find 3–5 matches and compare their experience, licenses, reviews, and project process. Highlight any red flags.”
What You’ll See When You Ask a More Specific Question
The More Specific You Are, the Smarter ChatGPT Gets
Even a tiny tweak to your question can make a big difference. When you add details like your budget, home’s age, or the type of remodel you want, ChatGPT gets sharper with its answers.
Double-Check What ChatGPT Tells You
ChatGPT is smart, but not a magic tool that takes out all the heavy lifting. Always verify what it finds.
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- Check licenses at myfloridalicense.com
- Confirm insurance by asking the contractor’s insurance company to email you directly
- Ask specific questions of each contractor you are considering.
Here’s the thing….
ChatGPT can ony ready what is on the web. Some contractors, like for example, put a lot of information on their site about pricing, process, scheduling etc… but other don’t so information can be limited.
ChaGPT is good way to start your search but you still want to visit contractors webistes on your own and have a good set if questions to ask them in person before making a final decisions.
We have a couple of resources that can help:
Now You Have an AI-Powered Research Toolkit
You’re not flying blind anymore. You’ve got the tools.
If you’re just getting started—or want a second opinion—reach out to us for a discovery call.
McManus Kitchen and Bath are local experts, trusted across Tallahassee. We’re here to make remodeling smarter, simpler, and way less stressful.
