Atlantic Custom Exteriors

I obtained three estimates for this job and Atlantic's was the highest by $500.00. I gave them the job anyway because: (1) they are a small local business, and I wanted to keep the money in our local economy, (2) they agreed to complete the work by a specific date, and (3) I really liked/trusted the salesman. The work was really well done, and it was done by the agreed upon date (6/21/12). The salesman was pleasant and courteous. The only problem I had with this was that once I had committed to giving them the job, I had to work with the person who handles the contracting and she was another story. Her rudeness made what would otherwise have been a super experience unpleasant. First, she demanded a 3.00% fee ($36.00 on top of a $1,200 deposit)) to use my credit card. This was the first time ever, anywhere, in my experience that a business required this, and rather than pay the additional $106 (3.00% of $3,550), I passed on using my card and getting my miles. Then, I have been traveling and my return to Florida was delayed from 6/22 to 7/6. When I explained this, she demanded immediate payment of the remaining balance, despite the fact that I would not be able to inspect the work prior to July 6th, implying that Atlantic had done me a favor by completing the work by the agreed-upon date. Rather than extend an unpleasant exchange, I had someone local inspect the work for me, and I have sent Atlantic a check. In summary, although I can certainly recommend the quality of their work, I could have spent $500 less, used my credit card without the fee, and overall had a more pleasant experience, if I had given the job to one of the other bidders.