references provided, the experience that the expert has with regard to this particular area or task, and the time frame to complete the necessary work or task, to name but a few factors. A formal bid analysis process should be used to evaluate the bids. Just because a bid is the least expensive does not mean that it is the best one for your community. If a garage restoration project is 5% less expensive but takes twice as long to complete, then you will come to realize that some bids may have hidden costs that do not necessarily have a monetary value. It may be helpful to a board to see all factors summarized and side by side.

Finding the right experts is always an important exercise for any community. By following these steps, a lot of the guess work will be reduced and the RIGHT PROFESSIONALS WILL COME OUT OF HIDING AND BE EASIER FOR YOUR ASSOCIATION TO SEEK.

14 | COMMON INTEREST®

• Summer 2017 • A Publication of CAI-Illinois Chapter