How to Avoid Construction Scams in SWFL: Red Flags Every Homeowner Must Know

Why I Wrote This (And Why Your Time Matters)

I’m writing this because I respect your time—and if you’re going to read this, it needs to protect you. This article exists to help homeowners, investors, and families avoid deceptive tactics used by so-called contractors, influencer builders, and even licensed home builders who promise the world and deliver excuses—or nothing at all.

Let me be clear: I am not putting everyone in the same bucket.

There are many residential and commercial contractors who operate with high integrity, deliver what they promise, stand behind their work, and return to fix or improve anything that falls short. They take pride in their craft and their reputation. Unfortunately, there are also bad actors—and their actions harm families, communities, and the entire construction industry.

This Is Not New—And It’s Happening Here in SWFL

Recently, the news highlighted a North Texas influencer couple who pleaded guilty to conning dozens of families out of nearly $5 million through a home-building and renovation scheme.

They:

• Collected large upfront payments

• Performed little or no work

• Used client money for personal expenses, including mortgage payments and plastic surgery

• Defrauded over 40 families between 2020 and 2023
  

This is nothing new—and sadly, we see similar situations right here in Southwest Florida.

In places like Lee, Collier, Estero & Charlotte county , multiple home builders started new construction projects using poor materials, mismanaged funds, and eventually ran out of money—abandoning homes mid-build. Families and investors were left stranded, forced to figure out how to complete their homes while absorbing massive financial and emotional stress.

That breaks my heart.

I’m not here to criticize or tear down the industry. I want to be part of the solution. I cannot imagine how someone sleeps at night knowing they took advantage of people who worked their entire lives to build or remodel a home. If I owe a subcontractor $100 or a supplier hasn’t been paid, I’m already working to resolve it. That’s how we were taught to do business.

A Transparent Truth About Home Fixerz Construction

Home Fixerz Construction is far from perfect. We’ve made mistakes—every contractor who tells you otherwise is lying.

But our family business was built on a clear vision:

• Exceed client expectations

• Deliver high-quality craftsmanship

• Be transparent at every stage

• Operate with the highest level of integrity
  

  Major Red Flags to Watch for (And What to Do Instead)

  🚩 Red Flag #1: Large Upfront Payments (50% or More)

  If a contractor or home builder asks for 50% or more upfront, that is a huge red flag.

  What’s normal?

  • 5–10% deposit to secure scheduling

  • Payments tied to clear milestones

  At Home Fixerz, we typically structure payments in thirds:

  • Start of construction

  • Mid-project milestone

  • Completion

    For new construction using a bank loan or HELOC, payments should follow draw schedules based on completed phases—not promises.

  🚩 Red Flag #2: Refusing Inspections or Transparency

  If a contractor resists inspections or avoids accountability, walk away.

  What you should do:

  • Hire a certified home inspector

  • Visit the job site every 1–2 weeks

  • Require weekly updates with photos and videos if you can’t visit

  This should be written into your contract.

  🚩 Red Flag #3: The Cheapest Quote Is Not the Best Value

  A price far below market usually means:

  • Poor materials

  • Cut corners

  • Missing scope (Will come for more money later)

  • Future change orders
    

  Smart move:
  Get at least three estimates and compare apples to apples—scope, materials, timelines, warranties, and exclusions.

  If something feels too good to be true, it usually is.

  🚩 Red Flag #4: No Due Diligence Encouraged

  Don’t rely only on Google reviews.

  Do this instead:

  • Speak directly with past clients

  • Ask for active job site references

  • Prepare a list of questions about communication, delays, and problem-solving

  A reputable contractor will welcome this.

  🚩 Red Flag #5: License & Insurance Issues

  This is non-negotiable.

  For full remodels or new construction:

  • Verify active licensing

  • Confirm general liability and workers’ comp insurance

  • Check for complaints with the state
    Licensed contractors are required to follow Florida Building Code, which protects you if something goes wrong. Unlicensed work may look cheaper—but it can cost you far more later.

  🚩 Red Flag #6: Lack of Experience

  Experience matters—especially in SWFL where weather, soil conditions, and permitting can complicate projects.

  Home Fixerz Construction brings 30+ years of experience. We’ve seen most scenarios—and when issues arise, we know how to solve them because we’ve learned the hard way.

  Inexperienced contractors may mean well, but good intentions don’t finish homes.

  🚩 Red Flag #7: No Lien Waivers or Releases

  At the end of your project—or with each payment—you should receive:

  • Lien waivers from subcontractors and suppliers

  • Written confirmation that everyone has been paid

  This protects you from future legal claims—even after you’ve paid the contractor in full.

  Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself, Your Family, and Your Investment

  Building or remodeling a home is one of the largest investments of your life. You deserve honesty, clarity, and professionalism. If this article saves even one family from being misled or taken advantage of, then it was worth writing.

  If you ever need guidance—even if you don’t hire us—we are always willing to point you in the right direction.