I know I am probably screwed but need advice

[NewChief]

Originally Posted by Phobia

Depends on how much for how long. Home Depot can afford to float the cost of materials but if you special order something, you pay for it in advance. There's no absolute answer on it. I've deviated from my policies to make a client comfortable. But the real answer is that you don't do business with random idiots you found on the internet. Get a referral from a friend or pick somebody you know to be local and established.

If I were dealing with a contractor who didn't have the operating capital to special order stuff, I think I'd do his special ordering for him.

"You need doohickey #4? Great, I'll cut Home Depot a check and have them order it for you. If you want to tack on a contractor fee next draw to that then that's fine, but I'll place the order."