4. IN ORDER TO GET A BETTER SENSE OF THE GENERAL CONTRACTOR'S CAPABILITIES, it may be wise to take a look at their portfolios and references. Investigate the workmanship, style, and attention to detail of any projects they have done in the past in Los Angeles. In addition, don't be afraid to contact references provided by them from clients that they have serviced before; gauge their trustworthiness, communication style, and overall satisfaction with the contractor's work. To be continued.