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I always wonder why people are so willing to pay in full up front. If a contractor requires this, it can only mean that his credit must be poor. A few board feet of wood or whatever can't cost that much....builders build homes with significantly less up front and there is even an escrow amount at the end. If a contractor is that hard up for money, it tells you all you need to know. A payment plan is equitable, and keeps the business owner aware of the flow of projects ahead of him. It also forces a contact between the parties.