Recommendations, then "apples-to-apples" bids are the way to go after you really know what you want.

Aside from the "look" and dimensions, etc. you need make sure underlying factors, if any, will be addressed in bids (eg. insulation method, any foundation cracks need to be repaired? (how??), grading outside necessary? possible seepage, water-penetration?, excess humidity? new windows wanted? Egress necessary? etc., etc. How these are addressed at the outset (or NOT) can affect the bids, quality of job, long-term experience, etc.

I'm a handyman in Arlington, VA. When I finished our basement, I focused extra attention (and cash) on the items mentioned above and am so very glad I did. (Repairing other basement disasters (water, mold, etc) over the years that could have been prevented has given me a lot of insight.

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