I'm not sure what other section to put this in, so here goes...

 

My parents are considering having some minor upgrades done to our kitchen, but my mom does not know where to turn to get the work done in a cheap and efficient manner. Some of the things she wants is a tile backsplash, an under-the-counter microwave retrofitted into our current cabinetry, and new lighting over the island area, as well as painting the entire kitchen as well.

 

Can anyone throw some recommendations out there? btw we live on the east side, near Chagrin Falls.

there is a home remodeling thread started by MTS...may be more pertinent

 

to answer your question...you should try craigslist under "skilled services offered"...just be sure to find someone that has legitimate references

When I receive calls requesting contractor referrals, I recommend calling Neighborhood Housing Services.  It's a non-profit NeighborWorks affiliate that has had a loan program in Cleveland for a few decades.  As a result, their staff has a pretty good sense of who does good work. 

 

You can check out their website at www.nhscleveland.org.