Some professionals will be hired according to experience, qualifications, and knowledge, while others will be hired based on price and ability. Note that for a Full Scale Project, grantees should hire a construction professional that has a formal education, certificate, or degree.

Awarding a construction contract using the bid process is based primarily on cost. Awarding a professional services contract using the RFQ process is based primarily on knowledge, experience, ability, and education. Cost may not be the only factor in awarding a construction or renovation contract. Quality of work, references, the ability to complete on time and within budget, and bonding are other factors that could play a role in awarding a construction contract.

A construction contract does not have to be given to the lowest bidder. It must, however, be awarded to the lowest and best bidder. If the lowest bidder is not awarded the contract, it is very important that a detailed explanation be provided to the funding agency and that documentation be filed with the agency's council for any legal challenges that may be brought against the agency/program.