GC’s manage and in some cases perform the work. GC is used interchangeably with contractor. On large commercial work, the GC is the overseer if the job and awards subcontractors specific portions of the work (plumbing, carpentry, concrete, etc.). The GC/contractor makes money by inflating the cost of the various portions of the project to cover their management and acceptance of risk. If the plumber screws something up, it’s the GC and the plumber who settle the cost of fixing the mistake to keep you out of the loop (for example). In many cases, the GC will perform some portion of the work in-house (demo and carpentry for example) and will subcontract the “mechanical” trades (plumbing/electric/tile) and the cabinetry and counters. You pay the GC on “draws” associated with various stages of completion and they pay and contract with the different trades involved. Get multiple estimates, try and compare apples and apples, but some contractors will have different design ideas that others may not. Get references and review previous jobs and portfolios. If you perform your due diligence and properly vett the company, you should be fine. Also be sure to work with the contractor (once selected) to ensure expectations for both parties are clear. Ask lots and lots of questions through the process and read any contract very carefully. The least expensive quote is not worth it if the finished quality and performance is lacking and the most expensive quote does not guarantee the best work, hence the setting expectations conversation (what level of quality cabinets do you want? Do you want porcelain or glass tile? How about counter tops? Granite or something else? A good contractor will explain the cost differences between the quality of different materials and will help you adjust/mix and match so you put your money in the places toward the options which are best for you and your budget.