First and foremost, anyone you hire to install a hardwood inlay for you should have an extensive portfolio of work. This is true even if you don't need a custom inlay created.

Placing inlays within hardwood requires years of experience and a high amount of technical skill. Both of these things should be demonstrable with an accessible portfolio showing diverse inlay designs.

It is possible to negotiate with hardwood inlay contractors, and you are encouraged to do so. Placing inlays like this requires a significant level of skill. You will have to pay a premium for that skill, which means you should do everything in your power to negotiate the price down.

If you want a custom inlay created, it is recommended that you work directly with the hardwood inlay contractor. This way, you know you are getting a design that he or she can accurately put into your floor.

While you should try to negotiate pricing, you should never just go for the cheapest contractor you can find. Lower pricing with inlays often correlates to lower quality. The difference in quality will be drastic and you may as well get it done right the first time.