Our Existing Home Customization Process

Your 7-Step Expert Guided Journey

Clear guidance and support from your first meeting to our collaborative celebration.

Read & Print Out The 7 Steps To Your Successful Build

Your Free Guide To A No-Surprises Construction Experience

Transforming Your Current Home: Expert Guidance With No Surprises

We believe transforming your existing home should be exciting and enjoyable. Our no-surprises philosophy means we discuss everything upfront, anticipate potential challenges, and keep you informed every step of the way. Through three decades of experience, we’ve developed a proven process that transforms your vision into reality while ensuring clarity and confidence throughout your journey.

See how we guide you through every phase of customizing your dream home, ensuring clarity and confidence at each step.

Step #1 -
Share Your Vision With Us

During your complimentary initial consultation, we’ll:

  • Review your project goals and explore your vision
  • Discuss your lifestyle needs and how they’ll shape your design & layout
  • Review our available homes, photo gallery and other websites for inspiration 
  • Expert guidance on what to expect throughout your journey so their are no surprises
  • Clear discussion of  budget considerations with ballpark price ranges
  • Outline our proven process and timeline expectations
  • Discuss financing options and requirements
  • Determine if investing in our Design & Discovery Phase makes sense

Our complimentary consultation helps you understand all aspects of customizing your existing home so you can make informed decisions with ease and confidence.

(A Simple, No-Obligation Phone or Zoom Call)

Step #2 - Design & Discovery Phase

  • Professional evaluation of your current home’s structure and spaces
  • Thorough feasibility analysis to determine if your vision aligns with your budget
  • Create preliminary sketches and space planning layouts
  • Customize floor plan and elevations
  • Set realistic allowances for major selections based on a general idea of what you want
  • Discuss sitework, permit fees & utility connections fees if applicable
  • Comprehensive planning with thorough cost analysis to prevent surprises
  • Refine budget parameters based on design decisions

Typical Investment: $500 – $2,500 Based on Project Scope

We will guide you through your financing options and pre-construction planning to create a clear path forward.

Step #3 -
Sign Construction Agreement

During this step, we: 

  • Complete detailed cost analysis and projections
  • Establish payment schedules and milestones
  • Develop detailed project timeline
  • Review client task list regarding choices and selections during the build phase
  • Sign off on the construction agreement and submit deposit for construction drawings, permitting fees and siteplan if needed (typically $5,000 to $30,000 deposit depending on project scope)

Our goal is to ensure you have complete clarity and confidence before we begin construction.

Step #4 -
We Secure Permits & Approvals

3D rendering of a home under construction with blueprints and energy efficiency chart and  wall insulation construction technical details

If applicable, we manage all aspects of:

  • Building permit applications and submissions
  • Zoning compliance verification
  • Environmental considerations
  • Historical district approvals
  • HOA or covenant reviews
  • Health department approvals
  • Site development permits
  • Utility connection permits

Our team coordinates with all relevant authorities to ensure a smooth approval process.

Step #5 -
Build

  • Maintain constant communication and progress updates with you
  • Coordinate all sitework including grading, drainage, and foundation preparation
  • Handle utility company coordination for power, water, and sewer connections or well/septic
  • Bi-weekly progress, budget and timeline updates via Zoom and site visits as needed
  • Internal quality checks at key construction milestones
  • Handle all building inspector requirements and scheduling
  • Optional job site camera for 24/7 remote viewing – perfect for out-state-clients (~$50/mo)
  • Manage timeline and budget throughout the build phase while addressing any questions or concerns promptly
  • Welcome design and functional refinements during construction with upfront pricing for changes and upgrades
  • Minimize disruption to any existing spaces if applicable
  • Ensure site security and cleanliness with daily cleanup and site organization to minimize disruption to your home

We actively manage every aspect of construction while keeping you informed and involved to help ensure your renovation is completed how you want with no surprises.

Step #6 -
Certificate of Occupancy

happy large family having holiday dinner on thanksgiving day

As we near completion:

Conduct detailed walkthrough inspections

  • Complete all punch list items
  • Ensure all systems are fully operational
  • Provide systems orientation and training
  • Review warranty information and coverage
  • Deliver owner’s manuals and documentation
  • Provide a digital record of all specifications, selections and paint colors
  • Schedule final inspections and obtain occupancy permits
  • Professional deep cleaning & restore normal access to your home
  • Regular check-ins during your first months after the build is complete

Whether you’re returning home after a major renovation or have remained in your home during the project, we ensure a smooth transition to enjoying your newly transformed spaces. We provide ongoing support to give you complete peace of mind well beyond your final payment to us because your happiness is extremely important to us and our reputation is everything.

Step #7 -
Celebrate Beginnings

  • Host a project completion celebration at our expense to showcase your transformed spaces
    • Welcome back the craftspeople who created your dream home to see their finished masterpiece
    • Watch with pride as our subcontractors and vendors share their craftsmanship to your guests
    • Invite friends and family to experience first-hand your custom home
  • Tell others about your experience online and through direct referrals
  • Join our community of satisfied, happy homeowners who experienced no surprises during the process and wouldn’t change a thing
  • Stay connected for future home care guidance and support

We believe transforming your home should be enjoyable, which is why we love celebrating with our clients and giving our dedicated craftspeople the chance to see their finished work being enjoyed!

Ready to Transform Your Current Home?

We take pride in making the home transformation process clear, organized, and enjoyable. Let’s explore how we can bring your vision to life through a complimentary consultation.

Our proven process has helped countless families reimagine their existing homes with no surprises along the way.

Whether you’re planning a major renovation or just starting to explore your options, we’re here to help guide you through every step of customizing your home.

Let us show you why so many of our clients say transforming their home was easier and more enjoyable than they ever expected.

(A Simple, No-Obligation Phone or Zoom Call)