Valley Home Builders Inc

One way you can tell a project is successful is when at its completion you feel you made the right choice for your builder, among other initial options. One year later, this impression is confirmed. The good impression we had at first with Arman was confirmed. VHB was definitely up to the task, very professional. Their top strength was in their architectural design experience and advices (Robert), and in project management (Mohammad), while all other aspects of the execution exuded professionalism. The VHB owner followed closely the project, and was hands on. Given that we had non-standard demands (insulation, structure), VHB proved to be quite flexible in accommodating our requests and in problem solving situations - both for the main structure and interior design. If we had some frustration it came from where we did not expect it: the slow processing of permit requests from the city, complex and arcane regulations (in spite of the city recently vowing to ease ADU construction), and the city clearly messed-up by requesting some changes late in the construction due to new fire regulations (closeness to the main home) while city could have caught these at the very beginning on the blueprint when presented for the initial permit. VHB proved to be patient, resourceful and accommodating. Afterward we realized how much our project needed a robust, cohesive and experienced team and VHB turned out to be exactly that. Jacques & Michele.

VHB was an absolute pleasure to work with. They were professional, competitive, passionate, and very knowledgeable. After listening to a description of our project and concerns, they crafted a remodeling plan tailored to address our exact needs while keeping extra costs low. They efficiently divided our project into multiple phases for a full design and build experience. Throughout the remodel, they demonstrated a mastery of design and build work while keeping us thoroughly consulted when needed. Once construction began, they provided us peace of mind that things were being professionally built and handled everything from management of subcontractors to permitting. I highly recommend them without reservation, and would work with them in the future without hesitation!

Still in progress. Going well.

It took me 2 years of interviewing with design concept with several Bay Area builders before I signed with Valley Hone Builders. Extremely patient team allowed for a year long design and planning, followed by 12 months demolition and build. Even with a major build error, they were professional and ethical, correcting the error and building my dream home. They have been true to their year warranty and even work after hours. Arman (whom I affectionately call second in command) and Joy (award winning designer) where essential team members whom I consider as friends at the competition of the build. You can easily find less expensive builders, but my grandpa always said, you get what you pay for. Without hesitation, I would sign with them again.

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If you are looking for a contractor that embodies high standards and quality workmanship during every stage of your remodeling project, then you need look no further than Valley Home Builders.  I had my home remodeled recently and they did an outstanding job from beginning to end.  They are thorough, reasonable and were an absolute joy to work with throughout the project. 

I gave them quite the challenge in that the home was built in 1952 and was in very poor shape.  They were realistic in what needed to be done and what the cost would be.  As a matter of fact, they were among a very limited number of contractors who provided me with realistic figures at the start of the remodel, which allowed me to make informed and intelligent choices as the project proceeded.

I am extremely happy with the result? a well-built, functional and beautiful home, and based on the comments of friends, family and even strangers, they all agree that not only do I have a well-built, functional and beautiful home but one of exceptional quality.  I have Valley Home Builders to thank for that and I will recommend them every chance I have to talk them up.  So I will say it again if you are looking for a building contractor you cannot go wrong with Valley Home Builders.  They will do the job right every time, and you can rest assured you are in good hands.

Pros
General Quality of Work
During construction it was obvious that VHB takes pride in the work they do.  I noticed the plywood subfloor was tongue and groove, glued and screwed to the floor joists to minimize squeaks.  I am not sure what the code requirements are, but I was really pleased with how this was done.The bathroom tile work was well done.  The tile guys worked late on multiple days to get this job done in a timely manner.  My wife and I were really pleased with the results.Very willing to resolve issues even after they received payment for a milestone.There are many examples where they added extras without us asking them to.  
These examples include:
- Adding extra attic vents
- Making the roofer come back to open up cutouts in roof for vents (I didn?t notice or ask them to do this)
Freebees
These are items that for various reasons, they openly took responsibility for and provided at no additional cost:
- Interior insulation
- Extra Attic ventilation
- Extra Attic Access
- Crown Molding
- Extra Schluter trim for tile in bathroom
- Refinishing of hardwood floor
Cons
Contract for Design
The contract that we signed stated that the $2700 we paid for the design would be applied to the total cost of our addition.  When we settled on a price for the addition we asked if the $2700 would be deducted as stated on the contract and they said ?no?, it was already deducted for the final price.  We told them that we thought this was kind of misleading and they gave us a $1000 credit.They told us they could not relocate existing sprinkler systems or pavers that were to be impacted by the addition.  They said we would have to get outside contractors to handle this on our own.  All other home remodeling companies we interviewed said they would be happy to relocate pavers and sprinkler systems for us.  We are not sure why VHB had such a ?unique? response.
Windows
We originally requested double hung windows for the project to match the windows with the rest of the house.  When the windows came they were casement style.  When I asked why this was done, they said it was needed to have enough window area to meet fire code.  When they drew up the original plans they didn?t account for this and make the window opening wide enough for double hung.  Because extra time and reengineering would be required to widen the window opening, they chose to increase the height.  As a result our windows are almost as high as a door.  
Communication
Between themselves - issues communicating between Designer and PM.  Shower niches not located where the designer told us they could be.  This was because we were going to locate the niches on a structural shear wall.
Directly with them - Kept confusing our project with another, similar project.
Use of Personal Items
VHB touts their Angies List awards and exceptional service as compared to other contractors.  Because of this, I was a little surprised to see the framers and subcontractors using our personal items.  Some of the personal items they used include:
- Hose coil used and damaged.  Never replaced.
- Hose reel used in place of the hose coil that was damaged above.
- I had a 5 gallon bucket in the garage used to store automotive grease guns.  The grease guns were placed on the garage floor so they could use our bucket.  As a result I walked into garage one day to find a large grease stain on the floor where the guns were laid (They offered to clean the grease stain).
- Another 5 gallon bucket was taken from the garage to perform tile work.  It was never returned.
- A push broom was taken from garage and used on job site.
- Patio Swing - We have a patio swing that I noticed was getting dusty from all the construction so we covered it in plastic.  A few days later we noticed the plastic was pulled off.  I guess the framers liked using the porch swing for their lunch break?  In any case it got pretty dusty and just another item we had to clean.
All of the items in question were used to perform the job.  Almost every item was worth $20 or less.  Nothing was deliberately stolen or maliciously damaged.  With that said, it would have been nice to get a phone call, email, or text basically stating something like ?hey, just wanted to let you know that we needed to use this or that out of the garage?.  
Determination of Grade
Started with an A+ and adjusted their grade based on the following:
- Windows, subtract 1, A
- Use of personal items, subtract 1, A
- Design contract issues, subtract 1, B+
- Communication, subtract 1, B
- Freebees, add 1, B+
Overall Grade B+, truncated to B for Angies list

It was a very, very good experience with company!

Before starting our project with Valley Home Builders we talked with two other contractors. All their prices were compatible but from the beginning we felt very comfortable with VHB. 

They were very friendly, listened to our ideas and gave us honest feedback. We loved their detailed contract which left nothing to speculation. Whenever any changes were suggested by us or required because of any reason the price was always discussed upfront, so there were no surprises later. At no time during the project they tried to sell us anything we didn't need.

They were always available to discuss any of our concerns.

All I would like to say is that they made the whole project stress free for us. We absolutely love our new house.

 

My wife and I had been planning a large scale remodel for the last few years, and after interviewing with several contractors we chose Valley Home Builders.



 Key decision points in our initial decision were:

·      Size: Large enough to take on a big projects, yet small enough to maintain a high touch customer engagement

·      Design Service Enabled us to explore many different ideas and make decisions that met our budget

·      Large portfolio of previous work: Enabled us to gather ideas and build confidence in their ability to take on big projects and delivery a quality product

·      Warranty: Willing to stand behind their work

·      Dedicated Project Manager: Resource assigned to our project to ensure timelines, quality, and requirements are met



Every remodel is a journey and our Project Manager, Mark Dalton was the key factor in ensuring that our project was a success. From day one Mark was hands on providing us with daily updates on what work would be done over the next few days, and what decisions we needed to make. With his many years of construction experience, Mark had both the technical expertise to ensure work was done right the first time, and was able to clearly explain the decisions we needed make. I also appreciate that Mark?s advice was always aligned with our best interest of delivering a quality product, and value for our investment. I was also impressed by all of the sub-contractors that Valley Home Builders used on the project, and Mark?s many years of working history with each of them. Mark was always on site to ensure that the sub-contractors understood the deliverables, and met  commitments. We were also very happy with the vendors Mark put us in touch with to purchase windows, doors, stone, carpet, et? Each and every one was a class act and met our expectations.



This was our third remodel ,and while every remodel is a stressful experience, Valley Home Builders and Mark Dalton set the standard for delivering customer service, setting expectations, meeting commitments, and producing a quality product. 



 

. The provider failed to meet expectations at virtually every stage of the process.   Provider was paid in full in May, 2014.  By NOVEMBER, provider failed to meet a deadline to submit a corrective action plan; a project that should take 30 hours to complete was not completed 6 months later.  
Apparently knowledgeable staff was "let go" from the company.  Replacement staff had to repeat every step of the process multiple times, including house measurements; staff provided rejected designs because the "city" directed them to increase side setbacks.  Staff was provided with detailed and cited city code.  After staff allegedly went to the city a second time to resolve the issue and failed, I went to the city and confirmed within minutes that the proposed side setbacks were lawful, appropriate and without any issue.  Staff was either unable or unwilling to understand the client  These are just minor examples of continuous problems, failures, and a lack of attention to detail. 
 I should have walked out the door the first time staff started a conversation with "don't tell the owner, but I did a little extra for you..."  While it felt like a used car salesman promising me phantom undercoating I didn't want or need; I was hoping it was just that, poor salesmanship, not a reflection of a company where the owner does not know what staff is really doing.  While I appreciated the polite nature of apologizing at virtually every communication about a lack of timeliness or having to repeat each step of the process, in the end 6 months and money was wasted.
The owner may have a problem finding my file; after 6 months; despite being corrected, staff continues to misspell my name on company documents, which exactly reflects the attention to detail I am expressing in this review.

After a very bad previous experience with remodeling, we went about things a bit differently this time around.  We interviewed several contractors for our project.  We found almost all of them on Angie's list and all were very professional and in the same range as far as pricing.  We selected Valley Home Builders because of the thoroughness in their approach, and attention to detail.  Mehdi was extremely attentive and from the get-go, completely understood what my wife and I were looking for.  He was very straightforward in terms of laying out what the project would involve and cost, and always made sure to give us practical advice, based on our budget.  In dealing with Valley Home Builders, I always felt their intent was to meet my needs within my budget, not sell me something I didn't need.
Our project manager Mark was equally thorough.  We would meet weekly (or whenever needed) to discuss progress and go over items that needed decisions.  Mark would always make himself available and take the time to explain issues in detail and help us make sound decisions.
As with any project of this scale, there were a few hiccups.  There were times where we had to work through issues.  At no point however did I ever feel that Valley Home Builders was trying to take advantage of the situation.  Whenever I asked for changes or wasn't entirely happy with the way something was done, the response was always "we will take care of it" and they always did.  
Every single issue or concern was always met with professionalism, detailed explanation, and a resolution.  Things simply weren't left hanging.  I have many nice things to say about Mark, Mehdi and the team at Valley Home Builders, but the greatest compliment we can give them is that they genuinely care about your project.  
We are incredibly happy with the finished product and with our decision to go with Valley Home Builders.  We couldn't have asked for a better result, or with a nicer team of people to work with.  A special shout-out to Mark who has become more like a friend than a project manager.  
I won't even think twice about hiring them again for future projects or about giving them the highest recommendation possible to my friends.  These guys are solid.  

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This was our first experience in a remodel and although we heard of many challenges many have had with their contractors, our experience with Valley Home Builders (VHB) was an extremely positive one!
Initially their Sales Rep met with us several times and provided us an estimate based on the requirements of what we wanted done. He was extremely supportive & reassured us we would achieve what we envisioned for our kitchen.

• VHB provided us with an excellent designer who spent many hours in designing our kitchen to meet our needs, maximizing our space, while keeping our budget in mind.  She also went with us to select our tile and granite, providing us with her expertise & guidance in both cabinet and tile/granite.

We were assigned a project manager, who was extremely easy to work with, responsive,stayed calm, and came up with solutions through any challenges that had come about. We established great trust in him, and was he was very committed to keeping us on schedule. 
The other contractors that provided us services such as electricians, plumbing, flooring & cabinet installers, also conducted their work with a high work ethic, and quality work.  We were extremely pleased with all the work conducted throughout the project.They showed up when they committed to doing so, and stayed to finish their work to keep the project on time.
The ValleyHome Builder team did an outstanding job, and we would highly recommend them.  They were a joy to work with, and look forward in working with them again for our future home improvement projects.

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I received bids from three different contractors. Valley Home Builders had the best bid.

There are still some things they are still working on but for the most part it has been pretty good. They have a very detailed contract. You have to make sure that everything you want is included or any additional work can be pricey. Majority of their subcontractor were very professional but there were 1 or 2 that weren’t up to their standard.

We worked with Valley Home Builders to expand and remodel a master bedroom and bath as well as a guest bathroom. Later on we added replacing old exterior siding with stucco and stone veneer. Throughout the project our experience in working with VHB could not have been better. 
One thing that helped us decide on VHB was that they took us on a tour of three actual job sites in various stages of completion. This gave us a very good impression of what they do and the kind of quality they deliver. 
We also really appreciated the itemized project plan, which detailed per room the work that would be done, the materials needed and how much everything would cost, so we knew all details up front. In weekly meetings with Arash, the project manager, we discussed what had been done, what would be next and what needed to change. VHB would not make any changes or decisions by themselves, but always consult us first and then issue a change order with pricing for us to approve. This worked very well and ensured we did not run into any nasty surprises. We also appreciated the fact that VHB posted documents and change orders on a secure website, which made things even easier.
When we ran into any problems, which you invariably do with bigger construction projects, VHB would immediately take steps to address the issue to our satisfaction. Noteworthy is that the problems we did encounter were all relatively minor and mostly related to finishing touches by their subcontractors (who overall did a great job as well), and could easily be fixed. 
VHB clearly showed they are an experienced company with a lot of know-how. Yet, at the same time they maintain a personal approach. We worked with Arman on most of the design and he came up with some great ideas that we might not have thought of ourselves. He always offered these as suggestions, never imposing anything, and this left us feeling that we were always in control of the entire project.
In any construction project, communication is key. Get all the details, be aware of what is going on and talk to your contractor about everything. With VHB, we found this very easy to do and their expertise, honesty, eye for detail and attention to their customers made our project a success.

Our overall experience with Valley Home Builders was very good.  We already had an idea of what we wanted done on our house and Mark at Valley Home Builders helped us get the plans drawn up and submitted to the city.  After the designs were approved, Medhi, Mark and Arash all came to the house to plan out the work.  Arash managed the project once the work began, and all of the work was performed right on schedule and the cost was exactly what was in the original contract.  Of course we ran into some issues with termites and we added some work that called for change orders, but Arash gave us quotes quickly and things stayed on schedule.  Employees of Valley Home Builders did all of the demolition, foundation work, carpentry, windows and siding.  They did an excellent job.  Subcontractors were used for roofing, electrical, plumbing, and drywall.  We had an issue with the drywall guys who left a mess after their work, but Arash arranged to have it cleaned up.  Overall, Valley Home Builders was great.  They accommodated our plans to do some work ourselves and the quality of their work was top notch.  We are very happy with our remodeled home.

We interviewed or contacted approximately 7 different contractors before deciding to go with VHB. Most of which we found on Angie's list. Several did not return my phone calls or did not want to even submit an estimate of cost. The others did not provide a detailed itemized estimate of cost . After talking with Arman, I was very comfortable in deciding to go with VHB. He was very easy to work with and helpful in making choices in materials. He provided costs for each phase of the job as well as the planned schedule.
The cost of the project was kept to a minimum of overruns. Curtis, the projected manager, was very prompt in providing "change order" costs. There were only two change orders for the project  The major extra cost was in the repairing of the wood sub-flooring in the master bath, which was anticipated because there was obvious damage under the old tile from a water leak .
There were a few modifications that were necessary during construction which were dealt with satisfactorily and promptly by Curtis at no extra cost. The overall cost of the project was still well below any of the other estimates that I received.
Most of the work was done by sub-contractors; electrical, plumbing, tile installation, painting, sheet rock , etc.  which I believe caused some delay in the completion of the project. However, the project was completed within the estimated time frame. There was some time lost around the Christmas/New Year holiday season, that was anticipated.
There are several things which I would have done differently had I known. We had gone ahead and purchased most of our items and fixtures prior to the start of the project and had them stored in the garage. We thought this would be a good idea in order to resolve problems such as the location of lights fixtures, vanities, toilets and drains. We also purchased the tile prior to the start of the project. This caused a problem in returning the extra tile that was not needed, since the original purchase contract had a 30 day limit on returns. However, Arman and the tile company where very helpful and easy to resolve the issue and come to an equitable agreement.
 We are very pleased with the look of our new bathrooms.

Before we even have any contract, we spent about three weeks to get the layout, specs to what we wanted at a cost in our comfort level, fitting to our budget.  They setup the schedule from start to end which they executed the pipelining tasks very well and followed pretty close according to the schedule, very strong in project management.  They were very responsive when we had questions and needed clarification.  We were also happy about the quality of products and materials that they used.  They disclosed about materials they used and why they used them.  This really helped us in gaining more understanding/knowledge and making better decision.  Their construction crews were on time, very professional and kept job site very clean and organized.  This kept my neighbors happy and I did not have anyone complaint about our construction.
One of my neighbors was a retired general constructor.  He watched them throughout the construction and he had pretty high remark about them.  I did not understand about the construction field and I could not remember precisely what he said.  However, a couple of things I remembered what my neighbor said were that the foundation work was done very well with strong steel frame connecting to existing structure and roof was also done exceptionally well by looking at a very beautiful straight roof line from one angle.  He said that we hired a very good one to do the job right.  This really confirmed what I have believed.
Another remark I have is that they were very honest.  This was something that I hardly believed from a construction company.
 They honored what they have agreed on but no writing.  For example, we mentioned to them that we wanted them to install ceiling fan for bedrooms but they did not put it in the contract.  Their project manager confirmed with the designer/sales about this conversation, went ahead and installed all ceiling fans we bought for the bedrooms at no extra charge.  They helped us to solve some hard problems.  For example, we could not find a matching toilet to fit in because it was always a couple of inches extra so the toilet could not fit in.  They acknowledged that during the construction phase, it was shorter wall-to-rough distance they made.  They went ahead and bought us a specialized Toto toilet to fit in.  This is the company we'd like to work with because they always cover our back with honesty and sincerity.
I can't say enough good things.  I just know that we made the right choice!  Thanks for Valley Home Builder to make our dream home came true.

Overall is went OK. On the one hand they did a nice thing when they put in the venting screens along the roof line.  This was not on the quote and I would have paid extra if they had brought it up .  They just did it.  On the other hand, I felt that I had to argue too often.  For example:
     *why was the finish to the interrior walls not part of the quote? The walls have to be finished in some way and if there was a question then they just need to ask me. I am very glad that they did not assume that I wanted texure because I really don't like texture I like smooth walls but this was an extra cost.
    *I had to insist that the nails on the outside walls be sunk and covered so that most of them wouldn't show through the paint
    *I was told that the (small) split in the wood on the side of the door was normal.  I know enough to know that split wood is not normal and that paint was not going to cover it up.  It was small enough to be fixed and the board needed to be a little more secure.  This was done.  
    *I finally had to ask when the trench was going to be filled in because the plastic sheeting was killing that section of the lawn (yes, it does need to be replaces but not right now).  They also left some of the stuff from the demo of the interior on the lawn and I finally just moved it so the grass could recover.
    * I had to insist that a gap in the facia be sealed so sthat it would be air tight when painted
    *The painter had to come back because there was no paint between the boards of the siding.
    
I would recommend that they inspect the work done and discuss with the home owner and then ask for payment at each milestone. 

Happy w/ overall process.  Good communication in less than ideal situation.

Overall very good. I am they were happy with their service. They kept their promise and finished their work on time. The work was done really well and I had no complaints about them. Their price was also very reasonable. I think that I would work with them again.