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Verified custom home building reviews

Custom home builders in River Forest

Avatar for 4Ever Remodeling
4Ever Remodeling
6881 N Milwaukee Ave
4.91(
366
)
Approved Pro
4Ever Remodeling
6881 N Milwaukee Ave
4.91(
366
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers
753 local quotes requested

Welcome to Stress-Free and High-Quality Remodeling. A great remodeling experience doesn’t happen by accident—it starts with choosing the right company that offers excellence through expert project consultants, professional designers, dedicated project managers, master installers, on-time project completion, and a 3-year project warranty. Our smooth, simple, and innovative approach ensures that every step of your remodeling journey is enjoyable, fulfilling, and frustration-free. From design to management to installation—we do it right. No exceptions. If you're ready to successfully complete your kitchen, bathroom, basement, or home remodeling project, schedule your in-home consultation with one of our friendly team members at 847-809-3355.

"Overall very happy with our experience with 4Ever Remodeling. They took our completely unfinished 1920s basement and created an in-law suite with extra-large bath. They were great at handling the City of Chicago permit process, which was one of my biggest concerns. Work included: Rebuilding basement stairs (sturdiest stairs I've ever seen). Adding a full bath with jetted tub, two-person shower, tile, all new plumbing including ejector pump. New exterior windows to comply with egress codes (really impressed with the exterior brickwork - you can't tell at all that any changes were made. They matched the grout and design perfectly). Installation of a large wet bar with dishwasher, shelving, quartz counters and cabinetry. Cabinets are very high quality. HVAC for basement and they extended the AC throughout first floor as well. Lighting, flooring, drywall, insulation etc. Highlights: Particularly impressed with their carpenter who did gorgeous, perfectly aligned work. Their designer, Magda was very helpful in guiding us and helping make selections (we've never done a project anywhere near this scope before). Communication was very clear and responsive. Workspace was immaculate at the end of every day. As with any project of this size there were a few nits: Their electrical team was slow to address a few concerns the inspector had and they disabled an outlet on the first floor. Granted, they were given an absolute trash mess of wiring to start out with. Also, the bathroom painter did not cover the tub when painting the ceiling, and I had to spend some time scraping flecks of paint off with a credit card. Those minor issues aside, I feel confident the project was done right, everyone that sees it absolutely gushes about the result, and I'm jealous that my in-law kitchen and bath are nicer than my own on our first floor! I'd definitely use 4Ever again (and in fact are considering a second project right now)."

Laura N on July 2022

Welcome to Stress-Free and High-Quality Remodeling. A great remodeling experience doesn’t happen by accident—it starts with choosing the right company that offers excellence through expert project consultants, professional designers, dedicated project managers, master installers, on-time project completion, and a 3-year project warranty. Our smooth, simple, and innovative approach ensures that every step of your remodeling journey is enjoyable, fulfilling, and frustration-free. From design to management to installation—we do it right. No exceptions. If you're ready to successfully complete your kitchen, bathroom, basement, or home remodeling project, schedule your in-home consultation with one of our friendly team members at 847-809-3355.

"Overall very happy with our experience with 4Ever Remodeling. They took our completely unfinished 1920s basement and created an in-law suite with extra-large bath. They were great at handling the City of Chicago permit process, which was one of my biggest concerns. Work included: Rebuilding basement stairs (sturdiest stairs I've ever seen). Adding a full bath with jetted tub, two-person shower, tile, all new plumbing including ejector pump. New exterior windows to comply with egress codes (really impressed with the exterior brickwork - you can't tell at all that any changes were made. They matched the grout and design perfectly). Installation of a large wet bar with dishwasher, shelving, quartz counters and cabinetry. Cabinets are very high quality. HVAC for basement and they extended the AC throughout first floor as well. Lighting, flooring, drywall, insulation etc. Highlights: Particularly impressed with their carpenter who did gorgeous, perfectly aligned work. Their designer, Magda was very helpful in guiding us and helping make selections (we've never done a project anywhere near this scope before). Communication was very clear and responsive. Workspace was immaculate at the end of every day. As with any project of this size there were a few nits: Their electrical team was slow to address a few concerns the inspector had and they disabled an outlet on the first floor. Granted, they were given an absolute trash mess of wiring to start out with. Also, the bathroom painter did not cover the tub when painting the ceiling, and I had to spend some time scraping flecks of paint off with a credit card. Those minor issues aside, I feel confident the project was done right, everyone that sees it absolutely gushes about the result, and I'm jealous that my in-law kitchen and bath are nicer than my own on our first floor! I'd definitely use 4Ever again (and in fact are considering a second project right now)."

Laura N on July 2022


Avatar for A&M Remodeling Co
A&M Remodeling Co
7039 W Addison St
4.82(
198
)
Approved Pro
A&M Remodeling Co
7039 W Addison St
4.82(
198
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 93% of Angi customers
Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers
15 local quotes requested

A&M Remodeling has a full understanding of the importance of your home. We are a company that has respect for all your home repair needs. We will do anything from minor repairs to completely remodel your kitchen, bathroom or any other project you may have. We will consult with you on your remodeling and/or decorating needs. We have a passion on beautifying homes with the customers satisfaction in mind. Call us and we will discuss your particular remodeling or repair needs. Award wining.

"Martin and his team were amazing! They were clean and efficient.. my bathroom is beautiful and was done in a timely manner . Thank you so much for making my gut rehab amazing !!"

Yolie M on May 2025

A&M Remodeling has a full understanding of the importance of your home. We are a company that has respect for all your home repair needs. We will do anything from minor repairs to completely remodel your kitchen, bathroom or any other project you may have. We will consult with you on your remodeling and/or decorating needs. We have a passion on beautifying homes with the customers satisfaction in mind. Call us and we will discuss your particular remodeling or repair needs. Award wining.

"Martin and his team were amazing! They were clean and efficient.. my bathroom is beautiful and was done in a timely manner . Thank you so much for making my gut rehab amazing !!"

Yolie M on May 2025


Avatar for DAL Builders
DAL Builders
1 Mid America Plaza
4.66(
311
)
Approved Pro
DAL Builders
1 Mid America Plaza
4.66(
311
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
168 local quotes requested
31 years of experience

DAL Builders has been handling various construction jobs from simple re-modeling to full-scale new construction since 1994. Our team of licensed experts ensures 100% satisfaction every time. Our mission at DAL Builders Inc. is to provide service that exceeds our clients expectations. We strive to provide a safe and enjoyable workplace. We treat every job as if we were working in our own home, Providing quality work at a fair price. Always being conscientious of our surroundings using environmentally friendly products and practices at no additional cost to our clients.

"About three years ago, DAL refinished our basement and did an absolutely AMAZING job, so when we decided to add a pantry to our kitchen this year, we knew just who to call! Tim is great to work with, and the two guys who did the install today were professional, kind, and smart as heck because they got these too tall cabinets to fit absolutely perfectly. We’d use them again for other work in a second!"

Elizabeth M on August 2024

DAL Builders has been handling various construction jobs from simple re-modeling to full-scale new construction since 1994. Our team of licensed experts ensures 100% satisfaction every time. Our mission at DAL Builders Inc. is to provide service that exceeds our clients expectations. We strive to provide a safe and enjoyable workplace. We treat every job as if we were working in our own home, Providing quality work at a fair price. Always being conscientious of our surroundings using environmentally friendly products and practices at no additional cost to our clients.

"About three years ago, DAL refinished our basement and did an absolutely AMAZING job, so when we decided to add a pantry to our kitchen this year, we knew just who to call! Tim is great to work with, and the two guys who did the install today were professional, kind, and smart as heck because they got these too tall cabinets to fit absolutely perfectly. We’d use them again for other work in a second!"

Elizabeth M on August 2024


The Civic Architectural Group, Inc.
9119 151st Street
New on HomeAdvisorNew on Angi
Approved Pro
The Civic Architectural Group, Inc.
9119 151st Street
New on AngiNew on HomeAdvisor
Approved Pro
40 local quotes requested
51 years of experience

Welcome to The Civic Architectural Group, Inc. where you can Expect the exceptional … because this is what we expect of ourselves as architects, as human beings. We recognize that each and everyone of our clients are individuals with individual desires and expectations. We are passionate about our services with compassion for each client: their budgets, personalities, lifestyles, or business cultures are important to us. We speak the loudest in the room by listening

Welcome to The Civic Architectural Group, Inc. where you can Expect the exceptional … because this is what we expect of ourselves as architects, as human beings. We recognize that each and everyone of our clients are individuals with individual desires and expectations. We are passionate about our services with compassion for each client: their budgets, personalities, lifestyles, or business cultures are important to us. We speak the loudest in the room by listening


Avatar for Above & Beyond Construction
Above & Beyond Construction
2141 W Crescent Ave
4.98(
41
)
Approved Pro
Above & Beyond Construction
2141 W Crescent Ave
4.98(
41
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
22 local quotes requested

In business since 1993, specializing in residential & commercial addition, build outs and all types of remodeling: bathrooms, kitchens, etc. References are available upon request and free estimates are always provided..We currently have 11 employees, though when appropriate, we use sub contractors. All tradesmen (carpenters, plumbers, HVAC specialists, electricians) are licensed with the state of Illinois. Welcome to Above & Beyond Construction, where we specialize in custom homes, additions, major renovations and whole house remodeling. Above & Beyond follows in the same core traditions and values since over two decades ago when the company was founded by owner Chester Sulewski. Today, we continue in that same tradition of superior custom design, exceptional quality, alongside a professional and courteous work ethic. Coupled with input and communication from our customers, we are able to meet our main goal: to accommodate your budget and lifestyle. Call today for the best!

"Above and Beyond Construction recently completed an almost whole-house renovation including a family room addition, a fully remodeled kitchen, relocated stairways, three bathrooms, and a finished basement. The addition seamlessly blends with the original spaces, making it feel like a natural extension of my home. The work is detailed and outstanding to the point that visitors do not know where the original 1911 house ends and the 2024 house begins. The highly skilled craftsmen matched the woodwork details of the original house to the new addition perfectly. Chester is easy to work with, has a positive outlook, and a good sense of humor. He will work with you to answer questions, provide suggestions, and address concerns throughout the renovation process. Above and Beyond transformed my little frame house from an outdated, decades-neglected, design and décor calamity left by the prior owners into an elegant space that honors tradition yet transcends centuries."

Debbie B on October 2024

In business since 1993, specializing in residential & commercial addition, build outs and all types of remodeling: bathrooms, kitchens, etc. References are available upon request and free estimates are always provided..We currently have 11 employees, though when appropriate, we use sub contractors. All tradesmen (carpenters, plumbers, HVAC specialists, electricians) are licensed with the state of Illinois. Welcome to Above & Beyond Construction, where we specialize in custom homes, additions, major renovations and whole house remodeling. Above & Beyond follows in the same core traditions and values since over two decades ago when the company was founded by owner Chester Sulewski. Today, we continue in that same tradition of superior custom design, exceptional quality, alongside a professional and courteous work ethic. Coupled with input and communication from our customers, we are able to meet our main goal: to accommodate your budget and lifestyle. Call today for the best!

"Above and Beyond Construction recently completed an almost whole-house renovation including a family room addition, a fully remodeled kitchen, relocated stairways, three bathrooms, and a finished basement. The addition seamlessly blends with the original spaces, making it feel like a natural extension of my home. The work is detailed and outstanding to the point that visitors do not know where the original 1911 house ends and the 2024 house begins. The highly skilled craftsmen matched the woodwork details of the original house to the new addition perfectly. Chester is easy to work with, has a positive outlook, and a good sense of humor. He will work with you to answer questions, provide suggestions, and address concerns throughout the renovation process. Above and Beyond transformed my little frame house from an outdated, decades-neglected, design and décor calamity left by the prior owners into an elegant space that honors tradition yet transcends centuries."

Debbie B on October 2024


Avatar for MPT Enterprises Inc
MPT Enterprises Inc
1713 N Aralia Dr
4.83(
175
)
Approved Pro
MPT Enterprises Inc
1713 N Aralia Dr
4.83(
175
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 94% of Angi customers
Recommended by 94% of HomeAdvisor customers
72 local quotes requested

We are construction company providing quality service to residential clients in Chicago and following counties: Cook, McHenry, Kane and DuPage. MPT Enterprises offers a wide range of construction and remodeling services to meet just about every customers needs. From the beginning to the finish of the project we are always committed to provide outstanding work and service. We use licensed subcontractors for plumbing and electrical work. See us at: www.MPTENTERPRISES.com

"Paul is fantastic to work with. I've worked with his company on several different projects over the past 5 years - kitchen remodel, front porch remodel, stairwell rebuild. His team is knowledgeable, responsive and good at what they do. Can't recommend him enough."

John I on October 2021

We are construction company providing quality service to residential clients in Chicago and following counties: Cook, McHenry, Kane and DuPage. MPT Enterprises offers a wide range of construction and remodeling services to meet just about every customers needs. From the beginning to the finish of the project we are always committed to provide outstanding work and service. We use licensed subcontractors for plumbing and electrical work. See us at: www.MPTENTERPRISES.com

"Paul is fantastic to work with. I've worked with his company on several different projects over the past 5 years - kitchen remodel, front porch remodel, stairwell rebuild. His team is knowledgeable, responsive and good at what they do. Can't recommend him enough."

John I on October 2021


Avatar for Trueline Studios
Trueline Studios
1510 N Tripp
5.00(
3
)
Approved Pro
Trueline Studios
1510 N Tripp
5.00(
3
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
23 local quotes requested

Trueline Studios, LLC is an owner-operated, small studio founded in 2021. We focus on residential new construction, additions and renovations as well as small commercial renovations. With over 15 years’ experience in the architectural field, Trueline Studios provides a unique perspective on each project. Trueline Studios is licensed in the state of Illinois, and self-certified to permit within the City of Chicago. The goal of every project is to provide the client with what they want, need and can afford.

"Trudy from True Line Studio is a true professional in every sense of the word. Her exceptional work on our Luxe Realty studio headquarters project has left us thoroughly impressed. We purchased an old bank building with a vision to transform it into a multifunctional space, combining commercial and residential units. Trudy played an instrumental role in bringing our vision to life. From the very first consultation to the final project completion, Trudy exhibited unwavering dedication and a profound understanding of our needs. She navigated the complex process of acquiring all the necessary drawings and permits with ease and precision. Her extensive knowledge of the local regulations and zoning requirements streamlined the permitting process, saving us both time and money. What sets Trudy apart is her ability to balance the artistic and functional aspects of architecture. She seamlessly blended the historical charm of the old bank building with modern design elements, creating a space that is both elegant and highly functional. The transformation was nothing short of remarkable, and we owe it all to her expertise and vision. Trudy's attention to detail, responsiveness, and commitment to excellence made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. She worked closely with our team, ensuring that all our requirements were met and even exceeded. Her dedication to our project went above and beyond our expectations. We wholeheartedly recommend Trudy to anyone seeking a commercial or residential architect. Her talent, professionalism, and dedication are truly exceptional. We are immensely satisfied with the work she has done for us, and we look forward to collaborating with her on future projects."

Linda H on October 2023

Trueline Studios, LLC is an owner-operated, small studio founded in 2021. We focus on residential new construction, additions and renovations as well as small commercial renovations. With over 15 years’ experience in the architectural field, Trueline Studios provides a unique perspective on each project. Trueline Studios is licensed in the state of Illinois, and self-certified to permit within the City of Chicago. The goal of every project is to provide the client with what they want, need and can afford.

"Trudy from True Line Studio is a true professional in every sense of the word. Her exceptional work on our Luxe Realty studio headquarters project has left us thoroughly impressed. We purchased an old bank building with a vision to transform it into a multifunctional space, combining commercial and residential units. Trudy played an instrumental role in bringing our vision to life. From the very first consultation to the final project completion, Trudy exhibited unwavering dedication and a profound understanding of our needs. She navigated the complex process of acquiring all the necessary drawings and permits with ease and precision. Her extensive knowledge of the local regulations and zoning requirements streamlined the permitting process, saving us both time and money. What sets Trudy apart is her ability to balance the artistic and functional aspects of architecture. She seamlessly blended the historical charm of the old bank building with modern design elements, creating a space that is both elegant and highly functional. The transformation was nothing short of remarkable, and we owe it all to her expertise and vision. Trudy's attention to detail, responsiveness, and commitment to excellence made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. She worked closely with our team, ensuring that all our requirements were met and even exceeded. Her dedication to our project went above and beyond our expectations. We wholeheartedly recommend Trudy to anyone seeking a commercial or residential architect. Her talent, professionalism, and dedication are truly exceptional. We are immensely satisfied with the work she has done for us, and we look forward to collaborating with her on future projects."

Linda H on October 2023


A P Builder & General Contractor LLC
2079-A Stonington Ave
4.19(
89
)
Approved Pro
A P Builder & General Contractor LLC
2079-A Stonington Ave
4.19(
89
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
88 local quotes requested
Free onsite estimate

We are a family owned and operated company; with every phase of design, building and community development under the skilled guidance of a family member. At A.P. Builder & General Contractor, our business is more than building. Our business is building a better quality of life for our residents, respecting the communities in which we build and demonstrating a concern for the landscape we change. These qualities combine to comprise a thirty-year tradition of family commitment to excellence in building. Our clients receive impeccable attention to detail and premium service from a financially stable and sound company. We are dedicated to customer satisfaction with every aspect of the project from concept to completion. This is who we are and what we are at A.P. Builder & General Contractor; people who build, enjoy it and want to extend our expertise to you. Let us know how we may be of service to you.

"Our experience with AP Builder was great. Angelo was very knowledgeable and professional, keeping us informed every step of the way. This was a big important project for our home and I am extremely happy with how it came out! The cost was very reasonable and there were no surprises, everything was open and honest. I would definitely use them again and recommend to friends and family. Thank you AP!"

David A on March 2025

We are a family owned and operated company; with every phase of design, building and community development under the skilled guidance of a family member. At A.P. Builder & General Contractor, our business is more than building. Our business is building a better quality of life for our residents, respecting the communities in which we build and demonstrating a concern for the landscape we change. These qualities combine to comprise a thirty-year tradition of family commitment to excellence in building. Our clients receive impeccable attention to detail and premium service from a financially stable and sound company. We are dedicated to customer satisfaction with every aspect of the project from concept to completion. This is who we are and what we are at A.P. Builder & General Contractor; people who build, enjoy it and want to extend our expertise to you. Let us know how we may be of service to you.

"Our experience with AP Builder was great. Angelo was very knowledgeable and professional, keeping us informed every step of the way. This was a big important project for our home and I am extremely happy with how it came out! The cost was very reasonable and there were no surprises, everything was open and honest. I would definitely use them again and recommend to friends and family. Thank you AP!"

David A on March 2025


Avatar for Marc Anderson Architects
Marc Anderson Architects
333 W Hubbard St
5.00(
8
)
Approved Pro
Marc Anderson Architects
333 W Hubbard St
5.00(
8
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
76 local quotes requested

Marc Anderson Architects is an easy-to-work Chicago-based full-service architecture and design firm serving the greater Chicagoland area. We listen to our clients to learn and then adopt their goals as our own. These goals focus our work to find the best custom design for each client. Our knowledge of construction methods expands our creative flexibility while also providing cost-effective solutions. With experience in residential, mixed-use developments, commercial build-outs, public institutions, daycare centers, and commercial tenant improvements, MAA is well prepared to help you plan a beautiful, functional space that fits your specific needs.

"After a year of working with us, Marc designed the perfect home for our family. He spent significant time on site to get to know the space and spoke to us frequently to ensure his design met our hopes and dreams. His final design is visually stunning and maximizes space use in a way that reflects both the history of the home and modern preferences. His expertise in Chicago building code and city offices was instrumental in our project being approved quickly. He reviewed bids with us to ensure we selected a GC who could do the job and had competitive pricing. He regularly met and emailed with the GC and suppliers to address issues as they arose during the job so that all were resolved to our satisfaction. Throughout it all, he was just a nice guy to work with during a process that can be very stressful."

Adam P on June 2021

Marc Anderson Architects is an easy-to-work Chicago-based full-service architecture and design firm serving the greater Chicagoland area. We listen to our clients to learn and then adopt their goals as our own. These goals focus our work to find the best custom design for each client. Our knowledge of construction methods expands our creative flexibility while also providing cost-effective solutions. With experience in residential, mixed-use developments, commercial build-outs, public institutions, daycare centers, and commercial tenant improvements, MAA is well prepared to help you plan a beautiful, functional space that fits your specific needs.

"After a year of working with us, Marc designed the perfect home for our family. He spent significant time on site to get to know the space and spoke to us frequently to ensure his design met our hopes and dreams. His final design is visually stunning and maximizes space use in a way that reflects both the history of the home and modern preferences. His expertise in Chicago building code and city offices was instrumental in our project being approved quickly. He reviewed bids with us to ensure we selected a GC who could do the job and had competitive pricing. He regularly met and emailed with the GC and suppliers to address issues as they arose during the job so that all were resolved to our satisfaction. Throughout it all, he was just a nice guy to work with during a process that can be very stressful."

Adam P on June 2021


Avatar for DESIGNfirst Builders LLC
DESIGNfirst Builders LLC
1201 Norwood Ave.
4.49(
199
)
Approved Pro
DESIGNfirst Builders LLC
1201 Norwood Ave.
4.49(
199
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
148 local quotes requested
20 years of experience

Design First Builders is a premier Chicago home remodeling company and all-inclusive design/build firm located in Itasca. We specialize in kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, basement remodeling and basement finishing as well as home additions, room additions and design. Serving all of Chicagoland we have over 100 years combined experience and are dedicated to simplifying the renovation process and building sophisticated spaces that add value to your home or business. We will also build your custom home on the lot of your choice. When DESIGNfirst was founded in 2006, we had a staff of three people managing all design, development and construction for projects throughout Chicagoland. Today we have a large team of Designers, Architects, Managers, Contractors and more to assist you in defining, expanding and building your dream space. ​We also offer financing options, client referral rewards, excellent customer service and have various industry partners offering discounts exclusive to our clients. We do everything with the client in mind to ensure a smooth process in creating every dream space!

"We hired Design First to redo our downstairs including a kitchen and bathroom. I would never recommend this company to anyone based on our experience with them. The company should be renamed Disappointment First. We used this company due to the recommendation of a friend but did not realize the ownership had changed. There are several other reviews that discuss how the company’s performance degraded with the new ownership. If you do use Design First, please learn from our mistakes in dealing with them and insist upon a firm completion date with a penalty per day for missing it. Several of their competitors offer this, and in our naivete we did not request a penalty for missing the completion date. We had a signed change order with a guaranteed 12/25/23 completion date, that they missed by several months. When we brought this up in discussions with them, they were dismissive and stated no penalty so nothing we can do."

SAIF R on July 2024

Design First Builders is a premier Chicago home remodeling company and all-inclusive design/build firm located in Itasca. We specialize in kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, basement remodeling and basement finishing as well as home additions, room additions and design. Serving all of Chicagoland we have over 100 years combined experience and are dedicated to simplifying the renovation process and building sophisticated spaces that add value to your home or business. We will also build your custom home on the lot of your choice. When DESIGNfirst was founded in 2006, we had a staff of three people managing all design, development and construction for projects throughout Chicagoland. Today we have a large team of Designers, Architects, Managers, Contractors and more to assist you in defining, expanding and building your dream space. ​We also offer financing options, client referral rewards, excellent customer service and have various industry partners offering discounts exclusive to our clients. We do everything with the client in mind to ensure a smooth process in creating every dream space!

"We hired Design First to redo our downstairs including a kitchen and bathroom. I would never recommend this company to anyone based on our experience with them. The company should be renamed Disappointment First. We used this company due to the recommendation of a friend but did not realize the ownership had changed. There are several other reviews that discuss how the company’s performance degraded with the new ownership. If you do use Design First, please learn from our mistakes in dealing with them and insist upon a firm completion date with a penalty per day for missing it. Several of their competitors offer this, and in our naivete we did not request a penalty for missing the completion date. We had a signed change order with a guaranteed 12/25/23 completion date, that they missed by several months. When we brought this up in discussions with them, they were dismissive and stated no penalty so nothing we can do."

SAIF R on July 2024

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FAQs for custom home building projects in River Forest, IL

Typically, it’s more affordable to buy an existing home than it is to build a new one. New construction loan interest rates tend to be higher than interest rates for traditional mortgages. Additionally, the cost of materials is likely higher when building a new home than it was when an existing home was built (unless it’s a very new one). You’re also paying for all new appliances, finishes, permits, inspections, and connections for water, gas, and electricity. 

One starting point to find a local home builder is to collect suggestions from friends and neighbors. However, it’s still wise to do some more research before you hire a builder. Read reviews to supplement any word-of-mouth recommendations. Check sources like Angi that have standards and criteria in place to screen the pros it lists can also help you find more reputable local home builders.

The average price per square foot to build a house is about $150 per square foot. Overall, the cost to build a house ranges anywhere from $100 to $500 per square foot, depending on where you build. The primary cost factors include location, size, and style of house you build.

The average cost to hire an architect for your home project ranges between $2,200 and $10,500. However, depending on location and project type, you might end up paying as little as $600 or as much as $45,000 or more. For example, the average cost of hiring an architect in North Carolina is between $1,800 and $2,000, but in California, that price tag jumps to $3,600 to $15,200

The price you pay for your architect also depends on their experience level. For example, a principal architect, the firm's owner, typically charges $150 to $250 per hour. However, an intern architect with three to five years of experience usually only charges $45 per hour. 

Knowing if you need an architect for your project can be tricky, especially if you've never worked with one before. In general, small remodeling projects like replacing fixtures typically don't require the expertise of an architect. However, larger projects, like moving walls or adding an addition to your home, should include an architect to ensure the project is structurally sound.

The River Forest, IL homeowners’ guide to custom home building
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
The exterior of a luxury house
Nov 27, 2024
Nov 27, 2024
The cost to frame a house can vary depending on the size of your home, the structure you’re building, and your materials. Keep reading to learn how much framing your house might cost.
remodeled home with vaulted ceiling
Dec 16, 2024
Dec 16, 2024
The cost to convert a vaulted ceiling to a second floor depends on factors such as its size, intended function, materials, and the project's complexity.
A beautiful landscaped garden
Oct 28, 2024
Oct 28, 2024
Few things elevate your outdoor space like a landscape architect can. Learn about how much a landscape architect costs and what affects your total.
New spec homes in a suburban neighborhood
Nov 25, 2024
Nov 25, 2024
Are you considering building your next home? This guide explains the difference between a spec home vs. custom home so you can make an informed decision.
Brutalist style house exterior surrounded by hills
Nov 7, 2024
Nov 7, 2024
Brutalist architecture was popular in the U.S. from the 1950s to the 1980s. Learn what brutalist architecture is and some of its key elements.
Architect and homeowner at home build site
Jan 25, 2024
Jan 25, 2024
It's time to make the ultimate decision: building vs. buying a home. We'll walk through the building vs. buying the debate from all angles.
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