Top-rated barndominium builders.

Get matched with top barndominium builders in Berlin, MD

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your barndominium building project in Berlin, MD?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

TRUSTED BY BERLIN, MD HOMEOWNERS

  • Average homeowner rating star icon3.8
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon46
    Verified barndominium building reviews

Find Barndominium builders in Berlin

Avatar for M Phippin Contracting Inc.

M Phippin Contracting Inc.

4.95(
22
)
Approved Pro

M Phippin Contracting Inc.

4.95(
22
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
13 years of experience

M. Phippin Contracting is proud to be a family owned and operated Construction Company! With 25 years of experience in the industry as a full service contractor who believes in earning trust and establishing relationships with our customers. We will never cut corners or use inferior products! M. Phippin Contracting is proud to collaborate with selected contractors on the Eastern Shore to ensure the best project outcomes! We treat our customers the way we would like to be treated, with honesty and respect…. M. Phippin Contracting just doesn’t do business any other way!

"Everything went well. Mike did a fantastic job communicating every step of the way. Easy to work with and showed up on time as promised."

Mike P on August 2023

M. Phippin Contracting is proud to be a family owned and operated Construction Company! With 25 years of experience in the industry as a full service contractor who believes in earning trust and establishing relationships with our customers. We will never cut corners or use inferior products! M. Phippin Contracting is proud to collaborate with selected contractors on the Eastern Shore to ensure the best project outcomes! We treat our customers the way we would like to be treated, with honesty and respect…. M. Phippin Contracting just doesn’t do business any other way!

"Everything went well. Mike did a fantastic job communicating every step of the way. Easy to work with and showed up on time as promised."

Mike P on August 2023


Avatar for O.C. Home Services

O.C. Home Services

4.50(
39
)
Approved Pro

O.C. Home Services

4.50(
39
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 94% of Angi customers
Recommended by 94% of HomeAdvisor customers
11 years of experience

O.C. Home Services is a Home Improvement and Emergency Service Company dedicated to Customer Service and Lifetime Clients. We offer a 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee; 100% of the time. "If you're not happy, we're not happy, and we're not done until you're happy!" We stand behind our products, workmanship, and warranties and we put it in writing; providing our clients the peace of mind they deserve. Contact us today!

"They were wonderful to work with. Our bathroom remodel was done in the exact amount of time they said it would take. The price we were quoted is exactly what we paid. And the work was done beautifully."

Amy S on June 2022

O.C. Home Services is a Home Improvement and Emergency Service Company dedicated to Customer Service and Lifetime Clients. We offer a 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee; 100% of the time. "If you're not happy, we're not happy, and we're not done until you're happy!" We stand behind our products, workmanship, and warranties and we put it in writing; providing our clients the peace of mind they deserve. Contact us today!

"They were wonderful to work with. Our bathroom remodel was done in the exact amount of time they said it would take. The price we were quoted is exactly what we paid. And the work was done beautifully."

Amy S on June 2022


Avatar for Sentri Homes

Sentri Homes

New on AngiNew on Angi
Approved Pro

Sentri Homes

New on AngiNew on Angi
Approved Pro
2 years of experience
Free onsite estimate

Sentri Homes is a full-service contractor delivering high-end home additions, whole-home remodels, new custom builds, luxury kitchens, structural framing, roof replacements, and every major renovation. We assign a dedicated project manager to every job, deliver meticulous craftsmanship with clear communication, and back our work with an industry-leading warranty to ensure complete peace of mind on your largest investments. Our in-house team of licensed builders and master craftsmen consistently earns 5-star reviews by turning big visions into stunning, high-value homes—when you need one trusted partner who truly does it all, we’re the proven choice.

Sentri Homes is a full-service contractor delivering high-end home additions, whole-home remodels, new custom builds, luxury kitchens, structural framing, roof replacements, and every major renovation. We assign a dedicated project manager to every job, deliver meticulous craftsmanship with clear communication, and back our work with an industry-leading warranty to ensure complete peace of mind on your largest investments. Our in-house team of licensed builders and master craftsmen consistently earns 5-star reviews by turning big visions into stunning, high-value homes—when you need one trusted partner who truly does it all, we’re the proven choice.


Avatar for Environmental Testing & Research Laboratories, Inc

Environmental Testing & Research Laboratories, Inc

4.85(
347
)

Environmental Testing & Research Laboratories, Inc

4.85(
347
)
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 93% of Angi customers
Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers

ETR Laboratories in an analytic laboratory with a broad range of commercial, industrial and individual clients. We provide analytic services using a wide variety of scientific methods including GC/MS, IC/MS, GIR, NMR and SEM equipment. We can do particle analysis, organic and inorganic chemical analysis and micro analysis on biological and other materials. Private water analysis is our specialty. Award winning. Additional DBA - Environmental Testing & Research Laboratories Inc, ETR Labs, ETR Laboratories.

"as advertised"

Nancy C on July 2018

ETR Laboratories in an analytic laboratory with a broad range of commercial, industrial and individual clients. We provide analytic services using a wide variety of scientific methods including GC/MS, IC/MS, GIR, NMR and SEM equipment. We can do particle analysis, organic and inorganic chemical analysis and micro analysis on biological and other materials. Private water analysis is our specialty. Award winning. Additional DBA - Environmental Testing & Research Laboratories Inc, ETR Labs, ETR Laboratories.

"as advertised"

Nancy C on July 2018


Avatar for APM Advanced Pest Management - Elkton

APM Advanced Pest Management - Elkton

4.72(
57
)

APM Advanced Pest Management - Elkton

4.72(
57
)
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 96% of Angi customers
Recommended by 96% of HomeAdvisor customers

Protecting your home, family and environment has been our family's business since 1964. Our company is committed to providing the highest quality service to our customers. We are a full service company providing a variety of pest control and specialty services to homes and businesses in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, and Northern Virginia. Our reputation, commitment to service excellence and competitive rates, make our company the right choice for you. APM. Character, Competence, Service. Additional phone number - (800) 566-2847. Additional DBAs - APM Services, APM, Inc.

"It went well."

Marshall K on January 2018

Protecting your home, family and environment has been our family's business since 1964. Our company is committed to providing the highest quality service to our customers. We are a full service company providing a variety of pest control and specialty services to homes and businesses in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, and Northern Virginia. Our reputation, commitment to service excellence and competitive rates, make our company the right choice for you. APM. Character, Competence, Service. Additional phone number - (800) 566-2847. Additional DBAs - APM Services, APM, Inc.

"It went well."

Marshall K on January 2018


Avatar for Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements, Inc

Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements, Inc

5.00(
48
)

Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements, Inc

5.00(
48
)
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements, Inc. has been in business for over thirty-five years with Larry Comer providing services to Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset and Dorchester counties in Maryland and Sussex County in Delaware for almost 15 years and Long Island, NY for over 20 years. Larry Comer, is a hands-on contractor; with vast experience and knowledge in remodeling and fine home building. "Every home I improve, I do with the same care as I would do for my family and friends." Our goal is to provide our clients with high quality craftsmanship, materials and the best customer service with fair prices. Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements knows the value a good contractor brings to a project which is why your complete satisfaction is our guarantee. Our good standing with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission and Maryland Home Builders and our online reviews speak for themselves. Throughout the years of renovating our clients' homes and businesses we have won their trust. Give us a chance to earn yours.

"All work done in a clean professional manner"

Bill L on March 2021

Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements, Inc. has been in business for over thirty-five years with Larry Comer providing services to Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset and Dorchester counties in Maryland and Sussex County in Delaware for almost 15 years and Long Island, NY for over 20 years. Larry Comer, is a hands-on contractor; with vast experience and knowledge in remodeling and fine home building. "Every home I improve, I do with the same care as I would do for my family and friends." Our goal is to provide our clients with high quality craftsmanship, materials and the best customer service with fair prices. Comer & Sons Construction and Home Improvements knows the value a good contractor brings to a project which is why your complete satisfaction is our guarantee. Our good standing with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission and Maryland Home Builders and our online reviews speak for themselves. Throughout the years of renovating our clients' homes and businesses we have won their trust. Give us a chance to earn yours.

"All work done in a clean professional manner"

Bill L on March 2021


Avatar for Shawn's Handyman Service, LLC.

Shawn's Handyman Service, LLC.

4.90(
60
)

Shawn's Handyman Service, LLC.

4.90(
60
)
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 95% of Angi customers
Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers

Shawn's Handyman Service is family owned and operated. We provide most all handyman services.We are professional and have reasonable competitive rates.There is no job too big or small. Our company provides Home Improvement, Deck repair, Electrical, shelving and painting.Repair and clean gutters,Repair and clean roofs. Call now and get a free estimate for Power Washing. Let us do the work to keep your home or business looking brand new. If we are on a job or with another client text us.You can send pictures as well of your problem or project.

"David is one of the best installers I’ve ever had come to my house to do a job; he was very straightforward no hidden fees of any sort. He was swift and very knowledgeable. He made sure he got the job done perfectly; there was no spillage of any water. When you think about a person's professionalism, I now think of David P."

Jose C on October 2022

Shawn's Handyman Service is family owned and operated. We provide most all handyman services.We are professional and have reasonable competitive rates.There is no job too big or small. Our company provides Home Improvement, Deck repair, Electrical, shelving and painting.Repair and clean gutters,Repair and clean roofs. Call now and get a free estimate for Power Washing. Let us do the work to keep your home or business looking brand new. If we are on a job or with another client text us.You can send pictures as well of your problem or project.

"David is one of the best installers I’ve ever had come to my house to do a job; he was very straightforward no hidden fees of any sort. He was swift and very knowledgeable. He made sure he got the job done perfectly; there was no spillage of any water. When you think about a person's professionalism, I now think of David P."

Jose C on October 2022


Avatar for Wantz Construction Co Inc

Wantz Construction Co Inc

4.93(
14
)

Wantz Construction Co Inc

4.93(
14
)
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Since 1947, Wantz Construction Company Inc. has been providing the finest general contractor services in the Baltimore, MD area. We offer an all-in-one service and work with you throughout the entire process in planning and executing your home addition. We also specialize in creating the perfect kitchen or bathroom for your family’s specific needs. So no matter what your needs are, we can help you with your new project from design to construction. To help you maximize your living space, we also provide basement remodeling services and deck construction. Call us today for more information. We are a family owned and operated business that takes pride in providing the highest quality service at prices you can afford. Our friendly and professional staff is here to answer any questions you may have about our company or our services.We are fully licensed, bonded and insured to handle any sized commercial or residential job. Our Home Remodeling Services Include: Home additions, Car garage construction, Screen room construction, Kitchen remodeling, Bathroom remodeling, Basement remodeling, Tile flooring, Marble countertops, Custom built showers, Dual vanity sinks, Deck construction Our Roofing and Siding Services Include: Roof repairs, New roof installation, Flat roofs, Rubber roofs, Aluminum siding, Vinyl siding, Cedar siding, HardiePlank® lap siding, Window and door replacement. Our Fire and Water Damage Restoration Services Include: Fire, smoke, and soot, Carpet removal and replacement, Ceiling, walls, and floor repairs. LICENSED, INSURED AND BONDED – YES!!!

Since 1947, Wantz Construction Company Inc. has been providing the finest general contractor services in the Baltimore, MD area. We offer an all-in-one service and work with you throughout the entire process in planning and executing your home addition. We also specialize in creating the perfect kitchen or bathroom for your family’s specific needs. So no matter what your needs are, we can help you with your new project from design to construction. To help you maximize your living space, we also provide basement remodeling services and deck construction. Call us today for more information. We are a family owned and operated business that takes pride in providing the highest quality service at prices you can afford. Our friendly and professional staff is here to answer any questions you may have about our company or our services.We are fully licensed, bonded and insured to handle any sized commercial or residential job. Our Home Remodeling Services Include: Home additions, Car garage construction, Screen room construction, Kitchen remodeling, Bathroom remodeling, Basement remodeling, Tile flooring, Marble countertops, Custom built showers, Dual vanity sinks, Deck construction Our Roofing and Siding Services Include: Roof repairs, New roof installation, Flat roofs, Rubber roofs, Aluminum siding, Vinyl siding, Cedar siding, HardiePlank® lap siding, Window and door replacement. Our Fire and Water Damage Restoration Services Include: Fire, smoke, and soot, Carpet removal and replacement, Ceiling, walls, and floor repairs. LICENSED, INSURED AND BONDED – YES!!!


Avatar for Insurance Claims Specialist, LLC.

Insurance Claims Specialist, LLC.

5.00(
12
)

Insurance Claims Specialist, LLC.

5.00(
12
)
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Insurance Claims Specialist, LLC. is a Maryland Licensed Public Adjusting Firm that represents Home & Business Owners to MAXIMIZE their property damage insurance claim recovery. We work EXCLUSIVELY for the Home or Business Owner, NOT the insurance company, to negotiate the very best settlement with their insurance company for our clients. We handle ALL types of Property Damage Insurance Claims and specialize in DENIED Insurance Claims & Lowballed Insurance Claims representation. We also provide Insurance Appraisal & Umpires Services and are a Maryland Licensed Home Improvement / Insurance Restoration Contractor that performs all types of repair, restoration, mitigation and rebuild services. Specializing in Insurance Claim Restoration. We handle Insurance Claims / Repairs / Rebuilds for all types of property damage. Including Fire, Water and Flood, Mold, Freeze, Wind / Storm and Hurricane, Burst Pipe and Vandalism damage, etc... Call Now for a FREE Insurance Claim Consultation. No Recovery, No Fee

"Simply put, hiring Insurance Claims Specialist, LLC was one of the most important decisions we made in getting our roof damage resolved. We are responsible homeowners with a strong track record of maintaining our house and property, as well as making sure we have proper insurance coverage. But when weather damaged our roof and our insurance provider denied our claim, we found ourselves in uncharted territory. The process with the insurance provider was daunting, confusing, lengthy, stressful, and not transparent. We were kept at arms length and passed through multiple reviewers. They sent a third-party engineer who showed up unannounced, spent very little time inspecting the damage, and then submitted a report that had numerous factual errors. That report then became a baseline for the insurance company! We were buried in red tape and going in circles. Wayne was able to quickly step in and, using his extensive expertise and knowledge of the regulations and insurance process, got right to the point. As a respected, experienced adjuster, his analysis and steadfast conclusions carried weight. In what could have been a disputed claim that may have taken years to resolve, he cut through the red tape and was able to resolve the matter in our favor within months. In a world where home owners are kept at arms length and treated with skepticism, Wayne was treated with respect as a knowledgeable expert whose views were grounded in experience. When he spoke, people listened. Wayne was very candid and responsive to us. He kept us out of the process details and acted as our representative, while keeping us appropriately informed. He made the process much less stressful! He got the right people to listen and move forward with the right decision. Again, one of the best decisions we’ve made. We highly recommend Insurance Claims Specialist, LLC without reservation."

Sid H on August 2023

Insurance Claims Specialist, LLC. is a Maryland Licensed Public Adjusting Firm that represents Home & Business Owners to MAXIMIZE their property damage insurance claim recovery. We work EXCLUSIVELY for the Home or Business Owner, NOT the insurance company, to negotiate the very best settlement with their insurance company for our clients. We handle ALL types of Property Damage Insurance Claims and specialize in DENIED Insurance Claims & Lowballed Insurance Claims representation. We also provide Insurance Appraisal & Umpires Services and are a Maryland Licensed Home Improvement / Insurance Restoration Contractor that performs all types of repair, restoration, mitigation and rebuild services. Specializing in Insurance Claim Restoration. We handle Insurance Claims / Repairs / Rebuilds for all types of property damage. Including Fire, Water and Flood, Mold, Freeze, Wind / Storm and Hurricane, Burst Pipe and Vandalism damage, etc... Call Now for a FREE Insurance Claim Consultation. No Recovery, No Fee

"Simply put, hiring Insurance Claims Specialist, LLC was one of the most important decisions we made in getting our roof damage resolved. We are responsible homeowners with a strong track record of maintaining our house and property, as well as making sure we have proper insurance coverage. But when weather damaged our roof and our insurance provider denied our claim, we found ourselves in uncharted territory. The process with the insurance provider was daunting, confusing, lengthy, stressful, and not transparent. We were kept at arms length and passed through multiple reviewers. They sent a third-party engineer who showed up unannounced, spent very little time inspecting the damage, and then submitted a report that had numerous factual errors. That report then became a baseline for the insurance company! We were buried in red tape and going in circles. Wayne was able to quickly step in and, using his extensive expertise and knowledge of the regulations and insurance process, got right to the point. As a respected, experienced adjuster, his analysis and steadfast conclusions carried weight. In what could have been a disputed claim that may have taken years to resolve, he cut through the red tape and was able to resolve the matter in our favor within months. In a world where home owners are kept at arms length and treated with skepticism, Wayne was treated with respect as a knowledgeable expert whose views were grounded in experience. When he spoke, people listened. Wayne was very candid and responsive to us. He kept us out of the process details and acted as our representative, while keeping us appropriately informed. He made the process much less stressful! He got the right people to listen and move forward with the right decision. Again, one of the best decisions we’ve made. We highly recommend Insurance Claims Specialist, LLC without reservation."

Sid H on August 2023


Avatar for Ballard & Mensua Architecture

Ballard & Mensua Architecture

4.75(
20
)

Ballard & Mensua Architecture

4.75(
20
)
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers

Ballard Mensua Architecture, led by Seth Ballard, NCARB, AIA, is a boutique architecture firm with a focus on creating truly custom designs and solutions for our clients. We have very strong vendor and contractor relationships, a result of our detailed understanding of construction. Unlike many architects, who like to design and then hand over control to the builder, Ballard Mensua maintains control of management of the project throughout construction. We have a unique cost-study process that helps to put our clients in control of spending... and results in completion of projects on budget.. almost unheard of in this business. Our designs speak for themselves... see our website at www.ballardmensua.com. Our business philosophy is that all clients should be a reference and we work hard to make sure to see projects through. We also have a unique ability to do very large projects without tearing a house down... we save much of the house and build around it... saving sometimes 10 dumpsters of landfill (truly green). Finally, where many architects bring their large ego and force their designs on clients... Ballard Mensua prides ourselves on tailoring designs to each client, listening to specific needs and working hard to make sure that our designs fit what a client is looking for. Additional email - [email protected].

"We just finished a spectacular custom home project in McLean, VA and we are so very grateful to Seth Ballard and his team! If you are considering hiring his firm, look no further. There can be no better architect in the DC/VA/MD area – and his pricing is more than fair. We first picked Seth because we loved his architectural style and heard that he had a reputation for ensuring that his plans are executed with impeccable precision and attention to quality. Also, his references were stellar….without exception, his former clients offered glowing praise for his talent, diligence, and follow-through. And now that we are former clients, we understand why. We always knew we were going to have a gem of a home with Seth at the helm. What we did not fully appreciate at the beginning was his proven ability to help us STAY ON BUDGET and his deep bench of connections with first-rate contractors and subcontractors who were prepared to bend over backward to meet Seth’s exacting standards. Here are just a few highlights from our experience: CONCEPT PHASE: During the initial meetings at our home, Seth went the extra mile to learn all about our lifestyle, future needs, architectural likes/dislikes, and budget. During this stage of the process, he would effortlessly make freehand drawings to help us visualize potential styles and layouts. We ultimately elected to go with a craftsman design, with lots of wood features inside and out. PICKING THE RIGHT PROPERTY: Seth joined us for car rides through the local neighborhoods, helping us to scout out the property that was best suited for our construction plans – free of any potential HOA or permitting snafus. DESIGN: With Seth’s guidance, we iterated on different design options. The design phase was high-tech and highly visual. Lots of 2D and 3D elevations, plus 360-degree videos. At each step, Seth clearly identified the estimated construction cost, and we would make decisions about what to dial-up and what to dial-down. For example, we elected to go with a cheaper asphalt roof (rather than slate), but with a more premium window. There were literally dozens of choices like that, and Seth did a superb job of helping us to make the right trade-offs and to “value engineer” the house. PICKING THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR AND SUBS: One of the things that distinguishes Seth from the competition is that he works closely with a handful of contractors and subcontractors who have already been “pre-screened” for excellence. Seth connected us with a general contractor who was not only honest and diligent, but whose carpentry was truly “artisan grade.” Seth also drew upon a stable of outstanding subcontractors – in areas such as HVAC/plumbing, electrical/lighting, structural engineering, cabinetry, tile, drywall/paint, countertops, hardwood flooring, landscaping, etc. It was perfectly clear that these subs were striving to deliver the highest quality and exemplary service. Why? Because Seth was an important source of repeat business for them. This made them extremely responsive. BUDGETING: Seth developed detailed spreadsheets estimating costs for every aspect of the project, as well as options for “enhancements.” Once we made our choices, he was instrumental in securing a FLAT FEE CONTRACT with the builder (inclusive of subs) for everything we wanted. To provide even more control over the cost, the agreement specified that certain items would be “owner provided, contractor installed.” This meant that, regardless of whether we bought pricey appliances or tile or flooring, it would have no impact of the builder’s fees. To his credit, Seth’s estimates were quite accurate, and the project stayed on budget. ARCHITECT FEES: We negotiated a flat fee for Seth’s architectural services, and got way more than we bargained for. We had no idea Seth would stay so engaged throughout the project -- micromanaging every detail, and even offering interior design suggestions (e.g., stains and paints, cabinet and window designs, furniture layouts, etc.). It became clear that, regardless of how much we had agreed to pay in fees, Seth was “all in,” and was committed to ensuring that the end result was perfection. To be sure, in any large construction project, there will be some hiccups. But this was yet another area where Seth shined. Rather than being indifferent, or pointing the finger at those who were actually at fault, he would step up to “own the problem” and take charge until the issue was resolved. In one such case, he developed a design tweak that saved us money and produced a more beautiful result in the process. We never had to stress too much, because we knew Seth was 100% engaged and we could trust that the final work product would be a treasure of a home. One final thought. While Seth’s tremendous talent is obviously perfect for large custom projects, we have no doubt that he can deliver outstanding value for smaller home renovations too. When we did kitchen/bath renovations in our prior home, we naively thought that a “design-and-build” firm would deliver the best solution. With the benefit of hindsight, we could have done so much better hiring Seth as the independent architect and separately hiring a builder who would be accountable to the architect. The result would have been better quality construction, a better value, and far less stress. So whether you are about to embark on a modest remodel or getting ready to “dream big” with a new custom home, look no further than Ballard Mensua Architecture."

jack l on January 2019

Ballard Mensua Architecture, led by Seth Ballard, NCARB, AIA, is a boutique architecture firm with a focus on creating truly custom designs and solutions for our clients. We have very strong vendor and contractor relationships, a result of our detailed understanding of construction. Unlike many architects, who like to design and then hand over control to the builder, Ballard Mensua maintains control of management of the project throughout construction. We have a unique cost-study process that helps to put our clients in control of spending... and results in completion of projects on budget.. almost unheard of in this business. Our designs speak for themselves... see our website at www.ballardmensua.com. Our business philosophy is that all clients should be a reference and we work hard to make sure to see projects through. We also have a unique ability to do very large projects without tearing a house down... we save much of the house and build around it... saving sometimes 10 dumpsters of landfill (truly green). Finally, where many architects bring their large ego and force their designs on clients... Ballard Mensua prides ourselves on tailoring designs to each client, listening to specific needs and working hard to make sure that our designs fit what a client is looking for. Additional email - [email protected].

"We just finished a spectacular custom home project in McLean, VA and we are so very grateful to Seth Ballard and his team! If you are considering hiring his firm, look no further. There can be no better architect in the DC/VA/MD area – and his pricing is more than fair. We first picked Seth because we loved his architectural style and heard that he had a reputation for ensuring that his plans are executed with impeccable precision and attention to quality. Also, his references were stellar….without exception, his former clients offered glowing praise for his talent, diligence, and follow-through. And now that we are former clients, we understand why. We always knew we were going to have a gem of a home with Seth at the helm. What we did not fully appreciate at the beginning was his proven ability to help us STAY ON BUDGET and his deep bench of connections with first-rate contractors and subcontractors who were prepared to bend over backward to meet Seth’s exacting standards. Here are just a few highlights from our experience: CONCEPT PHASE: During the initial meetings at our home, Seth went the extra mile to learn all about our lifestyle, future needs, architectural likes/dislikes, and budget. During this stage of the process, he would effortlessly make freehand drawings to help us visualize potential styles and layouts. We ultimately elected to go with a craftsman design, with lots of wood features inside and out. PICKING THE RIGHT PROPERTY: Seth joined us for car rides through the local neighborhoods, helping us to scout out the property that was best suited for our construction plans – free of any potential HOA or permitting snafus. DESIGN: With Seth’s guidance, we iterated on different design options. The design phase was high-tech and highly visual. Lots of 2D and 3D elevations, plus 360-degree videos. At each step, Seth clearly identified the estimated construction cost, and we would make decisions about what to dial-up and what to dial-down. For example, we elected to go with a cheaper asphalt roof (rather than slate), but with a more premium window. There were literally dozens of choices like that, and Seth did a superb job of helping us to make the right trade-offs and to “value engineer” the house. PICKING THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR AND SUBS: One of the things that distinguishes Seth from the competition is that he works closely with a handful of contractors and subcontractors who have already been “pre-screened” for excellence. Seth connected us with a general contractor who was not only honest and diligent, but whose carpentry was truly “artisan grade.” Seth also drew upon a stable of outstanding subcontractors – in areas such as HVAC/plumbing, electrical/lighting, structural engineering, cabinetry, tile, drywall/paint, countertops, hardwood flooring, landscaping, etc. It was perfectly clear that these subs were striving to deliver the highest quality and exemplary service. Why? Because Seth was an important source of repeat business for them. This made them extremely responsive. BUDGETING: Seth developed detailed spreadsheets estimating costs for every aspect of the project, as well as options for “enhancements.” Once we made our choices, he was instrumental in securing a FLAT FEE CONTRACT with the builder (inclusive of subs) for everything we wanted. To provide even more control over the cost, the agreement specified that certain items would be “owner provided, contractor installed.” This meant that, regardless of whether we bought pricey appliances or tile or flooring, it would have no impact of the builder’s fees. To his credit, Seth’s estimates were quite accurate, and the project stayed on budget. ARCHITECT FEES: We negotiated a flat fee for Seth’s architectural services, and got way more than we bargained for. We had no idea Seth would stay so engaged throughout the project -- micromanaging every detail, and even offering interior design suggestions (e.g., stains and paints, cabinet and window designs, furniture layouts, etc.). It became clear that, regardless of how much we had agreed to pay in fees, Seth was “all in,” and was committed to ensuring that the end result was perfection. To be sure, in any large construction project, there will be some hiccups. But this was yet another area where Seth shined. Rather than being indifferent, or pointing the finger at those who were actually at fault, he would step up to “own the problem” and take charge until the issue was resolved. In one such case, he developed a design tweak that saved us money and produced a more beautiful result in the process. We never had to stress too much, because we knew Seth was 100% engaged and we could trust that the final work product would be a treasure of a home. One final thought. While Seth’s tremendous talent is obviously perfect for large custom projects, we have no doubt that he can deliver outstanding value for smaller home renovations too. When we did kitchen/bath renovations in our prior home, we naively thought that a “design-and-build” firm would deliver the best solution. With the benefit of hindsight, we could have done so much better hiring Seth as the independent architect and separately hiring a builder who would be accountable to the architect. The result would have been better quality construction, a better value, and far less stress. So whether you are about to embark on a modest remodel or getting ready to “dream big” with a new custom home, look no further than Ballard Mensua Architecture."

jack l on January 2019

...
Showing 1-10 of 187
Barndominium Builders questions, answered by experts

Ranch and colonial-style homes are often the most affordable to build. They have a common layout with available designs that are easy to adjust in simple ways without having to spend too much on a structural engineer or architect. Both types of homes' symmetry, simple roofs, and often one or two-story plans mean they often fall in the $150 to $200 square-foot range, putting them right around average.

Yes, modular homes offer a wide range of customization options for layout, finishes, and features.

It usually takes around four to six months to build and install a modular home, although your timeline could go up to around eight months if there are delays in the manufacturing or permitting process. Heavy site preparation and foundation pouring can extend that timeline if you need them, as can customizations you want for your modular home. Your modular home company should be able to provide an estimate for the construction timeline before you sign any contracts or agree to any work.

Remodeling a house is often less expensive than building a new house. You can expect to pay an average of $100 per square foot when you are remodeling. The cost to build a house averages about $150 per square foot. When remodeling, though, some rooms cost more than $100 per square foot and some cost less. Use a home renovation cost estimator to accurately estimate your remodeling costs.

The primary reason homes have crawl spaces is so the foundation can reach down below the frost line to avoid dangerous soil movement and structural damage when the ground freezes. They’re more popular in colder climates where the ground freezes down to a few feet, and slabs are most popular in warmer areas where there is no frost line. Crawl spaces also provide a space for utility lines to run where they’re at less of a risk of freezing.

The Berlin, MD homeowners’ guide to barndominium building

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

What do you need done? We’ll find top pros.
  • 🌱 "Mow a small front yard"
  • 🛠 "Fix a leaking pipe under the sink"
  • 🏠 "Repair shingles on an asphalt roof"