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Verified custom home building reviews

Custom home builders in Essex

Avatar for DMV Pro Services
DMV Pro Services
Essex
4.94(
152
)
Approved Pro
DMV Pro Services
Essex
4.94(
152
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 98% of Angi customers
Recommended by 98% of HomeAdvisor customers
230 local quotes requested

WE offer Senior, Teachers, Military and First Responders discounts! ONE-STOP- SHOP, with over 15 years of professional experience covering all your home improvement needs. Our specialties include: Bathroom and Kitchen Remodel, Home Renovations, Interior and exterior Painting, Decks, Gutter Installation, Flooring Installation. Our quotes are ALWAYS FREE! We are licensed and insured to deliver superior service. We guarantee great quality results on all projects offering fair and competitive prices. We take great pride in pleasing our customers! Give us a call today, we look forward to serving you!

"Very hardworking, great and trustworthy! Such good communication and loved having them"

Kayla C on April 2025

WE offer Senior, Teachers, Military and First Responders discounts! ONE-STOP- SHOP, with over 15 years of professional experience covering all your home improvement needs. Our specialties include: Bathroom and Kitchen Remodel, Home Renovations, Interior and exterior Painting, Decks, Gutter Installation, Flooring Installation. Our quotes are ALWAYS FREE! We are licensed and insured to deliver superior service. We guarantee great quality results on all projects offering fair and competitive prices. We take great pride in pleasing our customers! Give us a call today, we look forward to serving you!

"Very hardworking, great and trustworthy! Such good communication and loved having them"

Kayla C on April 2025


Avatar for AES Builder & Home Improvements
AES Builder & Home Improvements
6915 Golden Ring Rd
4.37(
293
)
Approved Pro
AES Builder & Home Improvements
6915 Golden Ring Rd
4.37(
293
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
151 local quotes requested
36 years of experience

Company Motto: WHEN WE'RE DONE, YOU'LL BE HAPPY, IF YOU'RE NOT HAPPY, WE'RE NOT DONE. It's more than just a motto, it's our Company-Heartbeat. Family owned and operated, we have been serving Maryland Home owners since 1989. Stephen Longdo is a working owner, available to all his clients on a daily basis. We refuse to bid to subcontractors and give a FIVE YEAR FREE LABOR WARRANTY ON ALL OUR WORK. Member of BBB and the Maryland Improvement Contractors Association. MHIC License 37105. Angie's list members are entitled to 25% off, (up to $2,500.00 per household per year).

"All work was completed in a professional manner from initial planning through all phases of construction. The job site was maintained as expected. AES worked with us on a few small changes we requested along the way as well. I felt very comfortable with all the craftsperson’s at work in our home. There was great communication with AES throughout the job. I would use their services in the future."

Joe S on January 2025

Company Motto: WHEN WE'RE DONE, YOU'LL BE HAPPY, IF YOU'RE NOT HAPPY, WE'RE NOT DONE. It's more than just a motto, it's our Company-Heartbeat. Family owned and operated, we have been serving Maryland Home owners since 1989. Stephen Longdo is a working owner, available to all his clients on a daily basis. We refuse to bid to subcontractors and give a FIVE YEAR FREE LABOR WARRANTY ON ALL OUR WORK. Member of BBB and the Maryland Improvement Contractors Association. MHIC License 37105. Angie's list members are entitled to 25% off, (up to $2,500.00 per household per year).

"All work was completed in a professional manner from initial planning through all phases of construction. The job site was maintained as expected. AES worked with us on a few small changes we requested along the way as well. I felt very comfortable with all the craftsperson’s at work in our home. There was great communication with AES throughout the job. I would use their services in the future."

Joe S on January 2025


Avatar for Santana Construction Services, LLC
Santana Construction Services, LLC
3900 Jiggsy Ct.
5.00(
1
)
Approved Pro
Santana Construction Services, LLC
3900 Jiggsy Ct.
5.00(
1
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
54 local quotes requested

At Santana Construction Services LLC, we have over 10 years experience and we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction, from the start to the completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"I had such a great team working on my home. Every project was completed exactly how I requested and done timely. The most important factor for me was how they cleaned up after themselves after every job. Also, the constant communication. The work is definitely quality. I did everything in phases just to get a feel of their work. I had electrical and painting done in my office and mudroom. I later decided to hire them to complete some electrical, painting, gym, and storage built out in my basement. I am saving up for the full bathroom I want done in my basement. Will definitely hire them again."

Tania B on January 2025

At Santana Construction Services LLC, we have over 10 years experience and we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction, from the start to the completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"I had such a great team working on my home. Every project was completed exactly how I requested and done timely. The most important factor for me was how they cleaned up after themselves after every job. Also, the constant communication. The work is definitely quality. I did everything in phases just to get a feel of their work. I had electrical and painting done in my office and mudroom. I later decided to hire them to complete some electrical, painting, gym, and storage built out in my basement. I am saving up for the full bathroom I want done in my basement. Will definitely hire them again."

Tania B on January 2025


Avatar for Taylor Made Custom Contracting Inc
Taylor Made Custom Contracting Inc
1944 Nelson Mill Rd
4.65(
207
)
Approved Pro
Taylor Made Custom Contracting Inc
1944 Nelson Mill Rd
4.65(
207
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quality work
16 local quotes requested
35 years of experience

As a family-owned business since 1990, creating exceptional remodeling experiences for our customers is at the heart of everything we do. Winning Angi’s Super Service Award year after year, from 2009 to 2024, reflects our dedication to your satisfaction and the genuine care we bring to every project.

"Doug, who has done work for me before, came and assessed the space, helped me with the selection and did a beautiful install!"

Deborah V on October 2024

As a family-owned business since 1990, creating exceptional remodeling experiences for our customers is at the heart of everything we do. Winning Angi’s Super Service Award year after year, from 2009 to 2024, reflects our dedication to your satisfaction and the genuine care we bring to every project.

"Doug, who has done work for me before, came and assessed the space, helped me with the selection and did a beautiful install!"

Deborah V on October 2024


Avatar for River View
River View
2139 Espey Ct, Suite 7 & 8
4.64(
14
)
Approved Pro
River View
2139 Espey Ct, Suite 7 & 8
4.64(
14
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quality work
133 local quotes requested
1 years of experience

At River View our renovations stands out for its comprehensive services, expert team, customized solutions, quality assurance, proactive communication, attention to detail, timely completion, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Let us turn your renovation dreams into reality request a quote today!

"We write this review as a sigh of relief now that our renovation project with River View is finally complete. The quality of the final work is excellent, and the construction crew, architect, and county inspector were all great to work with. The original crew we worked with, led by Edwin, were so hardworking, friendly, thorough, and fast. That's what really pushed us from 2 to 3 stars. However, the process getting here was frustrating and unnecessarily chaotic. Timeline & Communication Issues: Initial promise: We were clear that the renovation had to allow us to live in our home during construction and be completed before Christmas. Early communication: Our original project manager, Cris, was personable, and early communication seemed fine, if a bit informal and sometimes inappropriately personal. Major miscommunication: Near the holidays, we discovered that the plans submitted included cutting into the roof — something we explicitly said we didn’t want. This contradicted verbal assurances and caused major last-minute changes. Project Management Failures: Poor planning and oversight: Cris and the architect’s plan didn’t align with the construction work. We had to get involved directly with the county to fix errors. Paperwork errors: Incorrect submissions to the county added delays and confusion, which we had to monitor ourselves. Last-minute scramble: We were cleaning up dust on Christmas Eve due to these planning failures. Personnel Turnover & Lack of Handoff: Cris leaves the company: No proper handover to James, the new PM, who was unfamiliar with our project. Crew replaced: The original crew, who were great, were gone; new crew had no context or direction. James leaves: Another handoff with no context — the third PM had no idea about our project or its outstanding items. Escalation mishandled: When we raised our concerns with Kyle, the CEO, the response felt dismissive, with no accountability for the previous missteps. In summary, it's a beautiful end result... but we’re glad it’s over. The process left us frustrated, confused, and frankly, exhausted."

Brian M on April 2025

At River View our renovations stands out for its comprehensive services, expert team, customized solutions, quality assurance, proactive communication, attention to detail, timely completion, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Let us turn your renovation dreams into reality request a quote today!

"We write this review as a sigh of relief now that our renovation project with River View is finally complete. The quality of the final work is excellent, and the construction crew, architect, and county inspector were all great to work with. The original crew we worked with, led by Edwin, were so hardworking, friendly, thorough, and fast. That's what really pushed us from 2 to 3 stars. However, the process getting here was frustrating and unnecessarily chaotic. Timeline & Communication Issues: Initial promise: We were clear that the renovation had to allow us to live in our home during construction and be completed before Christmas. Early communication: Our original project manager, Cris, was personable, and early communication seemed fine, if a bit informal and sometimes inappropriately personal. Major miscommunication: Near the holidays, we discovered that the plans submitted included cutting into the roof — something we explicitly said we didn’t want. This contradicted verbal assurances and caused major last-minute changes. Project Management Failures: Poor planning and oversight: Cris and the architect’s plan didn’t align with the construction work. We had to get involved directly with the county to fix errors. Paperwork errors: Incorrect submissions to the county added delays and confusion, which we had to monitor ourselves. Last-minute scramble: We were cleaning up dust on Christmas Eve due to these planning failures. Personnel Turnover & Lack of Handoff: Cris leaves the company: No proper handover to James, the new PM, who was unfamiliar with our project. Crew replaced: The original crew, who were great, were gone; new crew had no context or direction. James leaves: Another handoff with no context — the third PM had no idea about our project or its outstanding items. Escalation mishandled: When we raised our concerns with Kyle, the CEO, the response felt dismissive, with no accountability for the previous missteps. In summary, it's a beautiful end result... but we’re glad it’s over. The process left us frustrated, confused, and frankly, exhausted."

Brian M on April 2025


Avatar for Armadillo Tile and Home Repair
Armadillo Tile and Home Repair
5.00(
6
)
Approved Pro
Armadillo Tile and Home Repair
5.00(
6
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
40 local quotes requested

Armadillo Tile is a small Maryland business specializing in high end residential and commercial projects. With nearly two decades of experience and a keen eye for detail, we offer expert craftsmanship, unparalleled precision, and a commitment to excellence. Whether it’s a custom bathroom, a gourmet kitchen, or your own unique vision, we provide masterful installations that are both beautiful and durable, while exceeding clients’ expectations every step of the way

"Extremely satisfied with the work! They did an excellent job, got it done quickly and within budget. Also great communication! Highly recommend!"

Paul M on August 2024

Armadillo Tile is a small Maryland business specializing in high end residential and commercial projects. With nearly two decades of experience and a keen eye for detail, we offer expert craftsmanship, unparalleled precision, and a commitment to excellence. Whether it’s a custom bathroom, a gourmet kitchen, or your own unique vision, we provide masterful installations that are both beautiful and durable, while exceeding clients’ expectations every step of the way

"Extremely satisfied with the work! They did an excellent job, got it done quickly and within budget. Also great communication! Highly recommend!"

Paul M on August 2024


Dimitri's Home Improvement
4.75(
36
)
Approved Pro
Dimitri's Home Improvement
4.75(
36
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 94% of Angi customers
Recommended by 94% of HomeAdvisor customers
27 local quotes requested

Residential and Light commercial, General Contractor. Dimitri’s Home Improvement is a family owned business serving Baltimore, Howard and Anne Arundel counties. We offer quality work and a professional attitude backed with over 40 years of home improvement experience. **If contacting us via the Angie's List Message Center, PLEASE include your name and phone number within the message to ensure the most efficient service** thank you! Additional Services-Remodeling - Modular & Mobile Home Remodeling - Sunrooms & Patio Enclosures Window Treatments

"Very well. Workers cleaned up area and worked neatly. Very satisfied with quality of work and would use again!"

Tod H on November 2023

Residential and Light commercial, General Contractor. Dimitri’s Home Improvement is a family owned business serving Baltimore, Howard and Anne Arundel counties. We offer quality work and a professional attitude backed with over 40 years of home improvement experience. **If contacting us via the Angie's List Message Center, PLEASE include your name and phone number within the message to ensure the most efficient service** thank you! Additional Services-Remodeling - Modular & Mobile Home Remodeling - Sunrooms & Patio Enclosures Window Treatments

"Very well. Workers cleaned up area and worked neatly. Very satisfied with quality of work and would use again!"

Tod H on November 2023


Avatar for ROMERO'S HOME SOLUTION LLC
ROMERO'S HOME SOLUTION LLC
N Marlyn Ave.
4.92(
26
)
Approved Pro
ROMERO'S HOME SOLUTION LLC
N Marlyn Ave.
4.92(
26
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
24 local quotes requested

Romero's home solutions is one of the industry leaders specializing in all your home improvement needs.

"They did an excellent job painting my house. Everything was done to satisfaction."

Brian G on February 2025

Romero's home solutions is one of the industry leaders specializing in all your home improvement needs.

"They did an excellent job painting my house. Everything was done to satisfaction."

Brian G on February 2025


SWS Contracting & Management
13120 Suncrest Ave
5.00(
5
)
Approved Pro
SWS Contracting & Management
13120 Suncrest Ave
5.00(
5
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
79 local quotes requested

SWS Contracting and Management, LLC was established in 2010 and is a general contractor offering construction services in terms of Site Analysis, Feasibility Studies, Preliminary Design Studies, Permit/Zoning Applications, etc. We handle various industrial, distribution, manufacturing, office retail, recreational, healthcare, and commercial projects in DC, Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia markets.

"Everything went well from the start of engagement all the way with closeout of the project. SWS was very patient with me and maintained a level of professionalism and ensured the project stayed on target. I’m forever grateful and will use them again."

Denise B on November 2024

SWS Contracting and Management, LLC was established in 2010 and is a general contractor offering construction services in terms of Site Analysis, Feasibility Studies, Preliminary Design Studies, Permit/Zoning Applications, etc. We handle various industrial, distribution, manufacturing, office retail, recreational, healthcare, and commercial projects in DC, Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia markets.

"Everything went well from the start of engagement all the way with closeout of the project. SWS was very patient with me and maintained a level of professionalism and ensured the project stayed on target. I’m forever grateful and will use them again."

Denise B on November 2024


Avatar for VKB Kitchen & Bath
VKB Kitchen & Bath
6955 Oakland Mills Rd
4.75(
309
)
Approved Pro
VKB Kitchen & Bath
6955 Oakland Mills Rd
4.75(
309
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers
112 local quotes requested

VKB Kitchen & Bath is a proud member of the NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association). VKB Kitchen & Bath is also insured, licensed (class A), and bonded, and we are here to make sure that each and every project we work on is as spectacular as it is functional.

"2 of 997 Urgent: Project Management Issues & Pending Renovation Work We are experiencing significant project management issues that have caused unnecessary delays and frustration.Their quality of work is good but project management sucks big time,. We started our bathroom rennovations on Nov 29th 2024 the project wsda supposed to be completed in 5 weeks now it is almost 2 months and the master bathroom still needs to begin constreuction. We have had 3 project managers so far. However, despite multiple follow-ups over the past week via our text messaging group and several calls, we have yet to receive any updates on a variety of outstanding work in the loft and guest bathroom that need to be done. This lack of communication and progress is unacceptable. While we understand that Elkay is taking a break, the responsibility for keeping us informed and ensuring the project stays on track should not be neglected. We are not getting proper updates about stataus of several pending issues and we feel like we are being passed around without any clear resolution or accountability. The most pressing concern is the arrival of the bathtub, as all further work on the master bathroom is stalled until it arrives."

Firdosh B on January 2025

VKB Kitchen & Bath is a proud member of the NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association). VKB Kitchen & Bath is also insured, licensed (class A), and bonded, and we are here to make sure that each and every project we work on is as spectacular as it is functional.

"2 of 997 Urgent: Project Management Issues & Pending Renovation Work We are experiencing significant project management issues that have caused unnecessary delays and frustration.Their quality of work is good but project management sucks big time,. We started our bathroom rennovations on Nov 29th 2024 the project wsda supposed to be completed in 5 weeks now it is almost 2 months and the master bathroom still needs to begin constreuction. We have had 3 project managers so far. However, despite multiple follow-ups over the past week via our text messaging group and several calls, we have yet to receive any updates on a variety of outstanding work in the loft and guest bathroom that need to be done. This lack of communication and progress is unacceptable. While we understand that Elkay is taking a break, the responsibility for keeping us informed and ensuring the project stays on track should not be neglected. We are not getting proper updates about stataus of several pending issues and we feel like we are being passed around without any clear resolution or accountability. The most pressing concern is the arrival of the bathtub, as all further work on the master bathroom is stalled until it arrives."

Firdosh B on January 2025

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Custom home building FAQs

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 homeowners guide to custom home building
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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