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Avatar for VKB Kitchen & Bath

VKB Kitchen & Bath

4.75(
309
)
Approved Pro

VKB Kitchen & Bath

4.75(
309
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers
24 years of experience

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


Avatar for Spire Architecture, Inc.

Spire Architecture, Inc.

5.00(
19
)
Approved Pro

Spire Architecture, Inc.

5.00(
19
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
32 years of experience

SPIRE Architecture champions the idea of providing authentic living spaces designed to be both functional and affordable. The practice at SPIRE is to provide comprehensive services, offering quality design to clients, along with connections to interior designers, landscape architects, and top-notch construction services for a complete design team. SPIRE was born 5 years ago through the joining of two previous firms, Craig Martin's "Martin Architecture Guild", and Kurt Shepard's "KCS Architects". Together, Craig and Kurt are able to combine the years of design experience, in-the-field construction time, and experience in navigating the sometimes difficult permitting process in Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, and throughout Maryland. The SPIRE team strives in all ways for excellence... in design, service to the client, service to the community, and delivery of a wonderful experience as well as a successful project. 'Ut Prosim'... that I may Serve

"We have long ties to Annapolis and had become familiar with Spire and one of its principals, Craig Martin, in particular. Though we live in Virginia, we wanted his particular creative vision and preservation sensitivity for an addition to our old River house, c. 1870. We found Craig and the entire Spire group to be entirely professional, while also personable, excellent listeners, patient and responsive to many questions in a timely manner and attentive to every detail for our schematics. Craig and Brady Reeder, the design technician, were a joy to work with. Our first experience with an architectural firm and it was a fabulous experience."

Clair P on July 2022

SPIRE Architecture champions the idea of providing authentic living spaces designed to be both functional and affordable. The practice at SPIRE is to provide comprehensive services, offering quality design to clients, along with connections to interior designers, landscape architects, and top-notch construction services for a complete design team. SPIRE was born 5 years ago through the joining of two previous firms, Craig Martin's "Martin Architecture Guild", and Kurt Shepard's "KCS Architects". Together, Craig and Kurt are able to combine the years of design experience, in-the-field construction time, and experience in navigating the sometimes difficult permitting process in Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, and throughout Maryland. The SPIRE team strives in all ways for excellence... in design, service to the client, service to the community, and delivery of a wonderful experience as well as a successful project. 'Ut Prosim'... that I may Serve

"We have long ties to Annapolis and had become familiar with Spire and one of its principals, Craig Martin, in particular. Though we live in Virginia, we wanted his particular creative vision and preservation sensitivity for an addition to our old River house, c. 1870. We found Craig and the entire Spire group to be entirely professional, while also personable, excellent listeners, patient and responsive to many questions in a timely manner and attentive to every detail for our schematics. Craig and Brady Reeder, the design technician, were a joy to work with. Our first experience with an architectural firm and it was a fabulous experience."

Clair P on July 2022


Avatar for Ballard+Mensua Architecture

Ballard+Mensua Architecture

5.00(
15
)
Approved Pro

Ballard+Mensua Architecture

5.00(
15
)
Approved Pro
32 years of experience
Warranties offered

Ballard+Mensua Architecture is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"Seth Ballard designed a beautiful house for us at Snowshoe Resort in West Virginia. Seth and his team helped us through the process each step of the way and was a huge help when it came time to select a builder as well as finishes for the house. He showed meticulous attention to detail and had the highest level of commitment to our project. We would highly recommend him as an architect. "

Carole A on June 2025

Ballard+Mensua Architecture is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"Seth Ballard designed a beautiful house for us at Snowshoe Resort in West Virginia. Seth and his team helped us through the process each step of the way and was a huge help when it came time to select a builder as well as finishes for the house. He showed meticulous attention to detail and had the highest level of commitment to our project. We would highly recommend him as an architect. "

Carole A on June 2025


Avatar for Adam Contracting

Adam Contracting

4.83(
137
)
Approved Pro

Adam Contracting

4.83(
137
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 93% of Angi customers
Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers
18 years of experience

My name is Justin LeBlanc, and I am the owner and operator of Adam Contracting. Adam Contracting considers customer satisfaction our highest priority, and we make sure that, as a client, you are satisfied not only with the affordability but the quality of our work. Adam Contracting is a fully licensed and insured company. Please feel free to contact us anytime for an estimate!

"My only regret is not hiring Adam Contracting sooner. From the beginning of the project, I was updated on the schedule and cost. All of the employees were professional, and skilled, and left my house clean after each task. If I had issues or noticed something that needed to be changed the owner addressed the concern immediately. I am very happy with the finished project!"

Nia W on November 2022

My name is Justin LeBlanc, and I am the owner and operator of Adam Contracting. Adam Contracting considers customer satisfaction our highest priority, and we make sure that, as a client, you are satisfied not only with the affordability but the quality of our work. Adam Contracting is a fully licensed and insured company. Please feel free to contact us anytime for an estimate!

"My only regret is not hiring Adam Contracting sooner. From the beginning of the project, I was updated on the schedule and cost. All of the employees were professional, and skilled, and left my house clean after each task. If I had issues or noticed something that needed to be changed the owner addressed the concern immediately. I am very happy with the finished project!"

Nia W on November 2022


"We have used The North Star Companies for several jobs in the past, with the most recent being the largest. We hired them do a complete renovation of our home in Severn. The job grew larger as demo began and turned into a job requiring the rebuild of exterior walls, demo of concrete slabs - basically the house had to be rebuilt from the ground up. All new plumbing, electric, framing, windows, siding, roof, etc. I have known Chris for 20+ years and was confident that our forever home would be solid and done right. We had a few hiccups throughout the process - as this was done during Covid, so there were supply issues, delays and so forth, but Chris and his guys did an amazing job. We couldn't be happier and are continuously getting compliments on our beautiful home. Chris has been and will continue to be our go-to for any construction needs for us and our family and friends."

toni l on December 2023

The North Star Companies, LLC, is the premier contracting company in MD. We pride ourselves on delivering a quality service, at an affordable price, with the customer's best interests at heart.

"We have used The North Star Companies for several jobs in the past, with the most recent being the largest. We hired them do a complete renovation of our home in Severn. The job grew larger as demo began and turned into a job requiring the rebuild of exterior walls, demo of concrete slabs - basically the house had to be rebuilt from the ground up. All new plumbing, electric, framing, windows, siding, roof, etc. I have known Chris for 20+ years and was confident that our forever home would be solid and done right. We had a few hiccups throughout the process - as this was done during Covid, so there were supply issues, delays and so forth, but Chris and his guys did an amazing job. We couldn't be happier and are continuously getting compliments on our beautiful home. Chris has been and will continue to be our go-to for any construction needs for us and our family and friends."

toni l on December 2023


Avatar for Kapital Drafting L.C.

Kapital Drafting L.C.

4.71(
17
)
Approved Pro

Kapital Drafting L.C.

4.71(
17
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 94% of Angi customers
Recommended by 94% of HomeAdvisor customers
7 years of experience

Kapital Drafting LC delivers unparalleled quality in residential construction documentation and specializes in providing comprehensive design and drafting services tailored to individual homeowners, contractors, and licensed design professionals. Unlike many drafting services that provide basic 2D plans, the offerings here go above and beyond to ensure every detail is meticulously considered and clearly presented. Advanced software such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) is utilized to produce comprehensive 3D models and highly detailed architectural and structural plans that leave little to no questions unanswered. This level of detail facilitates smoother construction processes, reduces errors, and saves valuable time on site. While full project lifecycle assistance is available, the primary expertise lies in delivering top-tier construction documentation that sets the foundation for efficient and smooth construction. By choosing Kapital Drafting LC, clients benefit from precision, clarity, and exceptional attention to detail in all residential construction projects

"Project went well"

Steve S on April 2025

Kapital Drafting LC delivers unparalleled quality in residential construction documentation and specializes in providing comprehensive design and drafting services tailored to individual homeowners, contractors, and licensed design professionals. Unlike many drafting services that provide basic 2D plans, the offerings here go above and beyond to ensure every detail is meticulously considered and clearly presented. Advanced software such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) is utilized to produce comprehensive 3D models and highly detailed architectural and structural plans that leave little to no questions unanswered. This level of detail facilitates smoother construction processes, reduces errors, and saves valuable time on site. While full project lifecycle assistance is available, the primary expertise lies in delivering top-tier construction documentation that sets the foundation for efficient and smooth construction. By choosing Kapital Drafting LC, clients benefit from precision, clarity, and exceptional attention to detail in all residential construction projects

"Project went well"

Steve S on April 2025


KMA Associates, Inc.

4.70(
6
)
Approved Pro

KMA Associates, Inc.

4.70(
6
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Terrific value
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
44 years of experience

My name is Robert Congedo president of KMA Associates, Inc, I have the following licenses: Class A Virginia, Maryland contractors, Maryland home improvement, Montgomery contracting, PG county contracting, Calvert Co contracting, District of Columbia contracting, land disturber certified from Virginia. I have over thirty years of experience from building houses in all price ranges, in all of these areas. I spend a lot of time on every job to make sure things are done right. All of my homes have appraised for 10 to 30 percent higher than the cost to build. I can offer you competitive pricing as I have low overhead and years of experience with all my subs. I build one at a time. All my estimates are free and depending on the detail are exact prices. I have never increased price on any project without the owner's approval in writing.I also carry over two million in liability insurance . I can find lots in any area and have available architects to help design your home.

"We recently hired KMA to remodel our kitchen and they did a beautiful job!! They were very knowledgeable in all aspects of the project and kept us informed every step of the way. We will be using them again to update our 2.5 bathrooms in the future."

Elizabeth W on August 2024

My name is Robert Congedo president of KMA Associates, Inc, I have the following licenses: Class A Virginia, Maryland contractors, Maryland home improvement, Montgomery contracting, PG county contracting, Calvert Co contracting, District of Columbia contracting, land disturber certified from Virginia. I have over thirty years of experience from building houses in all price ranges, in all of these areas. I spend a lot of time on every job to make sure things are done right. All of my homes have appraised for 10 to 30 percent higher than the cost to build. I can offer you competitive pricing as I have low overhead and years of experience with all my subs. I build one at a time. All my estimates are free and depending on the detail are exact prices. I have never increased price on any project without the owner's approval in writing.I also carry over two million in liability insurance . I can find lots in any area and have available architects to help design your home.

"We recently hired KMA to remodel our kitchen and they did a beautiful job!! They were very knowledgeable in all aspects of the project and kept us informed every step of the way. We will be using them again to update our 2.5 bathrooms in the future."

Elizabeth W on August 2024


Avatar for Micho Construction

Micho Construction

5.00(
3
)
Approved Pro

Micho Construction

5.00(
3
)
Approved Pro
Super Service Award
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Wilmer is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"Job went as expected from beginning to end. We are very happy!"

Angela B on July 2025

Wilmer is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"Job went as expected from beginning to end. We are very happy!"

Angela B on July 2025


Avatar for Campbell Architects, LLC

Campbell Architects, LLC

5.00(
3
)
Approved Pro

Campbell Architects, LLC

5.00(
3
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quality work
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
18 years of experience

Campbell Architects Design Consulting LLC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"I placed a notice on Angi that I desperately needed an architect. I was given a list of 5 companies, however Campbell Architects (CA) contacted me first. As a matter of fact, I do not recall any of the other companies reaching out to me. When I tell you that Johnathan Campbell stepped in and did what I needed him to do which was to draw a PLAT of my property, he also went above and beyond what one would expect someone as busy as him to do. He came in and recognized that in addition to needing a PLAT, I was also having a terrible time getting the work on my property completed because a hostile neighbor continuously contacted the DOB with false statements causing me to incur numerous Stop Work Orders. When I asked Mr. Campbell what his experience was with this sort of thing, he told me and then offered his help. What I found was a very thoughtful, quiet, and professional architect who had seen it all. Not only did he understand the situation with the neighbor, he also understood my plight with the DOB and set about methodically, and very carefully stepping in to argue my case for me. He has the experience, he has the knowledge, he has the patience and he is an established and well known architect in this area, and highly respected at the DOB. It took me six months to get a response from the DOB, but once Mr. Campbell stepped in, it only took one day. My point here is that the magnitude of an individual's professionalism, knowledge and capabilities is reflected in the work product and engagement experience you the homeowner will receive. Here, Mr. Campbell made a WORLD of difference in my life as a homeowner trying to do her best against a system of mostly men who know the system, who can be cavalier and do not really care that we the homeowners have become frustrated with DOB. Mr. Campbell is an ANGEL. If you ever need an architect, he is your guy. He is a no nonsense kind of man who really, really cares about people and understands that most homeowners are "no match" for the DOB machine that controls the movement of homeowners here in the DMV. I am so grateful to Angi for creating a platform where I could find Mr. Campbell. I honestly do not know if I could have survived my nightmare ordeal without his knowledge, strength and capabilities. I now consider him to be a friend. I was shocked that he was willing to help me with the crazy man next door, but he took all of that on. He has made a difference in my mental health and ability to complete the work that I started, which the neighbor constantly stopped. I feel that I got more than an architect when I met Mr. Campbell. When people tell me they need an architect I always tell them JOHNATHAN CAMPBELL FROM CAMPBELL ARCHITECTS. This is the best company I have worked with in years. So grateful to have met him."

Gayle P on October 2024

Campbell Architects Design Consulting LLC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"I placed a notice on Angi that I desperately needed an architect. I was given a list of 5 companies, however Campbell Architects (CA) contacted me first. As a matter of fact, I do not recall any of the other companies reaching out to me. When I tell you that Johnathan Campbell stepped in and did what I needed him to do which was to draw a PLAT of my property, he also went above and beyond what one would expect someone as busy as him to do. He came in and recognized that in addition to needing a PLAT, I was also having a terrible time getting the work on my property completed because a hostile neighbor continuously contacted the DOB with false statements causing me to incur numerous Stop Work Orders. When I asked Mr. Campbell what his experience was with this sort of thing, he told me and then offered his help. What I found was a very thoughtful, quiet, and professional architect who had seen it all. Not only did he understand the situation with the neighbor, he also understood my plight with the DOB and set about methodically, and very carefully stepping in to argue my case for me. He has the experience, he has the knowledge, he has the patience and he is an established and well known architect in this area, and highly respected at the DOB. It took me six months to get a response from the DOB, but once Mr. Campbell stepped in, it only took one day. My point here is that the magnitude of an individual's professionalism, knowledge and capabilities is reflected in the work product and engagement experience you the homeowner will receive. Here, Mr. Campbell made a WORLD of difference in my life as a homeowner trying to do her best against a system of mostly men who know the system, who can be cavalier and do not really care that we the homeowners have become frustrated with DOB. Mr. Campbell is an ANGEL. If you ever need an architect, he is your guy. He is a no nonsense kind of man who really, really cares about people and understands that most homeowners are "no match" for the DOB machine that controls the movement of homeowners here in the DMV. I am so grateful to Angi for creating a platform where I could find Mr. Campbell. I honestly do not know if I could have survived my nightmare ordeal without his knowledge, strength and capabilities. I now consider him to be a friend. I was shocked that he was willing to help me with the crazy man next door, but he took all of that on. He has made a difference in my mental health and ability to complete the work that I started, which the neighbor constantly stopped. I feel that I got more than an architect when I met Mr. Campbell. When people tell me they need an architect I always tell them JOHNATHAN CAMPBELL FROM CAMPBELL ARCHITECTS. This is the best company I have worked with in years. So grateful to have met him."

Gayle P on October 2024


Avatar for Bluehouse Architecture, LLC

Bluehouse Architecture, LLC

5.00(
3
)
Approved Pro

Bluehouse Architecture, LLC

5.00(
3
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
21 years of experience

bluehouse architecture focuses on the interactive and collaborative design process working with both the owner to create a project that satisfies and exceeds expectations. Working with the owner to gain an understanding of his needs and requirements and communicating with the contractor to identify a solution that is possible within the work space are critical components of this process. This involves more than simply developing architectural drawings. Rather, from the beginning of a project, bluehouse develops a solid relationship based upon open communication among all parties. bluehouse actively guides the client through all the stages of design, from the initial meeting where the project parameters are defined, through creating the schematic design and developing completed construction/permit drawings.

"I came to Melissa & Bluehouse a number of years ago as I couldn't visualize the layout to accomplish my goals in what began as a kitchen remodel. Melissa's impeccable handling of my project from the word "go" is nothing but an understatement! Each and every detail I listed from want's & desires to fears & concerns were addressed. Living up to her word every step of the way, Melissa addressed my list while pointing out elements I hadn't thought of. She was aware of my limits and not only kept her bottom line under control, but she didn't design anything out of our budget. Considering we were on track to break ground in the spring of 2020, when Covid hit & supply chains derailed our start, Melissa was poised to do whatever needed to be done. In the end, rising costs & limited supply led us to delay construction until Jan. '23. As a TV news producer, I'm a tough cookie, and yet when I had questions, Melissa answered them honestly and often with visuals to help me understand what I needed to learn. I appreciated her teamwork attitude when working with the Structural Engineers let alone my amazing contractor! Melissa's perfectionism is the reason not one single measurement needed to be modified in what became not just a kitchen remodel, but a 1st-floor remake with our addition going both upstairs & down. When you consider who to hire, consider this, as a newswoman, I interview 3 people for every job, I don't cut corners and nothing gets swept under the rug. Melissa is THAT kind of pro! She is going to do right by you, because she knows what is at stake, and she is only going to put her name on something she stands behind. For that, and a million little reasons, without question, if I had another project, I'd hire her in a heartbeat!"

Joy Z on November 2023

bluehouse architecture focuses on the interactive and collaborative design process working with both the owner to create a project that satisfies and exceeds expectations. Working with the owner to gain an understanding of his needs and requirements and communicating with the contractor to identify a solution that is possible within the work space are critical components of this process. This involves more than simply developing architectural drawings. Rather, from the beginning of a project, bluehouse develops a solid relationship based upon open communication among all parties. bluehouse actively guides the client through all the stages of design, from the initial meeting where the project parameters are defined, through creating the schematic design and developing completed construction/permit drawings.

"I came to Melissa & Bluehouse a number of years ago as I couldn't visualize the layout to accomplish my goals in what began as a kitchen remodel. Melissa's impeccable handling of my project from the word "go" is nothing but an understatement! Each and every detail I listed from want's & desires to fears & concerns were addressed. Living up to her word every step of the way, Melissa addressed my list while pointing out elements I hadn't thought of. She was aware of my limits and not only kept her bottom line under control, but she didn't design anything out of our budget. Considering we were on track to break ground in the spring of 2020, when Covid hit & supply chains derailed our start, Melissa was poised to do whatever needed to be done. In the end, rising costs & limited supply led us to delay construction until Jan. '23. As a TV news producer, I'm a tough cookie, and yet when I had questions, Melissa answered them honestly and often with visuals to help me understand what I needed to learn. I appreciated her teamwork attitude when working with the Structural Engineers let alone my amazing contractor! Melissa's perfectionism is the reason not one single measurement needed to be modified in what became not just a kitchen remodel, but a 1st-floor remake with our addition going both upstairs & down. When you consider who to hire, consider this, as a newswoman, I interview 3 people for every job, I don't cut corners and nothing gets swept under the rug. Melissa is THAT kind of pro! She is going to do right by you, because she knows what is at stake, and she is only going to put her name on something she stands behind. For that, and a million little reasons, without question, if I had another project, I'd hire her in a heartbeat!"

Joy Z on November 2023

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Custom Home Builders questions, answered by experts

Renovating or remodeling an existing structure is usually less expensive than the cost to build a new house. That’s because you can save on the costs of new building materials, laying a foundation, framing the entire building, and installing new materials and utilities throughout the house. However, if a home is in very poor condition or is incredibly old, you could spend more on upgrades and restoration compared to building from scratch.

In most states, you can build an in-law suite on your property as long as you follow local building codes. However, it's important that you have enough space on your property to accommodate the new structure. A functional in-law suite in your backyard will require between 300 and 800 square feet of space.

While it’s never too early to start planning for a major home improvement project like a home addition, give yourself at least a month or two to plan and design your addition, find a contractor, and get the permits in order. For larger projects like a second-story addition that require designing with an architect, plan on three to four months of preparation.

Yes, there are a few different ways you can finance new construction. Some lenders offer new construction loans that cover the building costs and then convert to a standard mortgage once construction is complete. Some custom homebuilders also offer financing options that only require a down payment before you begin the building process. Construction loans are possible, as well, although they typically only cover the building process, and you’ll need to pay in full once the house is completed.

It is a good idea to check in with your local city and state regulations before committing to building a shipping container home no matter where you live. This concept is pretty new across the country, and many places won’t let you build one.

The International Code Council (ICC) offers guidelines for home builders on the safe use of ISO intermodal shipping containers repurposed as building components, which can be helpful to review when planning or designing a shipping container home.

The Laurel, MD homeowners’ guide to custom home 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.
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