What a nightmare. Matt was fast to return my inquiry and came by quickly to view the job but slow getting us a quote, even though I was clear from first contact that I I desperately wanted this done ASAP... He told me, on July 26, that he could do it in 2-3 weeks. I said, lets do it, but lets do it now... My biggest concern was the availability of quality plants in late July. He assured me that he could get excellent stock... No problem at all he said.... As we walked the job, on July 28th, he quoted $40-50 each for the forsythia, and $100 each for the Arbors, which we agreed would be at least 5-6 ft tall...I wanted as tall as we could get since these trees grow so slowly. We agreed on container plants to avoid the need or damage from an excavator. I wanted a fairly small root ball as this was to be a boundary plant, set very close to my neighbors walkway. I initially requested 3-5 plants, he went with 6. The estimate was $2100- $2400, which seemed really high, based on the plants we had discussed. I assumed this meant a LOT of labor, and a lot of soil.. I questioned him on this. He said it would "probably be less" if they encountered no problems like ledge. The contract was remarkably ambiguous about the price breakdown between labor and plants, but I was highly motivated and just wanted it done, and we had already discussed the price for the plants.... I thought, if you want premium work, you pay the premium price, expecting rapid, turnkey service. I signed the contract and sent him the $700 deposit on the 6th of August, the very day I received the contract. And then I waited. And then the bait and switch began... suddenly my $100 trees are $129 trees, then $150 trees but $165 trees with his markup.. Not what we discussed at all.. My confidence begins to fade, as does my trust. On August 14th, frustrated, and deeply concerned about price and quality, the challenge of finding 6 well matched trees this late in season, I send an email requesting we cancel the trees until next spring, but go ahead with the back yard. He starts arguing and berating me that they are "already dug" and I would have to pay at least $200 to replant them... Dug? What dug? I didn't approve burlap... Expressly discussed and declined burlap. I agreed to containers which can be easily cancelled or returned, so his attitude was surprising and alarming. Again I express, if you are charging top dollar, please understand I expect excellent quality. I put everything in writing, hoping against hope to avoid any misunderstandings. If I'm paying for a Lexus, you had best deliver a Lexus. I ask for an install date. He is evasive. The following week I again ask for an install date...After all, I need to schedule my time and there was no way I was going to let this guy dig before I saw the plants. He says it's all waiting on Digsafe. He tells me it will be the 22 or the 25th ( now a full month has passed since he quoted me 2 weeks) On Friday the 22, I personally call Digsafe to find out when to expect them, knowing that for a Monday job, they would have to be here on Friday. I am told they have no such job order, nor are they running behind. They ask if the yard is flagged in preparation. It was not. I email Matt to ask what gives. Again he calls back and leaves me yet another nasty message, how dare I call Digsafe, blah blah blah. Demands I quit contacting him, quit checking up on him, that he'll " get to me when he gets to me". Without question he is the rudest, most condescending, arrogant, belligerent contractor I have ever dealt with. Total Jekyll and Hyde. Pleasant until he has your money... The next contact, Tuesday August 26, he calls, leaves a VM telling me he will be here the following Monday, which was Labor Day. Not ideal, but I want it done. Surprise surprise....he does not show - no call, no text, no email. The same thing the next day. It is now September 2nd... almost 6 weeks from my initial contact. I contact Angies List for advice, hoping for a solution. Exhausted, I send another email saying lets just cancel the whole thing, return my deposit, lets go our separate ways... He adamantly refuses, saying he would absolutely not return a dime of the deposit ( contract does NOT say deposit is non refundable BTW ) that it wasn't HIS fault O'Donnels Nursery took 2 weeks to dig the plants ( I called - they deny this) it wasn't HIS fault Digsafe was slow (again - they claim they were not behind ) When I tell him I have contacted Angies List for advice, I receive yet another nasty voicemail saying it was "outrageous" that I would do something like that over something as" frivolous" as scheduling delays. He even criticizes my email communication format demanding I call him rather than write, somehow completely missing the point of a paper trail when one feels that we are not on the same page. Honestly, at that point, I did not believe he had any intention of actually doing the job, so I was shocked when he suddenly announces his intent to install the very next day. Impossible for me. No advanced notice. Then he wants the install the next day, on September 4. I had a Dr's appt that I was forced to reschedule. Incredibly unprofessional. Needless to say, the plants were not what I was expecting or hoping for. It was the worst case scenario coming true. The forsythia was thin and reedy... it looks like it was a throw away at a nursery. They do not appear to be the same as the plants they were to match and blend with. Only time will tell, as he gave me no details,documentation or care instructions on any the plants. The arbors were healthy but very small. Disappointingly small. Not the size we agreed on. Not the thickness we agreed on. Not the look I was going for. If only he had arranged for me to preview the plants, none of this needed to happen. I did not know what to do... It was an ambush install. He was very clear that if I did not let him install this crap he was going to drive off with my money and nothing would get done. He has a very snide and dismissive personality... said mere minutes ago we were having "an adult" conversation" but now that I was AGAIN expressing concern and disappointment, well, I was exasperating. I felt completely bullied and intimidated.
He and his assistant convinced me to let them install everything, that the forsythia would eventually root and fill out. That they would build up a berm to raise the height of the arbors, to look taller, because NOW he finally admits that if these trees aren't good enough, we would have to wait until next spring.... but he makes it clear, I get no refund whatsoever. Every time he speaks, he says something new... I've got $800 into this, I've got $1000 into this, I've got $1500 in this.... Nothing is ever the same, nothing is the truth... And so they lined up the trees, spaced them out well, planted them upright...it looked OK from the house, until they drove off at 2 20 pm, ( they had not brought the mulch even though it was in their quote) finally moving their truck away from the front of the trees... And that's when I finally got a good look. And it was bad. They placed the trees (which looked somewhat like bushes, some as small as 4-4 1/2 ft ) a good 2 1/2 - 3 ft from the boundary. They look ridiculous. They need to be pushed over to closer to the border...I know they are going to grow. And I am willing to trim if necessary, but right now they are floating in the yard. It loo"},"url":"https://www.angi.com/companylist/us/me/scarborough/prime-cut-landscaping-and-lawn-care-reviews-8015465.htm"},"position":9},{"@type":"ListItem","item":{"@type":"LocalBusiness","name":"Details Matter LLC","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressRegion":"ME","addressCountry":"US"},"review":{"@type":"Review","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Ken R."},"reviewBody":"The Detailing: Exterior: They began by prepping the car. This consisted of removal of all bug, bird and other residue that typically builds on your car between cleanings. Next they did the wheels and wheel wells, certainly to a level I would typically not think of doing. The rest of the cleaning process took on a very systematic approach. After the car was washed they proceed to ?clay bar? the car. For those who are unfamiliar with ?clay bar?, it?s a deep cleaning product that removes road grim, grit and other particles that become embedded in the ?clear coat? of your cars paint and detracts from the shine and overall appearance. It?s those particles that you can actually feel when you run your fingers over even a clean car that makes it feel a bit rough to the touch. Important note; ?Clay bar? done incorrectly can do more harm than good; you can ruin your paint job; but when done properly restores a finish to showroom condition, possibly better. Now that they had the car completely clean, came time for the finishing process. The polishing and use of the multiple buffing and polishing tools again were done to perfection. (Note: I may be able to buy similar tools as well, but may not necessarily know or learn how to use them properly or with the precision as a professional detailer.) Interior: Rich used an air system to blow out the dirt and sand in the floor and trunk mats that does a superior job at removing debris. But his use goes above and beyond to do even more. By using a special attachment to the air gun, Rich was able to restore the texture and appearance to the floor mats to an almost new state. The interior was spotless. He offered to treat the windshield for a small up-charge, which I was happy to agree to, with a product that is designed to last up to 6 months, longer than some other well-known rain repellant products. The Result: The car looks spectacular! It truly looks better than the day I received it from the dealer - Period! Observation: I think of myself as a ?car guy?. I am pretty critical of my car?s appearance. Typically not even a dealer goes to the level of detail as Details Matter LLC does to bring out the beauty of your car. Their service can prolong and enhance the appearance of any car. Your car is typically a major investment so why not show it off. "},"url":"https://www.angi.com/companylist/us/fl/melbourne/details-matter-llc-reviews-6283172.htm"},"position":10}]}
Barndominium Building reviews from real Angi homeowners in Alfred, ME
Last update on October 14, 2025
Brenda C.
1.0
02/2025
Jordan (owner) overpromised, undelivered & made a mess of our home. Promised 3 days took 3 weeks- used wrong color paint on all trim/doors when written in quote- scratched our new doors w/ 120 sand grit & didn?t tell us but admitted they knew. Oversprayed our brand new metal railings-...
Pam and Mark are two hardworking, likable, relatable individuals who care about the quality of their work, and the relationship they build with those they work for. These two people have become much more than people I've hired for a job, they have become dear family friends. My home was...
Craig H.
5.0
07/2020
Fortin Construction offers everything you need to build a new home in one stop. Budget and schedule were spot on. All materials used are name brand quality. Dedicated service guy for one year after completion is a very nice touch. Best of all Fortin was able to locate/position my home...
Excellent. Hard working crew, put two coats of primer and one finish coat on building. I get many complements around town. People are impressed with how good it looks and how hard the crew worked
Anne B.
1.0
09/2014
What a nightmare. Matt was fast to return my inquiry and came by quickly to view the job but slow getting us a quote, even though I was clear from first contact that I I desperately wanted this done ASAP... He told me, on July 26, that he could do it in 2-3 weeks. I said, lets do it,...
Ken R.
5.0
01/2014
The Detailing: Exterior: They began by prepping the car. This consisted of removal of all bug, bird and other residue that typically builds on your car between cleanings. Next they did the wheels and wheel wells, certainly to a level I would typically not think of doing. The rest of...
we are exterior remodeling specialist!! we focus on home restorations and Updates we specialize in VINYL SIDING with Azec trim. we Install NEW WINDOWS and REPLACEMENT WINDOWS. ASK US ABOUT?? FREE GUTTERS I have 30+ yrs experience in home remodeling and repair. I build decks kitchens bathrooms ceramic tile work and so on.
"David was wonderful, he was great at explaining his process and the overall time for the project. I would/will be hiring him again in the future."
Andrew L on March 2025
we are exterior remodeling specialist!! we focus on home restorations and Updates we specialize in VINYL SIDING with Azec trim. we Install NEW WINDOWS and REPLACEMENT WINDOWS. ASK US ABOUT?? FREE GUTTERS I have 30+ yrs experience in home remodeling and repair. I build decks kitchens bathrooms ceramic tile work and so on.
"David was wonderful, he was great at explaining his process and the overall time for the project. I would/will be hiring him again in the future."
We are a full service general contractor that can provide complete oversight and completion of your project or just a partial part of it. I have over 30 years in the remodeling and new construction business with over 19 years in business as Dave johnson Building/ Remodeling. We take great pride in taking any size project from initial thought/design to completion with great care as to the home owners desires as well as the strucural integrity of the project.We will gather your ideas and often try to assist you with some of ours.Our motto is " Your Satisfaction Comes First!" I have always believed in that and ask that you give us a try with your home. Thank You! Dave Johnson
"Dave and his crew were a pleasure to work with. His attention to detail and experience was a tremendous help in ensuring that the outcome of our project was what we had hoped for. I will not look anywhere else for any future building needs. Dave delivered everything that he promised. His customer service was exceptional throughout."
Peter V on February 2023
We are a full service general contractor that can provide complete oversight and completion of your project or just a partial part of it. I have over 30 years in the remodeling and new construction business with over 19 years in business as Dave johnson Building/ Remodeling. We take great pride in taking any size project from initial thought/design to completion with great care as to the home owners desires as well as the strucural integrity of the project.We will gather your ideas and often try to assist you with some of ours.Our motto is " Your Satisfaction Comes First!" I have always believed in that and ask that you give us a try with your home. Thank You! Dave Johnson
"Dave and his crew were a pleasure to work with. His attention to detail and experience was a tremendous help in ensuring that the outcome of our project was what we had hoped for. I will not look anywhere else for any future building needs. Dave delivered everything that he promised. His customer service was exceptional throughout."
I have been in business for over 8 years. It started out as side project to make extra money, but turned into something I am very passionate about, I love my work and pride myself on my excellent quality. I've built everything; decks, new houses, siding ( vinyl-cedar-clapoards) bathrooms (remodels/new) finished basement, structural supports, flooring, painting, full kitchen remodels. I am organized and keep a very clean work space. I believe in fair pricing and have wonderful communication with my clients. I enjoy explaining the ins and outs of a project so my clients know exactly what they are paying for. No job is too small or too big. I also offer landscaping services installs, retaining walls, fences and minor tree work.
"Kevin built us a custom storage shed, and we couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. It looks amazing—so much so that neighbors have actually stopped to compliment it! I’m pretty picky about details, and this definitely met my expectations. Kevin is honest, easy to work with, and clearly knows his stuff. There were a couple of small bump: his invoices were a bit hard to follow and getting him back to wrap up the final touches took a little extra effort, but in the end the shed is fantastic and I am very satisfied. I’d definitely recommend Kevin to anyone looking for quality custom work."
Bill M on July 2025
I have been in business for over 8 years. It started out as side project to make extra money, but turned into something I am very passionate about, I love my work and pride myself on my excellent quality. I've built everything; decks, new houses, siding ( vinyl-cedar-clapoards) bathrooms (remodels/new) finished basement, structural supports, flooring, painting, full kitchen remodels. I am organized and keep a very clean work space. I believe in fair pricing and have wonderful communication with my clients. I enjoy explaining the ins and outs of a project so my clients know exactly what they are paying for. No job is too small or too big. I also offer landscaping services installs, retaining walls, fences and minor tree work.
"Kevin built us a custom storage shed, and we couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. It looks amazing—so much so that neighbors have actually stopped to compliment it! I’m pretty picky about details, and this definitely met my expectations. Kevin is honest, easy to work with, and clearly knows his stuff. There were a couple of small bump: his invoices were a bit hard to follow and getting him back to wrap up the final touches took a little extra effort, but in the end the shed is fantastic and I am very satisfied. I’d definitely recommend Kevin to anyone looking for quality custom work."
At Wilderness Woodworking and Construction, we offer a comprehensive range of building services that allow us to transform your vision for your living space into a reality. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service. Call or click for your estimate today!
"Christian was instrumental in the building of our home. His extensive knowledge surrounding building practices, code, and materials made the process of building our home not only easy but actually enjoyable. He would arrive to work early each day and stay late when necessary to complete various aspects of the job...always with a smile and a positive attitude. Needless to say his work ethic is exceptional. His attention to detail and ability to problem solve on the fly as issues came up (they always do ) are exemplary. I have heard that many people who have gone through the process of building their home would never do it again. Our build could not have gone more smoothly!"
Joel B on January 2025
At Wilderness Woodworking and Construction, we offer a comprehensive range of building services that allow us to transform your vision for your living space into a reality. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service. Call or click for your estimate today!
"Christian was instrumental in the building of our home. His extensive knowledge surrounding building practices, code, and materials made the process of building our home not only easy but actually enjoyable. He would arrive to work early each day and stay late when necessary to complete various aspects of the job...always with a smile and a positive attitude. Needless to say his work ethic is exceptional. His attention to detail and ability to problem solve on the fly as issues came up (they always do ) are exemplary. I have heard that many people who have gone through the process of building their home would never do it again. Our build could not have gone more smoothly!"
Locally owned & operated since 1978, fully licensed & insured. Uses licensed subs for skilled trades. Discounts available for Angie's list members. Free estimates upon request, no travel charges.
"A&D was very responsive - came out quickly to view the project and completed the job very timely"
Nancy D on January 2025
Locally owned & operated since 1978, fully licensed & insured. Uses licensed subs for skilled trades. Discounts available for Angie's list members. Free estimates upon request, no travel charges.
"A&D was very responsive - came out quickly to view the project and completed the job very timely"
Our firm is a dynamic provider of drafting and house plan services, dedicated to turning your visions into tangible and pleasing structures. With a commitment to excellence, we bring expertise and innovation to every project we undertake. We specialize in comprehensive drafting services tailored to meet diverse client needs. Our offering include: Design: Crafting unique and functional designs that blend creativity with practicality. Drafting Services: Precision and attention to detail in creating accurate and detailed drafts for seamless project execution. 3D Modeling: Bringing designs to life with realistic 3D models that provide a vivid preview of the final structure. Project Management: From concept to completion, we offer end-to-end project management ensuring timely and efficient delivery. Interior Design: Enhancing spaces with innovative interior designs that harmonize aesthetics and functionality. Detail Services Offered: - Building Code Compliance - Construction Documentation - Renovation and Remodeling Plans About our Team: Our team comprises draftsman and project managers, each bringing a unique skill, style and experience to the table. Collaborative teamwork and alliance is at the core of our success, ensuring a holist approach to every project. We take pride in our commitment to delivering high-quality work on every project. Our rigorous quality control measures, pays attention to client requirements, and adherence to industry standards are the cornerstones of our success. Your satisfaction is our top priority and guarantee. At Evolution Drafting, we don't design structures; we create environments that inspire and endure. Work with us and experience the art of living.
"slow response times. no onsite visit, so had to confirm all measures myself. good product in the end."
Jim E on September 2025
Our firm is a dynamic provider of drafting and house plan services, dedicated to turning your visions into tangible and pleasing structures. With a commitment to excellence, we bring expertise and innovation to every project we undertake. We specialize in comprehensive drafting services tailored to meet diverse client needs. Our offering include: Design: Crafting unique and functional designs that blend creativity with practicality. Drafting Services: Precision and attention to detail in creating accurate and detailed drafts for seamless project execution. 3D Modeling: Bringing designs to life with realistic 3D models that provide a vivid preview of the final structure. Project Management: From concept to completion, we offer end-to-end project management ensuring timely and efficient delivery. Interior Design: Enhancing spaces with innovative interior designs that harmonize aesthetics and functionality. Detail Services Offered: - Building Code Compliance - Construction Documentation - Renovation and Remodeling Plans About our Team: Our team comprises draftsman and project managers, each bringing a unique skill, style and experience to the table. Collaborative teamwork and alliance is at the core of our success, ensuring a holist approach to every project. We take pride in our commitment to delivering high-quality work on every project. Our rigorous quality control measures, pays attention to client requirements, and adherence to industry standards are the cornerstones of our success. Your satisfaction is our top priority and guarantee. At Evolution Drafting, we don't design structures; we create environments that inspire and endure. Work with us and experience the art of living.
"slow response times. no onsite visit, so had to confirm all measures myself. good product in the end."
Studley Construction pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business! Book with us online or feel free to give us a call today!
Studley Construction pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business! Book with us online or feel free to give us a call today!
Future Homes USA, Inc. is a forward-thinking construction company proudly based in Greene, Maine, serving most of Maine and New Hampshire. While newly established under this name, our team brings over 25 years of hands-on building experience to every project. Our mission is simple: build energy-efficient, cost-effective, and durable homes that improve your quality of life and reduce your environmental footprint. We use modern materials like SIP panels (Structural Insulated Panels), embrace solar energy solutions, and focus on building homes that are both sustainable and affordable. Whether you're dreaming of a custom single-family home, a cozy condo community, or a multi-unit apartment complex — Future Homes USA is ready to bring your vision to life.
"The way to go. Future Homes is reliable and great at their craft. Dan and Ryan were a pleasure to conduct business with and were very knowledgeable. Their crew was top of the line, hard workers. They built my place from the ground up. Energy efficient is the way to go! Radiant heat added with solar panels and spray foam insulation. I am very happy with this establishment. I recommend anyone looking to go solar or be more energy efficient to go with Future Homes USA!"
Jared M on March 2025
Future Homes USA, Inc. is a forward-thinking construction company proudly based in Greene, Maine, serving most of Maine and New Hampshire. While newly established under this name, our team brings over 25 years of hands-on building experience to every project. Our mission is simple: build energy-efficient, cost-effective, and durable homes that improve your quality of life and reduce your environmental footprint. We use modern materials like SIP panels (Structural Insulated Panels), embrace solar energy solutions, and focus on building homes that are both sustainable and affordable. Whether you're dreaming of a custom single-family home, a cozy condo community, or a multi-unit apartment complex — Future Homes USA is ready to bring your vision to life.
"The way to go. Future Homes is reliable and great at their craft. Dan and Ryan were a pleasure to conduct business with and were very knowledgeable. Their crew was top of the line, hard workers. They built my place from the ground up. Energy efficient is the way to go! Radiant heat added with solar panels and spray foam insulation. I am very happy with this establishment. I recommend anyone looking to go solar or be more energy efficient to go with Future Homes USA!"
At Garrett R. Gerard Construction, we pride ourselves in giving you the absolute best job using only high quality materials and methods of installation. Not only do we strive for excellence on the job site, we also shoot for top notch customer care right from the beginning. From responsive phone calls to professional advice throughout the job, we want to make sure you have the best experience with us as possible.
"Garrett and his team removed a load bearing wall for us to create a larger living room. The job required demo, architect drawings, inspection, installing LVL beams, adding recessed lights, replacing wood flooring, and drywall. The whole job took about 4-5 weeks. Garrett walked us through the whole process and was always very prompt. If he said he would show up at 9 AM, he would show up at 9 AM. He was also very upfront about our costs?no surprises. Our new living room looks great! I highly recommend Garrett for any renovations!"
Michael O on March 2025
At Garrett R. Gerard Construction, we pride ourselves in giving you the absolute best job using only high quality materials and methods of installation. Not only do we strive for excellence on the job site, we also shoot for top notch customer care right from the beginning. From responsive phone calls to professional advice throughout the job, we want to make sure you have the best experience with us as possible.
"Garrett and his team removed a load bearing wall for us to create a larger living room. The job required demo, architect drawings, inspection, installing LVL beams, adding recessed lights, replacing wood flooring, and drywall. The whole job took about 4-5 weeks. Garrett walked us through the whole process and was always very prompt. If he said he would show up at 9 AM, he would show up at 9 AM. He was also very upfront about our costs?no surprises. Our new living room looks great! I highly recommend Garrett for any renovations!"
FAQs for barndominium building projects in Alfred, ME
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.
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.
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 cost to build a detached garage for two cars costs about $26,400 on average. Prices range from $19,200 to $33,600, depending on your location, the garage size, height, materials, and site prep required. Additional cost factors include any plumbing, electrical wiring, and insulation. If you need to build a concrete foundation for a new detached garage, you can expect to pay $1,000 to $8,600 for this essential addition.
The average cost to remodel a garage is around $18,000, ranging from $1,500 to $50,000, depending on size, materials, location, and other factors like plumbing and electrical. Garage remodels that include changing the roof and walls add significant expenses to the project. Plus, you can expect to pay about $1,400 for the building conversion permits. For a simple remodel, like painting interior walls and recoating the garage floor, it will cost about $2 to $5 per square foot.
The Alfred, ME homeowners’ guide to barndominium building
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