We realize there is a lot to learn about any home remodel project, so we have provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
Remodeling is more than just updating a house—it’s about transforming the stage on which your life unfolds. Your home is where memories are made, routines are established, and comfort is found. Remodeling allows you to tailor this vital space to better fit your lifestyle, whether that means enhancing functionality, updating outdated features, or creating a more inviting atmosphere. It’s also a chance to address any wear and tear, improve energy efficiency, and incorporate modern materials and technologies. In the end, a well-planned remodel enhances both the value of your home and the quality of life you experience within it.
Folks who are relocating to the Triangle are finding that many homes in the most desirable neighborhoods have outdated floor plans, and often don’t have the space needed. Redesigning and adding on are great ways to create the home that’s right for you, right where you want to be!
Design-build is a streamlined approach where one team handles both the design and construction of your remodel. Instead of hiring separate architects, designers, and contractors, you work with a single, collaborative team from start to finish. This creates a more efficient process, improves communication, and ensures the design fits your budget and goals from day one. It’s all about delivering a smoother experience—and better results.
Discussing your perceived level of investment in your project can be uncomfortable, and it may have you wondering why we ask and if your answer will drive up the price. To the latter point, the answer is no. A reputable contractor will not pad or inflate an estimate, so this need not be a cause for concern. The reason we ask is to gain a clear understanding of your vision and desired scope of the project, as well as your priorities: what you really want to accomplish and why, and your wants versus needs. We strive to bring your goals into alignment with what is attainable, and we understand that sometimes this may require revising and value-engineering your project in order to make it happen – often we can work backwards to streamline the scope of the project when a client is candid about their desired level of investment. We strive to be transparent and manage expectations, and to maximize what is achievable no matter what you choose to spend.
Perhaps you have done some research online or spoken with a friend and been surprised to learn how much a home remodel project costs. It’s not uncommon to wonder if your dream of a renovation is out of reach when hearing numbers for the first time, so we encourage you to dive a bit deeper into learning what is involved. Major remodels of spaces like kitchens and bathrooms often involve changing the layout – removing a wall here, adding a door or window there – and there is structural work (and labor) involved. Changing the layout also necessitates moving electricity, plumbing, and ductwork. In other words, a lot goes on behind the scenes (or the walls, to be specific!) Another big factor driving costs is aesthetics: things like faucets & plumbing fixtures, cabinets, countertops, tile, flooring, light fixtures, and appliances. There is a broad spectrum of product options for each, ranging from builder-grade and budget-friendly to high-end luxury. You will have choices regarding all these aesthetic elements, so this is an area in which you may be able to reduce costs by choosing materials that best suit your desired investment. For a more in-depth look at what’s involved in pricing your project, check out our blog.
We don’t offer on-site estimates without first going through our design-build consultation process. Remodeling is complex, and every home—and homeowner—is unique. Our initial consultation allows us to understand your goals, assess feasibility, and provide guidance that’s aligned with your investment level. This thoughtful approach leads to more accurate pricing and better project outcomes.
Closer Look General Contracting is a design-build remodeling firm, meaning we handle every aspect of your project from the initial concept to the final construction. Our integrated approach ensures a seamless experience, with our team working closely with you to bring your vision to life. Design is a crucial part of this process because it sets the foundation for a successful remodel. A well-thought-out design not only enhances the aesthetics of your space but also improves functionality and ensures that the final result aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and needs. By focusing on design from the start, we can create spaces that are both beautiful and practical, making your home truly your own. To learn more about the design-build process, check out our blog.
From the moment you make the decision to move forward with your home renovation project, it’s natural to want things done right away. After all, this is an exciting change and may be one that was years in the making! Every project begins with a thoughtful design phase, where we collaborate to define your goals, refine the scope, and prepare detailed construction plans. Once the design is finalized, we apply for permits through your local municipality. Depending on their process, permitting can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. After permits are approved, we move into scheduling and construction. The timeline will vary based on project complexity, but we’ll keep you informed every step of the way. Ordinarily it takes:
Kitchen remodel ~ 6-8 weeks. Partial remodels with fewer variables can take much less. Think about the logistics of where you will eat/cook while your project is going on.
Bathroom remodel ~ 4-6 weeks. A smaller or cosmetic remodel may be only 3-4 weeks.
Finish out an attic or basement ~ 8-10 weeks
Screened porch or deck ~ 4-5 weeks
Three- or four-seasons room ~ 6-10 weeks
Home addition ~ 2-3 months
We understand that you might want to take on part of the remodel yourself, but there are important reasons why we recommend leaving the entire project to our team. When you handle parts of the work yourself, it can create challenges in coordination, quality control, and timelines. Our process is designed to ensure that every aspect of the remodel is seamlessly integrated, from design to final construction. If portions of the work are done separately, it can lead to inconsistencies, unexpected delays, or even complications that affect the overall outcome. By allowing us to manage the entire project, we can guarantee that the work is done to our high standards, ensuring a smooth, cohesive, and successful renovation.
Buying your own materials can seem like a way to save money and cut constructions costs. The reality is that it often creates challenges with regard to coordination, budgeting and timing. Ordering an incorrect specification or size is common, and sourcing materials can be difficult. For these reasons, we typically do not agree to clients purchasing their own materials. In some cases, a client does have specific items that they elect to purchase. In this instance, clients are fully responsible for timely delivery and accuracy of product(s). Any delays caused by materials that are not on-site at the time work commences may result in the project being rescheduled. Materials purchased by the client are also not covered under, and are specifically excluded from, our warranty, as is damage caused by or related to client-purchased materials.
Closer Look General Contracting is licensed through the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors by our Qualifier and owner, Phillip Oddo. We are fully insured, and we background check all of our employees.