About
We are a "hands on" company with a team of professionals in every trade. All our sub contractors are local craftsmen, who do not let slip by anything that may not look or work good. As a General Contractor, I have 40 years of hands on experience and work very well with designers and architects. I look out for the client's best interest. The person who pays the bills love me because I am always trying to save them money. The person who has the design touch loves me because i help them with my opinions.
I love remodeling. Specifically remodeling older homes. I received a very nice compliment from an adjuster when he looked at my house after remodeling it. ( I own a craftsman bungalow). He stated that he did not notice I had remodeled it when in fact I added a second story. However i am skilled to blend it with the existing home. To me it is an art. I like to think of myself as the Andy Warholl of construction. Working with homeowners, especially the ones with aesthetics are my enjoyment. Typically I work with working housewives, single women who over the years have entrusted me with anything that needs to be done around the house. They know that I and my tema respect and value them for their great input. Their husbands love us because we are always attempting to save money. And that is the challenge and what I love: blending, fusing aesthetics with practicality. I dont like to compromise either one.
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Aria K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Steps:
1. Meet with and pre-qualify client (if we are compatible and their budget)
2. Help them with getting plans.
3. Once plans are produced, work on budget.
4. Suggest where they look for plumbing/electrical fixtures, appliances, etc. Go with them if they want me to.
5. Provide final budget.
6. Draft contract and have them look at it, make changes.
7. Provide a works schedule and start work.
This is a short overview and there are more variables
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I attended apprentiship school and completed in 3 years as opposed to 4 years.
Received my journeyman certificate.
Prepared for Steate exam and became a Licensed General Building Contractor.
Worked on residential as well as commercial projects.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Typically, I offer one hour consultation for $75.
If the prospective client wants a written estimate, I charge a minimum of $125 for a "rough" estimate to see if their budget is in the ballpark. If they want a detailed estimate, I need very detailed plans. Upon that, I can produce fixed pricing.
How did you get started in this business?
I started working as a handyman in a church. Then I went to work as an apprentice carpenter, followed by Union schooling. I wanted to be in control of my jobs and after several years in the filed, I studied for and took the exam for a General Contractord license. I have been a licensed General Contractor since 1985, have never filed a lien, have never been sued, have completed jobs on schedule and budget.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I have worked with a variety of customers. From small jobs such as window replacement to a full remodel in Pebble Beach.
I have built new houses, but most of my work is in remodeling.
Describe a recent project you are fond of.
There are two. One was in Burlingame where we completely restored (including original light fixtures) a 20's house, inside and out including a swimming pool, cabana and hardscape. It turned out beautiful. The house was in a kitchen/house tour.
The other house was a complete restoration of a house in Pebble Beach, Frank Lloyd Wright style. The Carmel officials
were so impressed, they wanted to do a tour for all the building officials.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Look for peoplke that are referred by friends. Before you decide on price, meet with them a couple of times, ask personal questions, get to know them and then go by your gut feeling.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Since you and the contractor will be very close for the next month to several months, you want to find out about them and their life. Most contractors want to please their clients. They want to impress them with their knowledge and skill. If you the client appear to think you know more than they do (because you "researched" the internet), don't waste their time. Most good contractors are not interested in retiring off your job. They want to do a great job so that you will be a life long client.