Frequently Asked Questions

Remodeling and new construction

• Should I remodel my existing home, or would building a new home be a wiser choice?
• Will remodeling my home increase the resale value?
• What is the time frame for completing a project like this?
• Can you assure us that you'll complete the project on schedule?
• Will you build my custom home on the lot I own, or must I purchase a lot from you?
• Can we see photos of similar projects you have built?
• Have you constructed a project of this complexity?
• Will you design the room addition or do we need an architect?
• Could you recommend an interior designer?
• Do we have to move out of the house or can you work around us?
• Will we need a permit for this project?
• Are you familiar with working with a Neighborhood Homeowners Associations' Architectural Control Committee or a Historic District Commission?

In addition to these frequently asked questions and answers, please read our success stories for case studies and more helpful information.

Budgeting and finance

• When we know exactly what the cost of the project will be, how do we establish a budget and how can cost overruns be prevented?
• Can you recommend a source of financing for our remodeling project or custom home?
• Please explain the project payment process.

Business practices

• Will the Contractor be involved with my project on a daily basis?
• How long have you been in business? Can you provide us with references?
• Does your company carry workers' compensation and liability insurance?

Remodeling and new construction

Q: Should I remodel my existing home, or would building a new home be a wiser choice?

A: Let's discuss it. We have resources to assist you in making a wise decision based on your family's needs, the investment potential of remodeling vs. new, and the resale value of your home.

Q: Will remodeling my home increase the resale value?

A: Quality of design and construction, type of project and location of your home will be the major determining factors. Generally kitchen and bath remodels as well as well-planned and constructed additions provide a good return on your investment. Research has shown that poorly designed and constructed projects could reap disappointing results or offer no return on your investment.

Q: What is the time frame for completing a project like this?

A: Every project is unique, of course. Initially, we'll estimate the time frame, once the scope of the project has been defined. An exact time frame is determined when all product selections have been made, and it will be spelled out in your contract. Keeping a construction project on schedule also requires a team effort between the homeowner and general contractor. The planning phase is crucial and may take longer than you expect. Avoiding the temptation to rush through this process will ultimately result in a more cost-effective and timely completed project. Throughout the process, it's helpful for you to plan ahead, so you can be decisive as changes and questions come up during the project. Our Construction Management Software helps us to constantly monitor the timeline and all the phases of your construction process so we can make any necessary adjustments to insure a timely project completion.

Q: Can you assure us that you'll complete the project on schedule?

A: Doing all our homework up front in the planning process and determining the exact scope of the project is the first step in proper scheduling. Experience with planning ahead and knowing when to bring in each tradesman at the proper time is extremely important. We use project management tools to establish a definitive timeline for the project. With our years of experience in scheduling, and a clear understanding of the construction process, we can ensure project completion on time or ahead of schedule. Timelines are typically only adjusted for unusual weather conditions or changes requested by the client.

Q: Will you build my custom home on the lot I own, or must I purchase a lot from you?

A: We are happy to build on your lot, one of our lots, or to assist you in finding a suitable lot for the home you wish to build. 

Q: Can we see photos of similar projects you have built?

A: Certainly. We have a portfolio of projects and client references which we are happy to share with you. Some of our completed projects are featured on this website as well.

Q: Have you constructed a project of this complexity?

A: Probably, yes. We're a diversified company with expertise in handling all types of projects ranging from small to large repairs and renovations, to the design and construction of multi-million-dollar homes.

Q: Will you design the room addition or do we need an architect?

A: After we carefully review the extent of the project, we'll be able to advise you whether you'll need the services of an architect and/or structural engineer. We can refer you to an appropriate professional, or we can work with an architect and/or engineer of your choice. Architects are licensed professionals who listen to your ideas, make suggestions for the most effective design based on your needs and budget, and develop all these goals and ideas into a realistic plan for construction that is documented in a set of blueprints from which trade contractors can build. A team approach with your Contractor and Architect is a real asset to your project.

Q: Could you recommend an interior designer?

A: Yes. We've worked with many good interior designers over the years and completely understand and appreciate the added value they bring to a project. We're happy to make a recommendation, or work with your interior designer.

Q: Do we have to move out of the house or can you work around us?

A: Together, we can determine what is needed to safely complete the project on a timely basis. In many cases, the work can be completed while your family remains living in the home.

Q: Will we need a permit for this project?

A: Most likely. We can advise you which permits are required based on the size and scope of your project. We'll apply for all necessary permits on your behalf.

Q: Are you familiar with working with a Neighborhood Homeowners Associations' Architectural Control Committee or a Historic District Commission?

A: Yes, we have experience in working with these and other organizations. If you are a member of a neighborhood homeowner's Association or are located in a historic district, you will be subject to certain Association Covenants and Restrictions and/or Historic District Standards and Policies. It is extremely important to review this information in the very early planning stages of any residential remodeling or new construction project. Most associations require the project's design and materials to be pre-approved by their Architectural Control Committees. The association will provide guidelines to follow when submitting information. You, your designer and/or architect should know and understand the Historical District Guidelines before the planning and design process begins. The Historical District Commission must approve the project and issue a Certificate of Appropriateness before you can apply for a building permit.

Budgeting and finance

Q: When we know exactly what the cost of the project will be, how do we establish a budget and how can cost overruns be prevented?

A: Completing a careful project review, determining the complexity and scope of the project, and defining product selections, allow us to provide you with an exact job cost. Any subsequent change in the project cost would be a result of a client-requested change or due to discovering a concealed condition. As a general rule of thumb, you should allow 10% to 15% of the estimated construction costs for unexpected expenses and changes you may want to make. Our Construction Management Software is an extremely valuable tool in this process.

Q: Can you recommend a source of financing for our remodeling project or custom home?

A: Yes, we have a good working relationship with several financial institutions.

Q: Please explain the project payment process.

A: We want no surprises, so we will discuss this with you completely. The payment process is detailed in the final contract. Project payments are set up based on milestone completion phases of your project. We typically ask for 30% at contract, and payments at milestone completion (e.g., after completion of foundation, framing, mechanical rough-ins, etc.) and the balance is due upon substantial completion.

Business practices

Q: Will the Contractor be involved with my project on a daily basis?

A: Yes. Jimmy Francis likes a "hands on" approach to project management so he will be involved daily in your project. Additionally, with the technology of Blackberrys, email, digital cameras, faxes and laptop computers, we remain constantly in contact to insure that we provide you with the best possible service and results.

Q: Can you provide us with references?

A: We'd be happy to provide you with references.

Q: Does your company carry workers' compensation and liability insurance?

A: We have a long-standing relationship with our insurance agent and are properly insured with general liability, and workers' compensation. We are bonded as well, for your protection. All tradesman working for J. Francis Builders must also be fully covered with general liability and workers' compensation insurance.