What does “Be Your Own General Contractor” mean?
“Be Your Own General Contractor” (BYOGC) means that, with our guidance, you’ll oversee and coordinate your renovation project yourself. You’ll use our subcontractors, while manage scheduling, and making the key decisions, all while having access to our expert advice and cost-saving opportunities. It’s a hands-on approach with the support you need to get it done right and save on costs.
Can I choose my own subcontractors?
Absolutely! While we provide access to our trusted network of subcontractors who offer great quality and competitive pricing, you’re free to choose any subcontractors you prefer. We can also review bids from different subcontractors to help you make informed choices.
How does the savings with Direct Home Renovations compare to using a traditional GC?
By overseeing your own project, you eliminate the typical 10-20% markup that general contractors add to labor and materials. With our industry discounts and expert guidance, clients often save between 15-30% compared to traditional general contractor services. Please see our “Cost Savings” page for a list of common fees and expenses you’ll avoid using our approach.
Do I have to be on-site throughout the entire project?
Not necessarily. You’ll need to coordinate and check in at key project milestones, but we’ll guide you on what to expect and when to step in. You’re free to be as hands-on or hands-off as you’d like, knowing that we’re here to support you along the way.
Will you help with permitting and inspections?
Yes, we provide advice on the permitting process and can guide you on how to ensure your project meets local regulations. We can also help you schedule inspections and provide insight into what inspectors typically look for, making sure you’re prepared for each step.
How much involvement do you have on-site?
Our role is primarily consultative, offering remote guidance and resources. However, we do offer optional site visits at specific project stages or for troubleshooting, which can be arranged at an additional fee if needed.
Can I use non-licensed contractors?
Yes, depending on the scope of the work. For certain tasks, like plumbing or electrical, using a licensed contractor is legally required for safety and compliance. For other work, non-licensed contractors or handymen may be sufficient, and we can advise on where licensed professionals are necessary.
How much will I save by buying materials through your discounts?
We negotiate special discounts with suppliers, which can save you 5-15% on materials depending on the product and supplier. We’ll help you navigate these options to maximize savings without sacrificing quality.
Will you create a budget for my project?
Yes! Budgeting is a key part of our service. We’ll work with you to outline an initial budget, consider contingencies, and keep you on track financially throughout your project.
How long do projects usually take?
Project timelines vary based on scope, but our guidance ensures efficient scheduling and minimizes delays. We’ll help you create a realistic timeline from the start, set weekly goals, and prepare you for common scheduling challenges.
Can I hire you for long-term projects?
Yes, we support both short and long-term projects. Our consultative model is flexible, so whether it’s a single room remodel or an extensive renovation, we provide consistent support as long as you need it.
Do I get official project documentation?
We’ll provide templates, checklists, and documentation resources to help you stay organized. For larger projects, we can create a custom project binder or digital file to track everything from quotes and permits to budgets and schedules.
Are there limits on the projects you support?
We specialize in medium to large residential renovations but can support any scale of work within a home. Some smaller, highly specialized projects may fall outside our scope, and we’ll gladly let you know if that’s the case.
How do you charge for your services?
We charge based on project size and the level of guidance required, please see our Products & Services page to identify the right package for you.
Will you help with follow-up projects or repairs?
Yes! Many clients return for additional projects or repairs. Our team can assist with ongoing maintenance, repairs, or new projects, and we’ll continue providing access to our trusted network and resources.