Home Renovation/General Contractor archived

I used Mark Persaud of M. Persaud Home Improvements (a Maplewood resident) to do almost the same thing (plus a lot of other renovations). He charges a little more, but he's well worth it. They do quality work, clean up at the end of each day, he's honest, he will go the extra mile. I've gotten so many compliments -- even from the house appraiser! Whisper me if you want his number.

I would also suggest you get an architect to draw up the plans. If you speak with Mark, ask him for Ashraf's number (I misplaced it) and then talk to Ashraf (and eventually hire him) yourself.

I just used Tom Zembilis of Zemrock Contracting for my basement renovation, based on a couple of recommendations from friends (who don't know each other). He was great to work with; didn't try to upsell me on stuff, easy to talk to, and just an all around good guy. You can reach him at 973.615.3315. I plan to use him again when we do any more construction. He also texts (and responds to them), calls you back, answers the phone when you call, and responds to emails. There were no unexpected charges, and his work exceeded expectations.

We used Tom also. Very easy to talk to. Reassuring. Respectful of how you want to spend your money. We, too, plan to use him in the future.

call c&c christopher construction llc 862 252 1777 cnc.llc.com

Thanks for the recos! So sounds like smart to have an architect involved as well. I would think so, but not sure how it all works. Does the architect work with the GC, or does the GC simply work off the architect's plans?

Posted By: rausThanks for the recos! So sounds like smart to have an architect involved as well. I would think so, but not sure how it all works. Does the architect work with the GC, or does the GC simply work off the architect's plans?

In my case, it was a collaboration between the three of us -- we met at my house and discussed everything. Then the architect sent me his proposed plans. I approved them and Mark submitted them to get the permits and he then worked off them -- and whenever he had any questions along the way, he dealt with the architect.

Mark and I were really of one mind as far as what I wanted done, and the architect helped us bring it to fruition.

raus,
You might also search for contractor threads, as their posted info/recommendations aren't old and the described project (as involved as it will be) isn't much different than previous posts. Also, you will need an architect given what you've described, so see here; again, the information is not out-of-date or old:
http://www.southorangevillage.com/vc/comments.php?DiscussionID=51853&page=1#Item_1

I May, but I will also contact Tom who got two recommendations and sounds practical. A friend of ours is an architect and will draw up the plans for us and help oversee the project.