After researching and interviewing several contractors, we liked Fritz Eisenbrandt's careful listening and genuine interest in our vision for a nearly whole-house renovation and addition. Now, more than a year after completion, we are still thrilled with the transformation of our home into the space that we always dreamed of. Of course, there were many challenges--and costs always seem to spiral--but I believe that is the case with any major project and any contractor. We were very closely involved with the selection of materials, and Eisenbrandt worked with us in trying to keep costs down as much as possible without sacrificing quality (trust me, we are very budget conscious). We also can't say enough about Josh (project lead), Kelly (procurement), Ben (site manager/foreman), and Jason (carpenter). All are very kind, patient, and committed to customer satisfaction.
Since completion, a few items have popped up that needed attention--touch-ups, adjustments, etc. Eisenbrandt has been extremely responsive. Of course, you don't engage in a project like this to make friends--it's business. But my wife and I do feel like we have a relationship with Eisenbrandt, and its team, that goes beyond the job. I feel like we will always be able to call them, for any issue that arises, and they will stand behind their work (and that of their subs). Yes, they use subs (who doesn't anymore?), but Ben and others were either on-site or in close contact almost every day of the seven months we worked with them.
The only reason that I didn't give an extra star was because of misaligned expectations regarding budget when the project was bid. I think that Fritz is passionate about helping people to achieve their dream, and sometimes that enthusiasm may create unrealistic projections in terms of overall project cost. Also, Eisenbrandt adds a percentage markup to all of their costs (subs/materials), so things really add up quickly for the customer. Again, did our project go over budget? Yes. Were we frustrated at the time? Yes. Do we still love everything about our new house and think that basically it was well worth it---yes, yes! Bottomline, just make sure that you, and they, are are being as hyper-specific as possible about every aspect of the project and anticipated cost. Eisenbrandt is a reputable, fair-minded company and Fritz personally extended us a very generous gesture as part of our project.
We would definitely recommend speaking with them to discuss your project. If you decide to proceed, you will be very pleased with the results.
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