Ford Strei Builders, LLC

We highly recommend Ford Strei Builders, LLC. Our project was demolishing, down to the foundation, the central part of an early 1950s one-story ranch to add a second story as well as remodeling the remainder of the house and pool. We commenced construction in June 2013 and the project took 14 months to complete. We interviewed a number of builders and chose Ford for his knowledge and reputation. This was most important to us since we did not live in Austin during the project and we needed someone we could trust and rely upon to do the right thing while we were not present. Communication was critical to the success of our project. Ford and his staff excelled at keeping us informed at all times. Ford was very helpful in the budget process and we finished within 5% of budget. Considering the number of unknowns and the complexity of the project, this was impressive. One thing we really liked was the budget spreadsheet updated every draw. It allowed us to closely track changes and over/under expenses etc. Andrew Poles, Ford’s superintendent for our job, was excellent. He was there virtually every day and very knowledgeable. The various subcontractors were reliable and produced quality work product. It was clear to us that Ford and Andrew relished solving the problems inherent in all major remodels and they coordinated with our architect to make a number of design recommendations that we incorporated into the house, including cost effective suggestions. Even after project completion, Ford and Andrew took our calls and were there for us in resolving several issues that came up, without additional compensation. If we chose to build or remodel again in Austin, we will definitely use Ford Strei and his team.

Our experience with FSB was exceptional and we highly recommend them. We hired FSB to build our custom home in 2014. Construction began in 2015 and finished, on time and budget, in 2015. The highlights are: · Teamwork – From our first meeting it was clear that FSB listens and they wanted to build our house, not their view of what our house should be. They integrated quickly into our team and became a trusted advisor on building and design concepts, working closely with our architect, interior designer and landscape designer. · Communication – FSB communication is excellent. From weekly construction meetings to emails or calls about updates throughout the process we do not recall a time where we did not know the status of our home. When alternatives were available they proposed solutions and clearly explained budget, design and construction impacts. · Quality – The quality of their work, including each of their subs, is exceptional. Each phase of construction was executed with care and precision. When we asked questions about construction specifics or techniques they clearly explain why and how. If they saw a deficiency they quickly corrected the situation and made sure the work was done properly. · Budget – The work was done on time and slightly under budget (what could be better). There was no confusion about the budget and every decision was evaluated with an eye on the total budget including time, materials and labor. FSB’s experience really made a difference here. They knew how changes we requested would impact the bottom line.

First, let me start with this. I already know that I am going to hire Ford when I build my next house. Ford and his team are professional and extremely experienced--guiding you around pitfalls, technical requirements, working with the city and telling you what is worth the investment versus what your architect tells you is worth the investment. What I like about Ford's business model is this: He charges an agreed upon monthly fee and then he does the rest--kind of like a hired gun, but even better. He takes a "roll up your sleeves and get to work" attitude, shows up on the job every day and keeps his crews on target, on time and on budget. My wife and I are extremely pleased with the outcome of our major remodel (90% rebuild) and love the final product. Ford and his team--everyone from the back office to his field lieutenants are rock solid professionals. I'm looking forward to working with Ford and his team again and cannot recommend his firm highly enough.

Ford Strei Builders and his team made the process fun. He delivered a superior product on budget and on time!

Very cordial, respectful and communicative. Offered useful, creative suggestions at the outset of the project which no one I interviewed raised.

We have worked with Ford Strei Builders for many years on various types of remodel projects. From bathroom remodels all the way to a whole house remodel they are capable of any size job. The outcome is always the same, a very happy client and a spectacular finish out. Ford is known in the industry for being knowledgeable about the building process and will stop and listen to his clients thoughts and concerns. As a designer, I love working with him because he plays well with others! Collaboration leading to a happy client is easy when you have a good team. We look forward to many more projects to come.