Monthly, we give quite a bit of estimates.  Just like any business, people you work with vary in personalities. Some are quite, don't give any input and wait for us to give them the final number and they choose to make their decision without any questions asked. Some are very inquisitive, ask questions and try to learn as much as they can, which we love and teach them, we give them the estimate explaining every detail and then they make their decisions according to their budget.
The one that is most difficult for a contractor is the client that knows more or less about construction but pretends he can manage it and does not really need the overall percentage of the contractor.  For example, client wants to remodel his detached guesthouse and he decides that he can get an estimate from each sub and oversees the work himself.  Honestly speaking, this scenario is possible if the client is a handyman himself and has knowledge about the dangers of each sub's work and can prevent it.  If the client is relying on the subs to be careful and communicates with the other subs on his behalf, the work will never be done becaue the subs are not responsible for each other's work.  
Naturally on a larger scale, if you are to build a house, please contact a contractor even if you have to give them an hourly rate.   

This is something we hear all the time. There is an ancient Armenian saying "give the dough to the baker", which translates to basically hire a professional.  We believe and aim to teach homeowners to take care of minor issues themselves, but they also need to know their home pretty well. For instance, if you are going to hang something on the wall of an old home, you need to know if the wall can handle it and if you are nailing it to drywall or the main stud.  Over time and especially living in California where we are prone to earthquakes, the smallest error will lead to major damages.  
Consult with contractors; have them come and examine your home to see if they can give you any feedback.  Much like going to a doctor for a check up, have your home checked out too.  Most of the time it won't cost  anything and you will get to know the ins and outs of your own nest.

Having a home is much like having a family, it requires love, care, support and maintenance.  It is very important to know your team when you are working on a project.  Whether it's a residential home or a commercial improvement, our team is our family, they are our home.

Our clients are members of our family.  We make sure they are well taken care of, well advised and satisfied.