Whether you're planning a custom home build, a remodeling project, or just exploring your options, we've put together answers to the questions we hear most. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us or call (440) 253-9809. we're always happy to help.

9 questions

Custom Home Building

Questions about costs, timelines, and the process of building a custom home in Cleveland and Northeast Ohio.

Custom homes in the Cleveland area start from $359,000, with costs varying based on size, finishes, lot conditions, and complexity. The average cost per square foot in Northeast Ohio ranges from $150-$300+. We provide detailed estimates after understanding your vision so there are no surprises. See our new construction portfolio for examples.

A typical custom home build takes 8-14 months from breaking ground to move-in, depending on size and complexity. The full process including design, permitting, and construction usually takes 12-18 months total. Weather and material availability can affect timelines.

The process includes: initial consultation, design and planning, permits and approvals, site preparation, foundation, framing, mechanical systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), insulation, drywall, interior finishes, exterior work, landscaping, and final walkthrough. We guide you through every step.

No. you don't need to own land first. We can help you evaluate potential lots and even connect you with resources to find the right property. Having a builder involved early in lot selection helps avoid costly surprises with grading, utilities, or zoning.

A production builder uses pre-designed floor plans and builds the same homes repeatedly. A custom builder like Best Construction designs each home around your family's specific needs, preferences, and lifestyle. You get full control over layout, materials, and finishes.

Some of the best communities for custom home building include Twinsburg, Solon, Aurora, Macedonia, and Oakwood. Each offers excellent school districts, available lots, and distinctive community character. Twinsburg and Solon are known for top-rated schools and family-friendly neighborhoods, while Aurora offers larger lots with a rural feel. Learn more in our neighborhood guide or explore the Cleveland Neighborhood Scorecard.

Each city in Summit and Cuyahoga County has its own zoning codes, setback requirements, and minimum lot sizes. For example, residential zones may require different minimum square footage, side yard setbacks, and impervious surface limits. We handle all zoning research and permitting as part of our process, so you don't have to navigate it alone.

Yes. we regularly build on lots our clients already own throughout Summit and Cuyahoga County, including Twinsburg, Solon, Macedonia, Aurora, Oakwood, Streetsboro, Bedford, and surrounding communities. If you don't have a lot yet, we can help you find one that works for your vision and budget.

Custom home construction in the greater Cleveland suburbs typically costs $150-$300+ per square foot depending on the level of finishes, site conditions, and complexity. Our custom homes start from $359,000. Areas like Solon and Aurora may have higher lot costs due to demand and school district quality, while communities like Streetsboro and Macedonia can offer more affordable land options.

12 questions

Remodeling

Common questions about permits, timelines, budgets, and the remodeling process in Ohio.

Most significant remodeling projects in Ohio require permits. especially structural changes, electrical work, plumbing modifications, and additions. Cosmetic updates like painting or flooring typically don't. We handle all permitting as part of our process so you don't have to worry about it.

A kitchen remodel typically takes 6-12 weeks depending on scope. Bathroom remodels usually take 3-8 weeks. Factors include whether you're changing the layout, custom cabinetry lead times, and the extent of plumbing or electrical work needed.

Start by prioritizing your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. Get multiple estimates, and always include a 10-20% contingency for unexpected issues (especially in older homes). We provide transparent, detailed estimates upfront so you know exactly where your money goes.

It depends on your situation. If you love your neighborhood and the home's structure is sound, remodeling often makes sense. If you need significantly more space or the renovation costs approach 50%+ of the home's value, building new may be more cost-effective.

Yes. any kitchen remodel involving structural changes, plumbing, or electrical work requires a permit. Each municipality has its own building department (Twinsburg, Solon, Bedford, Macedonia, etc.), so requirements can vary. We handle all permit applications and inspections as part of our process, so you don't have to deal with the paperwork.

Home additions in the greater Cleveland suburbs typically cost $150-$400+ per square foot depending on the type of addition, finishes, and complexity. A standard bedroom addition might run $150-$250/sq ft, while a kitchen or bathroom addition with plumbing can reach $300-$450/sq ft. Learn more in our home addition cost guide.

In the Cleveland-area housing market, kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, basement finishing, and home additions consistently deliver the best return on investment. Updated kitchens and bathrooms are especially important to buyers in competitive communities like Solon, Twinsburg, and Aurora.

Absolutely. We have extensive experience renovating older homes throughout Northeast Ohio. Older housing stock in communities like Bedford, Oakwood, and Streetsboro often requires special attention to foundations, electrical system upgrades, insulation improvements, and structural reinforcement. We assess each home thoroughly before starting. See our guide on how to prepare for a remodel.

Deck and porch additions in the Cleveland suburbs typically range from $15,000 to $75,000+, depending on size, materials, and complexity. Composite decking is popular in communities like Twinsburg and Aurora for its low maintenance, while natural wood options are more affordable upfront. Summit County requires permits for most deck builds. we handle the entire process including design, permitting, and construction. Browse our deck and porch projects or see our home addition cost guide for more details.

Basement finishing in the greater Cleveland area typically costs $25,000 to $65,000+ depending on the size and scope. Popular upgrades in communities like Twinsburg, Solon, and Macedonia include home theaters, wet bars, guest suites, and home offices. Older homes in Bedford or Oakwood may need waterproofing or foundation work before finishing. We assess everything upfront so there are no surprises. Read our basement finishing cost guide for detailed breakdowns.

Room additions and home extensions in the Cleveland suburbs typically range from $150 to $400+ per square foot, depending on the scope. A single-room addition in Twinsburg or Solon might run $40,000-$100,000, while a full second-story addition or large extension in Aurora or Macedonia can exceed $200,000. Costs vary based on foundation work, roofline integration, and whether plumbing or electrical needs to be extended. We handle everything from bump-outs and sunrooms to full multi-room wings. See our detailed guides on home addition costs and second-story addition costs in Ohio.

We do everything. from light cosmetic touch-ups to complete gut renovations and full structural remodels. Whether you need a simple kitchen refresh in Streetsboro, a full bathroom overhaul in Solon, or a complete tear-down-to-studs renovation in Bedford, we have 30+ years of experience handling projects at every scale. We'll assess your home and recommend the right approach for your goals and budget. Call us at (440) 253-9809 to discuss your project.

9 questions

Working With Best Construction

What to expect when you work with our team, our experience, and how we approach every project.

Best Construction was founded by Chamkaur Hans in 1995. For over 30 years, we've been a family-owned and operated company serving the Cleveland area. Chamkaur personally oversees every project. you work directly with our team, not a corporate call center.

We serve Summit and Cuyahoga County including Twinsburg, Solon, Oakwood, Streetsboro, Macedonia, Aurora, Bedford, and surrounding communities throughout Northeast Ohio. If you're unsure whether we serve your area, give us a call at (440) 253-9809.

Call us at (440) 253-9809 or fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation. We'll discuss your project, visit the site if needed, and provide a detailed estimate. We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Three things: experience (30+ years), personal attention (owner-involved in every project), and quality (we never cut corners on materials or workmanship). We're not a national builder churning out cookie-cutter homes. we're a local family that takes pride in every project.

Ask about their experience, licensing and insurance, references from recent projects, how they handle change orders, their communication process, and whether the owner is involved in your project. We're happy to answer all of these and connect you with past clients.

Yes! We serve Twinsburg, Solon, Oakwood, Streetsboro, Macedonia, Aurora, Bedford, and surrounding communities throughout Summit and Cuyahoga County. We know the local building codes, inspectors, and suppliers in each municipality, which helps projects run smoothly and stay on schedule.

Yes. we encourage clients to visit active project sites to see our craftsmanship firsthand. Site visits are available by appointment so we can ensure safety and have a team member available to walk you through the work. Call us at (440) 253-9809 to schedule a visit.

Unlike national production builders, Best Construction offers personal attention on every project with the owner directly involved. We don't build cookie-cutter homes. every project is unique to the client. Our 30+ years of local knowledge in Summit and Cuyahoga County means we understand the specific codes, lot conditions, and community standards in each area we serve. Learn more about local vs. national builders.

Your first consultation is free and no-obligation. We'll discuss your vision, budget, timeline, and site or lot details. It's an opportunity to ask questions and learn about our process. We want you to feel confident before committing to anything. See our guide on questions to ask your contractor or schedule your consultation.

8 questions

Financing

Understanding construction loans, mortgages, and financing options for building or remodeling in Ohio.

A construction loan provides funds in stages (called draws) as your home is built. You typically pay interest-only during construction. Once the home is complete, the loan converts to a traditional mortgage. Down payments usually range from 10-25%.

Yes. a construction-to-permanent loan is the most common option. It starts as a construction loan during building, then automatically converts to a standard mortgage when the home is complete. This saves you from closing twice and paying two sets of closing costs.

Most construction lenders require a minimum credit score of 680, though 720+ will get you the best rates. You'll also need a down payment (typically 10-25%), proof of income, and detailed construction plans. We can connect you with lenders experienced in construction financing.

Yes. Ohio has several programs including OHFA (Ohio Housing Finance Agency) loans with competitive rates and down payment assistance. FHA construction loans are also available with lower down payment requirements. Your lender can help identify programs you qualify for.

Several local banks and credit unions in Summit and Cuyahoga County offer construction loan programs, and they often have more competitive terms than national lenders for local builds. We can connect you with lenders who are experienced with construction financing in our service area and understand the local market.

Yes. new construction is assessed at current market value, which often means higher property taxes than a comparable older home. Tax rates vary significantly by municipality and school district, so it's important to budget for this. Communities like Solon and Aurora have excellent schools but correspondingly higher tax rates.

Yes. FHA construction-to-permanent loans are available in Ohio with a lower down payment requirement of just 3.5%. These loans combine the construction and permanent financing into one closing, simplifying the process. Learn more in our guide to financing a custom home in Ohio.

Most construction loans in Northeast Ohio require a down payment of 10-25%, depending on the lender and your credit profile. Some programs, like FHA construction loans, may allow as little as 3.5% down. Learn more about your options in our construction mortgage guide.

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