"My wife and I planned a substantial renovation/addition to our home in St Michaels, MD in the spring of 2008. Our architect provided the names of four general contractors, whom we interviewed. We chose Gene based on our sense that we could work effectively with him. He appeared to be particularly open and transparent regarding the process.
Gene carried out a careful analysis of what would be involved and required for the project, including details often overlooked. His price bid was fair and competitive, but consistent with providing quality work.
We feel that the type of individuals that a contractor chooses to work with says a great deal about that contractor. ”Excellent, careful and very considerate” are adjectives we would choose in describing these men. In addition, Gene himself was extremely knowledgeable in all facets of the building process, and was involved in a very ‘hands on’ manner. As a result, all details were carried out carefully. On a separate note, the site was maintained in immaculate fashion, with a daily end-of-day cleanup. We particularly appreciated this, as we continued to live in our home during the construction.
This is an extremely critical part of the process. Either the contractor can act as a strong advocate for his client, or the client may be left to fend for himself as regards to job details and scheduling. We found Gene to be an exceptionally effective agent for us in this regard, essentially relieving us completely from having to worry about the myriad details which were involved at every stage of the subcontracting process. He also bargained strongly with subcontractors regarding pricing when changes had to be made. In other words, he acted in a way that indicated he understood fully that his primary mandate was to act on our behalf.
Changes to the original plan, both minor and at times major, are inevitable in any complex building endeavor. Gene always handled these with aplomb and a smile, despite inconveniences to his own timetable.
The job was finished in the timeframe indicated at the outset.
Gene has made himself and his staff readily available for any and all minor adjustments and small additions after the job was completed. Moreover he has handled this aspect of the interaction in exactly the same way as the full job, going to the trouble of finding the best hardware and materials for this work at very fair prices.
From our perspective, Gene stands at the top of the field of custom General Contractors. He is honest, provides the highest quality work at fair and competitive prices and does so with a positive and optimistic outlook with which it is a delight to be associated."
JOHN T MURPHY MD, PhD