Why GJK Remodeling’s Streamlined Proposal Process Stands Out

The process your remodeler follows can significantly impact the time, cost, and overall experience of your renovation project. While many remodeling firms use a traditional design-build approach, GJK Remodeling takes it further with a streamlined proposal process that prioritizes efficiency and transparency. Let’s explore why our approach stands out.

The Traditional Design-Build Approach

The traditional design-build process has been the industry standard for years, but it comes with certain challenges that can make the remodeling journey cumbersome for homeowners:

High Upfront Costs
Many remodeling companies require clients to sign a design agreement before proceeding. The design fee, often 2%-3% of the anticipated project scope, can be several thousand dollars. This is a significant financial commitment before homeowners see a complete project estimate.

Lengthy Design Phase
Traditional design-build processes typically take several months to finalize all selections, project details, and pricing. This drawn-out timeline delays construction and leaves homeowners waiting for clarity about their project’s cost.

Final Price Provided Late in the Process
A fixed project price is usually delivered only after the entire design phase is complete. If the final cost exceeds the homeowner’s budget, they’re left with difficult choices—cutting back on the scope of work, paying more than expected, or walking away without a refund of their upfront investment.

While this process can produce quality results, the financial risk, extended timeline, and lack of flexibility can create unnecessary stress for homeowners.

GJK’s Proposal Process: A Homeowner-Centric Approach

When Gary Knowles, the owner of GJK Remodeling, started his business, he wanted a homeowner-centric approach. Our process is designed to address these common challenges, offering a more transparent and efficient way to start a remodeling project. 

Here’s how our approach works:

1. A Personalized Start
The process begins with a phone call to discuss the homeowner’s goals, followed by an in-person meeting at the property within two weeks. 

By visiting the home, Gary can provide tailored insights and suggestions that wouldn’t be possible in a virtual meeting.

Example: During an initial consultation, Gary might identify ways to improve a kitchen’s workflow or suggest removing a wall to open up the space—insights that only come from seeing the home in person.

2. Rough Budget Numbers Early
At the first in-person meeting, Gary provides rough budget estimates for the project. This step gives homeowners an early understanding of costs and makes sure that the project aligns with their budget before moving forward.

3. Affordable Proposal Fee
Instead of requiring a large design fee upfront, GJK charges a much lower proposal fee—typically between $850 – $1,200*. This fee covers the time and resources needed to develop a 2-D design and detailed proposal, making it a more affordable and lower-risk option for homeowners.

*Fee as of February 2025 and is subject to change.

4. Realistic Budgets for Key Items
We provide budget ranges for big-ticket items like cabinets, countertops, electrical, plumbing, and tile. These estimates allow clients to adjust their selections as needed based on the range provided.

Example: If a client initially selects a high-end natural stone countertop but later decides to switch to a more budget-friendly option, the adjustment is simple and transparent. They know exactly what they spend in each big-ticket category; their final cost will reflect this.

5. Encourages Early Design Exploration
One of the most exciting aspects of any home renovation project is selecting the features and fixtures for a space. Homeowners are encouraged to explore design inspiration on platforms like Houzz and Pinterest. They come to design meetings prepared with ideas, and the designer can show them what each option looks like in a 3-D rendering on our large HDTV. This streamlines the design phase and reduces decision-making delays. 

6. Final Price Delivered Quickly
Unlike the months-long process of traditional design-build methods, we can deliver a final price within three weeks of a proposal agreement (typically). This faster turnaround allows construction to begin much sooner.

Why Homeowners Prefer GJK’s Process

1. Faster Turnaround

Our streamlined process eliminates the lengthy design phases common in traditional methods. With a final price ready in just six weeks, homeowners can confidently move forward while others wait for cost estimates.

2. Lower Financial Risk

By offering a low-cost proposal fee instead of a large upfront design fee, we reduce the financial risk for homeowners. This approach ensures clients only pay for what they need, without locking them into significant commitments early on.

3. Flexibility and Transparency

Our detailed budgets for major project components empower homeowners to make informed decisions and adjust selections as needed. This flexibility allows projects to stay on track and within budget without unpleasant surprises.

4. A Better Experience

From the personal touch of in-home consultations to the faster timeline, our process prioritizes the homeowner’s convenience, peace of mind, and satisfaction.

Choosing the Right Process for Your Remodel

When planning a remodeling project, the process can be just as important as the finished result. 

If you’re looking for a remodeling process that puts your needs first, contact GJK Remodeling today so we can give you a Life Remodeled.