Our Process
Dream, Design, Build
A named process with a promise at every stage, so you’ll always know where your project stands, what comes next, and why.
How long it takes
Every project is different, and size makes a big difference. As a general guide, a simple renovation takes at least 8 months from the start of design to move-in. An addition or a new home often takes 12 months or more.
We take our time in Design so every decision is made before construction starts. That’s what lets construction move as quickly as possible. Your timeline is set in writing during Design, before you commit to construction.
Step 1
Dream: see what’s possible before you commit
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Discovery call (free)
Your goals, timeline, and budget.
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In-person consultation ($150)
We walk your home and gather what we need.
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Proposal review
Your plan, timeline, and pricing, in person.
- What you get
- A clear plan and price range before you sign anything.
Step 2
Design: every decision made before construction starts
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Design agreement
Secures your place on our schedule.
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Plans and selections
Construction drawings, engineering, site survey if needed, elevations, and every material selection.
- What you get
- A construction-ready plan and a fixed construction price.
Step 3
Build: a predictable build, and a team that stays with you after
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Pre-construction
Permits, ordering, and a full schedule.
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Construction
One project manager, and weekly updates in your client portal.
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Final walkthrough
We review every detail with you.
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Warranty
A 1-year comprehensive warranty from Oak City Homes, plus extended warranties on select trades.
- What you get
- A finished project you review with us detail by detail, and a 1-year comprehensive warranty.
A promise at every stage
And a team that stays with you after the build.
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Dream
Honest advice, including telling you if your project doesn’t make sense.
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Design
Peace of Mind Pricing. Your price is set before we break ground.
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Build
You’ll always know where your project stands, what comes next, and why.
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Warranty
A 1-year comprehensive warranty, plus extended warranties on select trades.
Your project manager owns warranty, so you call the same person who ran your build.
What clients say about the process
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“We met with several contractors before settling on Oak City because they took the time to explain their process and answered our questions prior to signing a contract.”
Gina M. 700 sq ft addition, Cary -
“We decided to still live in the house during construction, and Mike went above and beyond to make it as convenient as possible for us.”
Chris C.
Process questions
How long does a project take?
Every project is different, and size makes a big difference. A simple renovation takes at least 8 months from the start of Design to move-in, and an addition or new home often takes 12 months or more.
Your timeline is set in writing during Design, before you commit to construction.
Someone else can start sooner. Why wait?
Planning every decision before construction is what makes your price and schedule hold. A fast start with an unfinished plan is how projects end up over budget and behind schedule.
What do we get before we sign a contract?
At your proposal review, you see your plan, your timeline, and your pricing, in person, before you sign anything.
What warranty do you offer?
A 1-year comprehensive warranty from Oak City Homes, plus extended warranties on select trades. Your project manager owns warranty, so you call the same person who ran your build.
Planning guides
- How long does a Raleigh home addition take?
A phase-by-phase look at typical timelines for a Raleigh home addition, from discovery and design to permits, construction, and what can slow it down.
- What is a licensed general contractor?
What a licensed general contractor does on a remodel or addition in North Carolina, what the license means for you, and why it matters.
- How to choose a remodeling contractor in Cary, NC
Practical steps for choosing a remodeling contractor in Cary, NC, from defining your scope and checking licenses to comparing quotes and contracts.
- Should you move or choose a home expansion?
The real pros and cons of moving compared with expanding the home you have in Raleigh, Cary, and Wake Forest, so you can decide with clear eyes.
Start with a free discovery call
Talk through your goals, timeline, and budget. You’ll know whether we’re a fit before you spend anything.