Ed Nikles Custom Builder Inc

We researched them very thorough because we considered hiring them to build a vacation home for our extended family, but decided not to go with them. Here are the reasons:
1. They subcontract 100% of their work. This means they are only as good as their contractors. A lot of Builders in the area do framing and other parts themselves.
2. They do not pour concrete for your foundation. They use blocks. It is cheaper for them. It is a very serious limitation.
3. They are the most expensive in the area. I understand the company has been in Business for over 40 years, but there are other builders in the area who are well qualified.
4. They are extremely inflexible. With them, you need a construction loan (you need an excellent credit and a big down payment). It is a bad economy. Some builders will do a spot building (they will build it for you and you will get a regular mortgage). I know a builder who allowed a client to do plumbing work in order to cut costs.
5. If the actual cost is higher than estimate, you will pay out of the packet. Even for small things (it was estimated you will need 5 steps and it turned out you need 7). Your loan allowance was for 5 steps. You have to pay for 2 steps in cash. The other builders will negotiate the price with you and that will be it. 5 or 7 steps will not matter. No cash out of the packet.
We have not decided yet who will do work for us. Stay tuned.