Choosing a general contractor is one of the most consequential decisions in any home renovation project. Whether you are remodeling a kitchen, adding a screened porch, or reconfiguring a living space, the contractor you select will have a direct impact on the quality, timeline, and cost of your project. This article addresses common questions homeowners have about hiring a contractor, with a focus on clarity, planning, and realistic expectations.
A general contractor oversees the entirety of a residential construction project. This includes interpreting design plans, coordinating tradespeople such as electricians and plumbers, managing schedules, handling required inspections, and ensuring that all work complies with applicable building codes. In many cases, the contractor also serves as the primary point of communication between the homeowner and all others involved in the project.
There is no single pricing model that applies universally. That said, most general contractors price projects using either a fixed bid, a cost-plus agreement, or, less commonly, hourly billing.
In the Triangle region as of July 2025, comprehensive kitchen remodels often range between $60,000 and $120,000, depending on size, materials, and scope. Screened porches generally fall between $35,000 and $55,000. Whole-home renovations can exceed $200,000, especially in older homes where structural or mechanical upgrades are necessary.
These estimates typically include labor, materials, subcontractor fees, and project management costs. Unforeseen conditions, such as water damage or outdated wiring, may affect the final cost, so a contingency budget of 10% to 15% is advisable.
Timeframes vary widely based on project complexity and scheduling availability. For reference:
Delays may arise due to permit processing, material lead times, change orders, or weather conditions. A good contractor will help you prepare for these variables in advance.
In most North Carolina municipalities, permits are required for any project involving structural changes, plumbing modifications, electrical work, or additions. This includes removing walls, relocating fixtures, and making changes to the home’s exterior.
Your contractor should be responsible for obtaining all necessary permits. They should also coordinate inspections as required by the local building department. Proceeding without the proper approvals can lead to code violations, fines, and difficulties if you sell your home in the future.
Start by verifying licensing and insurance. Ask for recent examples of completed projects and request client references. Inquire about how the contractor handles scheduling, billing, subcontractor management, and change orders.
At Prince & Sons, we offer a transparent process that includes detailed proposals, CAD drawn plans, and a defined construction timeline. All of our projects are managed internally and executed by licensed subcontractors with longstanding ties to our firm.
How much does it cost to hire a contractor near me?
Costs vary, but homeowners in Chapel Hill and Durham can expect to invest between $60,000 and $120,000 for a full kitchen remodel and $45,000 to $75,000 for a primary bathroom renovation. These figures reflect typical project scopes and include both labor and materials.
Do general contractors pull permits for you?
Yes. Any reputable general contractor will handle the permitting process on your behalf. This includes submitting drawings, coordinating with inspectors, and ensuring compliance with local codes.
How long do kitchen renovations take?
A standard kitchen remodel takes approximately eight to ten weeks after demolition begins. Planning, permitting, and design work may require an additional three to six weeks.
Can I hire a contractor who is not licensed?
You can, but it is not recommended. Licensed contractors are held to specific standards and must carry liability insurance. Hiring an unlicensed contractor increases your legal and financial risk.
What should I ask before hiring a contractor?
Ask whether they are licensed and insured. Review recent work. Discuss how they manage timelines, billing, and changes to the scope of work. A thorough interview process will help you identify a contractor who is both capable and professional.
Renovating a home is a major undertaking, and selecting the right contractor is essential to achieving a successful outcome. If you are considering a remodeling project in Chapel Hill, Durham, or surrounding areas, we invite you to reach out to Prince & Sons to schedule a consultation. We have an online intake form linked here where you can provide information about your renovation which helps us prepare for our first meeting. Our team is available to answer your questions, provide design recommendations, and deliver detailed estimates tailored to your specific project.
Contact Prince & Sons today by phone at 919-383-0888 or through our online intake form to learn more about how we can help bring your home renovation plans to life.