FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

We believe informed clients make the best decisions. Here are answers to the questions we hear most often. Do not see your question? Reach out — we are happy to help.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

Where are you located?

Our office is in Edmonds, WA, but we build throughout Greater Seattle. Our service area includes Seattle proper (Ballard, Queen Anne, West Seattle, Maple Leaf, Wallingford, Fremont, Greenwood, Ravenna, Laurelhurst), plus Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond, Edmonds, Shoreline, and surrounding areas. Not sure if we serve your area? Just ask.

What types of projects do you take on?

We specialize in three main areas:

• New Construction — Custom homes, spec builds, multi-unit developments (duplexes, triplexes)

• DADU/ADU Construction — Backyard cottages, basement conversions, garage conversions

• Remodeling — Whole-home renovations, kitchens, bathrooms, additions, basement finishing

We focus on residential projects and work primarily with homeowners, though we also partner with architects, designers, and investors.

What is your availability? How far out are you booked?

Our schedule varies throughout the year. Currently, we are typically booking new projects 4-8 weeks out for smaller remodels and 2-3 months out for new construction and larger projects. The best way to get accurate timing is to reach out and discuss your specific project.

PRICING QUESTIONS

What is the ballpark cost for my project?

Every project is different, but here are general ranges to help you plan:

NEW CONSTRUCTION
• Custom Single-Family Home: $400-$600+ per sq ft
• Multi-Unit Development: $350-$500+ per sq ft

DADU/ADU
• DADU (Detached): $350,000-$650,000+
• AADU (Basement/Attached): $150,000-$350,000+

REMODELING
• Kitchen Remodel: $75,000-$200,000+
• Bathroom Remodel: $40,000-$100,000+
• Whole-Home Renovation: Highly variable based on scope

These ranges include design, permitting, and construction. Material selections, site conditions, and project complexity significantly impact final cost. We provide detailed estimates specific to your project after our initial consultation.

Do you provide free estimates?

We provide free initial consultations where we will discuss your project, visit your site if needed, and give you a realistic ballpark range. For detailed, line-item estimates, we typically charge a design/planning fee that is credited toward construction if you proceed with us. This ensures both parties are serious and allows us to invest real time in understanding your project.

How do payments work?

We structure payments based on project milestones — you pay as work is completed, not all upfront. Typical structure includes a deposit at contract signing, then payments tied to specific completion milestones (foundation, framing, rough-in, finish, completion). Exact terms are outlined in our construction agreement.

PROCESS QUESTIONS

What is your process?

Our process has seven phases:

1. Discovery — Initial consultation and site assessment
2. Planning & Design — Detailed plans, specifications, and budget
3. Permitting — All required permits secured
4. Pre-Construction — Final agreements, scheduling, material ordering
5. Construction — Building your project with weekly updates
6. Communication — Ongoing throughout (same-day response, weekly updates)
7. Completion — Final walkthrough, punch list, handoff

Visit our Process page for detailed information on each phase.

How long will my project take?

Timeline depends on project type and complexity:

• Kitchen Remodel: 6-12 weeks

• Bathroom Remodel: 4-8 weeks

• AADU (Basement Conversion): 3-5 months

• DADU (Backyard Cottage): 6-10 months

• Custom Home: 10-18 months

Permitting adds additional time upfront (typically 2-6 months depending on project type). We will provide a specific timeline estimate for your project during planning.

Do you use subcontractors or in-house crews?

We use a combination of in-house team members and trusted subcontractors. Our project managers and superintendents are in-house, ensuring direct oversight of every project. For specialized trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.), we work with subcontractors we have partnered with for 12+ years. These are not random crews — they are trusted partners who understand our standards and how we work.

How will I know what is happening with my project?

Communication is core to how we operate:

• Same-day response to all calls and emails
• Weekly written progress updates
• Shared Google Doc tracking materials, decisions, and progress
• Direct phone access to your project manager
• Immediate notification of any issues or changes

You will never wonder what is happening with your project.

QUALIFICATIONS QUESTIONS

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. Waltier Homes Inc holds active Washington State contractor licenses (WALTIHL824RS), and we maintain comprehensive general liability and workers compensation insurance. We are happy to provide documentation upon request.

What certifications do you have?

Our team holds multiple relevant certifications:

• 30-Hour OSHA Safety Certification

• EPA Lead-Safe Certified

• BuiltGreen Certified Builder

• AIA (American Institute of Architects) Member

We have also been featured in Luxury Home Magazine.

Have you done this type of project before?

With 300+ new construction units and 150+ remodels completed, we have likely done something very similar to your project. We are happy to share relevant examples from our portfolio and connect you with past clients as references.

Ready to build something real

Let's talk about your project and what it means to you