When you’re researching Omaha basement contractors, it’s hard to tell what makes each company different.
Everyone says the same things, has the same types of picture and offers the same types of service.
At Hawthorne, we wanted to be very clear on what sets us apart. We’re not just another basement finishing company in Omaha and here’s what makes us different:
We’re Female Owned
Nothing against the fellas, but we think women bring a unique perspective that you won’t find with other basement contractors in Omaha.
Each of us contributes separate skills and knowledge to this industry. Our attention-to-detail, high level of communication, and use of technology will create a better experience for the homeowner.
Thoughtful Basement Plans
Each plan and layout is created with your family in mind. The way we see it, your basement is a blank slate and we work with you to help design it.
Entertain often? Let’s put in a drink fridge.
Like watching movies or sports? Let’s do a killer AV setup.
Lots of pets and kids? Let’s make sure to incorporate a stain-free carpet.
Is your Mother-in-Law moving in? Let’s make sure we set her up comfortably.
You tell us what’s important and we make sure to incorporate it.
Over Communication
Back to point #1, we’re women and we like knowing what’s going on. We assume the same of you.
You’ll often find that we respond to emails, calls, or texts within the same day (sometimes the same hour). We’re accessible, communicative, and might interject some sarcasm along the way.
We’re easy to reach during business hours. And even after you’ve sent in your last payment, we’re still easy to reach.
Total Transparency
We believe that trust thrives in transparency. This is partly why we use cost-plus pricing over fixed pricing and why we operate with “open book”.
But on top that, we believe in owning up to mistakes (we’re human!) and being truthful even if the news isn’t great. The basement finishing industry still has a long way to go, but we’re excited to be part of the change.
Summary
Does Hawthorne sound like a basement contractor you’d like to work with? Great! We’d love to chat.
Fill out our contact form or give us a ring at (402) 321-5260.
So let’s say you’re out looking at several Omaha basement contractors to get a bid on your basement finishing.
You’ll get numbers all over the place from the low end to the high end of pricing.
Most basement companies in Omaha will actually offer fixed pricing. Many homeowners don’t realize that there is an alternative through cost-plus pricing.
What exactly is cost-plus basement pricing?
In short, we charge a fixed percentage of the overall cost of the project. We will determine at the early stages the exact estimate of your project and calculate a management fee percentage on top of that. So whether you choose a $300 microwave or a $3000 microwave, we don’t stand to make any more.
So while fixed pricing is a good option, here’s why you should consider a cost-plus basement pricing:
More Control
As a homeowner, you always get to call the shots (outside from building code rules, etc.). This means that while you may have a certain budget allowance for lighting, you may find a better option at Wayfair. Great! You purchase those lights and then we can adjust scope accordingly.
This is especially advantageous for homeowners who are savvy shoppers and like to be involved in the process.
Complete Transparency
This is an open book process. You get to see what we pay the subcontractors or vendors and so you know that we’re not marking up pricing. This is what we mean if we ever talk about “true pricing.”
Plus, we get the builder pricing on most things and pass those savings directly to you.
Additionally, changes are a much more seamless process because you often know the price differences in any upgrades you make. So you’re negotiating with your spouse (and not us).
Summary
Interested in a refreshing basement contractor relationship? One with transparent pricing, proactive communication, and more flexibility.
Fill out our contact form or call us at (402) 321-5260 to get started!
Should I Hire a General Contractor For My Basement or Do It Myself?
This is a totally valid question and one that homeowners ponder a lot.
Do I try to finish my basement myself or hire a basement contractor?
While we can’t make that decision for you, we hope that understanding the pros of each might help you make a better decision.
Here we go.
Benefits of Finishing Your Basement Yourself
With the knowledge of the internet, there are more resources now than ever to learn to do it yourself.
The obvious benefit is cost savings. So whether you’re simply general contracting it yourself or doing some of the physical labor, you will no doubt save money.
In fact, some estimates say you can save anywhere from 10-20k+ when you manage the project yourself.
It helps to be available (i.e. work at home) and being extremely organized. There are tons of resources on Youtube and websites that can help you if you plan on doing it yourself.
Plus, many people enjoy the process of acquiring a new skill that goes along the process.
Definitely doable and great for those who are tenacious, adaptable, and handy.
Benefits of Hiring a Basement Contractor To Finish Your Basement
The obvious benefit is the experience. Any Omaha basement contractors will usually have experience dealing with permits, working with any subcontractors, design/layout/selection experience, and project flow.
As such, the project will often move much faster and with little snags than someone finishing their basement themselves. We can employ several hands at various stages of the project so there’s a very little downtime.
We have screened all of our subcontractors and can stand by their work.
And the other benefit? We take on the burden of oversight and time management which many homeowners would prefer.
Summary
There’s really no one-size-fits-all approach to finishing your basement.
You can do it yourself and save money, however, you’re trading convenience and time. On the other hand, you can hire a general contractor get time and convenience at a higher price tag. It just depends on your basement budget and personal preference.
If you decided on the latter, then we would be HAPPY to help you out. Please fill out our contact form or give us a call at (402) 321-5260.
Why Basements?
The construction industry has room for improvement. Homeowners are used to miscommunication, missed deadlines, and generally, having an unsavory experience.
But we realized it doesn’t have to be that way. So we decided to do something about it.
As fellow Elkhorn residents we came to the realization that with the boom of housing, there would rise a need for basement contractors. Some key players exited the market so it was a ripe opportunity to enter.
Lindsay + Cam
Lindsay and I have been friends for almost 9 years now. Our oldest kids were literally babies when we first met and now we have both added 2 more each. Yes, we’re busy, but we’re also passionate about making an impact in the professional world.
Lindsay has long had experience with construction and custom home building. As mentioned, she is a third generation builder so it’s been second hand for her. She knows the ins and outs of construction and has had her hand in all types of residential and commercial builds.
I, on the other hand, have limited experience with Construction BUT I know project management. I owned and operated a web design company for nearly 8 years. During that time, I was able to work on some complex projects and really hone in on my project management skills.
We both bring separate and unique strengths into Hawthorne Finished Basements, but we believe this to our advantage.
Oh yeah, and we believe our XX chromosomes will serve us well in a male-dominated industry.
Wanna Work With Us?
Head on over to our Contact page to give us a few more details of your project and we’ll get back to you lickety-split.