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    Our Process

    From first conversation to finished space

    A clear, predictable process refined over 30+ years of outdoor living expertise.

    Our First Call

    Watch: What to expect on your first call

    A quick video walkthrough of our first phone conversation, so you know exactly what to expect.

    Video coming soon

    "Our First Call" walkthrough

    1

    Free Phone Conversation and Estimate

    15 to 20 minutes

    Every project starts with a free phone call. There's no on-site visit yet, no pressure, no pitch. We use this call to learn about your space, your goals, your timeline, and your budget range.

    During our conversation, I'll walk you through what's possible with your space, answer any questions you've been thinking about, and even give you a ballpark estimate right on the call so you're not waiting around for information you need to move forward.

    My goal isn't just to "have a call" — it's to make sure you feel confident, informed, and clear about your next step… whether that's working with us or simply understanding your options better.

    Whenever you're ready, just grab a spot on the calendar. Looking forward to helping you bring this project to life.

    Talk soon,

    What we discuss

    • Your space and how you want to use it
    • Your timeline and budget
    • Materials and design preferences
    • Permitting and HOA considerations

    What you walk away with

    • A price bracket for your project
    • A clear understanding of next steps
    • Realistic timeline expectations

    Free Phone Conversation and Estimate

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    2

    One-Hour On-Site Consultation

    One hour on-site

    We come to your home for a one-hour design consultation. We take measurements, look at the space, bring material samples and color options, and discuss design ideas.

    No high-pressure sales tactics, just an honest conversation about what's possible for your home.

    What happens on-site

    • Site measurement
    • Structural assessment
    • Design discussion
    • Material samples and color options
    • Code and permit considerations

    Timeline

    • One hour on-site

    One-Hour On-Site Consultation

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    3

    Scope Development and Exact Proposal

    Delivered within one to two weeks

    After the on-site visit, we develop the full scope of your project and give you a to-the-penny proposal. No vague allowances. No hidden costs.

    You see exactly what you're getting and what it costs, down to the dollar.

    What's included

    • Detailed scope of work
    • To-the-penny pricing (no allowances or estimates in the proposal)
    • Material specifications and color confirmations
    • Full project timeline
    • Payment schedule
    • Permit handling included

    Scope Development and Exact Proposal

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    4

    Permitting, Building, and Finish

    Typical builds run two to eight weeks

    Once you approve the proposal, we handle everything: permitting and facilitation, engineering, materials ordering, scheduling, building, inspections, and final walkthrough.

    Our crew respects your home and your neighbors throughout the build.

    What we handle

    • All permitting and facilitation with your county
    • Engineering when required
    • Material ordering and delivery
    • All construction phases
    • Inspections coordination
    • Final walkthrough
    • Warranty registration (we register everything so you don't have to keep a copy)

    Permitting, Building, and Finish

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    Learning Center

    Planning & Hiring a Contractor guides

    Cost

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    Types of Custom Outdoor Living Your Space Could Use

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    Luxury Outdoor Living Spaces Without the Luxury Price

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    Navigating the Labyrinth: Choosing the Right Contractor for Your Outdoor Living Space

    ​Starting a new outdoor living space project? Eager to enjoy those serene mornings on a deck or in a screened porch? We understand your excitement. But, before reaching that dream, you're faced with the daunting task of sifting through estimates, vetting contractors, and making significant decisions

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    Beware of Unlicensed Contractors! A Guide by Mark Szabo at Custom Design and Build

    ​Protect your home and your pocket from the risks associated with unlicensed contractors. Here are ten key facts you should be aware of: ​​1.    In Maryland, operating as a home improvement contractor or salesperson without an MHIC license is illegal. 2.    Some unlicensed contractors might have a c

    Ready to Build?

    Let's talk about your outdoor space.

    Start with a free phone conversation. We'll learn about your project, answer your questions, and help you understand what's possible. No pressure and no pushy sales tactics.

    4.9 stars on Google • 94 verified Google reviews • MHIC #91686 • Locally owned and operated