Interestingly, a 17-page inspection report on the house we had just put a contract on was not enough to scare us away. Conversely, we were immediately catapulted to the notion that, yup, we indeed needed a General Contractor for this monster. And we knew that not just any GC could fulfill all of our needs and expectations. So the search began . . .

A meeting with Renewal was the first scheduled, as Shereen (office manager) followed up within moments of my inquiry. Exceptionally polite and accommodating, her voice matched the smile in her picture on the website. She was patient in letting me ramble over the situation and though knowing Renewal runs a busy business, she was certain to get me on deck with a return phone call from Peter (CEO). Peter called shortly thereafter, again I rambled, and we set up the meeting.

A True Team
Peter welcomed me into his office, introducing me to Ron (project manager), and even explaining his role as we were seated. David (president) soon jumped in for a perusal of the inspection report. I felt so encouraged that this was a true team before me as there was no hiding the pride and synergy within those walls. This meeting would dramatically overshadow the few other GC appointments to follow. First impressions usually do, when so wonderful.

Overwhelmed by structural damage and electrical dangers that dominated our first phase, I was eased by Peter's confidence and sense of humor. Knowing we were many phases from anything cosmetic or glamorous, a single comment made was what may have been the first thing to win me over. Something to the tune of, You know this isn't the sexy part, right?

There in the office, he showed me images of other past and present structural projects, both calming my fears and explaining the possible unknowns. His demeanor told me that he knew that the most amazing thing you can build is a relationship, which was what I was looking for. This philosophy is evident with everyone at Renewal as the collective approach transcends the traditional.

Connecting with Ron
Ron was transitioned into the scope without fumble. Seamless. I couldnt have been more delighted to connect with Ron. He was laid-back, knowledgeable, thoughtful, and extremely responsive. How we planned to move through the process, our living situation, the goals ahead, and the ever-changing complexion were all instantly understood. From there, the forethought that went into each day and our personal schedule was so well-executed.

Ron even called the afternoon of our move just to make sure things were going as well as a move could go. No business discussed, just checking in and making sure we were set. Incidentally, I don't even think we heard from other friends or family that day who offered any interest or concern!

Core Crew Tackles Termite Terror
Day one of work featured our exploration into the termite terror. As Mike began to peel the hardwoods away, a masked Lucious began tearing through walls. Foremost, both gentlemen were precisely that, gentlemen. We honestly could not have asked for a more exceptional and reliable core crew. Always a can-do, seen worse, no big deal, do-thi- in-my-sleep attitude that could not have enlightened our days more.

As the termite damage expanded, we were never fearful, but quite the opposite. There was always a tug at my attention (wherever I was) to let me know where things were headed, and what was to be done. We were assured without hesitation the work was being done correctly, and we now have floors sturdy enough to host the entire River Dance troupe, including substitutes and stage hands.

Mike and Lucious made for lovely company, both before we physically moved in and after. Do these guys ever have a bad day? You know you're comfortable with the folks you've got in your home when you shower just steps away from the workspace, after walking through the house with bed head.

Diversified Skills, Dedicated Management
From deconstructing the antiquated and obese furnace, to nearly jack-hammering a ridiculously positioned pile of concrete from under the house, I was in absolute awe of the ever-visible and diversified skill sets that went beyond carpentry. Both gents, watchful and observant of the home, also so thoughtful and helpful when I needed any kind of favor or help with something off-topic, making suggestions for the future, really celebrating the potential and uniqueness of the home.

Ron consistently helped with ideas and planning, initiating dialogue daily, even inviting us to his home on a weekend to show us his ceilings and the many options. Quickly sensing I wasn't such a morning person, he shifted the work schedule once we were to settle in without my even thinking to alter.

Ron not only impressed us with his management, oversight, and keeping all of the moving parts in harmony, but was hands-on many times over. Unable to locate Ron at one point, I found him on the roof, repairing some shingles, because it was bothering him, not me. One morning, he even arrived in his Superman cape before changing back into Clark Kent to help jack up a floor when help was needed.

A Tall Order Accomplished
Upon leaving for a vacation just a few days before the first phase was to close, we left a tall order for what we'd like to see accomplished upon our return. The moment we opened the door to our new open space, we lit up like Turner Stadium. Though I won't disclose our complete comment, it sounded a little like: Man, they hauled glass!

Ron even knew we'd like a day off to get acclimated post-trip, just as he did post-move, and all was wrapped up and tied up in a pretty bow in just one more day. Most days, we probably needed reminding as to whose house was being renovated ours or their own?

Working with the Right People
The afternoon Ron, Mike, and Lucious left, we were slightly disoriented, given the thought we'd be alone until we got our plans together for the next phase. I think that's when you know you've been working with the right people.

In a recent conversation with Ron, I mentioned that I could not imagine being able to achieve the same relationship with anyone else, where I could send long-winded emails and verbally litter all of my changing thoughts, knowing they would be considered and heard.

Also comforting was the reinforcement that both Peter and David were just as educated with the project as Ron, knowing communications were occurring regularly regarding updates, advancements, all. To know your home receives a little limelight from everyone in a company is inspiring. And to have also seen both Peter and David on-site through the process, we could not have been more convinced that Renewal cares.

Smiling Ear to Ear
When Ron and I met to work out the electrical details with Henry and Garfield, I felt as though everyone had gone above and beyond. When the work was finished, I was smiling ear to ear. Ron's actions, words, and determination to make sure we felt better than perfect with the results (the whole way through) have all been irreplaceable.

I could not address this letter of absolute and genuine appreciation to just any one individual, for everyone played an instrumental role in our first phase.

Please don't remove that Renewal sign in the front yard. It won't be long before we'll be calling you back! And as for the Renovator of the Year award, it comes as no surprise. Salute yourselves, you make magic happen for homeowners . . .

– Druid Hills