Frequently Asked Questions | San Antonio Home Builder & Remodeler
We understand that building or remodeling a home is a big decision. Here are answers to the questions we hear most often from our clients in San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country. If you don't see your question below, please contact us—we're happy to help!
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, absolutely. D. Michael Designs is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor in the state of Texas. We carry comprehensive liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage to protect you, your property, and our team throughout every project.
What areas of San Antonio do you serve?
We proudly serve the entire Greater San Antonio metropolitan area, including:
- Alamo Heights & Terrell Hills
- Stone Oak & The Dominion
- Boerne & Fair Oaks Ranch
- Helotes & Grey Forest
- Cibolo & Schertz
- New Braunfels & Canyon Lake
- And all surrounding Texas Hill Country communities
How long have you been in business?
D. Michael Designs was founded in 2014. With over 10 years of experience in the San Antonio construction industry, we’ve built a stellar reputation for quality craftsmanship, transparent communication, and delivering projects on time and within budget.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes! We offer free, no-obligation consultations and estimates for all projects. We’ll meet with you, discuss your vision, assess your space, and provide a detailed written estimate so you know exactly what to expect.
How do I get started with my project?
Getting started is easy! You can either:
- Call us at 210-608-3286
- Use the contact form on our website
- Click the “Start Your Project” button on any page
How much does it cost to build a custom home in San Antonio?
The cost of a custom home varies significantly based on size, location, materials, and finishes. In San Antonio, custom home construction typically ranges from $200 to $350+ per square foot. During your free consultation, we’ll work with you to create a realistic budget that aligns with your vision and needs.
How long does it take to build a custom home?
On average, a custom home build takes 8 to 14 months from groundbreaking to move-in ready. Factors that affect timeline include:
- Home size and complexity
- Weather conditions
- Permit approval times
- Material availability
- Custom features and finishes
We’ll provide a detailed timeline during the planning phase and keep you updated throughout construction.
Can you build on my land?
Absolutely! We specialize in building on homeowner lots throughout San Antonio and Central Texas. We’ll evaluate your property for factors like:
- Soil conditions
- Utility access
- Topography and drainage
- Setback requirements and HOA restrictions
Do you have pre-designed floor plans, or are homes completely custom?
We offer both! While we specialize in fully custom homes designed around your lifestyle, we also have a portfolio of proven floor plans that can be modified to suit your needs. This flexibility allows us to work with any budget and timeline.
What's included in your custom home building service?
Our full-service approach includes:
- Site selection assistance (if needed)
- Design and architectural coordination
- All permitting and code compliance
- Full construction management
- Material selection guidance
- Regular progress updates and walkthroughs
- Final inspection and move-in support
- Post-construction warranty support
Can you help me find land to build on?
Yes! We have extensive experience with land acquisition in the San Antonio area. We can help you identify lots that are suitable for building, considering factors like utilities, topography, and neighborhood restrictions. We can also connect you with local real estate professionals who specialize in vacant land.
What is an energy-efficient home, and do you build them?
An energy-efficient home is designed to reduce energy consumption while maintaining comfort. Features include better insulation, high-performance windows, efficient HVAC systems, and smart technology. Yes, we specialize in building high-performance, energy-efficient custom homes that lower your utility bills and reduce your environmental footprint.
What types of remodeling projects do you handle?
We handle a wide range of residential remodeling projects, including:
- Kitchen remodels (full gut or refresh)
- Bathroom renovations
- Whole-home remodels
- Basement finishing
- Room additions
- Exterior updates (siding, windows, roofing)
- Deck and patio construction
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in San Antonio?
Kitchen remodel costs in San Antonio typically range from:
- Minor refresh: $15,000 – $25,000 (cabinet refacing, new countertops, appliances)
- Mid-range remodel: $35,000 – $55,000 (new cabinets, layout changes, upgraded finishes)
- High-end, full-gut renovation: $60,000 – $100,000+ (custom cabinetry, premium materials, structural changes)
We’ll provide a detailed quote based on your specific goals.
Do I need to move out during my renovation?
It depends on the scope of your project:
- For single-room remodels (like a bathroom), you can typically stay in your home.
- For major kitchen remodels, we help you plan for temporary kitchen setup.
- For whole-home renovations, we often recommend staying elsewhere for safety and comfort. We’ll discuss all options during planning.
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
A typical bathroom remodel takes 3 to 5 weeks, depending on the size and complexity. Factors include:
- Whether we’re changing the layout
- Custom tile work and finishes
- Plumbing and electrical modifications
- Material availability
Do you handle all the permits for remodeling projects?
Yes! We handle all necessary permits for every project. This includes:
- Pulling required permits from the City of San Antonio or relevant jurisdiction
- Scheduling all required inspections
- Ensuring your project is 100% up to code
- Providing you with final approval documentation
Will you help me choose materials like tile, cabinets, and fixtures?
Absolutely. We guide you through every material selection. We can:
- Recommend trusted local suppliers
- Show you samples and options
- Explain the pros and cons of different materials
- Ensure selections work within your budget and timeline
- Coordinate delivery and installation
Do I need a permit for a garage conversion in San Antonio?
Yes, converting a garage into living space requires permits from the City of San Antonio (or your specific municipality). This ensures the new space meets all safety, electrical, plumbing, and ventilation codes. We handle the entire permitting process for you, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
What can I do with a garage conversion?
The possibilities are nearly endless! Popular garage conversion projects include:
- Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU): A fully contained living space with kitchen and bath—perfect for rental income or guests
- In-Law Suite: Private bedroom and bathroom for multigenerational living
- Home Office: A quiet, dedicated workspace
- Home Gym: Plenty of room for exercise equipment
- Game Room or Media Room: Extra entertainment space
- Workshop or Studio: For hobbies, art, or crafts
We’ll help you design a space that perfectly fits your needs.
