“The Real Difference Between a Design-Build Firm and a General Contractor”
Not sure whether to hire a general contractor or a design-build firm for your remodel? Learn the key differences and why Minnetonka homeowners trust Excel Builders to handle everything from concept to completion.
The Confusion Every Homeowner Faces
When planning a remodel, most homeowners start by Googling “best contractor near me.” But before long, you’re knee-deep in quotes, design fees, and project managers who don’t seem to talk to each other. Sound familiar?
That’s because there’s a major difference between hiring a general contractor and choosing a design-build firm like Excel Builders—and understanding that difference can make or break your remodeling experience.
General Contractor: The Traditional Approach
A general contractor is great at managing construction crews, but they typically step in after your design plans are finalized. This means you’ll need to hire a separate designer or architect, and often coordinate communication between the two.
While this works for some projects, it can lead to:
- Cost overruns when designs don’t match the construction budget
- Delays as drawings are reworked mid-project
- Miscommunication between designer, builder, and homeowner
Design-Build: One Team. One Vision.
The design-build approach brings everything under one roof—design, construction, and project management—so there’s no disconnect between what you imagine and what’s built.
At Excel Builders, our designers and builders collaborate from the very first meeting. We design within your budget, anticipate construction challenges early, and create realistic timelines that deliver exceptional results without surprises.
Why Homeowners Are Making the Switch
Minnetonka and Wayzata homeowners are increasingly turning to design-build firms for:
✅ Streamlined communication — one point of contact for everything
✅ Budget confidence — transparent pricing before construction begins
✅ Cohesive design — every detail feels intentional and high-end
✅ Time savings — faster decisions, fewer delays, smoother process
The Excel Builders Difference
We don’t just remodel homes—we reimagine how you live in them. From elegant kitchen transformations to full-scale luxury renovations, every Excel Builders project combines craftsmanship with personalized design thinking.
Whether you’re just starting to explore your remodel or ready to begin, we’ll walk you through every step—from sketches to final reveal—with full transparency and care.
👉 Explore the design-build difference at excelbuildersmn.com Give us a call at 612 281 4681