Our Process & Pricing

What to Expect When You Work With OC Hills Construction

At OC Hills Construction, we believe that clear communication and transparency are the foundation of a successful project. Whether you're planning a custom remodel, a new deck, or a pool installation, our structured process ensures that every project is delivered on time, on budget, and with exceptional craftsmanship.

Our Process

1. Initial Consultation & Estimate

  • We start with a free phone consultation to discuss your goals, budget, and timeline.

  • For most projects, we schedule an on-site evaluation to assess site conditions and project scope.

  • You receive a preliminary estimate outlining projected costs based on the discussion.

2. Retainer & Planning

  • Once you're ready to move forward, a retainer is required to begin design, pricing, and permitting.

  • Retainer amounts are based on project size and applied to actual project costs as they accrue.

  • We finalize material selections, detailed pricing, and construction plans.

3. Contract & Scheduling

  • We provide a detailed estimate and construction contract for your approval.

  • Once the contract is signed and the down payment is received, we schedule your project start date.

4. Construction & Progress Payments

  • Work begins, with regular updates to keep you informed throughout the process.

  • Progress payments are billed weekly based on completed work and material costs.

  • Any change orders are discussed, approved, and documented before proceeding.

5. Final Walkthrough & Project Completion

  • A final walkthrough ensures everything meets your expectations.

  • Any outstanding punch list items are completed before final payment.

  • We provide guidance on care and maintenance, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.

Pricing Structure

At OC Hills Construction, we believe in transparent pricing and fair labor rates, ensuring our clients get the highest quality work at a reasonable cost. Unlike many contractors who charge higher overhead and hidden fees, we keep our pricing straightforward and cost-plus—so you know exactly where your investment is going.

How Our Pricing Compares to Industry Averages

  • Many general contractors charge hourly rates between $150 – $250/hr, often with hidden admin or overhead fees.

  • Our top Project Management rate is $145/hr, meaning you get hands-on expertise without inflated costs.

  • Skilled trades (carpentry, electrical, plumbing) often bill at $125 – $200/hr, with some markups exceeding 50% on materials.

  • We charge $95 – $145/hr for skilled trades and only 15% markup on materials and subcontractors—keeping costs fair and transparent.

Subcontractor & Material Markup: Only 15% (vs. industry standard of 30–50%)

  • No Hidden Fees: What you see is what you pay—we bill only for actual work completed.

  • Timecard-Verified Invoicing: All labor is tracked through an electronic timecard system, ensuring accuracy and transparency.

Why Our Pricing Works for You

✅ Lower Hourly Costs = More Work for Your Budget
✅ Transparent Billing = No Surprises
✅ Timecard-Verified Invoicing = Full Accountability

Project-Specific Pricing

Instead of fixed pricing, we provide detailed estimates based on project scope, with timecard-verified cost-plus billing to reflect actual labor and materials used. While every project is unique, here are some typical price ranges:

Typical Cost Ranges

  • $40,000-$100,000

  • $25,000-$60,000

  • $100,000+

  • $8,000-$50,000

  • $8,000-$90,000

  • $50,000+

With OC Hills Construction, you’re getting expert craftsmanship, fair pricing, and complete transparency—because we believe your project deserves the best without overpaying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if my project is within budget?
A: We provide a preliminary estimate before requiring a retainer. If adjustments are needed to stay within budget, we’ll work with you on value-engineering solutions.

Q: What’s included in the retainer?
A: The retainer covers design work, detailed pricing, and permitting preparation. It is applied to actual project costs once work begins.

Q: What if I want to make changes during construction?
A: Changes are handled through change orders. We provide updated pricing for approval before making modifications.

Q: How long will my project take?
A: Every project is different, but we provide a projected timeline with your estimate.

Q: What’s the best way to get started?
A: Contact us to schedule a consultation! We’ll guide you through the process and help you bring your vision to life.

Let’s Build Something Great Together

At OC Hills Construction, we take pride in delivering high-quality, custom-built solutions with a seamless process from start to finish. If you're ready to get started, contact us today for a consultation!