Design-Build VS General Contractor

[Mithun Bondugula]

I have bought a very old house in Redmond. WA. This house has 70s kitchen and batch finishes. I am looking to get the place renovated - remodel kitchen, 2 bathrooms, recess lighting, open layout, popcorn ceiling removal. 

I have spoken a design-build company (LUX Design Builds). I also got a contact of a handyman turned General contractor - this person has worked with couple of my friends for over 10 yrs. 

I was told that the GCs are cheaper than design and build companies. What other differences should I consider? When would one go with design-build company as against a GC? 

Thank you in advance for you guidance.

[Will Barnard]

For a standard or simple flip, you should be able to pick out the design finishes on your own by simply looking at what your competition has in there homes, then match or go slightly better for best resale. But if you are new and are not comfortable with doing so, then perhaps on your first you hire the design build team. Just stay clear of most “designers” as they charge a lot and typically pick expensive items without value engineering. There are plenty of light fixtures that cost $100 that look like $500 items, etc.