Advance Construction implements complete remodeling plans for residential and commercial clients throughout the East Bay. The company builds room additions (including bathrooms and kitchens), foundations and framing; installs drywall, ventilation, bath equipment and fixtures; handles plumbing, tiling and wiring; and fixes household problems like termite damage, dry rot and various cracks. All work is performed in-house, without the use of subcontractors.
Owner Michael Ghanivand says his favorite part of construction is working with his hands and seeing what he creates. A native of Iran, Mr. Ghanivand discovered his passion for construction when his life took an unexpected turn. “I actually have a medical background—I went to medical school at the University of Szeged in Hungary,” he explains. “The Iranian economy wasn’t great, so my parents couldn’t send me enough money to continue my education. I came to the United States, went into construction to pay my living expenses and grew to love it.”
Mr. Ghanivand’s excitement for building and renovation transfers to the relationships he shares with his clients. “I’m honest and I treat them like friends,” he says. “I speak with them frequently and always try to work within their budgets. Mostly, it’s about the communication—I try to understand their desires.”
“We take great pride in what we do, and we approach every project as if we were working on our own homes. We treat our clients the way we’d want to be treated.”
Choose a home remodeling project that best fits your needs.
Taking on a large-scale home remodeling project can be a daunting task, both in terms of expenses and time management. Conversely, a small remodeling project can simultaneously increase the value of a home and stay within a realistic budget. Before committing to a large project, consider the following ideas for smaller renovations:
Whole House
Accentuate the architecture.
Tasteful architectural accents, such as crown molding or a dining room chair rail, can add appeal and value to a home. Also, try dressing up a ceiling-mounted light fixture with a medallion or adding molding to any room.
Add a fireplace.
A fireplace adds warmth and creates a focal point for the room. Dress up the firebox with a tasteful surround and classic wood mantel. If you opt for a gas unit, upgrade to one with realistic-looking logs.
Install bay windows.
Changing standard windows to bay windows makes rooms feel larger, creates focal points and lets in more light. To call attention to the new windows and add function to the rooms, consider adding built-in window seats with benches that open for storage.
Replace your windows.
Trade in older windows for new, high-performance units that swing in for easy cleaning. Energy Star windows can cut fuel bills by as much as $340 per year over drafty, single-pane units.
Kitchen
Upgrade kitchen countertops.
Durable granite is one of the most requested countertop materials in the remodeling industry. If granite is beyond your budget, however, consider laminate countertops, which offer the look of natural stone at a fraction of the price. Add a beveled edge to laminate countertops for an even more authentic stone look.
Create a pantry.
A shallow pantry can be added to most kitchens. Have a professional frame the space between two studs and finish with cabinet doors. If you have room, consider adding a walk-in pantry.
Change the backsplash.
Choose inexpensive ceramic field tiles and add sparkle with glass or metal decorative pieces, or install a checkerboard pattern of several hues.
Bathroom
Change your showerheads.
Consider installing a pan-style model that simulates a rain shower.
Install a second sink.
If there’s room to install two sinks within 30 inches of each other, they can share drainage and supply lines to decrease costs.
Upgrade bathroom materials.
Change the faucets and fixtures on the sink, bathtub and shower to stylish models in finishes like satin or brushed nickel. Then upgrade your cabinet hardware, lighting fixtures and mirror to complete the fresh look.
Outdoor
Add a porch.
Be sure to check building codes for setback requirements. Also, if you plan to entertain, make sure your porch has at least 12 by 24 feet of space.
Replace siding.
The most affordable option is vinyl siding, which is available in a wide variety of colors and styles, including scalloped and square-cut shingles. If your vinyl siding is in good condition but looks worn or faded, consider using a product that cleans and restores its original color and sheen.
Maintaining customer satisfaction is a crucial aspect of any business, but it's even more important for remodeling companies that have earned the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Michael Ghanivand, owner of Advance Construction, believes an honest, friendly approach is the best way to develop and maintain good relationships with his customers. "Clients appreciate the way I explain their options to them," he says. "I try to handle every situation in the friendliest way possible." As a result of this positive approach, Advance Construction has a long list of referrals and many repeat customers.
Before Advance Construction begins a new project, it encourages clients to talk about their remodeling ideas–an all-inclusive approach that differentiates the company from many of its competitors. "We invite our clients to share their visions, and then we turn them into reality," says Mr. Ghanivand. "If an idea comes up after construction is underway–one that's different from what was in the original architectural plan–we can provide options and make changes according to the customer's wishes."
When Advance Construction's employees arrive at a jobsite, they demonstrate consideration and respect for the residents, which Mr. Ghanivand says is one of his company's most discerning factors. "My crew members are punctual, professional and respectful. They do a clean job and make every effort to keep noise at a minimum, especially when senior citizens are nearby."Ad
vance Construction takes great pride in its quality of service, and Mr. Ghanivand is even willing to provide his own home as an example for prospective customers. "When a client is considering a big project, I'll invite them to come and see the quality of workmanship in my own house," he says. "That makes it easier for them to decide if we're worthy of their trust."
