Welcome and Services Overview
Thank you for considering "Your Home Expert" for your home repair and improvement needs.
MY SERVICE
I offer expert home repair, improvement, and consulting services, specializing in complex repairs, assessments, and custom upgrades of all sorts. With extensive experience in residential construction, I can analyze and resolve a broad range of home repair challenges. Having managed crews and subcontractors, I also offer second opinions or oversee other trades to ensure quality outcomes.
ABOUT ME
With over 35 years in construction and 13 years of managing a successful restaurant, I bring decades of experience and a reputation for attention to detail, problem-solving, and leadership. Born in Germany, I began my career with a 3½-year apprenticeship in custom cabinetry before co-founding BAUwerk Inc. – Design & Build in Berkeley, CA.
Over the years, I’ve led large remodels, lot developments, and even built two restaurants for my wife. I’ve employed over 300 individuals and worked with countless subcontractors, becoming adept at streamlining processes, making informed material choices, and completing work efficiently and on budget.
After managing and ultimately selling our successful restaurant in 2024, I transitioned into “Your Home Expert,” where I now leverage my extensive experience to offer tailored repair and improvement solutions. I focus on delivering timely, well-executed work that keeps projects running smoothly and gives you peace of mind knowing the job is in capable hands.
SKILLS
- Expert Carpenter & Skilled Craftsman: Skilled in multiple construction trades (carpentry, electrical, plumbing, restoration, concrete, painting, heating, and more).
- Quality Control & Problem Resolution: Adept at troubleshooting, minimizing rework, and ensuring high-quality results.
- Crew & Subcontractor Supervision: Experienced in managing teams and coordinating subcontractors for top-tier projects.
- Product Research & Cost Optimization: Proficient in sourcing materials and managing costs.
- Consulting & Recommendations: Providing tailored solutions, second opinions, and expert advice for home improvement projects.
MY PROCESS
- Working Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Project Start: Each project begins with a paid consultation for assessments and solution discussions.
- Ideal Projects: I specialize in multi-trade repairs, consultations, assessments, product research, and subcontractor guidance. This includes small-scale remodels, alterations, and new builds like bathrooms, kitchens, and decks. I also handle smaller projects, such as installing new electrical outlets, appliances, or plumbing fixtures.
- Limitations: As a solo operator, I avoid prolonged heavy labor, such as carrying large amounts of heavy materials, extensive excavation, or large-scale demolition work. I also do not work at heights above 14 feet or enter cramped crawl spaces or hot attics filled with insulation.
- Secure Storage: For larger projects, I require a minimum of 4 x 6 feet of secure indoor storage for tools and materials. If secure storage is unavailable, I will start my daily clock-in time from my shop in Emeryville.
- Clarification: I work across multiple trades but do not specialize in some areas (e.g., I can paint and troubleshoot electrical work, but I’m not a professional painter or electrician).
PRICING AND PAYMENT
- Initial Charge (2-hour minimum): $240 for the first two hours. The rate for each hour following is $85. Emergency calls outside of regular hours incur the minimum initial fee of $240.
- Material Purchase: 15% markup on materials purchased through my account; larger items are bought directly by the customer.
- Payment Terms & Invoicing: No money requested upfront. Invoices are submitted promptly with timesheets and receipts. Larger jobs are invoiced bi-weekly.
- Accepted Payment Methods: Cash, check, or Zelle.
- Digital Time Recording: Time is tracked via mobile app. Work begins at the job site or from my shop/supplier as needed.
I look forward to helping you with your home improvement needs.
Contact
Service area includes West Berkeley and surrounding areas within a 30-minute drive.
