Last updated on May 17th, 2024 at 05:29 am
From the staggering Courthouse and Jail rock formations to the dazzling Omaha skyline, Nebraska is full of beautiful sights. Nature lovers will appreciate the state’s impressive wildlife, while aficionados will appreciate the music and art scene of Omaha—Nebraska’s most populous city. With a median home value of $161,500, Nebraska represents an affordable option for home hunters.
Omaha features homes of architectural styles that represent a range of historical, social, and cultural influences. Grand historic homes can be found in Lincoln—Nebraska’s capital and second-most populous city. These homes are built in Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Neoclassical, and Renaissance Revival styles. For example, the Yates House, located on a corner lot in Lincoln, is a Late Victorian/Queen Anne residence built in 1891. Perhaps most striking about the home are its elaborate porches. The Hitchcock house, a Colonial Revival residence built in 1922, represents another one of Lincoln’s historical masterpieces. The most notable feature of the symmetrical, stucco home is its limestone alcove.
Though they build and renovate throughout the state, contractors in Nebraska mostly work on homes in the Omaha and Lincoln metro areas.
Here, we list the top 15 general contractors in Nebraska, based on awards and recognition. These contractors have remodeled homes in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern or even rustic.
15) SL Jensen Construction
6324 S. 118th Street, Omaha, NE, 68137
A full-service renovation company started by Steven Jensen, SL Jensen Construction specializes in custom remodeling and new construction. Specifically, the firm provides home additions, remodels of all sizes, renovations of commercial properties, and commercial construction. SL Jensen also completes projects for local and national retailers, developers, hotels, and cultural and academic institutions. Founded in 1984, SL Jensen Construction has been featured in Strictly Business, The Omaha World-Herald, and Omaha Magazine.
Operating since 1984, the firm is large enough to successfully complete challenging projects. Comprising SL Jensen’s staff are talented craftsmen in each trade area, including painting, masonry, tile, and cabinetry. In recent years, the firm has also started working with architects. SL Jensen prides itself on its policy of full transparency with its clients. Customers of SL Jensen can expect consistent communication regarding construction scheduling, homeowner selections, progress updates, and billing.
14) Willet Construction
5143 S. 48th St., Lincoln, NE, 68516
Founded by Rick Willet in 1995, Willet Construction is a full-service design-build company that constructs homes in Lincoln. The firm is a member of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) and is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified. Willet was recently featured in Remodeling Magazine’s 2018 Big 50 in the HBAL Tour of Remodeled Homes for its remodel of the kitchen of a 1938 country club. The remodel included simple white cabinetry and tile flooring. Also, layered lighting was introduced to space; this included ceiling fixtures, under cabinet LEDs, and in-cabinet lights.
Company founder Rick Willet holds a degree in Building Construction Technology from Southwest Community College. He also has more than 30 years of experience building in the Lincoln area. As a member of the Lincoln Remodelers Council and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), Rick is a reliable professional with a deep dedication to quality.
13) Egermier Builders
Papillion, NE, 68046
Back in 1994, Egermier Builders was comprised of a single residential framing crew. Within just a couple of years, the firm grew into multiple crews and is now a thriving contracting business in Papillion. Egermier Builders is a member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and was featured on KETV—Omaha’s local news station—for the remodel of a historic home on Country Club Avenue.
The firm’s founders, Rick and Maureen Egermier, are seasoned contractors and successful real estate investors. Rick has an extensive network of subcontractors and a knack for solving problems on both the technical and skill sides of the business, while Maureen has a great sense for business and an eye for design. Combining their talents, Rick and Maureen provide general contracting services for high-end and middle-class homes in Douglas County. These single-family homes usually exhibit traditional and modern designs. One of their most notable projects is a dining room remodel, which exudes a snug, rustic style.
12) Carlson Projects
3421 S. 7th st., Suite B., Lincoln, NE, 68502
In 1995, Greg and Shawn Carlson established Carlson Projects. A family-owned company that focuses on residential remodels and roofing, Carlson serves the Douglas County areas as a member of the NAHB. The firm also has an A+ accreditation from the BBB and is a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist.
Understanding that clients want their kitchens to be as unique as they are, Carlson Projects customizes each kitchen remodel “down to the last cabinet, light fixture, and sink faucet.” The firm also provides a range of home additions, including framing, windows, siding, and interior finishes. By installing room-specific cabinetry and custom-tailored selections, the firm completes bathroom remodels to embody “function and beauty.” As a family-owned business, the firm also provides “longevity remodeling,” in which the firm remodels spaces by paying attention to how they will be used by future generations.
11) Fulton Construction
3639 N. 39th St., Lincoln, NE, 68504
Constructing projects based in Lincoln and Ashland, Fulton Construction is Lincoln’s premier custom home builder and remodeler. The firm was founded in 1979 by Steve Fulton and soon became a trusted construction company in the area. Fulton is affiliated with the HBAL and the Nebraska Green Building Council. It also has an A+ rating from the BBB and is an Energy Star Builder.
Founder Steve Fulton has received professional awards, including Nebraska Builder of The Year. A past president of the HBAL, Fulton maintains clear and consistent communication between his team and clients. Fulton is also a member of the Nebraska Green Building Council, the Remodelers Council of Lincoln, and is a NHBA Life Director.
The firm works on homes of various styles, including ranch, contemporary, coastal, and Tudor. One of Fulton’s most beautiful projects is the remodel of a Tudor home in 2018. This home was featured in the Parade of Remodeled Homes in Lincoln.
10) Cornerstone Remodeling
4540 S. 79th Street, Omaha, NE, 68127
Cornerstone Remodeling started as a one-man operation in 1999 when it was still known as K and M Design. Today, Cornerstone Remodeling has grown into a full-service home improvement firm that handles a wide variety of remodeling services. These include small home improvement projects, kitchens and bathroom decks, and basement finishes and additions. The firm was recognized by Omaha Magazine as the Best of Omaha in 2012, 2015, and 2018. The firm has an A+ rating from the BBB and is LEED certified by the EPA.
Founder Nathan McGranahan took small jobs while completing his college education at Grace University. By 2003, McGranahan was already working for the company as its full-time principal before partnering with his college friend Aaron Shaul.
9) Bearded Builders
2614 S 156th Circle, Omaha, NE, 68130
Although having a beard isn’t a requirement to work at this firm, almost all of founder Eric Price’s male employees have beards. Thinking it was the perfect brand name, Price incorporated beards into the company’s logo and marketing. This approach was thought to be a great way of connecting with the clients and putting them at ease. This unique marketing strategy worked well enough that it resulted in the building of another branch in Baltimore. The firm has been included in Remodeling Magazine’s Big 50 list and was awarded two Winner Awards and one First Place Award for its great home remodels from Omaha Magazine.
Founded in 2013, Bearded Builders is an Omaha community favorite for renovations, remodels, and everything in between. This is probably because the firm has a traditional way of building homes, taking on hard work, practicing ethical business practices, and providing quality craftsmanship to every project. In addition to its craftsmanship, the firm also gives back to the community through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Omaha. For every bathroom remodels the firm does, a new bathroom is donated to Habitat for Humanity.
8) High Rock Design Build Remodel
2616 North 161st Terrace, Omaha, NE, 68116
Owned by Aaron Hochstein and a member of the NARI, High Rock has been remodeling homes in the Omaha and Greater Omaha areas since 2005. The firm participates in showcase events like the NARI Remodel Home Tour, the Metro Omaha Builders Association (MOBA) Remodel Omaha, the Spring Parade of Homes, and the Fall Parade of Homes. In 2011 and 2012, Hochstein was honored as Contractor of the Year. It was also featured in the 2015 issue of Inspired Living Omaha.
These award-winning homes can found in Douglas County and usually have remodeling prices ranging from $10k to $25k. The firm’s construction projects are priced at $250,000 to $1.5 million and higher. The firm’s most notable project is a basement remodel built in a rustic style with dark and chic colors. The space is a great place to get together and have drinks with friends.
7) Sanwick Remodeling Contractors Inc.
2335 S. 147th St., Omaha, NE, 68144
Founded in 2000, Sanwick Remodeling Contractors Inc. is a member of the NAHB, NARI, and the MOBA. It is also an Aging-in-Place Specialist with a LEED certification from the EPA. The firm is also a certified Green Builder. Sanwick Remodeling’s work was also recognized in 2004 when the MOBA named it Remodeler of the Year, and in 2011 the NARI of Greater Omaha named Sanwick Remodeling the Contractor of the Year.
Sanwick completes 30 to 40 remodeling projects per year. The firm’s success is probably thanks to founders Todd and Lisa Sanwick’s 45 years of experience. Valuing professionalism and education, the founders still regularly attend international builders shows, remodeling shows, and seminars to keep up with the latest trends in design, products, and techniques.
6) Kitchens by Design
1263 South 120th Street, Omaha, NE, 68144
Since 1982, Kitchens by Design has built more than 2,400 projects and has collected a long list of over 400 referrals. It is a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) and is accredited by the BBB. By 2001, the firm was featured in the Street of Dreams and the Symphony Show House. In the same year, the Nebraska State Home Builders Association named Kitchens by Design as Remodeler of the Year. From 2009 to 2017, the firm was named the Best of Omaha by Omaha Magazine.
The firm’s founder, Scott Byrd, is one reason the firm has gained so much recognition. Byrd has spent 37 years in the business and specializes in kitchen remodeling. He also does extensive remodeling, additions, new construction, decks, wet bars, and more.
5) HC Remodel and Design
11811 I Street Suite 202, Omaha, NE 68137
HC Remodel and Design is mainly known for its interior home remodels, but also does custom cabinetry, doors and windows, and small room remodels, such as bathrooms. The firm’s projects have earned them a place on Remodeling Magazine’s 2016 Big 50 list and GuildQuality’s 550 award. The firm is also a NARI member, committed to NARI’s standards of ethical business practices and is LeadCertified by the EPA.
The firm’s founder, Gary Haldeman, has over 30 years of experience in residential remodeling and is a NARI Certified Remodeler. He is known for his close attention to detail and ability to effectively utilize space. Because of the expert craftsmanship Haldeman gained from his experience as a finish carpenter, HC Remodel and Design has become a reliable firm that is highly recommended in the Omaha area. The firm has completed many beautiful projects including this home remodel in the Millard area featuring a kitchen exhibiting the modern farmhouse style. The space blends modern appliances with warm, rustic elements.
4) Reynolds Design and Remodeling
2406 J Street, Lincoln, NE, 68510
Founder Roger Reynolds established Reynolds Design and Remodeling after recognizing the need for quality remodelers in the area. Aiming to be such quality remodelers, the firm’s team members continue to develop their construction knowledge by attending NKBA’s design certification courses (although the firm is already a member of the NKBA and has a LEED Certification from the EPA). Most notably, the firm was featured on Remodeling Magazine’s Big 50 list in 2008 and received Professional Remodeler Magazine’s Design Award in 2018.
Although Reynolds Design and Remodeling has served Lincoln and the surrounding area since 1986 as a kitchen remodeling firm, by 1996 the firm widened its services to kitchen and bathroom remodels and other room additions. The firm’s homes usually exhibit transitional, traditional, modern, rustic, and craftsman styles.
3) Ward’s Kitchens and Baths
10908 Elm St., Omaha, NE, 68144
A firm that received 12 national design awards from the NKBA and was recognized by Remodeling Magazine and Better Homes and Gardens, Ward’s Kitchen and Baths has served over 350 clients in Douglas County. To each of its projects, Ward’s Kitchen and Baths bring exceptional talent, enthusiasm, creativity, and personal service.
The firm’s founder, Charles A. Ward, is an NKBA Chapter Officer and Chairperson with over 35 years of experience in designing kitchens and bathrooms. Before Ward’s Kitchens and Baths, Charles worked as a specialty craftsman for one of Omaha’s largest traditional cabinet manufacturers. Later, he became the shop foreman for one of Omaha’s first contemporary cabinet and furniture manufacturers. In 1983, Charles founded Ward’s Kitchens and Baths. The firm’s work focuses on remodeling all rooms in single-family homes.
2) Oldenhuis Contracting
4501 Leavenworth Street, Omaha, NE, 68106
Founded in 1995 by Chris Oldenhuis, Oldenhuis Contracting is a member of the NAHB and the NARI and is known as one of Omaha’s leading design-build contractors. Oldenhuis is a full-service residential remodeling firm that focuses on completing whole-house remodels, custom additions, and new kitchens. These projects are centered on single-family homes that usually exhibit colonial, traditional, or rustic styles.
In 2013, the firm was featured in HGTV’s program House Crashers as a local general contractor. Oldenhuis was also named the 2008 Remodeler of the Year and the 2012 Contractor of the Year. One of the firm’s most notable projects is a kitchen remodel. The space contains a few colored fixtures that highlight the room’s light color palette.
1) T. Hurt Construction
8529 Wirt St., Omaha, NE, 68134
Hurt Construction aims to offer its clients satisfying remodeling results. Its founder, Terry Hurt established the firm in 1994 with 26 years of experience in building both commercial and residential concrete, total property maintenance, home remodeling, and garage and home additions. The firm’s team has enough skill and experience to complete complex projects like historic renovations. Thanks to this wide skill set, the firm also completes commercial work along with residential remodels and additions.
The firm is a member of the NARI and the Omaha Chamber of Commerce. The firm also has an A+ rating with the BBB and is LEED certified. From 2009 to 2013, Hurt Construction earned seven Contractor of the Year Awards. From 2007 to 2009, the firm won several remodeling awards from the MOBA. Its most recent win was a Chrysalis Award given in 2014 for the firm’s historical renovation of a farmhouse built in 1886. The firm’s award-winning homes are mostly found in Omaha and Bennington and are usually built in lakehouse and farmhouse styles.
How can I find a contractor near me?
Read our latest articles on the best contractors in and near Nebraska. If you don’t see your project type below, just let us know – we are happy to create a tailored recommendation list just for you.
The Best Kitchen Remodeling Contractors in Nebraska
The Best Kitchen Remodeling Contractors in Omaha