The Best Residential General Contractors in Boston

Building a property in Boston, Massachusetts, is a smart investment due to the city’s rich history, thriving economy, and vibrant cultural scene. Boston’s unique blend of old-world charm and modern innovation attracts businesses and residents alike, making it a prime location for property development. Choosing the best general contractor is crucial to ensure your successful construction project. The right contractor will navigate the complexities of Boston’s construction landscape, manage costs effectively, and deliver a high-quality result that meets your expectations.

With average project costs ranging from $50,000 to $450,000 and the potential to reach up to $600,000, investing in a property in Boston requires careful financial planning. The average cost per square foot is $141.05, reflecting the premium on quality construction in this bustling city. Projects typically take about nine months to complete, so partnering with a reliable general contractor is essential to keep your project on schedule and within budget.

Boston, home to 650,706 residents and boasting a median home value of $969,700, offers a diverse and dynamic real estate market. With 175 relevant general contractors available in the area, finding the right one can be overwhelming, but it is necessary to ensure a smooth construction process. This article will highlight some of the best general contractors in Boston, MA. These professionals are known for their expertise, reliability, and ability to handle various projects. Whether building a new home, renovating a commercial space, or undertaking a complex construction project, these top contractors will provide the high-quality services you need to bring your vision to life.

Overview: The Best Residential General Contractors in Boston

See Ranking Methodology at the bottom of this article to learn more.

New England Design & Construction

103 Terrace Street, Boston, MA 02120

New England Design and Construction is a general construction firm staffed by intelligent, creative, and passionate people who believe that well-designed and built spaces can make people feel better. With its unique design-build approach to projects, this general contractor in Greater Boston consistently delivers exceptional projects that reflect each client’s unique personality, lifestyle, and tastes. Its impressive portfolio showcases various projects that have proven its capability to exceed client expectations. 

In the featured project, the client thought that the kitchen in their home was very plain, builder-grade, unappealing, and not in the style they wanted. The pantry was at the end of the kitchen, so the layout was outdated and inefficient. The remodel’s goals were to make the kitchen more valuable, change how it looks, and make it the heart of the house. Those goals were met.

Merz Construction

168 Bingham Road, Carlisle, MA 01741

Merz Construction is an award-winning custom home builder specializing in high-end homes. Jonathan Merz started the firm to build traditional and modern homes and carefully renovate existing ones. With over 36 years of experience, the firm’s continuous strive for learning and improvement has resulted in a well-tuned process that encourages open communication among all team members and ensures that every project is successful and significant. The firm’s hands-on and collaborative approach instills a strong sense of working together on every project, solid listening skills, and a commitment to building quality. Thanks to a diverse team of experts, the firm values the knowledge and different points of view that great architects bring to the design and building process.

This Carlisle Contemporary home in Carlisle, Massachusetts, is one of the firm’s notable projects. It features contemporary design elements that create a modern atmosphere. Thanks to its clean lines and monochromatic tones, the design is sophisticated and elegant. 

Atlas Contracting

624 Commonwealth Avenue, Newton, MA 02459

Atlas Contracting is a renowned construction firm built on a solid sense of family, a modern vision, and a tradition of morals and values. Since its inception, the family-run business has cemented its reputation as an industry leader that provides stunning projects that leave lasting impressions. 

The firm was founded by Ohan Ozcan. He and his father have worked together for decades, bringing years of combined experience and knowledge. As a result, the firm has consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver the best craftsmanship and customer service at every step of every project. From the beginning to the end, clients are gently guided to ensure every detail is taken care of and their expectations are met and surpassed. 

The outside of this new house in Weston is in the craftsman style. It is a large, green, three-story Arts and Crafts house with different types of siding and a shingle roof. It has both clapboards and stone cladding on the outside, which gives the design more depth. The light colors and earthy tones help it blend in with the background.

RemodelWerks

621 Main Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545

RemodelWerks is a construction firm that specializes in the design-build process. It can finish construction and remodeling projects on time and within budget while using the highest-quality materials, regardless of size, scope, and flexibility. The firm finds creative building solutions and the latest technologies and combines them with meticulous management to focus on all aspects. It offers excellent customer service and guarantees all of its work for five years. 

The Touch-of-Green Kitchen Remodel is one of the firm’s notable projects. It features a contemporary kitchen that is both visually pleasing and functional. White cabinetry complements the stainless steel appliances, while the warm hardwood floors give it a rustic twist. The kitchen island is placed strategically in the center for a more efficient workflow. 

Sterling Homes Development Corporation

400 Trade Center, 5th floor, Suite #5900, Woburn, MA 01801

Sterling Homes Development Corporation has been building homes for clients in Greater Boston and all over Massachusetts for over twenty years. The firm offers years of experience in traditional stick-built and modern modular homes. No matter the project’s size, scope, or complexity, the firm offers various building methodologies that can cater to each client’s unique needs. 

The firm is backed by a team of licensed contractors who work together to ensure the project is built well and uses energy as efficiently as possible. The firm appreciates that building or fixing a home is a significant investment of money and time, so it has remained committed to its core values of honesty, collaboration, cooperation, and putting the customer first. 

In the featured project, Sterling Homes turned another small, old kitchen into a warm, open, and valuable space for a family. This Long Island colonial is in a New England neighborhood with a small kitchen and living room. This busy family of four hired the firm to open up the space and breathe new life into their home.

Attitash Custom Home Builders

60 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA 02472

Attitash Custom Home Builders is a full-service construction company in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Over the years, the firm’s integrated approach has resulted in a streamlined process that meets specific standards for quality, on-timeliness, professionalism, and customer satisfaction. The firm’s commitment to excellent client service allows it to prioritize its clients and enables them to trust the firm’s quality and work. The firm is backed by experienced and highly qualified project managers, supervisors, and professional installers. 

This home in Watertown, Massachusetts, has been completely remodeled from top to bottom. The project included siding and soffit panels, new plumbing fixtures, a custom master closet, a custom paver patio and landscaping, hardwood floors, push-button bidets, and a self-closing toilet. The new space has a clean, modern look that gives it a sophisticated feel.

Sanford Custom Builders

310 Washington Street, Suite #202, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481

Sanford Custom Builders’ integrated, hands-on, and personalized approach allows the firm to be involved in every project to the fullest extent. With a focus on smooth communication and collaboration, the firm can stay on top of things that result in exceptional projects delivered on schedule and within budget. Its excellent client-focused services ensure an enjoyable experience for its clients, as well as high-quality craftsmanship and professionalism.

This classic shingle and stone home in New England was built by Sanford Custom Builders and designed by Jan Gleysteen Architects. The home includes five bedrooms with private bathrooms, a master bedroom with a luxurious spa bath, a walk-up office suite with an extra bathroom, a media/movie theater room, a step-down mahogany family room, and a first-floor office with wood paneling and barrel-vaulted ceilings. There is a gym, a wet bar, and a pool room on the lower level.

AD Construction

1750 Washington Street, Suite B1, Boston, MA 02118

AD Construction is an award-winning general contractor and builder in Boston, Massachusetts. One of the best Boston general contractors, its experience and expertise allow it to serve clients with various building needs—everything from tearing down old buildings to building new ones from start to finish. With over 34 years of experience, the firm has built an impressive portfolio of various project types. Its collaborative processes allow the client, the architect, the designer, the consultants, and the contractor to work together as a team. The firm includes detailing the building’s budget, schedule, and estimates and managing the risks for its clients.

The Kitchen Renovation South End Boston is a rustic South End apartment turned into a bright, modern, and contemporary space with a kitchen with high-end appliances, custom-made cabinetry, and hand-picked granite stone. The ceiling was made to make the separate space stand out in an open area.

Sea-Dar Construction

580 Harrison Ave. Suite #4W, Boston, MA 02118

Sea-Dar Construction has made an average of $50 million in sales annually by delivering exceptional projects. Jean Abouhamad, a Structural Engineer with extensive experience in development and project delivery methods, founded the firm. Over the years, the firm has built several condos in Boston’s historic neighborhoods, cementing its status as an industry leader. 

This Brookline Green project involved various remodels and additions to the area. The result was a new gourmet kitchen, a master bedroom, a yoga room with a steam room and spa, a geothermal HVAC system, and a green roof. It also features Rift White Oak veneer kitchen cabinets and 150 feet of full-height windows that bring in a lot of natural light.

Groom Construction

96 Swampscott Road, Salem, MA 01970

Brothers Tom and Dave Groom founded Groom Construction. Over the years, the firm quickly grew and expanded. When Dwight Groom, the youngest brother, joined the business in the late 1980s, it returned to the retail market. With nearly 50 years in the business, the firm has repeatedly earned its reputation by delivering high-quality buildings.

Its impressive portfolio features various projects and a growing list of national retail brands. With over 180 dedicated and talented employees, the firm’s personalized services have been a hallmark of its unwavering commitment to “client-first” service. One of the most preferred general contractors in Boston, it has a project featured in an article from The New York Times.

The Groom Construction team worked closely with the homeowner and Grazado Velleco Architects to fix and restore this 5,000-square-foot oceanfront enclave on the North Shore of Boston. It features breathtaking views of the ocean and several impressive green features, including a recycled rubber slate roof, geothermal heating and cooling, and smart-home technology. The result is a well-designed home that uses less energy.

brookes + hill custom builders

5 Militia Drive, Lexington, MA 02421

David Brookes and Eric Hill have worked with architects and designers for over 40 years to build homes that people will remember. Brookes + hill custom builders is a general construction firm that focuses on building high-end, one-of-a-kind custom homes all over New England. As a builder with years of experience, the firm remains true to its traditions of quality craftsmanship while combining those skills with new methods and the latest technologies to make each client’s home more than just a house. The firm closely works with its clients to build a home that fits their lifestyle and gives them value on their investment. 

This three-floor steel-frame building with mahogany slat screens was a garage addition for the client. Behind the double-wide red door on the ground floor, there is space for parking and a Vespa workshop, but the rooms above feel and work more like a country retreat. This stunning home addition uses a lot of contemporary elements that create a modern atmosphere. 

Sleeping Dog Properties

1745 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02118

Sleeping Dog Properties is a Boston-based company that has been around for three decades. Founded by Chris Rapczynski, the firm started working as a small development company with a few great tradesmen, subcontractors, and administrators. Nearly 30 years later, the firm has expanded to provide the highest quality, expertise, and service. As a result, it has reached its goal of being the firm that provides the best projects in Boston and the rest of New England. Its impressive portfolio showcases various properties that offer lasting value using high-quality design, finishes, and personalized service.

One of the top general contractors in Boston, MA, the firm’s team worked closely with a pair of sharp-eyed clients on this project to bring their unique ideas to life. The most challenging part was figuring out how to make the most of the small space, which was only around 990 square feet. The condominium is visually pleasing and functional now that it has been fixed up. 

Gilman Guidelli & Bellow Custom Builders

26 Farwell Street, Newton, MA 02460  

Gilman, Guidelli & Bellow began as Gilman & Guidelli when Rick Guidelli and Gary Gilman got together to do minor custom carpentry and remodeling jobs. Since then, the firm has quickly become known for the quality of its work, honesty, and ability to handle difficult projects. As the firm grew, so did its team of experts who offered their experience and knowledge to provide inventive building solutions, the latest materials, and cost-efficient practices. 

This downtown condo is on top of The Garden and has a stunning city view. The apartment has windows on three sides and a large roof terrace. The project included a complete gut renovation of the apartment, new electrical and mechanical systems, new windows, and new paving on the outside.

S+H Construction

45 Brighton Street, Belmont, MA 02478

S+H Construction is an award-winning, high-end residential building and remodeling firm. Since its inception, the firm has believed that its success comes from the knowledge and experience of its hard-working staff, who are dedicated to delivering the best possible results. The firm has won many industry awards showcasing its quality. The firm has remained loyal to its clients, as is obvious in the positive feedback it regularly receives from past customers. Among the best Boston general contractors, it was also featured in an article from Forbes.

Near the Harvard Divinity School, S+H Construction was hired to do a significant renovation on the back half of this sprawling Victorian building. The kitchen was opened to the backyard with an addition and a large porch leading down to the garden. The kitchen has a stunning coffered ceiling, cabinets, and custom trims. The deck includes pipe decking and a metal grid guard rail. 

International Builders

561 Boylston Street, Suite #200, Boston, MA 02116

International Builders is a family-owned general contractor founded in 1994. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, the firm serves the entire Greater Boston area with exceptional projects. The firm has earned its well-deserved reputation as one of the best in the construction industry by striving for excellence and putting its clients first. Its success comes from how hard it works and how it cares for each client, consistently exceeding their expectations. 

This tiny and ancient garage got a complete and significant makeover. This cottage has a full bathroom, a cozy living room with an alcohol-fire-based fireplace, skylights, and an elegant sliding door that opens onto a deck. The firm suggested a country barn style that worked well for this cottage. The walls are made of reclaimed wood, which gives the room a cozy feel. It can be used all year.

Ranking Methodology

To evaluate the performance of contractors, our methodology employs a systematic approach that considers various factors contributing to customer experience and satisfaction. We focused on assessing the residential general contractors in the Boston area. The methodology involves assigning weightings to specific categories based on their significance in determining customer service quality. Here’s the breakdown of the categories and their respective weightings:

• Average Customer Satisfaction (35%): This metric represents the average rating given by customers across the same review platforms as the Average Customer Satisfaction Score. A higher average rating indicates greater overall satisfaction with the service provided.
• Service Rating Score (25%): We analyze the ratio of high (4-5 stars) to low (1-2 stars) ratings for each business across multiple review platforms: Google, Houzz, and Yelp. A higher percentage of positive reviews contributes to a higher score, reflecting better customer satisfaction.
• Complaint Percentage (25%): We analyze the ratio of complaints to total reviews for each business. A lower complaints ratio indicates better service quality and results in a higher score.
• Business Hours and Availability (10%): The operating hours of each business are assessed to gauge accessibility. Companies with extended operating hours are awarded a higher score, as they offer greater convenience to customers.
• License Status (5%): We verify the licensing status of each contractor with their local licensing board to ensure legal compliance. Companies with valid licenses receive a higher score, reflecting professionalism and adherence to regulations.
• Total Score: We determined the overall rating for every contractor by calculating a weighted average, with the category weight determining the amount the subscore contributed to the total score 

Additional Note: Service Rating Score, Average Customer Satisfaction, and Complaint Percentage are calculated with a Bayesian estimate to account for if the contractor has a low number of total reviews. A Bayesian average is a statistical method used to calculate the average of a set of data points while taking into account prior information or beliefs about the distribution of the data. It combines the observed data with a prior distribution to generate a more accurate estimate of the true average.