Chicks in Construction

Welcome to another episode of Chicks in Construction! This episode goes deep into the transformative power of home organization. Joined by special guests Maria Butler of Clearly Organized and custom closet designer Sarah Tiani, the discussion highlights the benefits of hiring professional organizers. The hosts share personal stories, including Mickey’s journey through multiple organizers and the impact of finally finding the right fit. Discover how proper organization can save money, reduce stress, and even enhance your overall quality of life. Tips, insights, and real-life examples make this an episode you don’t want to miss. Tune in for expert advice on decluttering, effective organizing strategies, and when to consider professional help. Plus, get a sneak peek into high-end custom closets and practical solutions for everyday clutter. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and visit our website for more homeowner horror stories!00:00 Introduction to Home Organizers00:52 Meet the Hosts and Guests01:18 Mikki's Organizing Journey05:04 The Importance of Hiring an Organizer06:52 When to Consider Hiring an Organizer11:15 Custom Closets and Office Designs25:10 Common Organizing Mistakes32:46 First Time Trying Caviar33:05 Common Closet Misconceptions33:20 Closet Pricing and Design Options34:05 Luxury Closet Features36:17 Organizing Tips and Collaborations36:41 Container Store and Other Options42:03 DIY vs Professional Organizing46:26 The Emotional Impact of Organizing50:02 The Benefits of an Organized Space53:10 Hiring Professional Organizers56:52 Conclusion and Contact InformationSubmit your homeowner horror story:www.chicksinconstruction.comFollow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction________________Love what you hear?Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:Meet Maria Butler - https://clearlyorganizednc.com - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@clearlyorganizedncI am the owner of Clearly Organized.  It has long been my dream to start my own business.  I have always been a super-organized Monica type (Hello, Friends).  As a family, we have moved 8 times, which helped me hone my organizing and staging skills.  Thus was born Clearly Organized.   I love the relationships we develop with our clients. We walk along beside you in your organizing journey, providing help and encouragement.I spent many years as an elementary school teacher and then a stay-at-home mom. I am married to my high school sweetheart and am a proud mom of two amazing boys. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, soaking up the sun at the beach, and reading.Sarah Easterly Tiani - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahtianiclosets/Stylish storage is self-care! I can create custom solutions to your storage challenges. Working in the triangle for 18 years.

Welcome back to another episode of Chicks in Construction! In this episode, hosts Mikki and Jess dive into smart renovation decisions with their guest expert, Lisa Houtman from Houtman Home Realty and Heights Construction. Learn how to avoid common homeowner pitfalls and get insider tips on making renovations that actually add value to your home. From spotting red flags in real estate advice to understanding what upgrades are worth your time and money, this episode is packed with practical advice you won't want to miss. Plus, enjoy some fun banter about personal experiences and unique home improvement stories. Don't miss out—subscribe for more insightful and entertaining episodes!00:00 Introduction to Smart Renovation Decisions00:55 Meet the Hosts and Special Guest02:32 Special Trash and Personal Stories05:57 Winning Raffles and College Memories10:07 Real Estate and Construction Insights16:38 Home Renovation Horror Stories18:16 Tips for Increasing Home Value23:19 Working Together in Construction29:38 New Construction Insights31:38 Crazy Construction Stories38:37 Homeowner Tips and Advice44:11 Fridge Scaping and Other Trends50:11 Holiday Traditions and Tangents53:15 Final Advice and Wrap-UpContact info for Lisa Houtman Lisa Houtman is the owner of Home Realty powered by Fathom Realty here in the Triangle and also part of her family company Heights Construction. Together they help homeowners looking to sell get their properties fixed up and sold. She came from a construction background has 10 years of experience in both commercial and residential combined, and when she moved to Raleigh 8 years ago, she started right in the residential trades in HVAC. From there, she worked her way up to Purchasing Manager for a local home builder before branching out into her own real estate and construction business. Today more than half of her business is new construction, so she has seen both sides: the builder’s perspective and the buyer’s perspective.Real Estate Broker | Realtor®Lisa@houtmanhomerealty.comwww.HoutmanHomeRealty.com@HoutmanHomerealtySubmit your homeowner horror story:www.chicksinconstruction.comFollow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction________________Love what you hear?Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

Welcome back to the Chicks in Construction! In this episode, our hosts dive into an exciting mix of leftover audience questions from their 'junk drawer,' explore the fascinating and wildly impractical trend of 'Fridge Scaping,' and share the do's and don'ts of DIY projects. They also cover when you really need a permit for home renovations and the challenges of living through a renovation. Tune in for heartfelt advice, hilarious anecdotes, and practical tips to navigate your construction and home improvement projects. Don't forget to subscribe, comment, and share your homeowner horror stories!00:00 Welcome to Chicks in Construction00:56 Introducing New Mics and Subscriber Appeal01:48 Hot Topic: Fridge Scaping08:59 Overflow Questions: Do I Need a Permit?24:23 Unexpected Renovation Challenges25:14 Living Room Kitchen Setup25:29 Crockpot Cooking Amidst Chaos25:48 The Never-Ending Dust Battle26:41 Managing Renovation Expectations28:41 DIY Disasters and False Confidence29:39 Knowing Your DIY Limits31:35 The Importance of Professional Help38:08 Painting Nightmares43:52 Final Thoughts and Viewer EngagementSubmit your homeowner horror story:www.chicksinconstruction.comFollow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction________________Love what you hear?Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

Welcome to The Chicks in Construction, the podcast where your hosts decode construction jargon and share laughter-filled stories. In this episode, we take a break from homeowner horror stories to discuss essential construction terms like change orders, submittals, punch lists, allowances, scope of work, and much more. Mickey and Jess humorously navigate through these terms, share personal anecdotes, and emphasize the importance of clarity in construction contracts. Tune in to learn and laugh as they offer invaluable tips for making your renovation projects smoother and more informed.00:00 Welcome to The Chicks in Construction00:49 Decoding Construction Lingo01:57 Dog Tales and Vet Visits05:46 Beach House Updates10:19 Special Trash and Marriage Tips12:59 Understanding Construction Terms25:55 The High Cost of Kitchen Appliances27:23 Dishwasher Dilemma: To Trust or Not to Trust28:41 Understanding Construction Allowances29:04 The Importance of Schedule of Values31:59 Drawing Money from Contracts33:24 Lien Waivers: Protecting Your Property35:49 Retainage: Ensuring Contractor Completion39:30 Load-Bearing Walls and Structural Changes43:06 R-Value: Measuring Insulation Effectiveness44:41 Scope Creep: Managing Project Expansion49:32 Conclusion and Call for Homeowner Horror StoriesSubmit your homeowner horror story:www.chicksinconstruction.comFollow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction________________Love what you hear?Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

Welcome back to the Chicks in Construction podcast! In this episode, we unravel a jaw-dropping homeowner horror story that started with a simple bathroom DIY and spiraled into a $26,000 catastrophe. Join us as we dive into the challenges, missteps, and unexpected expenses encountered during this renovation gone horribly wrong. From mold remediation to contractor woes, we share valuable lessons and tips to help you avoid the same pitfalls. Grab your hard hat and tune in for an entertaining and informative discussion that you won't want to miss!00:00 Introduction to the Renovation Nightmare00:48 Meet the Hosts: Mikki and Jess do the chitty chat01:07 Small Talk and TikTok Trends03:15 Dog Troubles and Vet Bills08:22 Jessica's Busy Life with Kids and Softball11:17 Homeowner Horror Story: The Moldy Bathroom24:42 Wiring Woes and Bathroom Blues25:57 Dog Drama and Family Tales27:57 Tile Troubles and Contractor Chaos30:03 The Costly Contractor Switch33:11 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts49:08 Engage with Us! It's free!Submit your homeowner horror story:www.chicksinconstruction.comFollow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction________________Love what you hear?Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

In this episode of Chicks in Construction, host Mikki and guest-host Allison King discuss the challenges and triumphs of working with general contractors (GCs) on home building projects. Allison, from Clarity Design-Build, shares her journey from starting in sales to becoming a project manager, and highlights the importance of knowing what you want in a custom build. They delve into details about site conditions, allowances, and how to protect yourself financially during a construction project. Both hosts emphasize the importance of having everything in writing and controlling the finances to ensure the project's success. Whether you're considering building a custom home or renovating an existing one, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the process smoothly.00:00 Introduction to Chicks in Construction00:48 Meet the Co-Host: Allison King01:20 Allison's Journey in Construction01:55 The Challenges of Working in Construction02:39 From Sales to Project Management07:34 Building Spec Homes and Custom Projects13:11 Understanding Home Building Costs28:03 The Importance of Inspections and Surveys31:28 The Importance of Licensed General Contractors32:27 Getting References and Vetting Contractors34:21 Financing and Construction Loans36:40 Understanding Liens and Waivers41:40 Managing Expectations and Budgeting55:42 Custom Building vs. Production Building01:00:40 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysSubmit your homeowner horror story:www.chicksinconstruction.comFollow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction________________Love what you hear?Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

We debunk 12 common construction myths! From the truth about verbal agreements, exact project completion dates, and new construction home inspections, to whether higher prices always mean higher quality and the myth of being able to knock down any wall, Mikki and Jess have got you covered. They also share a personal project update, discuss the benefits of sourcing materials from local businesses, and dive into the complexities of contractor markups and insurance. Whether you're planning a renovation, building a new home, or just interested in the construction industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in and get the real scoop on these pervasive construction myths!00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:53 Townhouse Painting Project02:57 Challenges of DIY Painting05:40 Supporting Local Businesses07:48 Beach Trip and Shell Collecting09:51 Debunking Construction Myths11:27 Budget and Cost Myths23:05 Timeline Myths27:38 Quality and Material Myths28:20 The Illusion of High-End Brands32:41 The Importance of Home Inspections33:49 Contractor Licensing and Quality36:00 Insurance and Contractor Coverage39:59 The Myth of Verbal Agreements42:45 Design and Function Myths50:03 Energy Efficiency: Worth the Cost?52:27 Final Thoughts and Viewer EngagementPrism Paint + Design -You’re Triangle, Triad, Piedmont Benjamin Dealer 6 locations - Raleigh - Cary - Chapel Hill  - Greensboro  - High Point - Winston Salem The products used were Ultraspec 500 low sheen eggshell walls and Door, Trim & Cabinet Satin for the trim. Contact infoRich Kipp, Regional Manager 919-268-0935Rich@prismpaintco.comSubmit your homeowner horror story:www.chicksinconstruction.comFollow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction________________Love what you hear?Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

In this episode of Chicks in Construction, hosts Mikki and Jess dive into a harrowing North Raleigh renovation story that underscores the importance of hiring licensed general contractors, obtaining permits, and not prepaying large sums of money upfront. They highlight a homeowner's ordeal with a fraudulent GC who left numerous structural and compliance issues unchecked, leading to significant financial and emotional stress. Tune in to learn vital tips on how to protect yourself in construction projects and ensure your renovations don't turn into a nightmare.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:50 Upgraded Studio Setup04:53 Summer Break and Camp A05:29 The Nightmare Renovation Begins07:46 Unlicensed Contractor Issues08:29 Importance of Permits and Inspections15:18 The Inspection Fiasco25:34 Deck Disaster Unfolds26:27 Crawlspace Conundrum28:40 Kitchen Catastrophe30:36 Inspection Issues33:10 Legal Battles and Resolutions44:18 Lessons Learned47:33 Final Thoughts and Farewell________________Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.comFollow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction________________Love what you hear?Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

What was supposed to be a clean, modern upgrade to the only full bathroom in a 1960s split-level turned into four months of dust, delays, and constant headaches. With a solid budget and a contractor who promised four to five weeks, this Rhode Island homeowner thought they were in good hands. Instead, they found themselves showering in a freezing basement with a garden hose while bills kept piling up.Mikki and Jess walk through every misstep, from shoddy plumbing to crooked tile, and the money decisions that made a bad situation even worse. This story is not just about a failed bathroom reno, it is a cautionary tale about what happens when you lose control of your project’s budget and timeline.Inside the Homeowner Horror Story:Demo dust covering the bedroom, furniture, and even inside drawersA tub pipe cut incorrectly, causing a $1,100 ceiling repair the contractor refused to coverFloor tile installed so poorly it had to be ripped out and redone for $3,000The risk of paying too much upfront and losing leverage when work goes wrongHow a promised 4–5 week project left the homeowner without a real shower for four months and thousands over budgetIf you are about to hire a contractor, this is your sign to protect your money, pay for completed work only, and never assume that will not happen to you.________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

Most painters are disasters waiting to happen. They'll destroy your floors, paint over problems instead of fixing them, take your deposit and disappear for weeks, then leave you with a mess that looks worse than when they started. But how do you spot the difference between a real professional and some guy who thinks painting is easy money?Elizabeth Mejía from Top Empire Painting has seen it all, from painters who literally paint over staples sticking out of trim to clients who lock contractors out mid-job and hurl racial slurs. She breaks down the warning signs, red flags, and insider secrets that separate legitimate pros from the disasters that give the industry a bad name.What You'll Learn:The contract red flags that scream "this person will ruin your house"Why your dream paint color might look like garbage and how good painters prevent thisWhat real prep work involves and why corners cut here destroy everythingThe deposit scams vs. legitimate payment requestsWhy that $6/sq ft quote might actually save you money in the long runThe communication skills that separate pros from pretendersWarning signs during estimates that predict disasterThis is your complete insider guide to hiring a painter who won't ruin your house, steal your money, or make you want to burn everything down.Connect with Top Empire Painting:Website: www.topempirepainting.comInstagram: @topempirepainting________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

Mikki and Jess tackle one of the biggest problems in home renovations: homeowners going in completely unprepared for what construction actually looks like. After seeing so many horror stories from listeners, they realized many of the "disasters" could have been avoided if people just knew what was normal versus what was actually worth getting upset about.They delve into common challenges faced during renovations, emphasizing the importance of hiring skilled professionals, anticipating delays, and effective communication with contractors. They also cover the necessity of having a contingency budget and understanding the true costs and processes involved in renovations. The episode highlights the need for realistic expectations to ensure a smoother renovation experience, sharing both homeowner and contractor perspectives on common pitfalls and best practices.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Understanding common construction realities like dust and delaysWhat to expect when opening walls and encountering structural issuesWhy quality work requires time and proper schedulingThe challenges of managing subcontractors and inspectionsRealistic budgeting and the problems with HGTV expectations________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

When your roof leaks, a pipe bursts, or a tree crashes through your house, your first instinct is to call your insurance company. But one wrong word in that conversation can mean the difference between getting fully covered or getting nothing at all. Most homeowners don’t realize how much hinges on the language they use...until their claim is denied.In this episode, Mikki sits down with Nicolle Bochenski of Precision Public Adjusting to expose how often claims are unfairly denied, and what you can do about it. From roof damage to total home losses, Nicolle breaks down the red flags, policy loopholes, and rights most homeowners don’t know they have.In this episode, you’ll hear about:The one word that can tank your entire insurance claimWhy insurers push you toward hotels instead of Airbnbs, and how to push backWhat your policy probably covers (but no one tells you): building code upgrades, temporary housing, even custom cabinetryHow a claim for 26 shingles turned into a $1.4 million payoutThe difference between “fixing it” and “making it right”, and why that mattersConnect with Precision Public Adjusting:Website: https://precisionpublicadjusting.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/precision_public_adjusting/________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

Ever wondered what your renovation should cost? In this episode of The Chicks in Construction, Mikki and Jess get real about renovation budget tips that can save your wallet and your sanity. Whether you're upgrading your forever home or prepping a property for Airbnb, this episode is packed with practical advice that every homeowner needs to hear.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Why your renovation goal (sell, rent, or live) changes your budgetThe 50/30/20 rule for dividing your renovation budgetWhat contingency budgets are really for (hint: not pretty tile)How to use online tools to estimate real renovation costsThe importance of avoiding the lowest contractor bidMentioned In The Episode:HomeAdvisor Cost Estimator Tool: https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

After a spring storm, a brown stain appeared in the ceiling. A quick fix felt doable until the roofer vanished, the drywall collapsed, and the insurance company refused to help. What started as one drip turned into a financial gut punch.In this episode, Mikki and Jess unpack every moment of a roof fix gone sideways. From the first red flag to the final invoice, they break down what this homeowner thought he was doing right and how it all went wrong.Inside the Homeowner Horror Story:The small attic leak that set everything in motionWhat this homeowner saw on Facebook that made the roofer seem legitHow fast a “simple repair” can spiral in storm seasonThe move that killed the insurance claim before it even startedWhat the real roofer found once they finally got a lookMentioned In The Episode:Need a website built? Check out www.yourwpguy.com and use code MIKKI10 for 10% off. ________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

Mold feels like a silent menace; one whiff of “You’ll need to gut the house” and your budget evaporates. In this episode, Mikki sits down with Danyelle Holland of Atlantic Corp to expose the fear-based sales pitches that can turn a routine remediation into a five-figure panic.When a cough, a crawl-space puddle, or a mysterious odor sends you running to Google, you can end up paying for fixes you never needed. Danyelle explains exactly how real pros separate fact from fright, and why the right certifications matter more than any shiny brochure.Inside the EpisodeWhy compressed-air duct cleaning is safer than the “toilet-brush” rotor that can shred flex ducts, and how to verify a tech’s NADCA status Sixty percent of your crawl-space air rides straight into the living room, bringing any hidden moisture or mold with it The insurance line to check—environmental and pollution liability—that instantly weeds out under-qualified contractors When a 25 percent deposit shows good faith and when it is a red flag waiting to happenMold is fixable; panic-fuelled sales tactics thrive on ignorance, so slow down, ask questions, and verify certifications Resource: Certifications to Look ForNADCA – National Air Duct Cleaners Association (duct cleaning)IICRC – Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Restoration Certification (mold and water remediation)NAMP – National Association of Mold Professionals (mold assessment and remediation)If scare-heavy salespeople are circling, listen first and save your wallet.Connect with this episode's expert: atlanticmoldexperts.com________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

Everyone’s heard it: “A quality replacement window should run you two grand per opening, or you’re buying junk.” That pitch (often delivered after hours of kitchen-table arm-twisting) convinces too many homeowners to sign for triple-pane glass and monster price tags they don’t actually need. Mikki’s latest guest, licensed GC Ashley Seltzer of Wallaby Windows, dismantles that narrative, along with the pushy sales tactics behind it, one NFRC label at a time. Ashley explains how quotes balloon, why “energy-efficiency” buzzwords get abused, and the questions that separate a real consultative pro from a chuck-in-a-truck. From deposit math to pocket-vs-full-frame installs, she gives listeners a playbook for sane pricing and sound decisions. Inside the Episode:The one number on an NFRC label that matters more than the flashy triple-pane upsell, and how to read it in 30 seconds Why a 1970s house with zero air-sealing upgrades rarely benefits from “most energy-efficient window ever” packages (save your second mortgage) Pocket install or full-frame? The 15-step, OSI-certified process that keeps water out, plus where cheap caulk shortcuts doom a window from day one Ashley’s 15 / 45 / 40 deposit rule that protects both sides and kills the “pay half up front” headache before it starts Red-flag tactics to walk away from: porch-light pressure sales, same-day sign-or-lose-the-price ultimatums, and one-window-fits-all showrooms When a window quote tops your last roof bid, hit pause; these insights might save you five figures and a lot of shattered expectations.Connect with this episode's expert:www.wallabywindows.com/the-triangle-areawww.linkedin.com/in/ashley-selzer-790028270________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

Sophie thought she was just getting new countertops. Maybe a fresh coat of paint and a few lights. Her budget? A smart, clear $25,000. But one contractor’s suggestions, plus a string of “unexpected” upgrades, turned her kitchen refresh into a financial nightmare. What started as small updates ballooned into a gut job. By the end, she’d taken out two loans just to stay afloat.Mikki and Jess walk through every red flag Sophie missed and the pressure tactics that turned a reasonable project into a runaway train. From disappearing crews to contracts that never appeared, they break down what should have happened and how to keep control when the costs keep climbing in this listener-submitted horror story. Inside the Homeowner Horror Story:The “better layout” that triggered $20,000 in plumbing and electrical changesWhy no one told her the truth about code upgrades until it was too lateWhat to do when the budget starts slipping and the work is still unfinishedThe mistake that left strangers showing up without warningHow to protect your money and timeline before signing anythingIf your contractor keeps “suggesting” upgrades, this story is your sign to slow down, ask questions, and get everything in writing.________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

In this episode, Mikki sits down with Bailey Shey Morris, owner and lead professional at Cadmus Construction, to explore what it truly means to be a trusted roofer in today’s market. Bailey brings a wealth of knowledge and a steadfast commitment to integrity—qualities that distinguish her from the “Chuck in a truck” contractors all too common in the industry. With Cadmus Construction’s strong reputation for reliable estimates, high-quality materials, and transparent communication, Bailey outlines how homeowners can avoid common pitfalls when suspecting roof damage.Listeners will learn:Why credentials and experience matter: Bailey explains how proper training, certifications, and real-world roofing experience form the foundation of job reliability.Signs you need a professional assessment: From minor leaks to storm damage, she breaks down when it’s time to call in the experts—and why DIY or quick-fix approaches often backfire.The Cadmus approach to customer care: Featuring Bailey’s insights on detailed inspections, written estimates, and ongoing support—proving why Cadmus Construction stands for excellence in both product and service.Avoiding common contractor traps: Practical advice on vetting contractors, asking the right questions, and spotting warning signs like overly low bids or vague guarantees.Investment in long-term protection: Bailey emphasizes that a well-installed roof isn’t an expense—it’s a safeguard for your home’s health, value, and your peace of mind.Throughout the episode, Bailey’s professionalism shines—she discusses each step of Cadmus’s process with clarity, authority, and a genuine care for homeowners. No “Chuck in a truck” persona here—just a passionate roofer committed to raising the bar for quality and trust in every project.Why this episode matters to you: If you suspect roof trouble, this conversation arms you with the knowledge to choose not just any contractor, but a true professional. With Bailey Shey Morris and Cadmus Construction, you’ll hear how standards, integrity, and craftsmanship combine to give you results you can trust.Connect with this episode's expert: https://www.cadmus-construction.com/________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

This episode unpacks a true homeowner horror story involving a dream home, a shady home inspector, and hundreds of thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs. Mikki is joined by real estate agent Heather Lane to talk through what went wrong—and how homeowners can protect themselves from ever ending up in the same situation. Spoiler: if the listing agent offers to represent you too… run.Together, they break down what buyers should ask when hiring a realtor, why some agents aren't as neutral as they seem, and how an experienced team can make or break your home-buying journey. This one’s a must-listen for anyone even thinking about buying a house.In this episode, you’ll hear about:What happens when the home inspector, contractors, and agent are all working together (but not for you)The risks of dual agency and why it matters who your realtor really representsSigns your “dream house” might be hiding major problems—like water behind the wallsWhy experience matters: what to ask when interviewing a realtor or home inspectorReal tips to protect yourself in new construction and resale transactions________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

In today’s episode, Mikki and Jess dig into a renovation horror story submitted by a local North Carolina homeowner—and this one has everything. Think unfinished bonus room turned crooked office, mystery permits, Monday morning sick texts, and drywall work so bad it made the homeowner feel seasick. Yep, it’s that kind of story.Mikki breaks down what should have happened at every step, from pulling permits to hiring licensed contractors, and shares some hard truths about what happens when you skip the right steps. Jess adds the homeowner perspective (and plenty of eye-rolls) as they unpack red flags, lessons learned, and the real cost of hiring the wrong people.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why pulling permits isn’t optional (even if your GC says it is)What a licensed general contractor really means—and how to checkHow cutting corners on HVAC and drywall turned into a months-long disasterRed flags to watch for: missed workdays, bad trim, and sketchy subcontractorsThe cost of fixing bad work—and why it’s better to do it right the first time________________ Submit your homeowner horror story: www.chicksinconstruction.com Follow on Social Media:www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcastwww.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction ________________ Love what you hear? Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!