You’ve done your research. You’ve compared bids. You’ve realized this project is way bigger than a DIY, and you’ve made the smart choice to hire River City Construction & Design, Austin’s go-to team for custom home builds, remodels, additions, and ADUs.
Demo day comes, and suddenly there’s chaos everywhere. Walls are down, beams are exposed, and a random piece of wood is sticking out like it’s auditioning for a modern art show. Naturally, you have a million questions.
Checking in on your project is normal, we actually love that our clients are as excited as we are! But to keep your project on time and on budget, knowing who to talk to is key.
The Key Players in Your Remodel
During your custom home build or renovation, you’ll see a lot of people around. Here’s who’s who:
General Contractor (GC)
- Often the owner of the company
- Meets you during the initial consultation and planning phase.
- Assigns a Project Manager (PM) to oversee your build.
- Handles vetting and hiring subcontractors.
- Stays in touch with clients for major updates but delegates day-to-day management to the PM.
Project Manager (PM)
- Your go-to renovation BFF.
- Handles all communication, schedules, and site coordination.
- Advocates for your needs when dealing with subs and vendors.
- Manages billing, change orders, and project documentation.
- Keeps your project running smoothly from demo to final walkthrough.
Pro Tip: If you have a question or want to make a change, call your PM first. They’ll ensure your request is documented and handled correctly.
Subcontractors (Subs)
- Specialists hired to complete specific jobs:
Tile, flooring, painting, plumbing, electrical, windows, countertops, and more. - Take direction from your PM, not the homeowner.
- Friendly? Absolutely. Responsible for schedule changes or approvals? Not really.
Why Direct Communication Matters
It’s tempting to ask a sub, “Hey, can we move that light over here?” or “Is this the right color?” But here’s why skipping the PM can cause problems:
- Conflicting Information – Subs answer based on what they know, which might not reflect the PM’s plan.
- Unapproved Changes – Small tweaks to paint colors or fixture placement can become costly errors.
- Timeline Delays – Miscommunication can slow down your project and even push back completion.
- Budget Surprises – Any undocumented change can result in unexpected costs for the homeowner.
We’re not saying you can’t chat with the subs, just keep it friendly and brief. Leave instructions and approvals to your PM.
How River City Keeps Your Project Stress-Free
At River City Construction & Design, we pride ourselves on a streamlined client experience:
- Dedicated Project Managers for every job
- Trusted and vetted subcontractors who respect your home
- Clear communication channels to prevent mistakes and surprises
- High-end construction and custom solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, additions, and ADUs
By trusting your PM to handle communication, you’ll enjoy a smooth, stress-free remodel and a finished space you’ll love for decades.
Ready to Build Without the Stress?
Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, adding a luxury bathroom, or building a custom ADU, River City Construction & Design ensures quality work and seamless communication every step of the way.
📞 Call 512-470-4439 or Contact Us Online to schedule your consultation and let’s get your project moving, the right way.