Diamond Certified Company Report

Advance Construction

Name: Advance Construction
Address: United States
Telephone: (510) 621-3943
Rating: 9.2

(510) 621-3943

Contact

Diamond Certified Company Report

Advance Construction

(510) 621-3943

Contact

Diamond certified ratings dashboard

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION i

Customer LOYALTY i

Helpful Expertise i

Company Credentials i

Workers Compensation
Liability Insurance
License Verification
Business Practices
Current Complaint File
Legal & Finance

Phone SURVEY RESPONSES FROM 65 VERIFIED CUSTOMERS i

Mark S.

VERIFIED Advance Construction CUSTOMER

1 of 65

Quality 10

10 10

Loyalty Yes

CRITIQUE

The main thing that I liked about Advance Construction was that Michael was easy to work with. I have seen a lot of contractors that know what they're doing, but they are not all easy to work with, and Michael was.

I think what I liked best about it was that he was flexible and accommodating. I tried not to make changes, but there's always one thing that needs to be changed, and Michael was able to come back without trouble or any added extra expense to fix it. They weren't big things. He was definitely accommodating about that.

Sonia G.

VERIFIED Advance Construction CUSTOMER

2 of 65

Quality 10

10 10

Loyalty Yes

CRITIQUE

They were very neat, they picked up everything, and they were helpful in getting the job done quickly. They guided me in finding everything, including supplies and ideas. It was all good.

I trusted Michael, the owner, very much. I was satisfied, and they cleaned up as much as they could.

F.F.Y.C.

VERIFIED Advance Construction CUSTOMER

3 of 65

Quality 10

10 10

Loyalty Yes

CRITIQUE

They are very loyal, and they actually provide the service in which they promise. They always go above and beyond.

I like that they always go above and beyond their call of duty.

Read All 65 Survey Responses at Ratings View

Diamond certified VIDEO PROFILE

Diamond certified company PROFILE

Michael Ghanivand, Owner

Advance Construction implements complete remodeling plans for residential and commercial clients throughout the East Bay and San Francisco. The company builds room additions (including bathrooms and kitchens), foundations and framing; installs drywall, ventilation, bath equipment and fixtures; handles plumbing, tiling and wiring; and fixes household problems like termite damage, dry rot and various cracks. All work is performed in-house, without the use of subcontractors.

Owner Michael Ghanivand says his favorite part of construction is working with his hands and seeing what he creates. A native of Iran, Mr. Ghanivand discovered his passion for construction when his life took an unexpected turn. “I actually have a medical background—I went to medical school at the University of Szeged in Hungary,” he explains. “The Iranian economy wasn’t great, so my parents couldn’t send me enough money to continue my education. I came to the United States, went into construction to pay my living expenses and grew to love it.”

Mr. Ghanivand’s excitement for building and renovation transfers to the relationships he shares with his clients. “I’m honest and I treat them like friends,” he says. “I speak with them frequently and always try to work within their budgets. Mostly, it’s about the communication—I try to understand their desires.”

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DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESEARCHED CAPABILITIES ON Advance Construction

COMPANY CONTACT

Advance Construction

(510) 621-3943

EMAIL
Map Hours Website

Service AREA

The East Bay
San Francisco

SERVICES PERFORMED

General Remodeling
Tiling
Bathroom Repair
Foundations
Bathroom Remodeling
Decks
Kitchen Remodeling
Windows
Doors
Additions
Dry Rot Repair
Wiring

Company Name:	Advance Construction
Website:	www.advanceconstruction.org
Phone Number:	(510) 621-3943
DCID Number:	DCID5103015547
Hours:	Mon – Fri: 8am – 6pm
Areas Served:	Serving the East Bay and San Francisco including Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville, Hayward, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Piedmont, Montclair, Orinda, Moraga, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Kensington, Richmond
Managers:	Michael Ghanivand, Owner
Years in industry:	27
# of Employees:	2
Certifications:	EPA Lead-Safe Certified, EPA RRP Certified
License:	767044
Insurance:	Liability Insurance, Workers' Compensation
Founded:	1990
Areas of Expertise:	General Remodeling, Tiling, Bathroom Repair, Foundations, Bathroom Remodeling, Decks, Kitchen Remodeling, Windows, Doors, Additions, Dry Rot Repair, Wiring
Customer Type:	Commercial, Residential
Warranties & Guarantees:	1-Year Warranty on Labor
CC Accepted:

DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESEARCHED ARTICLES ON Advance Construction

A recent residential project by Advance Construction

Company Profile

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Company Philosophy

“We take great pride in what we do, and we approach every project as if we were working on our own homes. We treat our clients the way we’d want to be treated.”

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Comparative Summary

Maintaining customer satisfaction is a crucial aspect of any business, but it’s even more important for remodeling companies that have earned the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Michael Ghanivand, owner of Advance Construction, believes an honest, friendly approach is the best way to develop and maintain good relationships with his customers. “Clients appreciate the way I explain their options to them,” he says. “I try to handle every situation in the friendliest way possible.” As a result of this positive approach, Advance Construction has a long list of referrals and many repeat customers.

Before Advance Construction begins a new project, it encourages clients to talk about their remodeling ideas–an all-inclusive approach that differentiates the company from many of its competitors. “We invite our clients to share their visions, and then we turn them into reality,” says Mr. Ghanivand. “If an idea comes up after construction is underway–one that’s different from what was in the original architectural plan–we can provide options and make changes according to the customer’s wishes.”

When Advance Construction’s employees arrive at a jobsite, they demonstrate consideration and respect for the residents, which Mr. Ghanivand says is one of his company’s most discerning factors. “My crew members are punctual, professional and respectful. They do a clean job and make every effort to keep noise at a minimum, especially when senior citizens are nearby.”

Advance Construction takes great pride in its quality of service, and Mr. Ghanivand is even willing to provide his own home as an example for prospective customers. “When a client is considering a big project, I’ll invite them to come and see the quality of workmanship in my own house,” he says. “That makes it easier for them to decide if we’re worthy of their trust.”

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Industry Info

Choose a home remodeling project that best fits your needs. Taking on a large-scale home remodeling project can be a daunting task, both in terms of expenses and time management. Conversely, a small remodeling project can simultaneously increase the value of a home and stay within a realistic budget. Before committing to a large project, consider the following ideas for smaller renovations:

Whole House
Accentuate the architecture. Tasteful architectural accents, such as crown molding or a dining room chair rail, can add appeal and value to a home. Also, try dressing up a ceiling-mounted light fixture with a medallion or adding molding to any room.

Add a fireplace. A fireplace adds warmth and creates a focal point for the room. Dress up the firebox with a tasteful surround and classic wood mantel. If you opt for a gas unit, upgrade to one with realistic-looking logs.

Install bay windows. Changing standard windows to bay windows makes rooms feel larger, creates focal points and lets in more light. To call attention to the new windows and add function to the rooms, consider adding built-in window seats with benches that open for storage.

Replace your windows. Trade in older windows for new, high-performance units that swing in for easy cleaning. Energy Star windows can cut fuel bills by as much as $340 per year over drafty, single-pane units.

Kitchen
Upgrade kitchen countertops. Durable granite is one of the most requested countertop materials in the remodeling industry. If granite is beyond your budget, however, consider laminate countertops, which offer the look of natural stone at a fraction of the price. Add a beveled edge to laminate countertops for an even more authentic stone look.

Create a pantry. A shallow pantry can be added to most kitchens. Have a professional frame the space between two studs and finish with cabinet doors. If you have room, consider adding a walk-in pantry.

Change the backsplash. Choose inexpensive ceramic field tiles and add sparkle with glass or metal decorative pieces, or install a checkerboard pattern of several hues.

Bathroom
Change your showerheads. Consider installing a pan-style model that simulates a rain shower.

Install a second sink. If there’s room to install two sinks within 30 inches of each other, they can share drainage and supply lines to decrease costs.

Upgrade bathroom materials. Change the faucets and fixtures on the sink, bathtub and shower to stylish models in finishes like satin or brushed nickel. Then upgrade your cabinet hardware, lighting fixtures and mirror to complete the fresh look.

Outdoor
Add a porch. Be sure to check building codes for setback requirements. Also, if you plan to entertain, make sure your porch has at least 12 by 24 feet of space.

Replace siding. The most affordable option is vinyl siding, which is available in a wide variety of colors and styles, including scalloped and square-cut shingles. If your vinyl siding is in good condition but looks worn or faded, consider using a product that cleans and restores its original color and sheen.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does a job usually take?

A: It depends on the job, but every project is allowed more than an adequate amount of time. When I draw up a proposal, I explain to the client that extra time might be needed if something beyond the scope of the proposal is discovered, like termite damage or dry rot.

Q: Are you usually on the jobsite?

A: Yes. I’m always there for at least half the day, if not the entire time.

Q: Do you keep a clean worksite?

A: Yes. When we’re working inside a house, we put down plastic, cloth or paper to create a designated pathway to protect the floors; and the work area itself is enclosed in plastic to keep dust from escaping into surrounding areas. When working outside the house, we ensure the jobsite is left clean at the end of every day. Demolition and scrap construction materials are hauled away on a regular basis—daily or every other day.

Q: Are your employees trustworthy?

A: Absolutely. Trustworthiness has never been an issue with any of my employees. I would trust them in my own home.

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SELECTED PHOTOS FROM Advance Construction

Advance Construction builds wood framing.
Advance Construction
Advance Construction
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Advance Construction
Advance Construction
Advance Construction
Advance Construction
Advance Construction is a full-service remodeling contractor.
Advance Construction offers a complete range of remodeling services.
Advance Construction also does foundation work.
Advance Construction provides all of its services in-house.
To ensure quality, the company focuses on one job at a time.
The company offers free estimates.
Advance Construction handles exterior and interior remodeling.
Advance Construction remediates termite damage and dry rot.
A recent residential project by Advance Construction
Advance Construction installs wallboards.
Kitchen remodel after
Very satisfied customers!
Kitchen remodel before
Advance Construction handles plumbing, tiling and wiring.
Advance Construction installs drywall, ventilation and bath fixtures.
Advance Construction also fixes wall cracks in plaster or stucco.

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DIAMOND CERTIFIED EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR ADVICE & TIPS FROM Michael Ghanivand

Expert CONTRIBUTOR PROFILE

Michael Ghanivand is owner of Advance Construction, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (510) 621-3943 or by email.

Michael Ghanivand: From Medicine to Construction

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

OAKLAND — A native of Iran, Michael Ghanivand originally intended to become a medical professional, but when things didn’t go as planned, he ended up building an entirely different career. “I actually have a medical background—I went to medical school at the University of Szeged in Hungary,” he explains. “The Iranian economy wasn’t doing great at the time, so my parents couldn’t send me enough money to continue my education. I came to the United States to get a job, with the intention to save up some money and return to medical school. However, after getting into construction work, I grew to love it and decided to stick with it.”

Today, as owner of Advance Construction, Michael says his favorite part of his job is the simple satisfaction of doing good work. “I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and having something to show for it at the end. These days, while I no longer participate in the hands-on work, I continue to derive satisfaction from seeing what my team and I are able to accomplish for our clients.”

A resident of Walnut Creek, Michael devotes the bulk of his time outside of work to his family. “My wife, Ahdieh, and I have two daughters: a 27-year-old and a 10-year-old,” he says. “The reason for the gap is that after I came to the U.S., I wanted to get my business well-established before having another child. Now, we have one daughter in college and one in elementary school, which is pretty unusual.”

When asked what he would do if he were to retire tomorrow, Michael says he’d devote himself to consumer education. “I’d like to get involved in some sort of program that teaches homeowners to be wiser consumers. During my 30 years in construction, I’ve heard from countless people who’ve been taken advantage of by unscrupulous contractors because they didn’t know what to look for or what to ask. I think it would be very rewarding to help homeowners become more aware and make better decisions when it comes to their construction projects.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: Coffee or tea?
A: Tea.

Q: What’s your favorite restaurant?
A: Tomatina in Walnut Creek.

Q: What’s your favorite holiday?
A: Christmas, because I get to be at home with my family.

Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl?
A: An early bird. I need to be up and make sure everything’s ready for the day.

Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: Any kind of fruit.

Expert articles

Checking for Mold During a Remodel

By Michael Ghanivand of
Advance Construction

OAKLAND — If you’re remodeling your home, one of the most important things you can do is check to see what’s behind your walls. Why? Because if there’s any hidden mold or mildew, it could jeopardize your entire project.

In most cases, it’s impossible to know whether mold or mildew is present behind the walls in a home, but it’s better to find out for sure than to make a wrong assumption. This is especially important if you live in an older home, where the combination of time and inferior building methods and materials increases the opportunity for mold or mildew issues to take root.

Consider a real-life example from a home addition project I recently did in Berkeley. Initially, when we opened up the walls, everything looked good on the inside, but as we got further into the project, we discovered there was a lot of mold and mildew. It’s a good thing we found it—otherwise, we might have completed the project without fixing the problem, which, as with all moisture-related problems, would only get worse over time and potentially ruin the work we did.
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Expert video tip

Video: Checking for Mold During a Remodel

With Michael Ghanivand of
Advance Construction

Complete Video Transcription:

OAKLAND — Host, Sarah Rutan: If you’re remodeling an older home, be sure to look at what’s behind the walls. Today we’re in Oakland with Diamond Certified Expert Contributor Michael Ghanivand of Advance Construction to learn more.

Diamond Certified Expert Contributor, Michael Ghanivand: In any remodeling project, big or small, whether it is a bathroom or the entire house, like we are doing right now, the homeowner always needs to make sure that they need to think about what’s behind the wall, especially in the older house. Like, we are doing this remodeling and addition in the Berkeley area, and when we open up the wall from the inside, it looks really healthy and good, but when we are farther down the road, we saw all the mold and mildew and ended up taking everything apart. That’s the best way of us to keep in mind that any older house – even a newer house – water can create a bigger damage than you are anticipating to have.

Host, Sarah Rutan: To learn more from local, top rated companies, visit our Diamond Certified Expert Reports at experts.diamondcertified.org.
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Advance Construction WEBSITE AND EXTERNAL FEED

COMPANY WEBSITE

https://www.advanceconstruction.org/

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