I hired KTJ Design Co. for a Remodel Clarity Session, paying $800 with the expectation that it…read morewould provide professional guidance, full measurements of my project areas, and actionable next steps such as cost estimates. Unfortunately, my experience fell far short of what I, and most homeowners, would reasonably expect. While there was a walkthrough, some measurements, and a schematic drawing of my kitchen, several critical things were missing: * Not all areas were measured (the office cabinetry and mudroom were left out). * No usable estimate or cost range was provided, even though that's a basic and standard part of clarity sessions at many other firms. * I waited more than a week for communication and only received a response after following up myself, at which point I was told my project was "not a fit." For $800, I believe clients deserve more than partial measurements and a schematic drawing, followed by a rejection. At the very least, providing a cost estimate or projected range is an industry norm and gives homeowners something they can use to move forward. When I raised these concerns, I was told the session was "non-refundable," despite the service being incomplete. That left me with no actionable deliverables and the loss of $800. Advice for Homeowners Considering KTJ Design Co. If you are considering engaging with this firm, here are a few best practices I recommend: 1. Get the scope of services in writing. Ask exactly what is included in a Clarity Session: measurements, drawings, written notes, cost ranges, and communication expectations. 2. Clarify what "deliverables" mean. Many firms include a budget range, written summary, and full measurements in clarity sessions. Confirm if KTJ Design Co. will provide these in your session. 3. Ask about communication timelines. Ensure you will receive feedback promptly rather than waiting a week or more for a decision. 4. Request examples. Ask to see a sample clarity session package so you know what you're paying for. What a Clarity Session Typically Includes (Industry Standard) * Full walkthrough of all relevant spaces * Complete measurements and photos for reference * Brainstorming/design ideas with layout sketches * Cost estimate or at least a projected budget range * Written summary of recommendations and next steps These elements ensure homeowners walk away with actionable information, even if they don't continue with that particular designer. Final Thoughts I share my experience so other homeowners can enter into agreements with clear expectations. Every homeowner deserves transparency, complete services, and prompt communication, especially when paying premium consultation fees.

KTJ Design Co is the best! Kathleen is super talented and her designs are top notch. I've worked…read morewith her on a few projects now and I'm always blown away by her work. If you're looking for a designer who will go above and beyond to create something perfect for you, then KTJ Design Co is the right choice.

I want to take a moment to recommend Siela and her staging business. I was looking for a last…read moreminute quote on a Sunday and not only was she able to meet me the next day but the property was marketed, staged and ready to show by the end of day Thursday. She communicates well and honors her timeline. She was professional, flexible and worked within my client's budget and the overall feedback I got was that the home looked amazing! She also provided a short video clip and pictures which I used in my marketing materials. I know because of the staging she did she helped my client get top dollar for her home. The home sold very quickly. I'm looking forward to working with her on my next listing. Thank you FIB Home staging!

We are so grateful for Siela and her team for the wonderful job of staging our parents home. I…read morecannot express how easy she made the process of evaluating our home and staging it. Siela is a true professional, from the first phone call to the consult to the staging and follow up. She is delightful, responsive and communicative. She did an awesome job of matching the furniture to the style of the home and kept them proportionate to size of the rooms and added just enough detail to create a classy but homey feel to every room. FIB rates were very reasonable and they were very flexible with the time and schedule. Her photographer took great photos and produced a really nice video which showcased our house beautifully. We received an offer within days of listing the home and I feel the staging had a huge impact in making the empty house feel like a warm and welcoming home. Thank you Siela to you and your staff - you guys were amazing!

I can't say enough about the great job Patrick did on a home I recently had to stage. I am a…read morerealtor in the Lodi area and one of my listing just wasn't moving. I had seen Patrick's work at an open house I toured and was so impressed, I decided to give him a call. Patrick was professional, easy to work with, able to move quickly and has a great eye on how to highlight and capture the character of a home. He doesn't just drop in some couches and hang a couple pictures; his attention to the details is what sets his work above and beyond other staging companies. Patrick prices were extremely competitive and offers several pricing packages for every level of your need. After staging was completed, I had a great offer in-hand within 48 hours. I highly recommend Patrick and his team, you won't be disappointed.

From the owner: From a client: "Dynamic design sensibility. He is so well-seasoned yet cutting edge as a designer…read morein home staging, and interior design. He instinctively knows how to define and solve design dilemmas and presents several solutions. He constantly delivers on his word, and on time with his impeccable service and his keen sense of style that is current and lush in every way. Superb designs, dynamic space planning, gorgeous, exquisite details. Where would I be without Patrick Keehnel?"

Just posted the following on NextDoor and FB: Warning! This is a happy posting! With so many people…read moreunhappy with their contractors I am posting a happy story. Leslie and her team from Realty Design & Construction, right here in Oakdale just finished a huge design and remodel for us and we couldn't be happier. She and her team are both professional and personable. They really listened to us and our ideas. Their attention to detail is unmatched. We were given a schedule, a cost sheet, and were involved with the decisions onsite and in the office. My husband and I give her the highest recommendation. Buy local, build local, supporting Oakdale! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, Leslie, Heather, and Raymond

From the owner: Realty Design & Construction is a full-service design-build firm specializing in simplifying the…read moreremodeling and building process. From site selection, interior design, and pre-construction planning to construction and furnishings. Our team based out of Oakdale, and serving Modesto, Riverbank, Lodi, Turlock, Ceres, Tracy and surrounding areas ensures every project reflects your style and exceeds your expectations. Call or email now to schedule an appointment (209) 848-8728 or learnmore@realty-design.com.

As good as it gets! Patricia came out and got a feel for the room and the look I was going for. She…read moremade suggestions of which I appreciated. Some of her ideas I rejected (personal style choices) and other ideas I thought were appropriate and relied on her expertise. When the draperies were installed her installer (Merv) came as promised and did a fabulous job of installing our beautiful drapes. These drapes are subtle and appropriate to our 1937 home style. I love them! Beautiful material choices of which I selected a very soft mauve color with conventional pleats and a wand pull. I can't say enough about the quality and attention to detail of Designs by Patricia! I very highly recommend her business to anyone who wants quality work at an affordable price! OUTSTANDING!

I've worked with Patricia for years, developing and creating draperies and bedding for my various…read moreclientele. Patricia is attentive, detail oriented, EXPERIENCED, and has very reasonable prices. Plus she cares about her clients. What more can one ask for? As a designer, I am extremely critical and I expect everyone I work with on their projects to be equally as critical and meticulous in their role in the project. She covers all bases, and I come back to her year after year for excellent personalized service. Thank you Patricia!

Pride in workmanship is represented in their stagings…read more In working with white orchid interiors, I've witnessed how accommodating they are with their clients. Even when the requests or demands are not reasonable I have witnessed a situation where I feel the need to stand up for White Orchid interiors. The last 2 reviews are from the same client contact. All I will state is it is bias & false. As we all know there are 2 sides to every story. Please disregard the last 2 one star reviews. Look at the work quality in the photos & inquire with white orchid about their success stories.

Terrible service. Horrible inventory. Rude AF. Late and added stupid little extra costs and might…read moreas well charge by the hour. 2006 is calling

I uses Darin Brazil Construction for a new deck (11'x 60') and a new fence. Both turned out…read moreexcellent at a fair price. I would definitely recommend his co. Bob M

We utilized Darin Brazil Construction for a kitchen repair of a house we were purchasing. They…read morerepaired a cracked countertop and water damage behind the sink in an efficient and cost effective manner. They arrived on time for their appointment and work was completed to a very high standard. I have also had them add a wall to my laundry room to close off an area and the work was excellent. They are now the first to be called for any construction needs by my family.

We have remodeled our kitchen, 2 bathrooms and replaced the carpet in 2 bedroom's in our home with…read morethe help of Chris at HCD. With Chris' professionalism, expertise and knowledge, each project couldn't have gone any better. Chris has impeccable taste and is a joy to work with. HCD also has a lovely showroom with great selection of flooring of all kinds, beautiful counter top options and so much more. A wonderful experience all around.

HCD put in new vinyl floors at our business in the kitchen, bathroom and break room area and they…read moreturned out great! They took out the 70's linoleum and gave us a modern look. The prices were reasonable and their crew was quick, professional and left everything clean after the job was done. Highly recommend them!