Get a clear plan before you commit to a major home project.
Independent project advice for homeowners comparing contractors, reviewing estimates, planning remodels, or trying to understand what a fair scope and price should look like.
Proudly serving Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, Wake Forest, Fuquay-Varina, and surrounding Triangle communities.
How the process works
Guidance before the expensive decisions.
This is not contractor sales. This is a homeowner advisory service designed to help you understand pricing, scope, quality, and next steps before you move forward.
Project Clarity
Understand what you are trying to accomplish, what matters most, and what questions need to be answered before a project begins.
Estimate & Scope Review
Review contractor proposals for pricing, exclusions, allowances, missing details, and potential red flags.
Contractor Selection Support
Get help comparing contractors, clarifying scope, discussing pricing, and making a more confident decision.
Contractor Review Standards
We believe homeowners deserve clear information when selecting a contractor. While we do not guarantee the performance of any contractor, we use the following standards when evaluating contractors and reviewing project proposals.
Licensing & Insurance
Proper licensing and insurance coverage where required.
Quality Workmanship
Demonstrated history of quality work and completed projects.
Transparent Pricing
Clear scopes of work, contracts, and pricing.
Communication & Professionalism
Responsive, respectful, and reliable communication.
Reputation & Trustworthiness
Positive customer feedback and strong business practices.
Project Execution
Ability to effectively manage projects and follow through on commitments.
Choose where you want to start.
Start with an intro call, begin with an in-home session, or go straight into full advisor support.
Intro Project Call
Meeting Format: Zoom
Best for early-stage homeowners who want initial direction.
- 30-minute Zoom call
- Project goals and concerns
- Initial budget guidance
- Review of your basic options
- Recommendation on whether an in-home visit makes sense
Upgrade options may be available after your initial consultation.
Start With Level 1In-Home Project Planning Session
Meeting Format: In-Person Visit
Best for homeowners who already know they want property-specific guidance.
- 60-90 minute in-home visit
- Walkthrough of the project area
- Review of one estimate or proposal
- Budget, scope, and quality guidance
- Contractor question checklist
- Written project summary
Existing clients may be eligible for reduced upgrade pricing.
Start With Level 2Project Advisor Package
Meeting Format: In-Person Visit + Ongoing Advisor Support
Best for homeowners who want support through contractor selection.
- Includes Level 1 + Level 2 value
- Contractor research
- Multiple estimate comparison
- Pricing and scope review
- Negotiation support
- Contractor communication support
- Selection guidance before signing
Existing clients may be eligible for reduced upgrade pricing.
Start With Level 3Clients may begin at any level depending on their needs. Existing clients who have completed earlier levels may be eligible for reduced upgrade pricing toward higher-level advisory services. Additional consulting, site visits, contractor meetings, and specialized project support can be quoted separately.
What the Project Advisor Package includes.
Contractor Research
Identify qualified contractors, review reputation, confirm fit for the project type, and help narrow the list.
Bid & Scope Analysis
Compare estimates side by side, identify missing scope items, review allowances, and clarify what is actually included.
Pricing & Negotiation Support
Help evaluate pricing, identify areas for savings, prepare negotiation points, and assist with scope and pricing discussions.
Home Project Planning provides advisory support. The homeowner remains in control of contractor selection, agreements, and final decisions.
Who This Is For
Homeowners who have received multiple estimates and don't know how to compare them.
Homeowners who want an independent opinion before spending thousands of dollars.
Homeowners planning a remodel, addition, roofing project, or major renovation.
Who This Is Not For
Those only looking for the lowest possible price.
Homeowners who have already signed a construction contract.
People looking for free project consulting.
Typical Projects
Interior
- Kitchen Remodels
- Bathroom Remodels
- Whole Home Renovations
- Home Additions
Exterior
- Roofing
- Siding
- Windows & Doors
- Decks & Outdoor Living
Planning
- Estimate Reviews
- Budget Planning
- Contractor Selection
- Scope Evaluation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Home Project Planners?
An independent planning and consulting service designed to help homeowners better understand, organize, and prepare for home improvement projects.
Do you perform construction work?
No. We do not perform construction work or act as a general contractor.
Do you recommend contractors?
We help homeowners evaluate options and make informed decisions, but all hiring decisions remain with the homeowner.
Do you guarantee contractor performance?
No. We provide planning, education, and project guidance, but cannot guarantee the performance of any contractor.
Who is this service for?
Homeowners planning renovations, repairs, additions, exterior projects, kitchens, bathrooms, and other home improvement projects.
Local • Independent • Homeowner Focused
Based in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Raleigh-based independent remodeling advisor helping homeowners throughout the Triangle make clearer, more confident project decisions.
Direct Contact
(443) 617-7359
jmil@homeprojectplanners.com
Experience-based advice from the other side of the table.
My name is John Milcarzyk, and over the past several years I have worked extensively in the home remodeling industry, serving as both a project consultant and sales professional across a wide range of interior and exterior renovation projects.
Having worked on the contractor side of the industry, I've seen firsthand how projects are presented, how estimates are structured, what drives pricing, and where homeowners often struggle to compare options objectively. I have spent countless hours walking properties, reviewing project scopes, discussing budgets, evaluating proposals, and helping homeowners navigate significant decisions about their homes.
Home Project Planning was created to provide homeowners with a knowledgeable, independent perspective before committing to a project. My role is not to sell construction services. My role is to help you better understand your options, identify potential concerns, evaluate proposals, and make confident decisions based on your goals, budget, and priorities.
Home Project Planning is an independent consulting service. We do not receive commissions from contractors or benefit from recommending one company over another. The purpose of each consultation is to provide objective guidance that helps homeowners make informed decisions.
Start your project review.
Select the package you want to start with, then submit your project details. You will be taken to payment after the form is submitted.