General Contracting Services

Building a dream home or renovating your space doesn't have to be overwhelming. Our trusted team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your project is seamless and stress-free.

Bathroom Remodel With Beautiful Clean Cabinetry and Sauna Santa Barbara

What We Do

Licensed since 2008 and built on 30 years of hands-on experience, LJ Nelson Construction brings a higher standard to general contracting in the Santa Barbara area—combining craftsmanship, precision, clear communication, and a health-forward approach.

Projects We Specialize In:

  • Full Residential Remodels

  • New Construction

  • Carpentry

  • Additional Dwelling Unit

Our Process

The LJ Nelson Construction Experience

Step 1: Discovery & Consultation

Every project begins with a conversation. We meet with you to understand your goals, evaluate the property, and talk through budget, timeline, and overall vision. This helps us determine the best path forward before design begins.

Step 2: Design Collaboration

We work closely with your architect and design team to develop plans that reflect your vision while staying mindful of construction costs. Early collaboration allows us to value-engineer where needed and create a design that is both beautiful and buildable.

Step 3: Planning & Budget Alignment

Before construction begins, we align the scope of work with your budget and finalize the details needed to move forward. This stage may include permitting, scheduling, and reviewing materials so everyone is clear on the plan.

Step 4: Construction Management

Once construction begins, we manage the entire process—from coordinating subcontractors to maintaining the schedule and quality of work. Clear communication and strong relationships with our trades help keep your project moving smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

New bathroom with bright lighting, and white granite countertops in Santa Barbara
  • We prefer to collaborate during the design phase. Early involvement allows us to guide budgeting decisions, value engineer thoughtfully, and align the vision with real-world costs. We work closely with the architect and design team to ensure clarity, transparency, and no costly surprises.

    Reach out for a preliminary estimate — we’re happy to start the conversation.

  • Every client we’ve worked with has given us an exceptional review—and that’s no accident. We prioritize clear communication, transparency, and a steady, solution-oriented presence from day one. Our job sites are calm, collaborative, and professional. We work hard, keep morale high, and build strong relationships with our subcontractors—which means teams show up prepared, take pride in their work, and stay on schedule.

    Creating a great relationship and trust with our clients from day one is our top priority.

    We also build homes designed to last. Our understanding of building science and building biology informs every project. Moisture management and indoor air quality are not afterthoughts—they are foundational. With mold impacting a significant percentage of homes, we treat prevention as a core responsibility, ensuring your home feels safe, durable, and resilient for years to come.

  • We genuinely care about our clients’ vision, priorities, and budget. From the start, we operate as a team—aligned, communicative, and solutions-oriented.

    Our construction management software provides full transparency, real-time updates, and easy access to schedules, selections, and costs. You’ll always know where your project stands.

    We also proactively offer guidance on lowering toxins and improving indoor air quality, helping you create a home that not only looks beautiful — but supports long-term health.

  • “Their honesty, transparency, and follow-through made my first build an exceptional experience.”

    Lynn, Goleta

  • “Even as our project grew into a full rebuild, Lonnie led with calm, integrity, and total command—finishing on time and within budget.”

    Wyatt, Santa Barbara

  • "It's rare to find a contractor who understands that how a home is built affects the health of the people living in it."

    Celsea, Santa Barbara

Ready to Make Your Dream Project a Reality?