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FAQ

01

Getting Started

When should I involve a custom home builder in a renovation?

Ideally, a custom home builder should be involved early in the planning and design phase. Early engagement allows the builder to provide budget guidance, identify potential risks, and help ensure the design aligns with your investment expectations before decisions become costly to change.

No. Many homeowners reach out before drawings are complete, or even before design has begun. Involving a builder early can help shape the design process, improve cost accuracy, and reduce revisions later. 

Yes. A custom home builder typically brings a more structured, systems-driven approach to complex renovations. Beyond construction, they focus heavily on planning, coordination, quality control, and communication, which is especially important for whole-home renovations, additions, heritage homes, and high-performance upgrades. 

What is the best contract type for a renovation project?

The best contract type depends on how well-defined the scope and selections are. Many homeowners benefit from a Construction Management approach under CCDC 5B, which allows collaboration and transparency during planning, with the option to transition to a Guaranteed Maximum Price or Fixed Price once details are finalized. 

Budget uncertainty is managed through thorough pre-construction planning, clearly defined allowances, realistic contingencies, and transparent cost tracking. A structured change management process ensures homeowners understand cost and schedule impacts before decisions are made. 

You don’t need a fixed number, but having a general investment range is extremely helpful. Early budget conversations allow a builder to guide decisions using real project data and prevent time being spent on plans that don’t align with your comfort level. 

Allowances are placeholders for items that have not yet been selected, such as cabinetry or fixtures. If final selections exceed the allowance, costs increase. A strong pre-construction process reduces reliance on allowances by encouraging early decisions and more accurate pricing.

02

Budget, Contracts & Planning

03

Process & Communication

How long does a renovation typically take?

Renovation timelines vary depending on scope, complexity, permitting, and material lead times. A reputable builder will provide a realistic schedule range early and refine it as planning progresses and selections are finalized. 

Changes are handled through a documented change process that outlines the impact on cost, schedule, and scope before work proceeds. This transparency helps homeowners make informed decisions and avoid surprises.

Clear communication is essential. Homeowners should expect regular updates through daily logs, scheduled weekly meetings, and access to an online portal where progress, documents, and approvals are tracked in one place. 

That depends on your preference. Some homeowners want close involvement, while others prefer high-level updates. A professional builder adapts communication while ensuring key decisions are made clearly and on time. 

What happens if hidden issues are discovered?

Hidden conditions are a common reality in renovations. An experienced builder anticipates this possibility, discusses it upfront, and manages discoveries through clear communication, documented options, and collaborative decision-making. 

Common causes include late design changes, delayed selections, unforeseen site conditions, and incomplete planning before construction begins. A disciplined pre-construction phase significantly reduces these risks. 

Quality is ensured through a structured process, trusted trade partners, detailed project management systems, and ongoing communication. Issues are addressed early, before they affect schedule or cost. 

04

Risk, Quality & Unknowns

05

After Construction & Long-Term Support

Will the builder support us after the renovation is complete?

Yes. A professional custom home builder provides a structured handover process and remains available after completion to address warranty items and support future needs. 

For new construction, standard 2-5-10 Homeowners Warranty coverage applies. For renovations, builders should provide warranty coverage in line with industry standards and applicable certifications.

What should I look for when choosing a custom home builder?

Look for clarity of process, transparency around costs, strong communication systems, and experience with projects similar to yours. The right builder should make you feel informed and confident, not pressured. 

This depends on zoning, structural condition, budget, long-term goals, and timeline. A builder involved early can help assess feasibility and guide you through the trade-offs so you can make an informed decision.

06

Choosing the Right Builder

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Camila Velasquez

Manager of Business Development

Camila Velasquez brings a people-focused and globally informed perspective to Venture Pacific’s business development efforts. Her background spans real estate, property management, operations, and marketing, giving her a well-rounded understanding of how successful projects come together.

Before moving to Vancouver, Camila worked with international investors in Colombia, managing renovations and overseeing properties from concept through completion. Her experience allows her to connect strategy, design, and execution in a practical way.

At Venture Pacific, Camila leads new business initiatives and builds long-term relationships with homeowners, designers, and architects. She is known for her thoughtful communication, adaptability, and genuine interest in creating meaningful partnerships that support well-run projects.

Shanalisa Keller

Financial Controller

Shanalisa Keller brings over 20 years of experience as a CPA CGA, with a strong background supporting construction companies of varying sizes. Her expertise includes budgeting, financial reporting, tax planning, and compliance.

At Venture Pacific, Shanalisa oversees financial management and ensures accurate cost tracking, timely payments, and compliance with regulatory requirements, including WorkSafe BC. Her work supports the project management team behind the scenes, ensuring projects remain financially organized and transparent.

Shanalisa is known for her precision, reliability, and calm approach. Her oversight plays a critical role in maintaining financial clarity and confidence for both the team and homeowners.

Brandon Whitlock

Senior Project Manager

Brandon Whitlock brings over 23 years of construction experience to Venture Pacific, including 18 years as a Master Electrician. His background gives him a deep technical understanding of how complex residential projects come together and how to keep them running smoothly.

As a project manager, Brandon oversees coordination, scheduling, and day-to-day execution, ensuring details are addressed before they become issues. He is known for his steady approach, practical problem-solving, and ability to keep projects moving forward while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.

Homeowners value Brandon’s clear communication and calm presence. He brings structure and reliability to every project, helping ensure timelines, budgets, and expectations remain aligned from start to finish.

Doug Harrison

Senior Site Manager

With more than 50 years in the construction industry, Doug Harrison brings a depth of experience that few can match. Over his career, he has worked across all aspects of residential construction, from hands-on framing to overseeing large-scale builds.

Now semi-retired, Doug provides advisory support to Venture Pacific on select projects. His role focuses on mentorship, quality oversight, and guidance in complex or unexpected situations.

Doug’s presence brings reassurance and perspective. His decades of experience help strengthen decision-making and uphold the high standards Venture Pacific maintains on every project.

Zach McMillan

Project Manager

Zach McMillan has over 14 years of experience in residential and commercial construction, with a strong foundation as a skilled carpenter. His hands-on background gives him a sharp eye for quality and a practical understanding of what it takes to execute complex builds on site.

Zach supports Venture Pacific projects by coordinating trades, managing schedules, and maintaining site organization and safety. He is proactive, detail focused, and known for identifying potential challenges early so they can be addressed efficiently.

His ability to balance technical knowledge with clear coordination helps ensure projects progress smoothly and meet the level of craftsmanship Venture Pacific is known for.

Mark Van Ek

Founder and President

With more than 39 years in construction management and building, Mark Van Ek brings steady leadership and deep experience to every Venture Pacific project. His background spans residential, commercial, and large-scale public facilities across British Columbia and Western Canada, giving him a unique ability to guide complex projects with clarity and confidence.

Mark is known for his calm, straightforward approach and his belief that successful projects start with alignment, transparency, and thoughtful planning. He leads with the mindset that construction should feel collaborative rather than adversarial, placing homeowners and the project team on the same side of the table from the very beginning.

At Venture Pacific, Mark’s role is to set the standard for how projects are planned, managed, and communicated, ensuring every client feels informed, supported, and confident throughout the building journey.