Straight answers about cost, timelines, permits and how we run a job.
FAQ
About RL Builders
Who owns RL Builders?
Frank Lello owns RL Builders and runs every job in person. He is on site every day, and you deal with him directly.
How long has RL Builders been building?
RL Builders has been in business since 2011, and it is a generational builder: the family has been building custom homes in the Chicago suburbs since 1972. Frank built the original Silo Ridge home in Orland Park back in 1995.
Where is RL Builders located?
Our office is at 913 State St, Lemont, IL 60439. You can reach us at (708) 301-0700.
Which towns do you serve?
We build in 33 towns across the southwest and western suburbs, including Lemont, Palos Park, Orland Park, Homer Glen, Hinsdale, Burr Ridge, Oak Brook, Naperville and Frankfort. See the full list of towns.
Can I see homes you have built?
Yes. We will provide references and tours of any home in our portfolio. Most of our work comes from referrals.
Cost and budget
How much does a custom home cost with RL Builders?
Our typical projects run $1 million to $3.5 million, and we can fit into any budget. Final cost depends on selections, complexity and site conditions, and we explain the price and what it includes once we understand the project.
How do payments work?
Payments are set up in phases as the work progresses, so billing stays tied to clear milestones.
How do you handle changes during the project?
When a change comes up, we review the cost and schedule impact with you before moving forward. That keeps decisions clear and avoids surprises later.
Process and timeline
What is the first step?
A consultation. We learn your goals, budget range, timeline and location, then outline the next steps so you know exactly what happens next.
How long does it take to build a custom home?
Homes up to 10,000 sq ft almost always finish in under a year. A shorter build also means less interest on a construction loan.
Do I need to own a lot?
Yes. We only build on client owned property. We don't own land, which keeps our overhead low and our pricing competitive.
Do you work with architects and designers?
Yes. We can build from your plans or coordinate with your architect and designer. If you need referrals, we can recommend professionals who fit your project.
Do you help with permits?
Yes. We coordinate permitting and help line the plans up with local requirements. Each suburb is different, so this keeps the process moving.
How is the schedule created?
We build the schedule from the work, the lead times on your selections, permits and trade availability, then keep the sequence organized so the job stays on track.
Who do we communicate with, and how often?
You have one primary point of contact for the whole job. We give updates throughout the project and confirm upcoming decisions when they are needed.
Services
What services do you offer?
Custom homes, upscale remodeling, complete renovations, basement build outs and additions, plus project management on every job. We also take on fire restoration, demolition and select commercial build outs. See all services.
Are you a licensed electrical contractor?
Yes. RL Builders is a licensed electrical contractor and handles electrical work as part of your project, which keeps coordination tight.
Do you do remodels and renovations?
Yes. We remodel kitchens, baths and main living areas, and we take on whole home renovations. A kitchen remodel in Downers Grove took about 10 weeks.
Do you do commercial work?
Yes, select commercial build outs. Our commercial work has included high end commercial buildings and medical facilities.
Do you offer support after completion?
Yes. We stay available after completion for follow up items and questions. One client says Frank still checks in seasonally years after their home was built.
Have a question that is not here?
Call (708) 301-0700 and ask Frank directly.
