How to Find and Choose the Best Remodeling Contractor in Central Pennsylvania

Additions, Basements, Bathrooms, Home Remodeling, Inspiration, Kitchens, Outdoor Living

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When it comes to transforming your home, choosing the right remodeling contractor in Central Pennsylvania can make all the difference between a smooth, successful project and a stressful experience. Whether you’re looking to remodel your kitchen, renovate your bathroom, finish your basement, or design a home addition, your contractor should be a partner who understands your vision, respects your budget, and delivers outstanding craftsmanship.

At G.P. Harris Renovations & Remodeling, we’ve built a reputation as Central Pennsylvania’s trusted name in home transformations. With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to integrity, design excellence, and personalized service, we take the guesswork out of home remodeling.

So, how do you find and choose the best remodeling contractor in Central Pennsylvania? Let’s explore the essential steps—along with real-world examples—to guide your decision and show you why G.P. Harris Renovations & Remodeling is the smart choice for your next project.

Massive house in Mechanicsburg, PA with large addition on the left.  Interior of great room leading into the kitchen with exposed beams, leather furniture, and plenty of wood inside a Jonestown, PA cabin.

1. Start With Referrals and Reviews

Word of mouth remains one of the most powerful ways to find a great remodeling contractor. Ask neighbors, family, and friends if they’ve worked with any home remodeling companies in Central Pennsylvania. Then check online reviews to verify quality and consistency.

Example: A Mechanicsburg family looking to renovate their outdated kitchen found G.P. Harris through a neighbor’s recommendation. After reading glowing Google reviews and browsing our online project gallery, they felt confident in our ability to deliver—and we did. The result: a beautiful open-concept kitchen with custom cabinetry and a large island perfect for family gatherings.

Why This Matters: Trusted referrals and high ratings are strong indicators of reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction.

 

2. Look for Experience With Your Type of Project

Not all contractors specialize in the same types of renovations. It’s crucial to work with a contractor who has a proven track record in the kind of remodel you’re planning—whether it’s a bathroom renovation, a basement finishing project, or a large-scale whole-house remodel.

Example: In Lebanon, we worked with homeowners to remodel their primary suite, transforming it into a luxurious space with a walk-in closet, dual sinks, and a spa-like shower. We were chosen specifically for our experience in complex, structural remodels—and our ability to reconfigure space efficiently without compromising adjacent rooms.

Why This Matters: Specialized experience ensures your contractor can anticipate and solve challenges specific to your project type, resulting in a smoother and more successful renovation.

Large white and black kitchen in a Linglestown, PA basement remodel. 

3. Assess Their Communication and Process

A great contractor doesn’t just build well—they communicate well. From your first consultation to the final walk-through, your contractor should make you feel informed, valued, and in control.

Example: At G.P. Harris, our remodeling process is centered around clear communication and transparency. Our process—from the initial consultation and on-site evaluation to design development and final construction—keeps clients involved and confident. In one Harrisburg kitchen remodel, the homeowners praised our team for consistent updates and clear timelines, noting that it “felt like a partnership every step of the way.”

Why This Matters: Strong communication minimizes misunderstandings, reduces stress, and helps ensure the final result aligns with your goals.

 

4. Verify Registration, Insurance, and Credentials

Any remodeling contractor you hire should be registered (a HIC #) and insured to work in Central Pennsylvania. This protects both you and your property in the event of accidents or issues.

Example: A homeowner in Camp Hill once contacted us after a bad experience with an unregistered contractor left them with subpar work and no accountability. We helped them not only fix the problems but also redesign the space for better function and aesthetic. As a registered and insured company, G.P. Harris gives clients peace of mind—because professionalism and protection are non-negotiable.

Why This Matters: Hiring a properly credentialed contractor ensures your project meets legal requirements and industry standards.

Hummelstown, PA kitchen remodel with navy blue cabinets on the bottom and white upper cabinets along with stainless steel appliances.  Black, white, and grey Harrisburg, PA bathroom remodel with white soaking tub on the right and a black shower wall on the left.

5. Review Their Portfolio and Case Studies

A picture is worth a thousand words—and a strong portfolio is a must. Browse past projects to see the quality and style of a contractor’s work. Bonus points if they include detailed case studies or before-and-after galleries.

Example: Visit the G.P. Harris Renovations & Remodeling website and you’ll find a wide range of past projects—from spacious garage conversions and whole-home transformations to stunning outdoor living spaces. Each project includes insights into our design solutions and how we met (or exceeded) the homeowner’s goals.

Why This Matters: A contractor’s portfolio is a window into their capabilities, creativity, and attention to detail.

 

6. Ask About Their Design Capabilities

Some contractors focus solely on construction. Others, like G.P. Harris Renovations & Remodeling, offer comprehensive design-build services that streamline the experience from concept to completion.

Example: When a couple in Hershey wanted to update their aging bathroom, they chose us for our design insight. Our team created a custom layout with a walk-in shower, double vanity, and improved lighting—delivering both form and function. The clients appreciated having one dedicated team guide them through the entire journey.

Why This Matters: Design-build contractors eliminate the need for juggling multiple professionals and help turn your vision into a cohesive, functional reality.

Bedroom addition in Mechanicsburg, PA with light-blue walls and a large king-size bed in the middle of the room with a sitting bench at the end of the bed.  Massive bathroom addition in Mechanicsburg, PA with light-blue walls, a floating grey vanity on the left, and a massive soaker tub on the right.

7. Understand Their Commitment to Quality and Service

Finally, the best remodeling contractor will stand behind their work, prioritize quality materials, and be committed to customer satisfaction long after the dust settles.

Example: At G.P. Harris, many of our clients return for multiple projects over the years—testament to our service and long-term commitment. One Dillsburg family initially hired us for a kitchen renovation, then came back to remodel their basement into a vibrant entertainment area. Our dedication to quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design earned their loyalty.

Why This Matters: A long-term mindset and commitment to excellence are signs you’ve found a contractor who cares about your home as much as you do.

 

Why G.P. Harris Renovations & Remodeling is Central Pennsylvania’s Top Choice

Choosing the best remodeling contractor in Central Pennsylvania doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially when G.P. Harris Renovations & Remodeling is just a call away. With two decades of trusted experience, a passion for transforming homes, and a reputation for clear communication and dependable service, we’ve earned our place as the go-to contractor for:

  • Kitchen remodeling
  • Bathroom renovations
  • Basement finishing and upgrades
  • Whole-house remodeling
  • Home additions
  • Garage conversions
  • Outdoor living spaces
  • And much more

We take pride in helping homeowners bring their dream spaces to life—beautifully, responsibly, and with lasting quality.

If you’re ready to start your remodeling journey, let’s talk. Discover how our team at G.P. Harris Renovations & Remodeling can make your Central Pennsylvania home the best it’s ever been.

👉 Contact us today to schedule your consultation and see why we’re the trusted choice for remodeling in Central PA.