Jacksonville Couple Faces Home Renovation Nightmare

News Summary

Doug and Katie Holder from Jacksonville, Florida, are facing a long and frustrating home renovation journey that has dragged on for nearly two years. Initially optimistic about a remodeling project expected to take just weeks, the couple now grapples with significant delays, damaged appliances, and ongoing communication issues with their contractor. Their situation has attracted media attention, revealing a pattern of uncompleted work from their contractor, CG Consulting and Design, along with its owner’s troubling history. The Holders’ experience serves as a cautionary tale for homeowners embarking on renovation projects.

Jacksonville Couple Faces a “Home Renovation Nightmare”

In the heart of sunny Jacksonville, Florida, Doug and Katie Holder recently found themselves navigating an unexpected and stressful journey into the world of home renovation. What they believed would be a straightforward project involving home additions and a remodeled kitchen has turned into a saga lasting nearly two long years. This experience has become a cautionary tale for anyone contemplating renovations.

Initial Hopes Turned To Delays

The Holders signed a contract with CG Consulting and Design on November 30, 2021, hoping to finally transform their space into something that feels like home. In the early days of planning, their contractor, Cary Grimm, assured them that the entire remodeling process would wrap up in a brisk six to eight weeks. However, as time dragged on, optimism dwindled, and the couple was left scratching their heads in confusion and frustration.

The Growing List of Problems

Two years later, what was once a hopeful renovation has been plagued with multiple delays. The Holders have reported spending approximately $160,000 for the renovation that seems perpetually stuck in limbo. As if that wasn’t bad enough, their new kitchen appliances, which they had eagerly purchased, have been left outdoors. The result? Rust, corrosion, and disappointment as they watch their investment deteriorate in the Florida sun.

Seeking Help and Accountability

Frustrated by the lack of progress, Doug and Katie reached out for assistance. Their story eventually caught the attention of investigative reporters who began to dive into the myriad issues connected with CG Consulting and Design. A deep dive reveals that the company has seen a series of complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), indicating a worrisome pattern of uncompleted work and issues with customer deposits.

To add to the Holders’ alarming situation, Cary Grimm, the company’s owner, has a checkered past. In October 2016, he was arrested for grand theft related to allegations of unfinished work under a different business name. This information adds a whole new layer to the Holders’ frustrations, as they wonder if they fell victim to a similar fate.

A Company in Over Its Head?

CG Consulting and Design claims to handle around 500 jobs each year, but not all of them go according to plan. They attribute the delays to various factors, such as the availability of craftsmen, permitting processes, and unexpected third-party complications. However, many customers like the Holders are left wondering if it’s time to reconsider who they trust with major renovations.

Finding a Way Forward

In the wake of this ongoing saga, Doug has expressed his desire not only to recoup their hard-earned cash but to also explore options with a different contractor who can bring their vision to life. The Holders aim for resolution and are ready to further investigate their options as more time passes without viable solutions. As conversations unfold between the couple and CG Consulting, a representative has stated that they are aware of the confusion and miscommunication that has shaped this renovation nightmare.

Potential for Redemption?

Despite the various challenges plaguing their project and the company’s complicated history, the CG Consulting representative claimed that everyone deserves a second chance, referring to Grimm’s prior arrest. This claim may resonate with some, but for Doug and Katie, the focus remains on the necessary actions to finally move forward with their home. After much inquiry, reports suggest a crew finally showed up at the Holder home, potentially signaling an end to their long stretch of stagnation.

A Cautionary Tale

As the Holders continue their saga, it serves as a vivid reminder to anyone planning home improvements: always conduct thorough research before selecting a contractor. Home renovations can be exciting and rewarding, but they can also quickly turn into a homeowner’s worst nightmare. The key takeaway? Make informed choices and stay vigilant throughout the process.