For Michael K. Walker Associates, though the ratio of new houses to remodeling work may change, the company’s focus never does. Owner Michael Walker and his staff build high-end projects for sophisticated clients, most of whom own property or second or third homes on the barrier islands off Florida’s West coast. All the work is designed by architects and is sold by negotiated bid. New-home projects range from $2.5 million to $20 million, and remodeling projects from $3 million to $7 million.
Due to the size of the projects and the layers of permitting required for these waterfront homes, Walker says he prefers to be involved before the design stage. “We like to look at site logistics, utilities, and environmental issues,” he says. “We have a lot of knowledge to contribute on materials, foundation design, and the most cost-effective way to do coastline building.”
His dedicated office and field staff are great at multi-tasking and they communicate constantly with one another and with clients. “We hire the right person with the right mentality to deal with this level of client,” Walker says.
- Nina Patel