Realm

Realm operates an end-to-end home renovation and new-build platform for homeowners. Each customer is assigned a dedicated renovation Advisor who defines project scope, budget and timeline, then produces a customized project plan that includes cost estimates, ROI projections, design renderings and floor plans before the homeowner meets any contractor. The Advisor matches the homeowner with up to three contractors from Realm's vetted network, coordinates on-site visits, and reviews, levels and negotiates the resulting bids on the homeowner's behalf.

Realm restricts its contractor network to what it describes as the top 10% of applicants, screening through background checks, project reviews, reference calls and verification of licenses and permits, and monitoring ongoing performance. Projects come with price-change safeguards, an extended warranty the company states is twice the industry average, and escalation support if disputes arise. A companion Realm app lets homeowners track project progress, view scheduled site visits, browse contractor profiles, review incoming bids, store home reports, bid comparisons and contracts, upload plans and photos, explore neighborhood project activity via an interactive map, and review home equity and financing options.

Project types span kitchen and bathroom remodels, basement finishing, attic conversions, flooring, electrical, plumbing and HVAC work, roofing, windows and doors, lighting, landscaping, patios and decks, pools, garage conversions, ADUs and backyard structures, home additions, and efficiency upgrades such as solar and insulation, as well as full new-home construction.

Business model

Realm is free to homeowners; the company charges participating contractors a fee positioned as a replacement for their usual sales and marketing spend. Homeowners who engage an Advisor pay a $299 deposit, which is credited toward their project and refunded when they complete a qualified project with a contractor from Realm's network.

Fees paid by contractors in Realm's network rather than platform fees charged to homeowners; a refundable/creditable $299 homeowner deposit is used to qualify committed customers.

Traction

More than 4,000 home projects guided by Realm Advisors, over $900 million in renovations and new builds, and more than 100 top-tier contractor partners.