John T Ambrose Home Improvement & Repair is dedicated to providing clients throughout the North Shore with superior home repair and improvement services. You can trust us to treat your property with the utmost care and with 30+ years experience there is nothing we haven’t seen. Your home is where you should feel the most comfortable. Improving the quality of your home should be stress-free. If your outdated kitchen or broken-down plumbing fixtures make you dread spending time at home, turn to John T Ambrose. We provide home improvement services to the North Shore, surrounding areas such as Ipswich, Danvers, Topsfield, Boxford, Hamilton, Wenham, Gloucester, Essex, Andover. We can handle small home repairs to large scale additions so you can relax and know your next project is in good hands. With years of experience, we know how to improve your home by updating key areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and master bedrooms. We use trusted brands to renovate your home and ensure your next project last’s a lifetime.
"We would absolutely recommend John Ambrose. Him and his team recently did a complete kitchen and mudroom remodel for us and we couldn't be happier. He had full transparency with the time the projects would take to complete, what materials would cost, and great communication with us the entire time. John exceeded our expectations in every way possible. We enjoyed working with him so much that my husband and I keep thinking of new projects we can have him do for us to help us complete our dream home!"
Amanda B on February 2023
John T Ambrose Home Improvement & Repair is dedicated to providing clients throughout the North Shore with superior home repair and improvement services. You can trust us to treat your property with the utmost care and with 30+ years experience there is nothing we haven’t seen. Your home is where you should feel the most comfortable. Improving the quality of your home should be stress-free. If your outdated kitchen or broken-down plumbing fixtures make you dread spending time at home, turn to John T Ambrose. We provide home improvement services to the North Shore, surrounding areas such as Ipswich, Danvers, Topsfield, Boxford, Hamilton, Wenham, Gloucester, Essex, Andover. We can handle small home repairs to large scale additions so you can relax and know your next project is in good hands. With years of experience, we know how to improve your home by updating key areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and master bedrooms. We use trusted brands to renovate your home and ensure your next project last’s a lifetime.
"We would absolutely recommend John Ambrose. Him and his team recently did a complete kitchen and mudroom remodel for us and we couldn't be happier. He had full transparency with the time the projects would take to complete, what materials would cost, and great communication with us the entire time. John exceeded our expectations in every way possible. We enjoyed working with him so much that my husband and I keep thinking of new projects we can have him do for us to help us complete our dream home!"
Amanda B on February 2023
Total Basement Finishing, A Blackdog Affiliate serves the Greater Lowell area of Massachusetts and New Hampshire with basement finishing and basement remodeling. Finishing your previously unused basement gives you additional space in your home and so much more. It offers you a rare opportunity to exploit your creative side through the design process. And ultimately, you will transform a dark, uninviting space into a room that adds value and comfort to your home, making it an integral part of your family’s daily life.
Total Basement Finishing, A Blackdog Affiliate serves the Greater Lowell area of Massachusetts and New Hampshire with basement finishing and basement remodeling. Finishing your previously unused basement gives you additional space in your home and so much more. It offers you a rare opportunity to exploit your creative side through the design process. And ultimately, you will transform a dark, uninviting space into a room that adds value and comfort to your home, making it an integral part of your family’s daily life.
The Narrow Lane Company is a full service landscape company dedicated to creating and maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces you'll absolutely love! All work is done in a timely, professional manner and 100% guaranteed.
"Worst experience working with a contractor we have ever had. Lack of communication was astounding. Reached out to start the project on our tiny front lawn in June/July. Didn't start planting until mid October. Was told there were 5 jobs in front of ours. Ignored photos of exactly what we wanted. Finish product is passable at best. Would not recommend."
Julie C on October 2023
The Narrow Lane Company is a full service landscape company dedicated to creating and maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces you'll absolutely love! All work is done in a timely, professional manner and 100% guaranteed.
"Worst experience working with a contractor we have ever had. Lack of communication was astounding. Reached out to start the project on our tiny front lawn in June/July. Didn't start planting until mid October. Was told there were 5 jobs in front of ours. Ignored photos of exactly what we wanted. Finish product is passable at best. Would not recommend."
Julie C on October 2023
Our company is your best source for professional, value driven, low cost service. Meaning that we are able to provide the most value and innovation per your dollar spent. We are a design build company with 25 years experience in all aspects of the construction industry, unlike most contractors that only specialize in one field and sub out the rest of the work to the lowest bidders; ultimately resulting in a lower quality of work. Busy Bee Construction only employs dependable and experienced craftsman to insure top quality work, and to prove it we offer a one year workmanship warranty. So whether your project is as small as a bathroom or as large as a new constructed home we can make it a stress free and exciting experience for you. Please visit busy-beeconstruction.com to find out more about our company and see photos. Additional email contact: downie.john@comcast.net
"I can't say enough about John, Gary, and the team at Busy Bee Construction. They took on a big project transforming my horror of an overly-large primary bathroom into a beautiful, new bathroom plus an additional study. They were clear, communicative, and knowledgeable, and they did exceptional work at a very fair price. I would absolutely work with them again (and definitely will!). These guys are the real deal."
Kelly W on November 2024
Our company is your best source for professional, value driven, low cost service. Meaning that we are able to provide the most value and innovation per your dollar spent. We are a design build company with 25 years experience in all aspects of the construction industry, unlike most contractors that only specialize in one field and sub out the rest of the work to the lowest bidders; ultimately resulting in a lower quality of work. Busy Bee Construction only employs dependable and experienced craftsman to insure top quality work, and to prove it we offer a one year workmanship warranty. So whether your project is as small as a bathroom or as large as a new constructed home we can make it a stress free and exciting experience for you. Please visit busy-beeconstruction.com to find out more about our company and see photos. Additional email contact: downie.john@comcast.net
"I can't say enough about John, Gary, and the team at Busy Bee Construction. They took on a big project transforming my horror of an overly-large primary bathroom into a beautiful, new bathroom plus an additional study. They were clear, communicative, and knowledgeable, and they did exceptional work at a very fair price. I would absolutely work with them again (and definitely will!). These guys are the real deal."
Kelly W on November 2024
American Bath Works is a bathroom renovation company. We started as a plumbing company and have specialized in bathrooms and kitchens since 1996. We do our own plumbing, heating, carpentry, tile, and plaster work, so we are able to control and expedite most aspects of our projects. We care about quality and cleanliness and set a high standard for all of our work.
"This is my 2nd review of ABW regarding renovation of my master bathroom (1st review was for family/guest bathroom). MY DREAMS HAVE COME TRUE THANKS TO THE AMAZING TEAM AT ABW!!! If you want a truly customized bathroom renovation by a reliable and dedicated team offering reasonable prices, look no further!!! The photos speak for themselves in showing the excellence of their craftsmanship. I have been told by family and friends this is the most beautiful bathroom they've ever seen! 100% RECOMMEND ABW!!!!!"
Nikki S on March 2024
American Bath Works is a bathroom renovation company. We started as a plumbing company and have specialized in bathrooms and kitchens since 1996. We do our own plumbing, heating, carpentry, tile, and plaster work, so we are able to control and expedite most aspects of our projects. We care about quality and cleanliness and set a high standard for all of our work.
"This is my 2nd review of ABW regarding renovation of my master bathroom (1st review was for family/guest bathroom). MY DREAMS HAVE COME TRUE THANKS TO THE AMAZING TEAM AT ABW!!! If you want a truly customized bathroom renovation by a reliable and dedicated team offering reasonable prices, look no further!!! The photos speak for themselves in showing the excellence of their craftsmanship. I have been told by family and friends this is the most beautiful bathroom they've ever seen! 100% RECOMMEND ABW!!!!!"
Nikki S on March 2024
All Work Construction is proudly the #1 Home Improvement Company for Hooksett NH and beyond. We specialize in bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exteriors such as vinyl siding, shingle roof replacement, replacement windows, and exterior doors. Contact us today to request our home remodeling services. We offer free estimate consultations! (We serve NH, Northern MA, and partial ME)
All Work Construction is proudly the #1 Home Improvement Company for Hooksett NH and beyond. We specialize in bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exteriors such as vinyl siding, shingle roof replacement, replacement windows, and exterior doors. Contact us today to request our home remodeling services. We offer free estimate consultations! (We serve NH, Northern MA, and partial ME)
Loyd's Home Improvement is ready to provide everything and anything your home needs to look and feel new again at affordable prices. With over 25 years of experience, Loyd's Home Improvement has designed and build several Handicapped decks and ramps. Call today for details! Additional DBA - Harold Loyd.
"Harold & his crew, Charlie & Mike were awesome. Came to work on time. They listened to my wants & needs and came up with a plan that worked. Communicated with us through out the process. Their attention to detail was incredible. They went above & beyond their job description. I would highly recommend them on any renovations, they are very talented skilled laborers. It was a pleasure doing business with this company."
John R on December 2024
Loyd's Home Improvement is ready to provide everything and anything your home needs to look and feel new again at affordable prices. With over 25 years of experience, Loyd's Home Improvement has designed and build several Handicapped decks and ramps. Call today for details! Additional DBA - Harold Loyd.
"Harold & his crew, Charlie & Mike were awesome. Came to work on time. They listened to my wants & needs and came up with a plan that worked. Communicated with us through out the process. Their attention to detail was incredible. They went above & beyond their job description. I would highly recommend them on any renovations, they are very talented skilled laborers. It was a pleasure doing business with this company."
John R on December 2024
Schlickmann General Construction is a reputable owned and operated company that focuses on full remodels for all of your kitchen, bath, basement and general remodeling needs. Our company based in Billerica, MA and serving the entire state of Massachusetts with top-quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service.
"Excellent job. Laion was very courteous, professional and easy to work with. Stayed in touch throughout the process. I would highly recommend him."
Michael D on January 2024
Schlickmann General Construction is a reputable owned and operated company that focuses on full remodels for all of your kitchen, bath, basement and general remodeling needs. Our company based in Billerica, MA and serving the entire state of Massachusetts with top-quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service.
"Excellent job. Laion was very courteous, professional and easy to work with. Stayed in touch throughout the process. I would highly recommend him."
Michael D on January 2024
Maize Restoration & Remodeling is an organization providing various services from remodeling bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, to building decks and replacing windows/doors. The organization consist of skilled and ambitious craftsmen dedicated to providing unparalleled customer service and quality workmanship. The organization commits to maintaining professionalism and integrity in every facet of our work to ensure exceptional results and an exceptional experience.
"It went very good and I would definitely use Maize Restoration & Remodeling again for any more work needed on my house."
Mo B on July 2024
Maize Restoration & Remodeling is an organization providing various services from remodeling bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, to building decks and replacing windows/doors. The organization consist of skilled and ambitious craftsmen dedicated to providing unparalleled customer service and quality workmanship. The organization commits to maintaining professionalism and integrity in every facet of our work to ensure exceptional results and an exceptional experience.
"It went very good and I would definitely use Maize Restoration & Remodeling again for any more work needed on my house."
Mo B on July 2024
Elevate your living spaces with Golden Hammer Remodeling, your trusted partner in bathroom and kitchen transformations in the Greater Boston Area. With 15 years of expertise, we specialize in impeccable tile work. Fully licensed, bonded, and insured, we've earned the coveted Super Service Award on Angi. Ready to bring your vision to life? Call (617)991-4914 TODAY to schedule a FREE Project Estimate. https://www.goldenhammerremodeling.com/
"Sebastian and his team remodeled our kitchen, and were extremely professional, finished the project ahead of schedule, and couldn’t be happier. Very enjoyable to work with, and easy to communicate for scheduling. Would highly recommend to anyone!"
Anthony R on April 2025
Elevate your living spaces with Golden Hammer Remodeling, your trusted partner in bathroom and kitchen transformations in the Greater Boston Area. With 15 years of expertise, we specialize in impeccable tile work. Fully licensed, bonded, and insured, we've earned the coveted Super Service Award on Angi. Ready to bring your vision to life? Call (617)991-4914 TODAY to schedule a FREE Project Estimate. https://www.goldenhammerremodeling.com/
"Sebastian and his team remodeled our kitchen, and were extremely professional, finished the project ahead of schedule, and couldn’t be happier. Very enjoyable to work with, and easy to communicate for scheduling. Would highly recommend to anyone!"
Anthony R on April 2025
In most states, yes—you can build a guest house, but every city or county sets its own zoning rules and building codes. Before breaking ground, check local ordinances, confirm lot setbacks, and secure the right permits. A local contractor or design-build firm can walk you through the paperwork and site requirements so your project starts on solid legal footing.
Yes—homeowners often tap a few different financing tools. A home-equity line of credit (HELOC) lets you borrow against your equity as you need funds. If you prefer a lump sum tied directly to the project, a short-term construction loan can roll into a second mortgage once the build is complete. Cash-out refinancing is another option: you replace your current mortgage with a larger one and use the difference to cover construction costs.
When you build a guest house, you’re creating a separate structure for hosting visitors without the full amenities needed for permanent living. An accessory dwelling unit, however, includes a complete kitchen and bathroom, meeting building codes for a long-term residence. This key difference makes an ADU ideal for long-term occupancy or rental income, adding enduring value to your property.
How many rooms you need depends on how you plan to use the space. Aim for one bedroom per every one or two occupants to make sure everyone has enough privacy and comfort. Added living and dining areas give you extra functionality, especially for rental use or long-term stays.
Most homeowners pick somewhere between 600 and 1,500 square feet to fit all the essentials. Make sure your design supports one to two occupants per bedroom and includes enough common areas for comfortable daily living. A well-proportioned layout boosts both functionality and property value.
No—a guest house isn’t just a bump-out on your main home. A bump-out is a small extension within an existing room for extra seating or storage. In contrast, you build a guest house as a standalone building with its own foundation and amenities, giving you a fully separate living area that can boost your property’s versatility and value.