Verified record
Typical Greater Boston range for this kind of work, from regional averages — not a quote from Cape Dreams Building & Design. Use it to sanity-check bids, then get the real number in writing.
Estimated range
$23,000 – $35,000
Typical remodeling project around $29,000
Cape Dreams Building & Design has built and renovated homes on the Outer Cape since the early 2000s — the kind of firm homeowners call for a full addition or a from-the-studs new build, not a quick fix. Founded by Paul Van Steensel (BBB dates the company to 2003; BuildZoom says 2004), the company describes itself as a general contractor working out of the Orleans/Brewster area, handling new construction, additions, decks, and kitchen and bath remodeling. The written record is thin but consistent: two Houzz reviews, eleven years apart, both five stars and both specific. In 2025, a homeowner described a major renovation — a second-story addition, a new deck, sunroofs, a driveway and an outdoor kitchen — with project manager Pete Martinez rebuilding two staircases at no extra charge when he wasn't satisfied with the first result. In a 2014 review, a homeowner credited owner Paul Van Steensel with a new-home build finished on time and on budget, with responsive communication throughout. BuildZoom shows a Massachusetts Home Improvement Contractor license (#157603) it verified as active through August 2026, and eight permitted projects on file. Better Business Bureau gives the company an A+ rating, though it is not BBB-accredited — no complaints appear on either profile. Worth asking about before booking: the written review history is sparse (just two reviews, the most recent from last year) and the directories disagree on the current address — BBB lists a South Orleans street address, BuildZoom a Brewster P.O. box, Houzz just 'Orleans' — so confirm the current office location and ask for references from recent work directly. For a homeowner planning a major addition or full renovation on the Cape, the two reviews on file describe exactly that kind of project going well.
We are writing to express our utmost satisfaction with Pete Martinez, from Cape Dreams Building and Design, Brewster Massachusetts. He recently completed a major renovation project on our home. Pete transformed our one-story ranch into a stunning two-story Nantucket cottage, and the results have exceeded all of our expectations. From day one, Pete demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication. During our initial meeting in October, 2022, Pete spent three hours walking us through every detail of his quote. He patiently answered all of our questions and made sure we fully understood the scope of the project. His overall knowledge of the industry, attention to detail and transparency immediately put us at ease and set the tone for the rest of the renovation. Pete is honest, a great listener, and is exceptionally skilled. We met weekly on site as he updated us on every stage of the project. His expertise was evident in every recommendation he made, and we trusted him implicitly throughout the entire process. Due to the high level of trust we gained with Pete, we added more to the scope of our project as we went along and he didn't flinch. He patiently worked with us to make additions some of which included solar panels, a second floor deck, two sunroofs, a new driveway and an outdoor kitchen. Through it all, Pete also had a wonderful sense of humor, which made working with him an absolute pleasure! One of Pete's standout characteristics is his commitment to quality. He holds himself and his subcontractors to the highest standards. For example, when he was unhappy with the finished product of two staircases in our home, he insisted they be rebuilt to meet his expectations and without any additional charge to us. His attention to detail and insistence on excellence ensured that every aspect of our renovation was executed to perfection. Even now, two years later, should a question arise, Pete always responds. Additionally, Pete was mindful of our budget and worked diligently to save us money whenever possible without compromising on quality. His honesty and resourcefulness were greatly appreciated. In summary, Pete Martinez from Cape Dreams Building and Design is an exceptional Project Manager and builder who goes above and beyond for his clients. His honesty, expertise, dedication, and sense of humor made our renovation experience not only successful but enjoyable. We give you our absolute highest recommendation to Pete Martinez. Sincerely, Maureen and John Hillier Chatham, MA
We cannot be more thrilled with our beautiful new home built by Cape Dreams Building and Design. Our construction (which was started in September 2013 and completed in May 2014) was done ON TIME and ON BUDGET. The owner, Paul Van Steensel was wonderful to work with. He returned our phone calls and emails in a very timely manner and thoroughly addressed any issues or concerns we had. We highly recommend this company to anyone considering new construction, additions, or home improvements. If the need ever arose we would hire Cape Dreams Building & Design again in a heartbeat!
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Added 2 new comments, added 1 new photo, established 3.6 rating
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