Gem Home Improvements & The Basement Doctor

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Introduction: Hi, I'm Mitch. In 1989, my wife and I had two children on the way, and knew that we would need a space at home for them to play in. But, we couldn't find a single contractor we felt we could trust! With my background in business communication, I endeavored to gather the craftsman we would need for the job. I found the top professionals we needed: carpenters, plumbers, electricians each very skilled and licensed. I went down to the public library and devoured books on architectural planning. I learned how to draw like a technician, so I could put these guys to work! 1 month later, my basement was transformed from a dingy, damp dungeon to the perfect playroom for my son and daughter! My children loved their playroom. We did it all under budget, and on time. It was remarkable. And so I decided building was for me. I secured my license, and traded the suit and tie for the tool belt and truck. You'll love our work, because that's the reason I do it. The best part about Gem is that we keep in touch with our customers, many of whom have become close friends of mine. I hope you'll join our community of delighted home owners who call Gem their partner in home renovation. All the best, Mitch

Overview

Hired 9 times

24 employees

35 years in business

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Featured Projects

12 photos

Reviews

Excellent 4.9

7 reviews

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86%

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Matthew B.

Jan 16, 2015

Gem is appropriately named, because Mitch was a delight to work with. The work done on my basement is incredible. And service wise People are used to offering their contractor water, etc.... what I wasn't prepared for was my contractor to show up with coffee for me! A+

Wendy L.

Feb 8, 2015

MY husband and I have worked with Mitch Stern since the spring of 2012, when he reovated, painted, and brought wiring and plumbing up to code in our 100-year-old house. Since then he has been very reliable, and helpful. Our house (and severe weather) present many challenges, and Mitch has come up with new approaches and solutions to a variety of things. He is punctual, and if he'll be late, he lets you know. HIs painters and carpenters are hard-working and reliable.

John M.

Mar 1, 2016

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Hired on Thumbtack

I don't know why it's often the case, but why is it way harder than it needs to be to get a contractor's attention out here on Long Island? I'm the prospective client, and I'm looking to give you money, but somehow they are the ones doing you a favor? Well after all these years I can finally say that I found an contractor that: - proactively calls you back - I heard back from Mitch within an hour - shows up on time - prices are detailed up front, and fair - did a great job - genuinely seems like a nice guy that get this - actually cares We had Mitch come over to install a chandelier, and install a new dryer - new outlet, vent, etc. Folks, I can be a bit of perfectionist - there was nothing imperfect about this job. You're probably reading this and wondering how someone could mess up any of the above, well I had another company install a ceiling fan a while back, feel free to look up that one star review to see how it went. I was not home when Mitch performed the services, so I only briefly saw the work when I came home and like I mentioned I was very satisfied. This past weekend I finally got around to doing laundry, and I noticed that Mitch had completely replaced the drain top in my old sink. This wasn't work that he told us he did, or charged us for. He saw the drain top wasn't up to par on the slop sink (it's so bad that "slop" is actually a compliment) and replaced it with a brand new one. These are the kind of people you want in your house doing your improvements. We are having Mitch back to the house within the next couple weeks to install a thermostat and some lighting. Although we only had electrical work done, we would not hesitate to have him work on other projects - you should not hesitate either. You will not be disappointed.

Electrical and Wiring Repair

Loretta G.

Mar 23, 2015

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Hired on Thumbtack

Mitch was great. He explained everything in perfect detail. He was punctual and reliable. Such a pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend him to anyone! He easily worked out scheduling with me and my tenant and provided great communciation every step of the way.

Drywall Installation and Hanging

Penny B.

Mar 24, 2015

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Hired on Thumbtack

Very professional. Knowledgeable Talented. A pleasure to work with.

Door Repair

FAQs

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Of course, the best way to estimate any project is from on-site. If youd like, we can schedule a meeting to discuss your goals and how we can work together on this project. Like I said in my profile, coffee is on me.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
The first step is always trust. The first thing I do when working with a new customer is I ask a very person question: "Dunkin'" or "Starbucks?" I buy them a coffee and sit down with them to discuss their goals and learn what's important to them.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
You don't need to graduate with honors from NYIT to get a job in this business, but I do have that. I started out in the white collar world, but In 1989, I traded in my suit and tie for the tool belt and the truck. I'm licensed and insured, and have been trusted for 25 years.