Custom home builder · Boston, MA · reviewed since 2020
iHow the Experts Score is calculatedEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (standing in the category can only raise it), then weighted; problems flagged in review highlights or a recent slide in ratings are subtracted:Satisfaction 59%97+56.9Reliability 26%94+24.5Value 15%91+13.8Craft & service penalty95−0.5Experts Score= 95Not enough data for replies to reviews; its weight is shared by the others.Grade A: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39. Needs 10+ reviews.95SCORE
AGradeiLetter from the Experts Score: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39, F = under 20.
#11 of 46 home buildersiPosition by Experts Score among all companies we track in this category. · better than 78%
5.0★★★★★33 Google reviews · 24 photos
100%five-star reviews
5.00★last 12 monthsiAverage stars on reviews from the last 12 months only.
0%1–2★, last 20 reviewsiShare of 1–2★ reviews in the last 24 months — or the 20 newest reviews when the company had fewer than 20 in that time.
NS Builders holds a 5/5 rating from 33 Google reviews, with the owner responding to 70% of them. Clients frequently highlight the company's craftsmanship, particularly in cabinetry and detailed finishing, alongside strong communication and punctuality during gut renovations and new construction projects. Reviewers note that the team collaborates effectively with architects and designers, maintaining organized job sites and providing clear updates on timing and scope. No recurring criticisms appear in the provided excerpts, as all listed reviews are five stars.
Google rating: 5.0 out of 5 from 33 reviews (100% five-star).
Reviews on this page: 33 Google reviews (30 with written comments, 5 with photos).
Owner responses: the business replied to 70% of reviews.
Most recent review: October 5, 2026.
Service: Home Builder serving Boston, Massachusetts.
Data from Google, last updated October 26, 2026.
Score profile vs other home builders
Score per factor (100 = best)iEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (star average, share of 1–2★ reviews, price verdicts…); standing within the category can only raise it, never lower it.. Strongest: momentum and satisfaction; weakest: value.
NS BuildersHome Builders median0 = centre, 100 = best
SatisfactioniSatisfaction · 54% of the scoreRecency-weighted star average (2-year half-life), shrunk toward the category mean by review volume; the company’s own lifetime average as the prior; absolute: 4.0★ = 0, 5★ = 100.NS Builders: 97/100 on this factor. Category median: 89.A
97
ReliabilityiReliability · 24% of the scoreHow rarely jobs go badly: share of 1–2★ reviews — 60% the last 24 months (or the 20 newest if fewer), 40% all-time; 0% = 100, 15%+ = 0; the category percentile can only raise it.NS Builders: 94/100 on this factor. Category median: 86.A
94
Craft & serviceiCraft & service · penalty only, up to −10 pointsGoogle review highlights: Quality, Professionalism, Responsiveness, Punctuality — how rarely reviewers flag them as a negative, per review since highlights began; 0% = 100, 5%+ = 0. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in — clean highlights are the norm, not a bonus.NS Builders: 95/100 on this factor. Category median: 93.A
95
ValueiValue · 14% of the scoreCustomers’ own price verdicts (Great / Reasonable vs Overpriced) and Value highlights; 65% absolute (all “reasonable” ≈ 80, “great” = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.NS Builders: 91/100 on this factor. Category median: 99.A
91
MomentumiMomentum · penalty only, up to −10 pointsPenalises only a real slide: last-12-month average below lifetime (−0.5★ = 0). Still 4.8★+ over the last year, or steady/improving = 100. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in.NS Builders: 100/100 on this factor. Category median: 100.A
100
Replies to reviewsiReplies to reviews · 7% of the scoreHow often the owner publicly replies to reviews under 5★ (1–4★). Needs 3+ such reviews, otherwise not counted; 65% absolute (80%+ replied = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Not enough reviews for this factor yet. Category median: 75.–
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Bar = this company · dark tick = category median.
Star ratings
33 Google reviews we collected
5.0of 5
5 stars33100%
4 stars00%
3 stars00%
2 stars00%
1 star00%
Praise vs complaints
Phrases our text analysis found in 30 written reviews
100%praise
Praise51100%
Complaints00%
Topic share
How often each topic comes up in the written reviews
7topics
Staff & attitude1224%
Quality & results1122%
Speed & response816%
Communication816%
Would recommend612%
Honesty & trust48%
Price & value24%
What customers talk about
We read 30 written reviews and marked every phrase about these topics. The same colors are highlighted in the reviews.
“Nick Julian and Chris were all a pleasure to work with as we developed a friendly and fun relationship throughout this process.”
“The new and existing spaces flow together naturally, and the quality and attention to detail are consistent throughout.”
“Listened, was responsive and even rolled up sleeves with me as we were working to move back in.”
“…scerning clients, NS Builders hit the mark on execution, service, and communication.…”
“I highly recommend working with them if you have the opportunity and on the off chance they are not the right team for the project; they will be hones…”
“We trusted NS Builders with a home we already loved and asked them to make a major change to it without losing what made it special.”
“The billing system that NS used to keep us updated of what we're spending was a great help to us in terms of knowing and setting our expectations.”
People customers mention
Nick20 reviews
praise complaint · found by our text analysis, Google review wording unchanged.
Reviews for your job
Customers hired NS Builders for 8 kinds of job. Pick one to see what they paid and said.
Chris4 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 weeks ago★★★★★
As an architect and partner at ThoughtCraft Architects designing custom, distinctive homes and renovations for discerning clients, NS Builders hit the mark on execution, service, and communication. Nick and his team were excellent partners throughout the project, collaborating closely with us to bring the design to…
Reasonable priceHome renovations
john14 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a year ago★★★★★
I’m an architect and worked with Nick and NS on a pretty involved project in the back bay Boston. I can attest that NS is a top flight GC. Nick and his team is super engaged, excited and responsive. Quality is an absolute mission of theirs. I’m looking forward to working with them again and anyone looking for a top tier GC should give NS Builders a look.
RachelLocal Guide · 21 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a year ago★★★★★
Working with NS Builders has been an absolute dream! AGS HVAC is currently on our second new construction project with Nick and his incredible team, and we couldn’t be more impressed. The way they value their subcontractors is truly unmatched—this has been one of our best experiences in the industry.
From day one,…
william4 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 years ago★★★★★
We were/are absolutely ecstatic with Nick's (NSB) renovation of our 3-floor 1500 sq.ft. condo gut renonation! We could not have been more pleased with the quality of design and construction, communication, and ongoing updates (timing, scope and additional costs).
An additional very surprising, pleasing and unusual…
Lisa5 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 years ago★★★★★
NS Builders is top notch on both service and construction quality. I've hired them for two gut renovations and couldn't be happier with the outcome. They hire the best people, excel in design details, communicate clearly every step of the way, and deliver. Their sterling reputation is well-deserved.
Hannah5 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 years ago★★★★★
As an interior designer, my team has had the pleasure of collaborating with Nick and his team on numerous projects. I can confidently say they are the epitome of excellence in the construction industry. Their dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail never fails to impress. Working alongside them is always…
As an architect and partner at ThoughtCraft Architects designing custom, distinctive homes and renovations for discerning clients, NS Builders hit the mark on execution, service, and communication. Nick and his team were excellent partners throughout the project, collaborating closely with us to bring the design to life. Their craftsmanship, responsiveness, and commitment to the process made them a pleasure to work with.
Price assessment: Reasonable price
Services: Home renovations
Response from the owner · 2 weeks ago
Thank you Chris. You and your team were great to work with and easy to collaborate with through the entire process.
Ryan Neu1 reviewiTotal number of Google reviews Ryan has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
When we started this project, craftsmanship was by far the most important thing to us. Our existing unit had already been beautifully renovated, and our biggest fear was that by combining it with the unit below, we would somehow compromise what we already loved about our home. We weren’t looking for the cheapest or easiest option. We wanted the best craftsmen we could find, and that was ultimately why we chose NS Builders.
Throughout the project, we always felt like we had a full team behind us. Our project manager was on site every day, we had direct access to Nick and his team, and the communication and organization were exceptional. Most importantly, we never had to worry about whether the project was moving forward or whether someone was going to show up and get something done. It was actually the opposite: they were constantly driving the project forward and making sure they were getting what they needed from us. With a project this significant, having complete confidence that the builder is on top of everything removes an enormous amount of stress.
The finished product is where NS Builders’ craftsmanship really stands out. They took two separate units, each with its own history and character, and combined them into one beautiful, cohesive home. The renovation is substantial and transformative, but the integration is completely seamless. Nothing feels added on, patched together, or like an afterthought. The new and existing spaces flow together naturally, and the quality and attention to detail are consistent throughout. The result feels like one thoughtfully designed home, which is exactly what we hoped to achieve and incredibly difficult to execute well.
Nick + Julian and the entire team deserve a tremendous amount of credit for the finished product.
We trusted NS Builders with a home we already loved and asked them to make a major change to it without losing what made it special. They did exactly that. We couldn’t be happier with the result, and we would absolutely work with them again.
Services: Home renovations, Project management, Custom home design
Response from the owner · 3 weeks ago
Ryan we appreciate you. You guys were amazing clients, you allowed us to take the time needed to plan and execute the project exactly how it was designed. Thanks for sharing
Bobbi Masiello6 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Bobbi has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
NS Builders were fabulous to work with! We did a complete gut and remodel of two condos that we put together and we couldn't be happier with what was done, how it was done, and the timeliness of its completion! The cabinet makers within NS Builders (Materia, Ken DeCost and his team) were phenomenal!! All the cabinetry they did for us was beautiful, and all worked together and is just gorgeous. The billing system that NS used to keep us updated of what we're spending was a great help to us in terms of knowing and setting our expectations. Lastly, the sub contractors that were used were tremendous; they had the same mindset as NS employees which was wonderful!! All around, we truly believe in Nick's processes - he and the entire company are wonderful to work with and I would do it all over again with NS Builders! Here comes number 9!! I've added some photos so you can have a view into out new condo!
Price assessment: Reasonable price
Services: Install flooring, Home renovations, Project management, Custom home design
Response from the owner · a year ago
Bobbi, you guys are the best, thanks for sharing the photos! We appreciate you guys so much
Andrew Mazze3 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Andrew has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
After we completed design drawings with our architect for our home renovation we reached out to NS Builders because we had a strong appreciation for Nick’s attention to small details, craftsmanship and a high-quality product that will endure everyday family living. We had a good feeling NS would deliver on that part of the job – their portfolio speaks for itself. What we didn’t realize at the time we agreed to work together is that NS sets itself apart with clear, transparent and consistent communication that takes a lot of the stress and uncertainty out of a project. Weekly in-person meetings, always available via text or phone, clear next steps with subs, forward thinking on when decisions needed to be made and guidance at the right times were invaluable to my wife and me as we managed this project while welcoming our second child.
Nick Julian and Chris were all a pleasure to work with as we developed a friendly and fun relationship throughout this process. During our renovation when we would hang out with friends, they would ask, “How is the renovation going? How is your contractor?”, with the implicit expectation of a negative story or delay which is so commonplace. We would always respond that it’s actually going well. We love working with NS – they are always on-site, communicating with us on progress and decisions and finding durable solutions to any issues that come up. Chris is awesome. His real-world experience, working style and attentiveness was a perfect fit with us. Julian hopped in to run project management and was fantastic. Listened, was responsive and even rolled up sleeves with me as we were working to move back in.
Importantly, we have found that NS stands behind their work. Even as minor items inevitably came up after they handed back the keys, they are incredibly responsive and genuinely want to get it right.
The overall process and how Nick and his team are running the business is refreshing. NS delivers value through a high-quality product, but also the experience. Time is respected, the interactions are professional and friendly, and they approached the work on our home like it was their own.
john buckley14 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews john has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
I’m an architect and worked with Nick and NS on a pretty involved project in the back bay Boston. I can attest that NS is a top flight GC. Nick and his team is super engaged, excited and responsive. Quality is an absolute mission of theirs. I’m looking forward to working with them again and anyone looking for a top tier GC should give NS Builders a look.
Response from the owner · a year ago
John, without your design that project wouldn’t be what it is today! Thanks for being a great partner
Rachel GamacheLocal Guide · 21 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Rachel has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Working with NS Builders has been an absolute dream! AGS HVAC is currently on our second new construction project with Nick and his incredible team, and we couldn’t be more impressed. The way they value their subcontractors is truly unmatched—this has been one of our best experiences in the industry.
From day one, communication has been seamless. The site supervisors are rockstars—always accommodating, whether it’s providing exact locations for terminations or helping with register placement. They make the entire process so smooth and enjoyable!
It’s rare to find a builder that’s not only highly skilled but also this committed to fostering collaboration across the board. Nick and his team bring a level of professionalism and fun that makes every project with them a win. If you’re looking for a builder who sets the bar high and creates a great experience, NS Builders is it!
Response from the owner · a year ago
Rachel, you already know this, but you and your team are a notch above! Appreciate you guys
william brinkley4 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews william has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
We were/are absolutely ecstatic with Nick's (NSB) renovation of our 3-floor 1500 sq.ft. condo gut renonation! We could not have been more pleased with the quality of design and construction, communication, and ongoing updates (timing, scope and additional costs).
An additional very surprising, pleasing and unusual experience: every time we called NSB, Nick himself answered the phone. Does that ever happen?
NSB was absolutely respectful of the draconian condo requirements in our building—our Facilities Manager was so completely astonished with NSB's maintaining the condo association's hallway/elevator/time requirements, so much so that he wanted NSB to do work in the common areas of the building.
If a picture's "worth a thousand words" look at the before/after photos of just one feature of Nick's renovation.
Thanks 1,000,0002
Roberta Radley and William Brinkley
Response from the owner · a year ago
Bill & Roberta, you were and always will be the most fabulous clients and friends. Thank you.
Lisa Hessler5 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Lisa has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
NS Builders is top notch on both service and construction quality. I've hired them for two gut renovations and couldn't be happier with the outcome. They hire the best people, excel in design details, communicate clearly every step of the way, and deliver. Their sterling reputation is well-deserved.
Response from the owner · 2 years ago
Thanks Lisa! We always love working with you on your projects.
Hannah Oravec5 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Hannah has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
As an interior designer, my team has had the pleasure of collaborating with Nick and his team on numerous projects. I can confidently say they are the epitome of excellence in the construction industry. Their dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail never fails to impress. Working alongside them is always a seamless experience. Their team is not only highly skilled but also incredibly collaborative, making the design-build process a true pleasure. They consistently bring our visions to life with precision and creativity, resulting in exceeding our clients' expectations every time. Their commitment to quality is unwavering, evident in the flawless execution of each project we undertake together. I wholeheartedly recommend NS to anyone seeking a partner who shares their passion for innovation and craftsmanship.
Response from the owner · 2 years ago
Hannah, you guys are the best and we love executing projects with you.
Mary McKee1 reviewiTotal number of Google reviews Mary has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
I am a residential architect and love working on projects with NS Builders. Everyone on the team is very professional, friendly and hard-working. The team at NS Builders pays great attention the the quality and craftsmanship of their their work.
Services: Tile work installation, Install flooring, Garage design & building, Home renovations, Fan installation, Tile work replacement, Deck construction, TV mounting, Paint indoors, Repair water fixtures, General repairs & maintenance, Project management, Interior finishing, Exterior painting, Remodeling, Exterior finishing, Drywall installation, Plumbing fixture installation, Repair flooring, Furniture assembly, Consultation, Drywall repair, Flooring, Fan repair
Response from the owner · 6 years ago
Mary it is always so fun to work together. Your willingness to be collaborative and open to all our crazy ideas make for such fun site visits. Cheers to the projects we've complete and to many more in our future.
