Custom Building Since 1972
From planning to final walkthrough, we build custom luxury homes with daily supervision, organized scheduling, and clear communication.
Custom Luxury Homes
About Us
First impressions matter, but the details are what last. RL Builders delivers custom luxury homes with daily oversight, clear communication, and craftsmanship you can see in every finish.
We are a generational custom home builder serving greater Chicago since 1972. From new construction to renovations and additions, we keep projects organized, on budget, and moving forward.
Consultation and Planning
We learn your goals, style, and timeline, then outline scope and budget so expectations are clear from the start.
Construction Oversight
We coordinate the crews, track progress, and check quality regularly so the work stays on schedule and done right.
Preconstruction
We coordinate plans, permits, selections, and scheduling so the project is organized before construction begins.
Final Walkthrough and Follow Up
We review the finished work with you, complete final details, and remain available after turnover for follow up.
Built on trust
Your vision, brought to life with clear planning, skilled craftsmanship, and disciplined execution rooted in transparency.
Projects Completed
Years in Business
Building Since
Testimonials
Real feedback from homeowners on custom builds, renovations, and follow up support.
"Frank handled our kitchen renovation and we could not be happier with the final project. He was on site every day, used skilled craftsmen, and made what could have been stressful feel easy."
"Frank and his team built our dream home through COVID, and the quality has been exceptional. Years later he still checks in seasonally and stays a call or text away, which is rare and appreciated."
"RL Builders built our upscale home years ago and we were extremely pleased with how it turned out. We brought them back to remodel our kitchen because their planning and workmanship still stand out."
"RL Builders completed our kitchen and laundry remodel in eight weeks as promised. The quality and attention to detail were excellent, communication was strong, and they even helped with extra fixes."
"RL Builders completed major additions to our home and the work looks like it was always part of the house. They were respectful, trustworthy, kept the site clean, and exceeded our expectations."
"We looked at several builders and RL Builders stood out immediately for materials and craftsmanship. They guided us step by step, helped us avoid rookie mistakes, and our home still feels solid years later."
"RL Builders was the main contractor for our large custom home and delivered high quality results. They helped control costs in key areas and finished early and under budget, making the process far less stressful."
A Note From a Client
A handwritten letter from a client sharing their experience with RL Builders, highlighting thoughtful guidance, clear updates, and the level of craftsmanship that carried the project from planning to final walkthrough.
RL Builders, Lemont IL
Custom home builder in Lemont and the southwest suburbs
RL Builders is a generational custom luxury home builder based at 913 State St in Lemont. Owner Frank Lello runs every job himself and is on site every day, and the family has been building in the Chicago suburbs since 1972.
We build custom homes on land our clients own, and we take on upscale remodels, whole home renovations, basements and additions. Most of our work comes from referrals, and we will give references and tours of any home in our portfolio.
See our services, the 33 towns we serve, or common questions about cost and timelines.
Owner
Frank Lello, on site every day
Based in
913 State St, Lemont, IL
Building since
1972 (family), RL Builders since 2011
Typical project
$1M to $3.5M, any budget
Build time
Under 1 year for homes up to 10,000 sq ft
Electrical
Licensed electrical contractor
Land
We build on your lot
Service area
33 towns around Lemont
Services
What we build
Custom Homes
New custom homes on your lot, typically $1M to $3.5M, finished in under a year for homes up to 10,000 sq ft.
Upscale Remodeling
High end kitchen, bathroom and main living remodels with the owner on site every day.
Complete Renovations
Whole home renovations that rework layout, finishes and systems as one project.
Basement Build Outs
Finished basements from framing through final trim, built to last below grade.
Additions and Extensions
Bedrooms, baths and living space that match the house and look original.
Specialty Projects
Fire restoration, demolition and select commercial build outs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the first step to start?
We begin with a consultation to understand your goals, budget range, timeline, and location. Then we outline next steps so you know exactly what happens next.
Do you work with architects and designers?
Yes. We can build from your plans or coordinate with your architect and designer. If you need referrals, we can recommend professionals that fit your project.
Do you help with permits?
Yes. We coordinate permitting and help align plans with local requirements. Each suburb can be different, so this keeps the process moving.
How is the schedule created?
We create a schedule based on the work, lead times for selections, permits, and trade availability. We keep the sequence organized so the job stays on track.
How do you handle changes?
When changes come up, we review the cost and schedule impact before moving forward. This keeps decisions clear and avoids surprises later.
What services do you offer?
Custom homes, high end renovations, additions, and basement build outs. We also provide full general contracting and project coordination.
Do you do remodeling and renovations?
Yes. We handle kitchens, baths, main living areas, and whole home renovations. We plan the sequence carefully so the work is clean and organized.
Do you build additions?
Yes. We add bedrooms, baths, living space, and outdoor living when needed. We focus on details so the new work fits the home.
Do you finish basements?
Yes. We finish basements with careful planning for layout, lighting, comfort, and durable materials. The goal is a space that feels complete.
Are you a licensed electrical contractor?
Yes. RL Builders is a licensed electrical contractor and can handle electrical work as part of your project. This improves coordination and keeps work moving.
How is pricing handled?
After we understand the project, we explain pricing and what is included. Final cost depends on selections, complexity, and site conditions.
How do payments work?
Payments are typically set up in phases as work progresses. This keeps billing tied to clear milestones.
Who do we communicate with?
You will have a primary point of contact throughout the job. We keep communication direct so questions are answered quickly.
How often will we get updates?
We provide updates throughout the project and confirm upcoming decisions when needed. The goal is to keep you informed without overloading you.
Do you offer support after completion?
Yes. We remain available after completion for follow up items and questions. We want the finished home to hold up over time.
