About Brass-Tacks
We’re leveling the playing field for homeowners by connecting them with vetted general
contractors through our online platform. Homeowners can browse builder profiles and request
an appointment with those who seem like the right fit for their project. It’s a streamlined,
relationship-driven approach that brings transparency and trust to the construction process,
making it easier for homeowners to take the next step with confidence.
Brass-Tacks was created by those who lived through the Eaton Fire, people who lost their
homes, but not hope in the spirit of Altadena. We are committed to rebuilding because we
believe deeply in what makes this community truly one of a kind. We’re not outsiders; we’re your
neighbors. We’ve walked these streets, hiked these trails, and seen firsthand how important it is
to rebuild with care and intention. With Brass-Tacks, you’re not just hiring a contractor, you’re
finding someone who understands the soul of Altadena.
50000
Customers Worldwide
32472
Satisfied Customers
10
Years Experience
Mission Statement
Brass Tacks founded through our partnership with the Altadena Collective and the many stories we heard of homeowners being taken advantage of after the Eaton Fire. As fire survivors ourselves, we created Brass Tacks, now a core part of Altadena Collective’s community rebuilding effort, to ensure no one has to navigate the process alone. Our mission is to make the path forward clearer, more empowering, and rooted in compassion for our community.
Mission Statement
Access to Verified Builders:
We connect homeowners with trusted builders who align with their values, aesthetic, and budget and guide them through a fully transparent bidding process.
Construction Guidance:
We advocate for homeowners throughout the architectural and/or construction process, managing schedules, budgets, and communication to protect their interests every step of the way.
Insurance Support:
James Peddie
With deep roots in Altadena, James has dedicated his career to helping families find and build their perfect home. However, after experiencing the devastation of losing his own property in the Eaton Fire, James was inspired to take his expertise further.
With a profound understanding of the community’s needs and having renovated numerous properties with ground up ADUS and additions, James has launched a new construction initiative focused on helping Altadena residents rebuild their homes and their lives. Combining his real estate expertise with a passion for resilience, he offers tailored solutions for modern, fire-resistant home designs that honor the character and spirit of this beloved area.
James’s mission is clear: to restore Altadena stronger than ever, ensuring that every family affected by the fire has the support and resources they need to rebuild with confidence.
Angela Bentley
With experience in real estate and firsthand insight into how many Altadenans were underinsured, she set out to learn the ins and outs of architecture and construction both as an advocate and team member with Altadena Collective, Brass Tacks, and as a homeowner navigating the complex process of rebuilding her family’s home.
Today, she draws on both personal and professional experience to make the rebuilding process easier and more transparent, ensuring no one in Altadena has to navigate this overwhelming process on their own.
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
ALTADENA SPECIALISTS
Over $150,000,000 bought, built, sold in Altadena.
PLANNING & PERMITTING
Deep relationships with county building officials. engineers, & inspectors saving time money.
HYPER LOCAL
Altadena is our home & we are committed to preserving the style & character of our community. Our team has over 20 years of experience building in Altadena.
HISTORICAL KNOWLEDGE
From historical architecture, architects, and developers who built Altadena to the unique styles finishes of the area. we understand what makes Altadena beautiful.
GEOGRAPHICAL EXPERTISE
Deep understanding of the geology, zoning, building codes, and topography of Altadena.
CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING
From exterior design and floor plans to high-quality finishes, we work with your builder to bring your vision to life-honoring the character, charm, and spirit that make Altadena so unique.
Common Pain Points During a Rebuild:
- Not knowing how to manage or vet contractors effectively.
- Hidden costs or shifting timelines that make planning difficult.
- Contractors who are slow to respond, use confusing jargon, or give few updates.
- Budgets that spiral due to underestimated allowances or unexpected change orders.
- Work that doesn't pass inspections or match your expectations.
- Permit delays or missing requirements that cause costly rework.
- Subcontractors who aren't vetted, don't show up, or leave unsafe job sites.
- Large upfront payments without clear accountability or lien protection.
- Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or unsure about decisions.
- Being left alone to choose finishes without design guidance or visualization tools.
- Sticker shock if design choices exceed budget.
- Backordered or substituted materials you didn't approve.
- Incorrect materials or poor workmanship during installation.
- Late-stage changes that add costs and delay progress.
- Missed milestones or delays from permits and zoning approvals.
COMMON PAIN POINTS
Managing a ground-up residential construction project is a part-time job in disguise. Homeowners often underestimate the level of involvement required to oversee a contractor, coordinate decisions, and keep the project on track. On average, a homeowner should expect to spend at least 5-6 hours per week over the course of 12-15 months, totaling approximately 260-390 hours of personal time.
Without professional oversight, homeowners can find themselves consumed by a process that can be overwhelming, frustrating, and time-intensive, especially when construction problems arise.
HOW WE CAN HELP
BRASS TACKS BID & MATCH
- Access to Vetted Builder Network
- Contractor Bid Comparison Savings Insights
- Contract & Bid Review
- Help Desk Support
We will create your rebuild profile on our platform to request bids from 3-5 vetted contractors. We’ll review bids with you, schedule builder meetings, help you choose the right fit, and remain available virtually for basic rebuild questions.
BRASS TACKS BID &
MATCH-OWNER'S REP
- Personal Rebuild Advisor
- Progress Portal Access
- Payment Advisement
- Weekly Onsite Construction Oversight
- Communication Mgmt (Owner/Architect/Builder)
You’ll have access to our online portal for progress reports, issue tracking, photos, and prompt support. We’ll review invoices with you, help approve fair draws, and serve as your advocate throughout the construction process while managing schedules, budgets, and communication to protect your interests every step of the way.
ADD ONS
- Materials Management
- Finishes Advisement
- Insurance Support
We help reduce material waste, delays, and cost overruns by guiding you through finish selections that align with your budget and timeline. We can also provide insurance support to help you maximize your policy.
PAST PROJECTS
2268 Allen Ave, Altadena
3 Beds - 4 Baths - 3014 sf
1324 Pleasantridge Dr, Altadena
4 Beds - 4 Baths - 3121 sf
2401 Midlothian Dr, Altadena
5 Beds - 5 Baths - 3680 sf
3332 Camp Huntington Rd Altadena
4 Beds - 4 Baths - 3542 sf
931 Norumbega Dr, Monrovia
3 Beds - 2 Baths - 1883 sf
1739 Meadowbrook Rd, Altadena
5 Beds - 3 Baths - 2642 sf
1845 Coolidge Ave, Altadena
4 Beds - 2 Baths - 1852 sf
70 E Palm St, Altadena
4 Beds - 3 Baths - 2050 sf
3785 Ranch Top Rd, Pasadena
4 Beds - 4 Baths - 2596 sf
BUILDING WORKFLOW
Pre-planning Design
Hire Your Building Team
Floor Plan & Schematics
Construction : grading & Leaving
Pre construction: inspects, site survey, ulities
Construction Documents & Engineering
Foundation
Rough Plumbing & Electrical Framing
Insulation & Drywall
Owner Occupency
Punch List Completion
Close Out & Final Inspections
Interior Finishing
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our clients
FAQ
ask us
anything
How are builders vetted?
Every builder on Brass Tacks goes through a multi-step screening that includes:
- License and insurance verification
- Project portfolio review
- Client references
What if I don't like any of the bids?
No pressure. If the bids don’t meet your needs, you can decline them and reopen your project to new builders or walk away entirely. There’s no obligation to hire through our platform.
Does using Brass Tacks lead to better pricing?
Yes. Competition drives sharper bids, clearer scopes, and fairer pricing. Builders know that aggressive pricing leads to future work on our platform, and you can also gain leverage through our bulk and dedicated purchasing opportunities.
Is Brass Tacks free?
Our bidding and matching service is at no cost. We will create your rebuild profile on our platform to request bids from 3-5 vetted contractors. We’ll review bids with you, schedule builder meetings, help you choose the right fit, and remain available virtually for basic rebuild questions for free.
Does Brass Tacks offer any other help?
Yes, if a ground-up rebuild feels overwhelming. Brass Tacks can serve as your Owner’s Representative. You’ll have access to our online portal for progress reports, issue tracking, photos, and prompt support. We’ll review invoices with you, help approve fair draws, and serve as your advocate throughout the construction process while managing schedules, budgets, and communication to protect your interests every step of the way for 3% of your total rebuild cost.
Can Linvite my own contractor?
Absolutely. If you already have a contractor in mind, you can invite them to bid on your project through Brass Tacks. We encourage transparency and fair comparisons, whether you’re starting fresh or just verifying pricing.
Rebuilding after a disaster is more than a construction project, it’s a deeply personal journey. At Brass Tacks, we understand the weight of starting over, and we’re here to walk beside you as your advocate, advisor, and partner, when you are ready.
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