Charlotte’s Trusted General Contractor

Building Trust Since 2014

J Forrest Development is a full-service General Contractor specializing in high quality homes, communities and commercial spaces that exceeds our client’s expectations in cost, service, and quality. With over 20 years of experience in the Construction Industry, Our portfolio consist of high-quality construction in every industry sector, from smaller renovations to multi-family urban redevelopment; from traditional residential general contracting services, to full design-build delivery.

At J Forrest Development, we turn ideas into reality. Based in Charlotte, NC, our team brings decades of combined experience in residential and commercial construction, blending craftsmanship, modern building science, and proactive project management. Whether you’re planning a whole-home remodel in Myers Park, building an addition in Dilworth, or refreshing a retail space in South End, we deliver on time, on budget, and with clear communication from day one.

Free Project Evaluation

Dreaming of a new home, major remodel, or home addition? Our skilled team oversee it all -foundation to final shingle - with meticulous craftsmanship and personalized attention. At J Forrest Development, we’re passionate about helping Charlotte homeowners create spaces that improve daily living and increase property value. Ready to remodel your home in Charlotte, NC? Let’s bring your vision to life with trusted remodeling services tailored to your needs.

From ground-up developments to renovations and adaptive reuse, we deliver outstanding commercial and industrial spaces. Whether repurposing an office or building something brand new, we focus on efficiency, compliance, and design. When it comes to commercial construction in Charlotte, NC, trust a contractor who understands your vision, respects your budget, and delivers results that stand the test of time.

Navigating complex developments? We advocate for owners, guiding projects through design, compliance, financing, and execution - especially where governmental or financial challenges exist. We’ve been recognized by many non-profit organizations as a community partner with demonstrated ability to navigate complex governmental and financial hurdles to bring a project to successful completion.

Service Areas

Proudly serving neighborhoods across Charlotte and nearby communities: Myers Park, Dilworth, South End, Plaza Midwood, Elizabeth, NoDa, Ballantyne, Steele Creek, SouthPark, Wesley Heights, University City, Matthews, Mint Hill, Pineville, Huntersville, Cornelius, and Davidson.

Free Project Evaluation

1) Discovery & Consultation
We start with a conversation—your goals, budget range, timeline, and must-haves. If you have drawings, great. If not, we can introduce trusted designers and architects in the Charlotte area and align your scope with realistic costs.

2) Site Visit & Feasibility
A project manager walks the space to evaluate structure, utilities, access, and potential constraints. We identify permitting requirements for Mecklenburg County, flag opportunities to save time or money, and confirm a plan for phasing if you’ll remain in the home or business during construction.

3) Scope, Budget, and Schedule
You’ll receive a detailed proposal outlining line-item costs, allowances for finishes, and a preliminary schedule. No vague ranges—just clear numbers. We finalize selections with you to lock scope and reduce change orders later.

4) Permitting & Pre-Construction
Our team handles permits and inspections. Before we swing a hammer, we hold a pre-construction meeting to review site protection, daily start/stop times, parking, neighbor courtesy, and communication channels.

5) Build Phase
Your project manager is your one point of contact. Expect updates, milestone walkthroughs, and real-time schedule tracking. We maintain a clean, safe site and coordinate trades to keep the project moving without gaps.

6) Quality Control & Closeout
We conduct a multi-point quality audit, complete final inspections, and walk the project with you to address any punch-list items. You’ll receive warranty documentation and a care guide for materials and finishes.

Our Process

Simple, Transparent, Predictable

FREE PROJECT EVALUATION
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Exterior of a modern multi-story veterinary clinic with signage 'Camel University Veterinary Specialists' and the street number 880, featuring large glass windows, parking spots, and surrounding greenery.
Exterior of a small building with an emergency entrance, accessible ramp, white railings, glass door, and large red 'EMERGENCY' sign above the door.
Interior view of Cornell University Veterinary Specialists facility, showing a waiting area with a row of three black chairs with blue seats, a white wall with the institution's logo and name, and a hallway with an open door and an ATM on the wall.
A large commercial building with a parking lot in front. The building has a covered loading dock area with two large garage doors, and a smaller door next to it. There is a partial view of an office entrance to the left with a glass door and windows.
Four red storage unit garage doors with horizontal ridges, set in a brick building wall, with a parking area in front.
Cubed Smart reception desk with computers and office supplies, red wall with Cubed Smart logo, and a door leading to another room.
Long hallway of storage units with white, roll-up doors and a concrete floor.
Front view of a public library building with a classical facade, tall columns, and a pediment. There is an American flag and a yellow flag on a flagpole in front. Two black cars are parked on the street, and trees with pink flowers are visible.
A modern building with a curved glass facade next to a traditional red brick building with arched windows, surrounded by potted plants and a sidewalk, in an urban setting.
View of a public library building with columns and a banner advertising passports on Sundays, and a man walking by in a gray jacket and black pants on a cloudy day.
Empty modern conference room with white tables, black office chairs, and hanging ceiling lights, separated by glass walls.
An empty modern office space with desks, chairs, a large wall-mounted television, and a light-colored wooden cabinet. The room has a high ceiling with white pendant lights and wood flooring.
Bright, modern kitchen with white cabinets, a long white table with white chairs, and some appliances including a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee machine. Unfinished shelves and a cardboard box are also visible.
Exterior view of a CubeSmart self-storage facility building with a red pickup truck parked in front, under a clear blue sky.
An empty modern office with round tables and variety of chairs, workspace cubicles with computers, and ceiling lights.
Empty modern office with desks, chairs, computers, and overhead lighting, with an exit sign hanging from the ceiling.
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Bright modern studio apartment with a sitting area, a bed, large windows with blinds, a gray couch with pillows, a wooden bookshelf, and a wall-mounted TV.
Outdoor rooftop patio area with wicker chairs and beige cushions, large potted trees, and a brick building in the background.
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Smart Building Choices for the Carolina Climate

Charlotte’s humidity, heat, and storm cycles demand smarter systems. We recommend:

Efficient HVAC & Ventilation: Right-sized systems and balanced ventilation to improve comfort and indoor air quality.
Moisture Management: Proper flashing, rain-screen details, and high-performance membranes to protect framing and finishes.
Energy-Wise Upgrades: Insulation and window packages that reduce utility bills without breaking the budget.
Durable Exteriors: Siding, roofing, and decking materials chosen for longevity and low maintenance.

Why Homeowners
and Businesses
in Charlotte
Choose Us

Free Project evaluation

  1. Experience That Shows: Skilled carpenters and vetted trade partners who respect craft and schedule.

  2. Clear Communication: One PM, weekly updates, and transparent budgeting—no surprises.

  3. Local Knowledge: Familiar with Charlotte’s neighborhoods, HOA standards, and Mecklenburg County inspections.

  4. Durability & Design: Practical, beautiful solutions built to last in the Carolina climate.

  5. Licensed & Insured: Work you can trust, backed by documentation and warranty support.

Residential Remodeling & Additions

Residential Remodeling & Additions
From kitchen and bath renovations to full-scale home transformations, we manage every detail—design collaboration, permits, structural work, finishes, and final punch. Need more space? We design and build seamless additions, second stories, and in-law suites that look like they’ve always belonged.

Custom Home Building
Ground-up construction with a focus on livability, energy performance, and timeless materials. We coordinate architecture, engineering, and interior design to create a home that fits your lifestyle and Charlotte’s climate—right down to HVAC sizing, insulation strategy, and durable exterior assemblies.

Kitchen & Baths
High-function, high-style, and built to last. Expect thoughtful layouts, durable cabinetry, stone surfaces, tile work with razor-sharp lines, and fixtures that balance beauty with reliability. We guide selections to help you maximize value without sacrificing the details.

Commercial & Tenant Improvements
Build-outs for offices, studios, medical suites, and retail environments. We respect schedules, brand standards, and code compliance so you can open doors quickly and confidently.

Outdoor Living & Exteriors
Decks, porches, covered patios, and hardscapes that extend your home’s footprint and stand up to Carolina weather. We also handle roofing, siding, windows, and moisture management to protect your investment for years to come.

For homeowners looking for a full-home transformation beyond single-room upgrades, check out our Whole Home Remodeling services

Budgeting With Confidence

We respect your budget like it’s our own. Our proposals include:

Detailed Line Items: Labor, materials, allowances, and contingencies spelled out clearly.

Value Engineering Options: Where it makes sense, we’ll show cost-saving alternatives that preserve function and style.

Change Order Discipline: Any changes are documented with pricing and schedule impact before work proceeds.

Client Experience, Elevated

Construction can feel disruptive. Our job is to minimize stress and maximize results:

Respect for Your Home or Business: Floor protection, dust control, and daily cleanup are non-negotiables.

Professional Crews: Courteous teams who arrive on time and maintain a safe site.

Schedule Visibility: Milestones and next steps shared in writing so you always know what’s coming.

Post-Project Support: We stand behind our work and remain available long after the final walkthrough.

Portfolio

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Start dates depend on project complexity, permitting, and current workload. After our site visit and proposal, we’ll provide a realistic start window and a target completion date.

  • Absolutely. We collaborate with your design team or can refer trusted local partners to create a cohesive, constructible plan.

  • Yes. We guide cabinet, countertop, tile, flooring, plumbing, lighting, and paint selections with an eye for durability, availability, and lead times.

  • Most structural changes, additions, and major remodels require permits in Mecklenburg County. We manage the process and coordinate inspections.

  • We can phase work, set up temporary kitchens or baths, and create safe pathways. For large projects, short-term relocation may be more comfortable—we’ll discuss options.

Large apartment complex with a blue sign that reads '122 Wilton Road Apartments', surrounded by greenery and paved parking area.

Ready to Build Something Great?

Free Project Evaluation

Whether you’re modernizing a condo in South End, expanding a family home in Ballantyne, or preparing a retail space in NoDa, J Forrest Development is the Charlotte general contractor you can count on for clarity, craftsmanship, and follow-through.

Let’s talk about your project.

Call today or send a message to schedule your consultation. We’ll review your goals, share ideas, and provide a detailed proposal so you can move forward with confidence.

J Forrest Development

Your vision. Built right—here in Charlotte, NC.