Built Right. No Excuses.
Pawnee’s most straightforward construction and contracting company.
Very Good Building & Contracting Co. does exactly what it says. We build things — homes, commercial spaces, additions, and renovations — and we do it correctly, on time, and without unnecessary conversation. If you want something built well, you’ve found the right company. If you want bells and whistles and someone to hold your hand, there are other contractors in Pawnee.
Who We Are
Very Good Building & Contracting Co. is a full-service construction and contracting firm based in Pawnee, Illinois. Founded on the principles of honest work, quality craftsmanship, and a firm distrust of unnecessary bureaucracy, we have spent years building a reputation as the most reliable contractor in the region.
We handle projects of all sizes — from kitchen renovations to ground-up commercial construction — and we stand behind every job we complete. No shortcuts. No excuses. No nonsense.
What We Do
- Residential Construction — New builds, additions, and whole-home renovations
- Commercial Construction — Office spaces, retail buildouts, and industrial facilities
- Custom Carpentry & Millwork — Handcrafted woodwork built to last generations
- General Contracting — Full project management from permitting to final walkthrough
- Renovation & Remodeling — Kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and beyond
Our Philosophy
We believe a building should be built once and built right. Every material we use is selected for durability and quality. Every craftsperson on our team is held to a high standard. We don’t cut corners, we don’t oversell, and we don’t make promises we can’t keep.
That’s not a marketing statement. It’s just how we operate.
History
A Timeline of Very Good Building & Contracting Co.
2013
Founded in Pawnee
Ron Swanson leaves a lengthy career in local government to do something he considers far more honest: build things with his hands. Very Good Building & Contracting Co. is established with a small crew and a clear mission. The company completes its first three projects — all residential — within the first six months.
2015
First Commercial Contract
The company lands its first major commercial contract, completing a full interior buildout for a local Pawnee business. Word spreads that the job came in on budget and ahead of schedule. The phone starts ringing more often.
2017
Expansion of Services
In response to client demand, Very Good Building & Contracting Co. formally expands its offerings to include a dedicated custom carpentry and millwork division. Pieces from this division are built to order and carry a lifetime craftsmanship guarantee.
2019
Regional Recognition
The company is recognized by the Pawnee Chamber of Commerce as one of the area’s most trusted contractors. Ron declines to attend the awards ceremony but acknowledges the distinction as “acceptable.”
2022
Growing the Team
A period of steady growth leads to the hiring of additional project managers and skilled tradespeople. The company remains privately held, debt-free, and uncommitted to any unnecessary expansion.
Today
Continued Mission
Very Good Building & Contracting Co. continues to serve Pawnee and the surrounding region with the same values it was founded on. We’re not the biggest contractor in Illinois. We’re simply the best one we know how to be.
Meet the Team
The people who run Very Good Building & Contracting Co. have decades of combined experience in construction, project management, and skilled trades. We believe in putting experienced professionals in charge — not administrators who have never held a tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of projects do you take on?
We handle residential and commercial construction, additions, full renovations, custom carpentry, and general contracting. If you’re unsure whether your project fits, contact us and we’ll give you a straight answer.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured in the state of Illinois. Documentation is available upon request
How do I get a quote?
Contact us using the form on our website or call our office directly. We’ll schedule a time to review the project scope and provide a written estimate. We do not provide ballpark numbers over email — we prefer to do things properly.
Do you require a deposit to start work?
Yes. A deposit is required before work begins. The amount and payment schedule will be clearly outlined in your contract. There are no hidden fees
What if I need to make changes mid-project?
Changes happen. Any modifications to the original scope are documented in a written change order, which both parties sign before any additional work is completed. This protects you and us.
Do you offer a warranty on your work?
Yes. All completed projects are covered by our workmanship warranty. Specific terms are included in your project contract.
Can I request custom woodwork or carpentry for my project?
Absolutely. Our custom millwork division handles everything from built-in cabinetry to handcrafted staircases. These pieces are designed to last and are built by people who take their craft seriously.