Our Design-Build Process
A Clear Process From First Call to Final Walkthrough
Here is the real world flow most clients experience:
Define
Discovery Call
We have an initial phone call to determine if we are a good fit for each other. We will talk about the location, scope, budget, timing, etc.
Initial Meeting
At our in-person meeting to get to know each other and about the project. We start talking specifics about what a customer's wants and needs are and develop a rough plan.
Ballpark Review Meeting
Based on our meeting we will create a general scope, price, and then meet to review everything with you.
Design And Site Agreements
After the review meeting a design agreement is presented to develop detailed plans. A site engineering agreement is presented to get a head start working on any required site engineering needs while we finalize plans and specifications.
Refine
Detailed Prints
After a signed design agreement we will create plans for the project. This will include a full set of plans and 3D renderings.
Detailed Specifications
Once we have a plan we will create a detailed specification sheet and price based on the plans.
Meeting To Review
In this review meeting we will pull up the plans and 3D model for the customer to visualize. We can make changes to the plans and model in real time. Also during this meeting we will review all the specifications to make sure everything is captured.
Site Meeting
We will then set up a site meeting. For new homes it is to see how the house will fit on the land and how the grade will work around it. For remodels & additions it is to confirm measurements and verify how all of the mechanicals will connect.
Plan & Spec Updates
We will make updates based on the site meeting information and customer's wants/needs as many times as it takes until the customer is happy.
Contract
Only once site engineering is complete and the customer is happy with the plans, specs, & price will we present a contract for a customer to sign.
Build & Deliver
Selection Meeting
This is when we will choose all the finishes for the project. Our design studio and 3D renderings help you visualize your selections in real time. There is a lot to pick out so we typically break it up into several different meetings.
Groundbreaking
We kick off construction with a groundbreaking meeting to walk through the project scope, timeline, and key milestones with you.
Mechanical Walkthrough
During construction, we conduct a mechanical walkthrough to review all systems, rough-ins, and structural elements before they are covered up.
Final Walkthrough
Before you move in, we complete a final walkthrough to ensure every detail meets our quality standards and your expectations.
Scheduled milestones & Clear Communication
We keep you informed throughout construction with structured milestones, scheduled walkthroughs, and regular communication. Payments are tied to progress at key milestones so you always understand what you are paying for and why. We review the full schedule with you before construction begins so there are no surprises.
- Meet Your Builder
Meet The Team
ISM Construction is led by Ivan and Josiah Martin, with a family first approach that keeps priorities grounded and communication personal. Ivan and his wife Rosene founded ISM in 1994 all while raising their 4 kids in the community, which is a big reason we understand how important it is to respect your home, your routine, and your peace of mind during a project.
Dawson Koch
is an ISM Supervisor. He grew up working in his dad’s custom cabinet shop and has experience building and installing cabinets, as well as trim carpentry. He also worked for a barn restoration company. You will find him around the job making sure things are done right. In his free time, he loves hunting, fishing, and hiking, as well as playing games with family and friends.
Nate Lapp
is the head draftsman and designer. He has an associate's and bachelor's degree in construction management and has been with ISM Construction since the fall of 2020. He can be found in sales meetings, reviewing prints, or with a sweatband crunching numbers. Outside of work, he loves playing games with friends and family or working on house projects. Together with his wife Brianna, they are raising two beautiful little girls.
Donaldo Morales
joined ISM in 2022 as a trim carpenter. He has a passion for building homes. He has a background in the field, installing pre-engineered buildings. He enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter and loves snowboarding, soccer, and anything outdoors. You will find him on the job installing trim and kitchens.
Josiah Martin
Ivan’s son, grew up working with his dad and learning about construction. He joined ISM Construction full-time in 2011, and he primarily focuses on project management and the oversight of sub-contractors. Over the years, Josiah also gained expertise in trim carpentry, kitchen installation, and exteriors, and he is hands-on for these parts of the jobs he manages. Outside of work, you will find Josiah with his wife and children, fishing, reading, or playing music.
Ivan Martin
began his work in construction in 1983 in Lebanon, PA. After 11 years in the field, he went into business for himself and founded ISM Construction. Ivan works closely with clients throughout the entire process. He manages design, estimating, and each building phase. In his free time, Ivan enjoys hunting, camping, and spending time with his family.
Rosene Martin
is Ivan’s wife. She is the office administrator and accountant. You will find her hard at work in the office managing accounts and keeping things in order and running smoothly. In her free time, Rosene enjoys reading, hospitality, and spending time with friends and with her grandkids.
Cesar Redondo
is an ISM Supervisor. He has a background in residential remodel construction doing everything from roofing and siding to kitchens and trim. Prior to that he and his wife spent 5 years in overseas missions. He lives in Ephrata with his wife and kids. He loves spending time with family and friends as well as devoting time to creating art. You will find Cesar running jobs from start to finish with an eye for detail.
James “Jimmy” Fackler
joined ISM in 2025, but is no stranger to building. With over 25 years of combined experience owning a construction company and managing a local building company, Jimmy brings a broad range of field expertise and well-rounded knowledge to the team. He feels right at home in a company that values customer service and quality craftsmanship, and works hard to ensure that every customer feels the same. Jimmy’s role at work is in sales, estimating and ordering. Outside of work, he can be found spending time with his wife and four kids, involved in competitive archery, hunting or hitting the gym.
Shawn Yoder
joined ISM in 2024 as a site supervisor. He has since transitioned to drafting and design. Shawn has over 15 years of experience in the construction field, along with 2 years of experience working as a maintenance coordinator at a college. Outside of work, Shawn enjoys spending time with his family and being outdoors enjoying nature.
- Got Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Building Questions, Answered
How much does a custom home cost in Lebanon County PA?
Do you handle both design and construction?
Do you help with permits and site engineering?
How long does a remodel take?
What areas do you serve?
Ready to Start Your Project?
If you are planning a custom home, home addition, or remodeling project, the first step is reaching out to our team.
Contact ISM Construction today to discuss your project and learn how our process can help bring your plans to life.