At Hover, we love highlighting construction professionals who are shaping the future of home renovation and Shannon Cook, co-owner of On-Site Builders, is doing just that.
From full home remodels to custom kitchens and additions, Shannon specializes in helping homeowners turn their vision into a reality. A licensed general contractor and self-taught designer based in Myrtle Beach, SC, Shannon combines her practical experience with creative design, using modern design tools to ensure every detail is thought through before the first nail is hammered.
We asked Shannon to share what matters most before starting renovation–plus her tips on budgeting, tools and setting up projects for success.
What’s the #1 thing a homeowner should know before choosing a contractor?
“You’ve gotta go with someone you TRUST, not just someone with the lowest price or first availability. The right contractor isn’t just there to swing a hammer. They should be your cheerleader when you're excited about your vision, but also honest enough to say, ‘Hey, we might need to rethink that’ if something’s not realistic or could blow your budget. Look for someone who communicates clearly, keeps you in the loop, and genuinely cares about your home like it’s their own. Remodeling should be exciting — not stressful — and the right contractor makes all the difference.”
How much should homeowners budget for a bathroom renovation?
“Bathrooms are one of the most surprising spaces when it comes to cost — people are always shocked! Even though they’re smaller than kitchens, they pack in a lot: plumbing, tile, fixtures, lighting, ventilation... it all adds up. Here in Myrtle Beach, a typical bathroom remodel can range from $16,000 to $30,000, depending on the size, layout, materials, and especially the shower design.”
“Tile work, custom showers, and upgraded fixtures can drive that number up quickly — but they also make the biggest impact. It’s one of those areas where you really want to do it right the first time.”
What are your go-to tools for getting the job done?
Shannon is passionate about using technology to bring ideas to life before the work begins. Her top three tools are:
- Hover 3D – “Perfect for additions when I need fast, accurate measurements and renderings.”
- Hover Instant Design – “Lets me create realistic designs so clients can visualize their remodel before we even start.”
- Houzz Pro – “I use it to map out floor plans, pull together design ideas, and keep everything organized.”
“If it helps bring the vision to life before we even pick up a hammer, I’m all about it.”
Top tips for homeowners starting a renovation project
Shannon’s advice for homeowners? It’s all about vision, flexibility, and setting the right expectations.
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Have a vision, but stay flexible.
“Sometimes you start with your heart set on a specific material or layout, but something else might speak to you along the way — and that’s part of the fun! Be open to falling in love with new options.”
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Set a solid budget—with a cushion.
“Unexpected things come up (they always do), and having that buffer keeps the project on track without major stress.”
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Be realistic about the timeline.
“Trust me — no one wants your project done faster than I do! But quality work takes time. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes that you might not see — permits, inspections, material delays, scheduling different trades — and it always takes longer than people expect. The best thing you can do is go in with realistic expectations so you're not stressing when things take a little longer. It’s all part of the process.”
Learn more
Shannon’s approach is a reminder of what great remodeling should be: thoughtful, exciting, and built on trust. With pros like her leading the way—and resources like Hover to help execute a vision—homeowners can feel more confident taking on their next project.
Take a look at Shannon’s latest projects and learn more about On-Site Builders here.
