
In our humble opinion, the following service providers are the best in Durham, North Carolina. Please feel free to recommend one of your favorites when the service level is extraordinary. Perhaps the individual(s) went above and beyond your level of expectation. Maybe the service provider exceeded your expectations and left you with a strong feeling of “Astonishment”! Maybe they did this on more than one service visit? They may have helped your circle of influence (neighbors, co-workers, friends).
- Best Carpenter/Handyman
- Best Electrician
- Best Computer Repairman/Tech
- Best Dog Sitting Service
- Best CPA
- Best Chimney Sweep
- Best Stylist -Full Service Salon
- Best Landscaping Service
- Best NC Based Mortgage Broker
- Best Signage and Printing
- Best Dental Practice in Durham NC
- Best Vein Clinic Center
- Best Car Wash Deal in Durham
- Best Vet services in Durham
- Best Home Stay in Durham NC
- Best CFP
Best Carpenter: David Dollar Carpentry: We can attest to the quality of his work. Our family utilized his service for four windows, 2 door installations, siding replacement, soffit repair, and replacement, cabinet shelves, bed frame repair, ceiling repair, exhaust fan installation. Please call David as our list just scratches the surface of all he can do for you. 919-602-8588. Please keep an eye on his Facebook page for updates***.
Best Electrician: CR Reaves/ Mike Garner (out of Burlington NC) Very fair, hardworking and honest. Installed overhead lights repaired circuit box, certified HVAC electrical work for us. 336-516-5610. CR retired and now Mike is running the show.
Durham native, Tom Swain, electrical contractor, NC licensed, fully insured:
919-302-1919
Primarily service and residential project-oriented. The list of what I do is primarily residential and some smaller commercial projects.
I will work on is anything from lighting and fans, fishing wires for new circuits, ventilation fans, any 120 volt power to 240 volt appliance/ motor electrical issues, panel upgrades and change-outs, bonding and grounding, GFI receptacle issues, home inspection reports, providing power to any and all areas, garages and basements/ room additions/ remodels.
Kenneth J. Romano
919-265-9985
PC Repair 101 Founder of “Computer for kids”
Please don’t throw away your old PC or Laptop before talking with Ken Romano, skilled computer technician. Ken has breathed life back into laptops that I thought were beyond hopeless. When I pick up a repaired computer from Ken it not only arrives working like new but also clean like the first day it came out of the box. Ken has extensive experience, practical knowledge and the credentials to work on any PC, Apple laptop or desktop computer. Don’t go to the box store and pay more for what you don’t need before calling Ken.
Best Dog Sitting Service: Bull City Pet Sitting
Great and reliable service. We love them! Strong recommend based on our extended family’s experience; more than a few occasions.
Why choose us?
- 2 Decades of Professional Experience
- Easy to use, online reservation and billing system
- We only practice positive reinforcement and mentor with local trainers providing continuined education for our stafff
- Pricing starts at $19.00!
- All pet sitters are thoroughly vetted and must pass a criminal background check
- Localized service keeps sitters close to their neighborhoods for fast, convenient service (bonus, they know the best walking trails!)
- Sure we’re dog walkers and cat sitters, but we also provide pet sitting services for all your pets. Cows included.
- Fully Insured and Bonded
- Licensed with the City of Durham
- Vet Recommended
- Certified in American Red Cross Pet First Aid and CPR
- Our professional sitters are paid a living wage
- Member of Pet Sitters International
- Member of the Pet Professional Guild
- Very Proud Supporters and Volunteers of the Durham County APS
- Volunteer for various organizations in the community
Best C.P.A: C. Davis Walters “Dave”:
1904 Front St Ste 420, Durham, NC 27705
(919) 383-0441
C Davis Walters Cpa Pllc is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) practice based in Durham, NC. C Davis Walters Cpa Pllc can assist you with your tax preparation, planning, bookkeeping, and accounting needs.
Dave Walters was my fellow Rotarian at North Durham Rotary and the reason I joined while working at SunTrust Bank. Dave quickly became my go-to referral C.P.A. whenever one of my business or personal clients needed effective tax planning. Each client, including referral sources, receive a handwritten note of thank you from Dave and he is also quick to refer back whenever an appropriate opportunity arises. I recommend Dave for your CPA needs without hesitation and with ample enthusiasm. I know you will be treated well.
Best Chimney Sweep:
Our fireplace was cleaned today by Grey Holloman, small business owner of Fireman’s Choice Chimney Sweep 1021 Dove Ridge Road Bahama, NC 27503 819-4807
I was impressed by Grey’s professionalism, promptness, thoroughness, fair price and especially the last thing he did before completing my invoice: cleaned the fireplace gate glass.
Just in case anyone else might be interested in a reliable, reasonably priced service I asked Grey to send me a brief description, cited below, of the services he offers and his history.
I’ve been in this line of work since 1990. I started my own business in 2009. I do cleanings for fireplaces, wood stove inserts and freestanding stoves. Major and minor repairs to chimneys and relining damaged flues are also part of my services. I do custom caps and gutter cleaning.
Best Stylist (Men and Women): Lars Ekdahl (Lars Oliver Salon) : I have known Lars for 16 years. No better stylist in town. Best for Men and best stylist/colorist for women. Lars Oliver Salon is located at Erwin Square 2200 West Main Street , Suite A-150, Durham NC 27705. 984.888.5928 B, 919-619-0989 M. Website.
Best Landscaping Service: Landscaping Services Adrian Hernandez, Owner
AdrianH360@gmail.com 919-697-9620 Pressure Wash, Pruning, Planting inside and Outside & cleaning gutters.
A year ago, our yard was a mess – raising two teenagers, work, and crabgrass had taken their toll on the grass – to the point where we could no longer claim benign neglect. We had long admired the lawns of some neighbors and noticed a common theme – Adrian was taking care of them. Once we got him on board with our unruly mess of a yard last fall, the positive change was nearly immediate and our yard never looked better – and even after the awful weather we’ve had the past 6-odd weeks, our yard looks great. Plus – he’s just a really nice guy.
Branch Manager / Senior Loan Officer
tzimmerman@unionhomemortgage.com
Office: (919) 366-5032
Mobile: (919) 260-9038
1415 West NC Highway 54 | Suite 125
Durham, NC 27707
NMLS 111131
NC I-102862
“I’ve specialized in residential mortgage lending throughout the state of North Carolina for almost 20 years. I’ve been fortunate enough to help a few thousand families with their mortgage financing needs. I have extensive experience in all of the industry’s programs, including conventional, VA, FHA & USDA. My background with programs & guidelines allows me to tailor the best possible loan scenario for your individual circumstances. Union Home Mortgage and I believe in world-class service from the loan application, to closing and through servicing. I’d be honored to assist you!”
Graphix Solution
Built upon a background of industry experience in sales, project management, manufacturing, and installation, Stephen Dunn launched Graphix Solution as an alternative to the cookie-cutter signage companies that tend to be scarce on creativity and designing outside the box. Stephen’s goal is simple; offer clients superior service and quality products at an affordable price. He strives to exceed this goal on each and every project.
LinkedIn Stephen Dunn | stephen@graphixsolutionnc.com
Graphix Solution
Dr. Thomas A. Leech, DDS Dentistry at the Park
919-544-2001
You will not find a more professional, caring and compassionate Dentist than Thomas Leech. I have been a patient of Dr. Leech from 1996 to the present day. All service has been especially professional, down to every member of the Dentistry at the Park team. Great office staff, well trained and patient Dental hygienists. Very happy to refer any new resident to Dr. Leech and the Dentistry at the Park team.
Carolina Vein Center, North Carolina
Restore your legs, don’t suffer any longer!
Venous Disease
Varicose Veins
Lipedema
Lymphedema
Lipodermatosclerosis
Leg symptoms
Skin Changes
Ultrasound evaluation
Treatments
Durham Ritz Carwash Services
Best deal at Durham Ritz is the Exterior only wash which includes free self-service vacuuming and towels. This is a little known Durham Insider trick as so many choose the more premium services as they believe they don’t have the time to dry towel and vacuum their vehicle. Try it sometime as it takes less time then you think and the price is so sweet you can easily forget the sweat equity into caring for your own finishing touches.
The Durham Ritz Carwash & Detail Center… since 1988…
Owned locally by Bruce and Ira Mueller and managed since 1994 by Victor and Michele Wallace, the Ritz is committed to giving our customers a clean car done in a safe and efficient manner. We use only the best chemicals and products… Simoniz in our carwash and Mequiar’s in our detail center and strive to give our customers great service at a reasonable price. Using a professional car wash saves water, protects the environment, and makes you feel good about protecting your investment…see you soon and thanks for allowing us to serve you for over 24 years!
Carver Street Animal Hospital has helped our family cats and dogs over the years with various ailments, cancer, torn Achilles tendon with compassion and professionalism.
Carver Street Animal Hospital would like to take this opportunity to welcome you, your family, and your special family member to our website. As you continue to browse and explore our website, it is our hope that you will learn more about our dedication to your family and the quality veterinary medicine and service we provide.
Our goal here at Carver Street Animal Hospital has always been to assemble a veterinary health care team committed to providing exceptional client service and veterinary health care. The Carver Street Animal Hospital team displays an unrivaled commitment to our clients through continuing education, technological advances in veterinary medicine and service, and most importantly, administering compassionate care to all pets entrusted to us..
Interior of Homestay rooms
Home Comfort Stays
Ruth Hoffner Owner
919-886-9563
homecomfortstaysbook@gmail.com
homecomfortstays.com
This is by far the most professional, clean, well-maintained homestay I have stayed in throughout my travels.
What is a homestay?
My recommendation is to contact Ruth directly (number below) to inquire about room availability, prices, and location. Ruth is an excellent host who has always served my short-term housing needs with luxury comforts and considerable warmth and kindness.
Included in your Stay
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Home Comforts
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Complimentary Self Parking (1 car only)
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Complimentary Wi-Fi
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Laundry facility (fee)
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Secluded Deck Available
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Private Bath Available
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Family Suite Available
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Roku HD TVs
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Smoke-Free Property
We believe every space should feel like home. We manage a growing network of travelers who demand a better place to stay.
Find us on the path less traveled, forming a community with members that always return for another night.
I’m Ruth! I am the owner, and founder of Home Comfort Stays in Durham, NC. We are proud to be a woman-owned and operated local business. I live in the home with my other half, Zack, and our cats, Iris & Hera. We will be there to greet you and provide local recommendations. I’ve been managing properties and consulting businesses & travelers from all over the world since August 2017.
I take pride in providing a homey, welcoming environment. Looking forward to meeting you!
919-886-9563

Feraud Calixte, J.D., CFP
Feraud Calixte, JD, CFP®
Entrepreneur | Solution Seeker | Founder at Vantage Pointe Planning
Burlington, North Carolina
Founder/Lead Planner
Prior to starting Vantage Pointe Planning, Feraud worked as an advisor for several large national wealth management firms. Feraud is passionate about helping families navigate the complexities often associated with finances. Feraud is committed to the financial planning industry and regularly volunteers in the community teaching financial literacy. He is also a proud member of the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA).
Feraud has been quoted by a variety of publications, such as U.S News & World Report, Yahoo Finance, InvestmentNews, and NAPFA Advisor.
Feraud and his wife, Dr. Nyote Calixte, live in Burlington, N.C, with their two sons, Sebastian and Donovan.