About Tucker Associates
Where Your Vision Becomes a New England Legacy
For over three decades, we’ve shaped some of New England’s most beloved homes. Every home we build is a one-of-a-kind collaboration between client, architect, and builder—designed with purpose and built with pride.
You're In The Right Place If You...
Are building a custom home or renovating an older one, and want trusted experts to guide the process from start to finish.
Want a home that feels cohesive, considered, and tailored to your lifestyle, not just a collection of pretty finishes.
Appreciate architecture and craftsmanship, but don’t have time (or interest) in managing the dozens of decisions that come with it.
Know what you like when you see it, but you need help translating your vision into a buildable, livable plan.
Want a builder who collaborates seamlessly with your architect and advocates for you throughout the entire project.
Your Vision. Our Expertise.
Homes Built to Inspire
We’re a husband-and-wife team leading one of New England’s most respected high-end residential construction firms. At Tucker Associates, we build more than houses—we steward your vision with the kind of precision, care, and communication that transforms building your dream home into a grounded, collaborative experience.
Whether you’re constructing a new legacy home, embarking on a large-scale renovation, or restoring a historic property, you’ll have a team that honors the integrity of your architecture, respects your investment, and knows how to manage complexity, without ever overwhelming you.
Meet Michael Del Sesto
Owner & Principal Builder
30 Years Crafting Homes and Memories
If you ask Michael Del Sesto, building a custom home isn't just about construction—it's about crafting a place that holds memories for generations. With a career that spans more than 30 years in the trades, Michael brings an artisan’s eye and a builder’s discipline to every project Tucker Associates undertakes.
From Subcontractor to Principal Builder
Michael’s path to Tucker wasn’t overnight. After running Hillsgrove Architectural Stonework—one of New England’s premier custom masonry firms—for two decades, Michael spent nearly 18 years collaborating closely with Tucker Associates as a trusted subcontractor. His deep respect for detail, design integrity, and the building process made him a natural fit when Joe Tucker, the firm’s founder, looked to transition the company’s leadership to a new generation.
A Trusted Legacy of Craftmanship
Today, as Owner of Tucker Associates, Michael carries forward Joe Tucker’s legacy of craftsmanship, trust, and local pride, while bringing fresh energy and a relentless dedication to precision. His background in both construction management and hands-on artisanry means he speaks the language of owners, architects, and tradespeople alike, making him a true partner throughout the building journey.
On-Site. Involved. Invested.
What Michael loves most? Watching a set of plans become a living, breathing home—and seeing clients settle into spaces that feel both extraordinary and entirely their own.
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At Tucker Associates, Michael’s role is clear: to protect the craftsmanship, culture, and care that the company was built on, while ensuring every client experience feels seamless, collaborative, and beautifully personal.
Meet Leslie Del Sesto
Managing Partner & Tucker Whisperer
Your Safe Harbor in a Sea of Decisions
After over 20 years in Commercial Construction working for design-build firms in the Northeast, Leslie switched to high-end residential construction and joined the family business.
As our “Tucker Whisperer,” Leslie is our proactive project manager, delivering honest timelines, realistic budgets, and experienced oversight.
She’s designed our systems to keep you informed and empowered, without burdening you with every last detail.
Homes That Endure
Our Core Values Keep Projects (and Partnerships) Going Strong
Respect for Architecture
Client Partnership
Precision Craftsmanship
Process Transparency
Enduring Quality
If you're looking for a team that values clear communication, timeless craftsmanship, and a build process grounded in trust, you’re in the right place.
At Tucker Associates, we partner with you from the first sketch to the final walkthrough, keeping your goals front and center every step of the way.
Are We a Good Fit?
At Tucker Associates, we believe a successful project starts with a strong, respectful partnership. That means transparency, trust, and a shared appreciation for what it takes to create a home of lasting quality. Before we build your dream home, let’s make sure we’re the right team for you and that you’re the kind of client we’re built to serve.
We are a good fit if
You want timeless interiors, not trendy Pinterest boards
You appreciate a structured, proven design process
We are not a good fit if
You need results yesterday and don’t have time for the process
You’re looking for the lowest price, not the best value
You’re building or renovating and want a team that speaks fluent “architect and builder”
You see design as an investment in how you live
You want full control of every tiny decision, every step of the way
You can’t commit to timelines or feedback
FAQs
How early should we bring Tucker Associates into our project?
The earlier, the better. We recommend engaging with us at the same time you hire your architect—or even earlier if you're still selecting land. Early collaboration allows us to offer constructability feedback, preliminary budgeting insight, and schedule planning, helping the project flow smoothly from design to build.
Do you only work with certain architects?
No. While we have trusted relationships with many outstanding architects in New England, we are happy to collaborate with your preferred design team, or help you find the right architectural partner if you’re still in search mode. We believe the best homes are built when the architect, builder, and client work as a true team.
How involved will we need to be during construction?
We tailor our process to your preferences. Some clients like to stay closely involved, while others prefer regular high-level updates without being in the weeds. Either way, we manage the day-to-day details, advocate for your interests, and ensure that you feel confident and informed, without feeling overwhelmed.
What is the pricing structure for your services?
Our pricing is tailored to each project, taking into consideration factors such as the scope of work, materials, and additional services required. We provide detailed proposals and transparent pricing to ensure you have a clear understanding of the costs involved.
How long does it typically take to build a custom home?
While every project is unique, most of our custom homes take between 18-24 months to complete once construction begins. Project timelines can vary based on design complexity, permitting, site conditions, and material lead times. We’ll provide a clear schedule and regular updates throughout the process.
Can you help with historic home renovations?
Yes—selectively. We are passionate about stewarding historic homes and understand the special care these properties require. We selectively take on landmark renovation projects where preservation, craftsmanship, and thoughtful modernization are a priority.
What happens if I don't like the initial design concepts?
We value your input and strive to create designs that align with your vision. If you're not completely satisfied with the initial concepts, we offer revisions and work closely with you to make the necessary adjustments until we achieve a design you love.
What kind of budget should we plan for?
We specialize in high-end custom home building and large-scale renovations, which typically require a construction budget starting at $1.5 million and up. We are happy to discuss preliminary numbers early in the process to ensure expectations align and to help protect your investment from surprises.
How do you ensure quality craftsmanship on every project?
Quality is at the core of everything we do.
We work with a trusted network of artisans, subcontractors, and tradespeople—many of whom have partnered with us for decades. Every detail, from framing to finish work, is overseen personally by our leadership team to ensure it meets the highest standards of craftsmanship and integrity.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily build in New Hampshire’s Seacoast region, the Lakes Region, and select coastal areas of southern Maine and northern Massachusetts. If you’re unsure whether your project falls within our service area, just reach out—we’re happy to discuss.
How do we start the process?
Start with a conversation.
Reach out to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your vision, timeline, goals, and how we can best support you. From there, we'll guide you through the next steps, whether that's preliminary budgeting, site planning, or assembling your full project team.
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Why should we choose Tucker Associates?
Because building your home should feel like creating your future, not surviving your contractor.
We combine decades of craftsmanship with seamless project management, clear communication, and true collaboration. When you hire Tucker Associates, you’re not just hiring a builder—you’re hiring a partner committed to your vision, your values, and your peace of mind.