First Concept First: We Don't Bid Jobs.
We are not interested in bidding against 3 or 4 other contractors. Rather, we are interested in a client-friendly process where we collaborate with the client, designer, engineer, trade contractors and suppliers to develop a project where everybody wins and we meet or exceed your expectations. As a design/build contractor, we can handle your project in its entirety under one umbrella. We work closely with professional designers and engineers to create the conceptual architectural plans needed for preliminary estimating all the way through to permit/construction-ready engineered sealed architectural blue prints. We can also help you with financing should you need it.
Your initial call allows us to interact on the phone. We’ll discuss the reasons, problems, issues and concerns, basic design and idea parameters as well as the general flavor of your proposed project. We try to quantify budget parameters (when we can). We make a determination as to whether we are a good fit for each other and if we can be of help to you. If so, a meeting date is scheduled.
Prior to the first consultation meeting we send out a package about our company. We also give you a homework assignment. You are asked to provide the following if you can (and when applicable):
• A sketch of what you want to do
• An up-to-date survey
• Your legal description (if no survey)
• Your Wish List -- This is really three lists:
• • • Your needs list
• • • Your wants list
• • • If money were no object - your dream list.
We’ll spend as much time as necessary at our initial meeting and will explore all the preliminary facets of your project. We will ask and answer many questions about your project. We will get to know each other and determine if we like and can trust each other. As discussed previously in our Design/Build thesis, this is a very important ingredient to a successful building project. Where we can, we will give you some budget parameters of what we think your project will cost based on projects we’ve done, which are similar to yours. This is not a bid! It is simply a tool to help you evaluate whether we are a good fit and whether you wish to move forward with the next step. It is okay to tell us at the first meeting that you don’t think we’ll be a good fit. We might tell you the same thing. That’s okay!
However, we do determine that we might be a good fit, the next step will be to enter into the Design/Estimating Agreement where we will start and complete the design and estimating process to complete the construction documents, apply for the permits and construct your project.
Every design and the estimating for each job are different. However, the template for the design process can be seen in our Design/Estimating Agreement, which you can view by clicking on the link.
The Construction Documents
As part of the third phase of the Design/Estimating process, we will develop the Construction Documents This will include a Construction Agreement Cover Page, Specifications Sheets (the written description of the work to be done, cost allowances and other construction considerations), the Legal Terms and Conditions and Legal Terms and Conditions and the Draw Schedule.
Construction begins with the signing of the Construction Documents, the securing of permits (when applicable), ordering materials, setting schedules and having a pre-construction meeting with all the trades people and you, the client. We will review the final plans and specifications and any changes, which might have been made with our trade contractors and suppliers since they last interacted with you.
Having your home remodeled is uniquely different from building a new home. With remodeling, your home is the worksite. You work and live side by side in the construction site. Your routine will have to be adjusted to make your dreams a reality. Your living space will most likely be more cramped as living zones are cordoned off. This is especially true in kitchen and bath remodels. There is no sure fire way to prepare for this intrusion, other than to know it is coming. Even though we try to maintain a steady pace until completion, there will be unavoidable delays. We interact with you all the way; informing you of details, changes and better ways to accomplish our mutual goals. A successful remodeling project will depend on the communication between our management staff, our sub contractors and suppliers and you.
Managing a job site is a skill just like carpentry or other specialties. You may find it a mystery how the myriad of, literally, thousands of components intertwine to successful completion. In the beginning, progress appears to go fast. During demolition, masonry and framing drastic changes take place. Then when the drywall is hung and finished, things become subtler. Trim work is agonizingly slow. Cabinetry, tile, countertops create lapses in scheduling. As the project moves closer to completion, progress will seem to slow, while costs may seem to go up. There are a myriad of little details (such as mirrors, shelving, locks, final grade, accessories etc.), which need to be completed to create that final finished project. Consistent and open communication between our staff, trade contractors and you will enhance your understanding of the process, remove the fear, provide an opportunity to exchange ideas and help make the experience a positive one for everyone involved.
Finally, expect to be pleased. You’ll find that our well-planned, well-executed remodeling process will make you smile for years to come. Our sole objective is to meet and exceed your expectations, so that you can recommend us to your friends or use us on your next remodel. What better way to build is there?
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