The Process

We like to prepare potential clients for the building process in general, and how we prefer to proceed. This should allay any anxieties you may have while introducing our own preferred “process” in order to assure your pleasant building project. The process will also eliminate the horror stories we both heard about. I will call you a day in advance to confirm our appointment.

So, just what is a builder?

Builders take your dreams and aspirations, and Make them into reality. We change an intangible “Concept” into something tangible.

We do this mostly without the luxury and benefit of prototypes, the environment of a factory, mass production and an R & C Department – all ideal conditions.

We must bring our manpower, equipment and materials to your site. In addition, we also depend on as many as 20 different subcontractors, plus many material suppliers.

We are the facilitator of all those involved including our own staff.

Where do we go from here?

1. We set up an initial consultation – in it, we will:

• Discuss your initial inquiry
   
• Set rough parameters
   
• Discuss possible project ideas
   
• Talk about lifestyles
   
• Potential problems & issues
   
• We obtain a fee for any design or the implementation of bidding parameters.

2. Later, we firm up the design & final materials.
3. Invite potential specialty contractors (SC) if needed.
4. Discuss any other minor particulars of the project.
5. Set a tentative schedule – start and completion
6. Upon approval of both of us, we initiate the contract.

What is an SCA?

A Specification & Cost Analysis is a definitive Comprehensive document stating the final costs, allowances, material selections with manufactures, and all particulars of the project as understood by both of us. The SCA takes anywhere from a few hours to several days when taking into consideration: designs, meetings with specialty contractors (SCs), vendors, state codes and permitting requirements. It also requires the contractor to create, line by line, a costing of every single operation of each phase in order to reach the final cost. It is an extremely time consuming task and requiring expertise of the contractor and any SCs. It is also based on each SC’s own fixed bids as well as those fixed bids from the suppliers. Computer estimating input provides accurate insight into both obscure areas and normal tasks.

Depending on the project and its particulars, the fee can be as little as $65 for a minor change, $100 for a bathroom remodel, $300 for a kitchen remodel or upwards to $1000 for a major project for those costing over six figures. As the cost and square footage of a project increases, so does the time needed to create an accurate SCA. In addition, the SCA eliminates surprises, ambiguity and assures an agreed upon contract that is realistic and viable, and has everything discussed - on paper, where it should be.

What do you have in mind?

First, give us an overview of what you’re trying to accomplish – the reasons as well. In doing so, you’ll also let us know what it is that you don’t like about your existing area(s). We talk a little about your lifestyle and how we can make your new home better. We generally discuss some materials or products you’d like to use, colors, designs and improving those ideas with available new technologies.

Tell us your “ideal” scenario – your desired finished look. We’re talking about what you want to do to increase the quality of your lifestyle while adding value to your home.

Let’s consider options. Later we can change them or eliminate those deemed not viable. This is exploratory time.

Let’s talk about your budget.

By talking about budget ranges up front, we assure the project scope is within the realm of the allowed budget. Time is saved for both of us. When you look at a new car or another home, the price category of what you’re looking at lets the salesperson know your financial commitment. We don’t have that luxury unless we talk about it first.

Budgets are the foundation from which we proceed, and as such, nothing else below can continue until a budget is established. A ballpark is free, but since there is a fee for design work, this is another reason to discuss a budget to save time.

Plan your budget to include at least 10% more for changes and the extras you will want – they are part of the “process”.

Designing – The fun part!

This part is trial and error. Like trying on new suits or dresses. We should think in terms of textures, colors, patterns, spatial effects, longs and shorts, heights and their relationships to other things – form and function.

Think in terms of traffic patterns, sound transmission, lighting effects (natural and artificial). Visually walk through each area effected. Don’t forget ventilation. Look for at least one area, if not the entire project, as offering a dramatic effect, while being one of utilization – it must be practical as well since you live in it.

Work with your designer or ours to achieve the desired effect you want from your new home.

Material & Products

We know. But, we’ll help you along the way. Again, keep in mind the colors, textures, maintenance, individual design, coordination and ease of use.

So Much to Choose From

Just like selecting a contractor-does it feel like a good fit? Touch it. Try it. Not the contractor – the products. Think in terms of drama, or a little “pizzazz”. Or not, if you’re very conservative.

Let’s coordinate colors and textures. What trim would you like and do you use accessories? A little at a time, it will all come together. Visualize the finished project area(s).

Let's talk about the subcontractors,
called specialty contractors (SC)

Subcontractors are not only those people who work on your home, but also those vendors that supply materials. We allow what we call “lead times – just how long it will be before they can start on your particular project.

In addition, special ordered items may take as little as one week, or, in the case of cabinets, up to 16 weeks. Special counter top materials like Corian and granite may take up to several weeks to obtain, not including their installation time frames. Patience in this “category” is a given.

Bringing it all together

The scheduling is decided here, not by a pending special occasion or when we want it done, but by “the process”. Once everything has finally been decided upon, we contact each SC and check their lead time, deposit and payout requirements. We also check with the material suppliers and their lead time for any special orders.

Next, we assemble a contract. The contract contains several sections and it’s financial arrangement is based on the above SCs and vendors, as well as our own requirements. Adhering to the payout dates is critical to maintain our relationships with the subs. When payouts are delayed, subs may start another job. Then we wait for them to return – on their terms.

The contract includes all material selections, model numbers, colors, etc. Also, the agreed upon schedule – the next section.

Finally – The schedule

Because of the critical labor shortage and unbelievable construction activity, we allow plenty of time for each project and for several reasons.

1. Emergencies – An SC might be detained on another job due to the bane of all contractors – Change Orders. You will initiate some of them as well. It’s part of the “process”.
2. Miscommunications from one sub employee to another. Remember, we’re not building washing machines in a factory where hundreds are made daily on the assembly line. We’re building a “prototype” for you that’s never been made before.
3. A product delivered that might be defective.
4. Waiting for building permit inspections – as many as a dozen.
5. Mistakes – they happen – yours and ours.
6. Weather – if exterior construction is involved.
7. Change orders. During the project, you may
decide to make a change or may say, “ While you’re here, can you also………? Contractors appropriately call them the “While you’re here jobs.” Hidden problems may also require a Change Order.

We sometimes make a bar chart that includes all operations an all companies involved. They approve their end prior to the final schedule going into effect.

Glitches & Changes

As we mentioned above, they happen. That’s why a project that would normally take 6 weeks is scheduled for 8 weeks. Sometimes 6 months is scheduled for 8 months. We don’t want to promise or deceive you and feel being above board is critical to our limited “partnership” – honesty. Communication is imperative. This can be a fun Venture, but only if we are all realistic about the entire process, it’s highs and lows, and knowing the entire process in advance.

Ready for the journey? It should be a rewarding experience!