Welcome back. In our last two blogs, we discussed different types of proposals, and we talked about proposals without a design, free estimate, paid estimate, and cost-plus proposals.
In this blog, we are going to talk about proposals with or after a design is completed . This is a Design & Build, where it is essentially in an order of Design, Bid, and then Build.
At Excel Builders, most of our work comes from Design and Build. As we discussed in the other blogs, there are pros and cons to each type of proposals, and we will get to that here. First, let’s start with the process.
Let’s say you are thinking of remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, basement, or even a whole house remodel. Once you have selected a company or companies you would like to meet with, you would reach out to each of them. Each company will most likely have several different types of contact forms. At Excel Builders, we can be reached by phone, or via our website. After, we receive your contact information, you will receive a discovery phone call with one of our remodeling experts.
During this phone call with we are going to gather some basic information, and perhaps talk a little bit about your desired goals for your project, which may include, expectations, scheduling, and budget. Also, during this phone it will be determined if we move to the next step, we will set up an in-home consultation.
The Home Consultation
The home consultation is needed to accomplish a few things. First, gives us a chance to see if we a good fit for you? Secondly, look at your home and desired spaces to remodel, and get an idea of what you are looking for, your sense of design style, etc.
At this in-home consultation we will discuss budget, I know, but it needs to be discussed. So, it is important to talk budget to make sure we are in the same ballpark. Notice, I used the word ballpark. Budget at this point is almost like a ballpark number. After, we have reviewed the space, and have chance to discuss budget and timeline, the next step of the design and build process, is the design retainer.
After the design retainer is signed we then will schedule the design. We will start with the as-built of your current space, as is. From there we then start the design of your space. Once the design is completed, our designer will sit down with me to propose the design, so I am able to complete a proposal that matches the design.
What are disadvantages of design and build. Being transparent, I don’t think there any disadvantages. Some might argue that you need to invest in the design before getting a proposal, sure, that is a valid argument. I think that a proposal without a design is just a ballpark number. However, all projects will need to be designed at some point, so why not start this first and save yourself a lot of time, and money. At some point, you need to make an investment to be able to make a well detailed plan for the entire project.
Let’s talk about the advantages. In the end, your remodel will cost less, and have less surprises; surprises cost money. The remodeling time is less as well. Then the schedule can be created for the remodel, not “guessing” on the scope of work. Even your design time is less, working with one company is more efficient than working with a designer, and then hiring a separate construction company.