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What is Design-Build?
In the past, most remodeling projects were accomplished by using a design and bid process. This meant first hiring a designer, then shopping for a contractor or contractors to complete the project according to the design. The Design-Build Solution allows you to select one company to handle all aspects of the project, from initial design to final cleanup.
What are the benefits of the Design-Build Solution?
A Design-Build firm like Carmel Builders helps you keep a project on time and on budget. By having the same team designing, as well as building, you know that the project is feasible and that your budget is appropriate. You will receive immediate feedback as design decisions impact the construction process. In a traditional design and bid process, you may not learn the effects of decisions for weeks, months or even years.
Design-Build also allows you the comfort of working with a single entity throughout the process. You are freed from the worry of having to manage multiple designers, trade contractors and material suppliers.
Each individual homeowner’s vision is realized by a united organization that is focused on your needs and specific directives.
The building process runs more smoothly. Design and construction are planned and executed with greater ease to save both time and money.
Does it take longer than other methods?
The Design-Build Solution is far quicker and more efficient than other methods. The design process is the bidding process. As the design develops, the costs take shape. At the completion of design, you will be ready to begin construction almost immediately.
Is the Design-Build Solution more costly than other methods?
There is often a tendency in using the traditional design and bid method to hire the contractor with the lowest bid. This can often result in a “false bargain.” While costs seem lower up front, actual costs and associated problems caused by hiring a contractor with less experience may result in the true costs greatly exceeding what was budgeted. By hiring a Design-Build firm like Carmel Builders, you have the comfort of knowing that every phase of your project was designed and built by a true professional, someone who will stand by their work for the years to come.
What if I am not happy with the design?
You, the homeowner, are always in charge of the design process. We will keep you informed of the effects of any design decision, as it impacts cost, timeliness, and basic design elements. As long as you wish to continue exploring design options, we will work with you. The goal of the Design-Build Solution is to meet your needs and expectations, and we realize that this process takes longer for some projects than for others.
Are the costs of design credited towards my project?
Some firms treat design as a separate entity and do not credit those costs back to the homeowner. At Carmel Builders, we believe that the purpose of design is to create a project that is meant to be built by us in accordance with our standards. We credit the costs of the Design Process, in full, towards a signed contract for construction.
Where do we start?
We begin with a formal design agreement, which explains the costs and items that will be included in the design. All that is needed is your signature and a small retainer.
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