the building process
Deciding on a builder is the hardest part of building a house. There are many builders out there, and the differences between them are far and great. Once you have done your homework and narrowed your choices down, it is always a good idea to sit down with the builders that you have chosen, and talk about their process and how they intend to work with you.
Once you have chosen Southern Traditions Builders as a candidate to become your builder, we will sit down with you and go over these questions. It is a good idea for you to have your questions written out, and also to bring along a set of blueprints of the house that you are planning to build, if we do not already have them.
During a meeting with Southern Traditions Builders, you will see a video, photographs, and a few sets of blueprints of some of the homes that we have completed over the years. We will also review your blueprints with you, and ask questions about your needs and wishes for your new home. You will learn about our building process, and how we intend to work with you as a client. You will also have the opportunity to review the contract that we use, and you may ask any questions that you have concerning our process.
If you decide that you want to work with us as your builder, we will immediately begin putting together a general estimate for the construction. This process takes time, as you will provide us with a menu as to what you want in the house as to details, finishes, appliances, products, manufacturers, specialties, etc., and anything that the information in the plans do not provide. Once you deliver this to us, our estimator will have everything in hand, allowing him to begin general pricing. When this general estimate is completed, a review meeting is scheduled so that we may sit down with you and discuss the results.
If you approve our general estimate and decide that you want to hire Southern Traditions Builders as your trusted builder, then you will sign a commitment contract that allows us to enter into the process of completing a PIECEWISE ESTIMATE. This estimate takes a few weeks to complete, and involves a very in-depth process of material take-offs, subcontractor estimates, product pricing, calculations, etc. Though most of the work will already be done, due to the general estimate, there are several items that will require more attention in order to fine tune and produce our detailed piecewise estimate, and assure a more accurate script.