How long do estimates for custom homes in Houston take?
Builders need time to correctly assemble a quality project estimate. Taking the time to thoroughly process each and every facet of the design will save time and headaches in the long run. By doing this work upfront, the estimate will be more accurate. This work can add up to at least 40 hours of staff time. These hours will probably be spread out over several weeks due to all of the moving parts.
What items are involved in an estimate?
Every home is a collection of thousands of separate units that range from walls and roofs to cabinet pulls and shower heads. A cookie cutter building company will use mostly the same components in each house, so their estimate will take almost no time at all. They are usually able to generate an estimate on the spot. For a custom quote, though, the builder must analyze each and every one of the products to be used in the home.
What work does the builder contribute to a custom home cost estimate?
An experienced builder, such as Alair Homes Houston, is the first thing required to make an accurate estimate. Assembling all of the moving parts is a massive project. The builder needs to have a wealth of knowledge, experience, and discretion, as well as top notch organizational skills.
1. First, the builder will calculate the expense of the home assembly, including having a permit agency review the plans of framing the whole house, from the mechanicals to the landscaping. The builder will need to check with the neighborhood’s homeowners’ association to ensure that all landscaping plans will be allowed. Some homeowners’ associations have restrictions on certain plants or exterior paint colors.
2. Next, the builder needs to ensure he is quoting the correct products for the home. This requires the builder to create a complete plan of the house and clarify the product choices with the customers. This ensures that the items being priced for the homes are correct the first time, which will save time in the long run. For example, the builder may assume that the customers would like Delta brushed-nickel faucets, which are the standard quality level. However, the builder must have a conversation about the fixtures with the customer, because the homeowners might be wishing for something more upscale. The builder and the customer need to have a similar discussion about every product in the estimate.
3. The builder now needs to inquire about labor prices from the subcontractors. Subcontractors include everyone from the excavator to the plumber and painter. The builder is required to consider each of the subcontractors’ quotes, which can become the most time-consuming portion of estimating custom home costs. This is because the builder must scrutinize each quote, and make sure that each one is realistic. For example, the drywall contractor might submit a low bid that is based on a minimal amount of drywall installation. The builder must notice this red flag, and discuss with the drywall contractor the actual amount of sheets to be installed. Bids must be carefully reviewed in order to produce an accurate quote.
What does the customer gain from an accurate custom home costs estimate?
If the builder does their work correctly, the customer gains peace of mind that their project will be completed in the specified time frame and budget.