Should we renovate an existing structure or consider new construction? This depends, if your property is in an A or V flood zone, which means the 50% rule dictates the amount of renovation permitted. New construction does not have this limitation.

What is the 50% rule? This rule allows you to spend 50% of the structure value for renovation costs. To determine this value you subtract the land value from the total value of your property and then divide this amount by two.

What are A and V zones? These are flood zones requiring you to elevate your structure to a certain level above mean sea level. V zones have the additional requirement that the structure be built on piling.

Do we have enough land to build the square footage we want? This depends on the size of the house and the local front, rear and side setback requirements. A survey of the property and the local zoning maps will give you this information.

Should we hire a design/build construction company or an architect independent from the builder? We believe the architect should be independent from the builder to avoid a conflict of interest and additional contractor overhead and profit expenses added to the design fees. You also have two separate professionals overseeing the other one's work.

What is the average time frame for the design phase? This depends on how focused you are in making decisions needed by the architect to continue the design phase, usually four to six months.

Should the builder be involved in the design phase? We encourage the owner to hire the builder and architect at the same time. This allows the builder to assist in value engineering the project specifications to suit a specific budget.

Should we build a masonry or wood frame structure? The most important element in construction of a new home are the structural components. Masonry & concrete construction is superior structurally when compared to wood frame construction.

What is value engineering and how can a builder help? Value engineering means finding the best product for the value to meet a budget amount. We can help you achieve a budget because we know the labor & material costs needed for your project.

Should we request bids from several builders or attempt to negotiate with the builder of our choice? We believe an owner should interview several builders and then select the builder they feel is the most qualified to build their project.

How do you get competitive bids working with one builder? We request several bids from different subcontractors & suppliers, who are all competing to get the job.

What are the contract options offered by the builder? We have a cost plus contract.

What is the cost plus contract? This is an agreement to build your project for the contractors cost of work plus a fixed percentage, all changes are included at the fixed percentage.

If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to email Rick or Lisa Worley  contact us by clicking here.