FAQs
>> We know we want to remodel our home (or even build a new home) but where do we start?
We are excited to meet with you, inspect your property, and offer some advice as to how to move forward. While we don’t necessarily specialize in architectural design, we're proud to be connected with countless high quality architects and architectural firms that we could refer you to.
>> Before the project gets underway, how will we know the cost of the project?
Once we have cased your property or home, had advanced talks to get an idea on what your goals are, and mapped out the strategies, we will do a preliminary evaluation of the project that should include a rough estimate of the costs to carry out the project. We can arrive at the pricing by comparing the project with that of similar projects we've done in the past and be developing a budget based on the intended size and length of the project. We can also provide you with recommendations if we see anything that could be applied to your project to help improve it.
The entire reason for this particular evaluation is to give you the proper amount of info so you can then determine how to proceed.
After this comes the complex total-estimate-phase which allows us to get a far more specified realization of what the project costs will come out to. This will includes a total area inspection with a few different subcontractors, with the idea to both establish costs and to identify existing issues.
During this particular phase, we will need information on numerous elements of the project like the selection of tiles, plumbing fixtures, electrical schedule, etc. to get the most specific pricing concept. The reasoning behind this effort is to meet the visual, financial, and convenience needs of the buyer. To achieve this goal, we will have to keep our alternatives considered at all times.
>> How do you charge for your service? Do you use a standard, fixed price or is it based on time and material cost?
We use both the ‘set price’ and a ‘time & maintenance’ type contract, depending upon the project, and it's particular needs.
The advantage of a fixed price contract, is that, other than change orders or allowance overages, the cost to build the project is pretty much established.
Projects where it is difficult to pinpoint the definite cost, time is limited or where many of the selections aren't known at the beginning of the job, are far better off being paired with a time & materials type contract. These contracts consist primarily of labor, material and subcontractor costs, plus a percentage fee.
>> Ok, so we decided to go with you guys, now what?
One of our talented and diligent project managers will be assigned to your project. He will be your main, day-to-day contact from beginning to end. He is responsible for overseeing work by other employees of Mercer Island Home Builders and the various subcontractors. He can answer your questions about schedule, staging, and all of the technical questions or concerns you might have.
>> How do you determine the material and product selection?
In order for the construction to proceed without error, it is crucial that selections are made in a reasonably timely manner. The earlier the decisions made, the more vast the selection of materials will be, including foreign materials that take a long time to arrive. Towards the start of the project, you will be given a worksheet that indicates a due date for the remaining items selected. Often customers will need help to make these choices, either from their architect or an experienced interior designer. Mercer Island Home Builders does have an interior designer available if needed. We also have countless resources made available to help you find materials, including a list of nearby showrooms, and sites that can help in your search.
>> How can I be assured that the project is on schedule and going as planned?
Job progress is extremely important to us at Mercer Island Home Builders. At the beginning of the job, you will be given a week-by-week schedule outlining the upcoming tasks related to your project. It will help you understand what to expect. You can keep track of the progress of the job as it pertains to the schedule. Changes to the schedule due to change orders, uncooperative weather, and the selection of materials, if not done on time, will be reflected in the schedule which we will update on a monthly basis.
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We are excited to meet with you, inspect your property, and offer some advice as to how to move forward. While we don’t necessarily specialize in architectural design, we're proud to be connected with countless high quality architects and architectural firms that we could refer you to.
>> Before the project gets underway, how will we know the cost of the project?
Once we have cased your property or home, had advanced talks to get an idea on what your goals are, and mapped out the strategies, we will do a preliminary evaluation of the project that should include a rough estimate of the costs to carry out the project. We can arrive at the pricing by comparing the project with that of similar projects we've done in the past and be developing a budget based on the intended size and length of the project. We can also provide you with recommendations if we see anything that could be applied to your project to help improve it.
The entire reason for this particular evaluation is to give you the proper amount of info so you can then determine how to proceed.
After this comes the complex total-estimate-phase which allows us to get a far more specified realization of what the project costs will come out to. This will includes a total area inspection with a few different subcontractors, with the idea to both establish costs and to identify existing issues.
During this particular phase, we will need information on numerous elements of the project like the selection of tiles, plumbing fixtures, electrical schedule, etc. to get the most specific pricing concept. The reasoning behind this effort is to meet the visual, financial, and convenience needs of the buyer. To achieve this goal, we will have to keep our alternatives considered at all times.
>> How do you charge for your service? Do you use a standard, fixed price or is it based on time and material cost?
We use both the ‘set price’ and a ‘time & maintenance’ type contract, depending upon the project, and it's particular needs.
The advantage of a fixed price contract, is that, other than change orders or allowance overages, the cost to build the project is pretty much established.
Projects where it is difficult to pinpoint the definite cost, time is limited or where many of the selections aren't known at the beginning of the job, are far better off being paired with a time & materials type contract. These contracts consist primarily of labor, material and subcontractor costs, plus a percentage fee.
>> Ok, so we decided to go with you guys, now what?
One of our talented and diligent project managers will be assigned to your project. He will be your main, day-to-day contact from beginning to end. He is responsible for overseeing work by other employees of Mercer Island Home Builders and the various subcontractors. He can answer your questions about schedule, staging, and all of the technical questions or concerns you might have.
>> How do you determine the material and product selection?
In order for the construction to proceed without error, it is crucial that selections are made in a reasonably timely manner. The earlier the decisions made, the more vast the selection of materials will be, including foreign materials that take a long time to arrive. Towards the start of the project, you will be given a worksheet that indicates a due date for the remaining items selected. Often customers will need help to make these choices, either from their architect or an experienced interior designer. Mercer Island Home Builders does have an interior designer available if needed. We also have countless resources made available to help you find materials, including a list of nearby showrooms, and sites that can help in your search.
>> How can I be assured that the project is on schedule and going as planned?
Job progress is extremely important to us at Mercer Island Home Builders. At the beginning of the job, you will be given a week-by-week schedule outlining the upcoming tasks related to your project. It will help you understand what to expect. You can keep track of the progress of the job as it pertains to the schedule. Changes to the schedule due to change orders, uncooperative weather, and the selection of materials, if not done on time, will be reflected in the schedule which we will update on a monthly basis.
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