There are several reasons to choose a design/build firm to build your home. Below are a few of the most important:
1. Teamwork: Designer, Builder, Client – we’re all in this together! When challenges are encountered on a project (and there will be challenges), fingers aren’t pointed – everyone rolls up their sleeves and comes up with the solution.
2. Total accountability: One entity is accountable for everything –including how the end result looks, how much it costs and the timeline of completion. When the same group that designs the project also builds your home, there tends to be much more attention given to all facets of the project – including pricing and scheduling in the design phase. The client’s budget is taken into account early on in the process so that there are no surprises.
Unfortunately, it’s not unusual for our industry to have clients that say "their home cost 20% more than they thought it was going to cost" – such a scenario is entirely unacceptable in the design-build world. Design-build focuses on results, not excuses.
3. Continuity: A design-build firm is involved from start to finish, which adds an inherent efficiency. The chance for things to fall through the cracks is greatly diminished. Since not everything can be communicated on a plan, it is much easier for the clients wishes to be missed once construction starts and even more likely that those items on the "want list" are not figured in the initial cost – resulting in increased cost.
4. Expertise: Design-build firms are experts in both fields. They know what design elements cost and are able to keep those elements "in-check" with the client’s budget.
There is a tremendous advantage to working with designers that can think like builders and builders who can think like designers, but design-build is a commitment, something you dedicate yourself to for an entire career –not just when it’s convenient.
5. Professional guides: We’ve all heard the stories that building a home is stressful. This should never be the case. A design-build firm helps guide the client through the entire process and should be able to break down the process into orderly steps.
6. Involvement: Design-build operates under the assumption that the client actually wants to be an active participant in the design and construction of their home. Again, the process should be one of teamwork between designer, builder and client.