An On-Site Consultation: Why It Matters Before Construction
An on-site consultation is an essential step in pre-construction planning for an addition and renovation to your home, or even a renovation of an accessory building or garage. During this visit, I’ll visually assess your existing home and property to identify any potential construction challenges.
While almost any renovation project can be built, the real question is: Does it fit your budget? Are there major maintenance issues in your home that you haven’t noticed? These are just a few reasons why I carefully review your property before construction begins.
Unexpected issues can significantly increase your costs for an addition or renovation and push you over budget. Here are some common factors that may add expenses when expanding your home:
Potential Additional Costs
- Will you need to replace your sewer or water lines?
- Are there trees that must be removed?
- Will you need to replace or modify your fencing?
- Do any accessory buildings or garages require demolition?
- Will mechanical units need to be relocated or replaced?
- Will electric meters or panels need to be moved or upgraded?
Additional Considerations
- Is the residential project realistic for your budget and long-term goals?
- Are there property conditions, such as grade levels, that could create construction challenges?
- Could existing site conditions increase your overall construction cost?
- What is your property’s zoning? What is the maximum building lot coverage?
- Is it in a historic district? What steps are involved in obtaining a historic permit?
- Will you need to address deferred maintenance that could cost $20,000 or more?
- How long will you need to stay in the home to see a return on your investment?
- Do you need to phase the different parts of your addition and renovation project?
- Do you need to hire a structural engineer for a home inspection before design work begins?
- Is it feasible to renovate the accessory building or garage into a tiny house? (DADU)
- Will you need to move out during the remodel?
- Do you want to incorporate energy-efficient or green building features into your renovation?
- Would you want to hire an Interior Designer to help with interior finishes?
- How does the bidding process work for your residential project?
- What’s the best way to find, interview, and hire contractors?
- Will the money you spend on the remodeling project provide a good resale value?
- Will the renovated home meet your family’s future needs?
- Is remodeling the best choice, or would moving make more sense?
These are all very important questions to consider before you start the home design process and spend money with Residential Designers or Architects. In addition to answering all of these questions, my process always begins with a “guesstimate” of the project cost. It is based on my years of experience in addition & renovation design, as well as a visual survey of the existing property conditions and a discussion of the type of renovation project you need.
You aren’t obligated to hire me for the drawing phase. The information you receive will benefit you no matter who you hire to design your residential project. The consultation meeting is also a good opportunity for us to see if we are a good fit to work together. I want you to hire the right Residential Designer for your project, even if it’s not me!
Check out my blog post on remodeling budgets.