HDA 061: The Value of Contractor Pre-Construction Services with Mark Martin

#061: As part of the Legacy Homes series, which you can find on
the N3 Architecture YouTube channel and also on the Home Design
Academy Podcast, I sit down with Mark Martin, custom home builder
with Schultz Miller Construction in Seattle Washington.

When you are building a new custom home or planning a major
renovation project it is always beneficial to hire a contractor
for pre-construction services. Even though it may result in more
cost up front to pay the contractor for this service, the benefit
in the overall project is priceless.

First off, it is a good way to determine if you and the
contractor are a good fit, before you sign a contract with them
for the construction of the home. Next you get the contractors
input on the budget of the design. This preliminary contractor
pricing will almost always be more accurate than an architect's
estimated cost based on the square footage of the home. Then you
get the contractor's input on the structure, envelope, mechanical
systems and finishes. They can also provide you with different
options and work with your architect on the final details.

Having the contractor engaged early, as part of the team is a
better way to approach your project. Don't think that you need to
wait until the final plans are complete and then go out and get
three bids to just choose the lowest price.


Consider purchasing a copy of my book: The Homeowner's Guide to
Residential Design and Construction Projects. It is available as
a PDF download through my website or in a paperback version on
Amazon.

visit n3 architecture for more information

go check out the n3 architecture YouTube channel