ᐅ Creating Architectural Drawings for Home Construction & Contracting Trades Individually
Created on: 30 Jan 2015 08:24
T
Tommes78
Good morning,
like many of you, we are currently exploring the topic of building a house. We have already purchased a plot of land over 650 sqm (7000 sq ft) and have a time frame of three years to complete the house.
We want to plan everything carefully, and since we don’t have to start building immediately—especially with a wedding coming up this summer—we are in no rush.
We have already contacted a few developers, and the prices were almost always about the same in the end. When our bank advisor found out we had already spoken to developers, he suggested why not commission everything ourselves, as this could save us a significant amount of money.
So, how should I proceed?
I am thinking of hiring an architect to create a design based on our preferences. I’m considering services covering project phases 1 to 6. After that, we want to request quotes from specialized contractors for each trade, at least for the major ones like structural work including the basement, roof, heating, and so on.
We are fortunate because my father used to be a bricklayer and could supervise the construction, and my brother-in-law works in building materials, so we might get good prices there. Of course, I don’t know how companies would react if we want to supply the bricks ourselves, but I think it’s all a matter of agreement.
What do you think? What is the best way to approach this? Do you think our plan makes sense? We understand that it will be more stressful and take more time.
Thanks in advance for your answers.
like many of you, we are currently exploring the topic of building a house. We have already purchased a plot of land over 650 sqm (7000 sq ft) and have a time frame of three years to complete the house.
We want to plan everything carefully, and since we don’t have to start building immediately—especially with a wedding coming up this summer—we are in no rush.
We have already contacted a few developers, and the prices were almost always about the same in the end. When our bank advisor found out we had already spoken to developers, he suggested why not commission everything ourselves, as this could save us a significant amount of money.
So, how should I proceed?
I am thinking of hiring an architect to create a design based on our preferences. I’m considering services covering project phases 1 to 6. After that, we want to request quotes from specialized contractors for each trade, at least for the major ones like structural work including the basement, roof, heating, and so on.
We are fortunate because my father used to be a bricklayer and could supervise the construction, and my brother-in-law works in building materials, so we might get good prices there. Of course, I don’t know how companies would react if we want to supply the bricks ourselves, but I think it’s all a matter of agreement.
What do you think? What is the best way to approach this? Do you think our plan makes sense? We understand that it will be more stressful and take more time.
Thanks in advance for your answers.
T
toxicmolotof30 Jan 2015 16:30We are also working with an architect during work phases 1-8. From what I have experienced doing many tasks myself, I recommend having phases 7-8 carried out by professionals. The amount of time you need for coordination would otherwise cost you several vacation days per year. The real challenge is not awarding contracts or construction supervision, but the communication and coordination between the trades.
Basically, I agree with Nordanney. You are much more flexible and able to customize, and you don’t have to pay a lot for every small change.
However, I’m not convinced that it actually ends up being cheaper (if you pay the architect’s fees as usual).
Basically, I agree with Nordanney. You are much more flexible and able to customize, and you don’t have to pay a lot for every small change.
However, I’m not convinced that it actually ends up being cheaper (if you pay the architect’s fees as usual).
toxicmolotow schrieb:
We are also building with an architect during design phases 1-8. Seeing how much I’m already doing on the side, I recommend having qualified professionals handle phases 7-8 as well. You spend so much time on coordination that it eats into your vacation days each year. The problem isn’t awarding contracts or construction supervision, but the communication and coordination between the trades.That’s true. The main question is whether you know exactly what to specify for the tender: materials, required quantities? Without standardized bids, you can’t make proper comparisons. Phase 8 is handled by my father-in-law. He’s retired early, has built several houses, and has some contacts with tradespeople to get certain things inspected or evaluated. My partner (full-time) and I (part-time) are already busy enough with some self-performed work, coordinating with trades, and choosing materials.
Build with an architect and direct contracting as well.
The advantages described (flexibility at any time and often higher quality execution at the same price as a main contractor) come with drawbacks (you have to manage everything yourself and make many decisions that a main contractor would usually handle for you). It is stressful and time-consuming, but worth it. Above all, defects can usually be fixed quickly and easily during the construction phase.
The advantages described (flexibility at any time and often higher quality execution at the same price as a main contractor) come with drawbacks (you have to manage everything yourself and make many decisions that a main contractor would usually handle for you). It is stressful and time-consuming, but worth it. Above all, defects can usually be fixed quickly and easily during the construction phase.
Thank you all for your many responses.
Could you briefly explain how it works with an architect? Is there usually a free initial consultation where you describe what you want, followed by a rough estimate of the likely costs?
I mean, we’re still undecided whether to go with an architect or a general contractor, but I would need to know if my idea for the house is feasible within budget x when I consult an architect.
Could you briefly explain how it works with an architect? Is there usually a free initial consultation where you describe what you want, followed by a rough estimate of the likely costs?
I mean, we’re still undecided whether to go with an architect or a general contractor, but I would need to know if my idea for the house is feasible within budget x when I consult an architect.
T
toxicmolotof2 Feb 2015 09:15No matter how it goes, you should first clarify up to which point the preliminary consultation is free and when the paid planning phase begins.
There is no initial draft or free cost estimate, usually not even a rough one.
Typically, you will tell the architect what you have in mind, and they will indicate whether the project is feasible, not feasible, or tight. If it’s “tight,” it’s best to budget an additional 30,000–50,000 EUR (approximately 32,000–54,000 USD).
There is no initial draft or free cost estimate, usually not even a rough one.
Typically, you will tell the architect what you have in mind, and they will indicate whether the project is feasible, not feasible, or tight. If it’s “tight,” it’s best to budget an additional 30,000–50,000 EUR (approximately 32,000–54,000 USD).
B
Bauexperte2 Feb 2015 11:27Hello,
I want to disagree with Tox – there are not many, but some architects do create a first draft for free; finding these is likely the challenge.
Regarding costs in comparison: architect versus general contractor / construction manager – it will not get cheaper; you should accept that regardless of what is said here. What often seems to be the case, however, is that the quality of fittings and finishes is "better" than when contracting through a general contractor or construction manager. Ultimately, though, this is often a vague statement to me. What exactly does "better quality" mean? Compared to what standard? Unfortunately, these questions are rarely if ever answered here; a few more expensive tiles probably are not it.
Best regards, Bauexperte
Tommes78 schrieb:That depends on how you arrange the initial meeting. You should definitely make it clear that the appointment is meant for both sides to get a feel for the chemistry; the fee expected later naturally also plays a role.
Can you briefly explain how it works with an architect? Is there first a free consultation where you explain what you want and then a rough cost estimate is provided?
I want to disagree with Tox – there are not many, but some architects do create a first draft for free; finding these is likely the challenge.
Tommes78 schrieb:I think it will ultimately come down to knowing early on – before a first design is made – where things are heading. In this respect, the architect you choose is entitled to a fee. However, Tox is right in one regard: you should plan for a higher budget because the cost estimates from architects only become more precise once you receive quotes from the individual tradespeople. If these are higher than expected and your financing is based on the initial estimate, your options for additional funding will be limited to none; this often happens even with very good credit ratings.
I mean, we are still unsure whether to go with an architect or a general contractor, but I would need to know if my idea of the house is achievable within budget x when I see an architect.
Regarding costs in comparison: architect versus general contractor / construction manager – it will not get cheaper; you should accept that regardless of what is said here. What often seems to be the case, however, is that the quality of fittings and finishes is "better" than when contracting through a general contractor or construction manager. Ultimately, though, this is often a vague statement to me. What exactly does "better quality" mean? Compared to what standard? Unfortunately, these questions are rarely if ever answered here; a few more expensive tiles probably are not it.
Best regards, Bauexperte
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