ᐅ Semi-Detached House Construction: Shared or Separate Developers
Created on: 13 Apr 2015 21:42
C
cordi
We want to build a semi-detached house for two families. The plots have been purchased; what should be the next steps?
It might be easiest to use the same developer to build both units simultaneously. Do developers usually work with two clients under separate contracts? How are the costs typically divided?
Or should each family find and hire their own developer for their half of the semi-detached house and build independently?
Perhaps there are experiences or recommendations.
Thank you.
It might be easiest to use the same developer to build both units simultaneously. Do developers usually work with two clients under separate contracts? How are the costs typically divided?
Or should each family find and hire their own developer for their half of the semi-detached house and build independently?
Perhaps there are experiences or recommendations.
Thank you.
Well, basically it is a matter of personal preference, with all the advantages and disadvantages. We also struggled with the question of how the construction should actually proceed. We considered the following options:
1. Building with an architect
We basically liked this option but ended up with two "slowpokes" who were disappointing both in creativity and in providing concrete cost estimates. We – it should be mentioned – are rather cautious by nature and primarily wanted cost certainty and to keep additional expenses (which are always inevitable) within a reasonable overall limit. In addition, we have little time for intensive personal involvement in the construction process and progress.
The advantage would have been having a house extensively planned according to our own wishes and needs, and usually a solid tendering and supervision process as a result.
In the end, you have all the strings in your hands from the start. But this is also true of puppets: you have to be able to move them yourself and not be afraid of unexpected movements.
2. Building a prefab house
There were many good reasons for this option, but also some against it. Ultimately, it was not for us because, in our very rural area, prefab houses are not very popular and potential resale would probably involve discounts (sometimes unfair). Moreover, we did not particularly like the designs, and the upgrade options were quite expensive.
3. Building through a general contractor
Here, the main question was which company to choose. Problems included solvency, flexibility regarding adjustments to standard floor plans, construction execution, and overall acceptance of prior negotiations and contractual modifications afterward.
So only an established company with excellent creditworthiness and an impeccable reputation was an option.
We then decided on option 3 and basically calculated the entire contract package, including detailed planning, with "our" general contractor and negotiated adjustments before signing. In fact, over 80% of the equipment features were agreed on in detail, including prices, and were incorporated into the construction service description.
1. Building with an architect
We basically liked this option but ended up with two "slowpokes" who were disappointing both in creativity and in providing concrete cost estimates. We – it should be mentioned – are rather cautious by nature and primarily wanted cost certainty and to keep additional expenses (which are always inevitable) within a reasonable overall limit. In addition, we have little time for intensive personal involvement in the construction process and progress.
The advantage would have been having a house extensively planned according to our own wishes and needs, and usually a solid tendering and supervision process as a result.
In the end, you have all the strings in your hands from the start. But this is also true of puppets: you have to be able to move them yourself and not be afraid of unexpected movements.
2. Building a prefab house
There were many good reasons for this option, but also some against it. Ultimately, it was not for us because, in our very rural area, prefab houses are not very popular and potential resale would probably involve discounts (sometimes unfair). Moreover, we did not particularly like the designs, and the upgrade options were quite expensive.
3. Building through a general contractor
Here, the main question was which company to choose. Problems included solvency, flexibility regarding adjustments to standard floor plans, construction execution, and overall acceptance of prior negotiations and contractual modifications afterward.
So only an established company with excellent creditworthiness and an impeccable reputation was an option.
We then decided on option 3 and basically calculated the entire contract package, including detailed planning, with "our" general contractor and negotiated adjustments before signing. In fact, over 80% of the equipment features were agreed on in detail, including prices, and were incorporated into the construction service description.
B
Bauexperte15 Apr 2015 14:19cordi schrieb:
The question is whether I also get the architectural services from the general contractor (Hello company Massivhaus-Baufirma XY, I have a plot and want to build a house on it. What are your ideas?) or if I outsource the architectural services beforehand and then hire the general contractor based on the architectural plans (Hello company Massivhaus-Baufirma XY, I have architectural plans. What would your estimate be if you build this on my plot?).Most general contractors will not fully credit you for the cost of the architectural services. To prepare the cost estimate, they need to enter your architect’s drawings into their system so it can produce a price “x.” Afterwards, based on these plans and discussions with you, the building permit (planning permission) and later the construction documentation will be created.So, unless you are planning a particularly complex architectural design or want to build on a challenging plot—where an independent architect is often the better contact—it is usually sufficient to go to a trusted general contractor and have them handle the design.
But—as always—your choice!
Regards, Bauexperte
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