So many times I get ask “what do you charge per square foot?” This is really a trick question. Per square foot depends on a lot of things. So I’ll try to explain below why you need to compare what you are getting for the price per square foot and more. So remember these things as you start on your price gathering mission, make sure you are comparing apples to apples.
A few questions to ask; 1) What is the price per square foot? 2) Where do you buy your materials? 3) Are you insured? 4) Can you get the job done in a timely manner? 5) Do you oversee the job yourself?
What is the price per square foot? Like I said in the beginning, this is a trick question and a big issue. If you start comparing the smaller customs builders to the larger chain builders, you will get a big difference in pricing. Some of the larger chain builders get a better discount on materials due to volume. Others might purchase a lower grade of materials or hardware. Ask what type of materials they use. If you see $72 per square foot, is this for granite and tile? What type of insulation? What type of roofing? What type of flooring? And so many more options will factor in. You can get up to $150 SF, $230 SF, or even more, before you know it with your upgrades and selections.
Where do you buy your materials? Ask the builder if they get their materials from a Builders Supply company or a local chain that everyone shops at. This will tell you about the quality. Ask about the lumber grades and sizes. Ask about the plumbing fixtures. Plumbing fixtures have a big difference from a plumber to a local chain store. How are all these warranted?
Are you insured? If your builder is not insured, what could happen? If they are not insured and an accident happens, who will be responsible? Make sure the builder is insured. And if the builder is using sub contractors, make sure they are insured.
Can you get the job done in a timely manner? Your builder should give you a time schedule to show the steps of the job. Most builders can make the schedule unless it rains, or something occurs outside of the norm. Whether it is a remodel or new construction, you should get a calendar with the activities for the job. This will also let you know who will be showing up at the job site. Communication on a job can happen, stay in contact with the builder and stay updated.
Do you oversee the job yourself? Not usually. Most hands on builders will like to be at the job site on a daily bases to make sure everything is going on schedule, meets the standards for the company, quality is kept, cleanliness on the job site is maintained, etc. The builder will interact with the homeowners during the process to make it knowledge and enjoyable. You are hiring the contractor to oversee the job. Make sure they do that.
Selecting the independent Home Builder could get you a more friendly hands on builder. Their reputation is at stake, so they want to do a good job for you. Shop local and support local, to aid in the Economic Development of your town and county.
For all your Real Estate and Building needs or questions, call Debbie at (713)818-6658 or (830) 833-4249 / debbie@vallonerealestate.net.
More from Debbie Vallone-Homeier.
