The Importance of the Planning Phase
Regarding remodels and custom home builds, most companies jump straight into production after obtaining architectural blueprints and specifications. If a planning phase is included, it is usually brief and often overlooked. At Howland Homes, we emphasize the importance of a thorough planning phase, and yes, we charge for it. This investment ensures a more accurate and seamless project execution. No one plans out the job or designs your home for free, and there is immense value in this crucial step. Our process aims to minimize common construction mistakes, leading to a smoother and more efficient building experience.
Why Do You Need a Planning Phase?
Some clients might wonder, "Why do we need a planning phase if I have a good set of plans from the architect?" or "Why do we need a planning phase and why do I need to pay for it?" Here's why:
Architectural plans offer a solid starting point, but they frequently contain generic details that might not match your specific expectations. Also, you do not need a set of plans from an architect before working with us. We can design plans for you from scratch if you do not already have them. Creating the house plans for your dream home is a crucial step that sets the stage for success. By partnering with Howland Homes from the beginning, you ensure a design that aligns with your budget, requirements, and desires. During our planning phase, we meticulously review these plans to ensure every detail is accurate and tailored to your needs. For instance, aspects like blocking, specifications, and the height of blocking might be overlooked but are crucial for installing lighting fixtures and TVs in the correct placement the clients want.
Additionally, we can plan out various critical elements during this phase, such as:
Electrical Outlets and Lighting: Ensuring outlets and light fixtures are placed optimally for convenience and aesthetics.
Plumbing Layouts: Reviewing the placement of pipes and fixtures to prevent future issues and ensure efficiency.
HVAC Systems: Planning the placement and specifications of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to maximize comfort and efficiency.
Material Selection: Choosing the right materials for different parts of the project to ensure durability and style.
Custom Cabinetry and Built-ins: Designing and planning the installation of custom cabinets and built-ins to fit your specific needs and space.
Landscaping and Exterior Features: Outlining the design and placement of landscaping elements, patios, decks, and other outdoor features.
Many companies that skip the planning phase or do not charge for it often miss out on these vital details. Just as you wouldn't build a house without blueprints, you shouldn't embark on a construction project without proper planning. During our planning phase, we cover all details for production, outline a comprehensive scope of work, and establish a realistic schedule. This preparation helps prevent complications and delays, ensuring a smooth building process.
What to Expect from Howland Homes Before Committing to Our Services
By partnering with Howland Homes from the outset, you can ensure that your design aligns with your budget, saving you time, money, and frustration. Here's what you can expect before signing a contract with us:
Initial Consultation: We provide a ballpark budget and scope of work, giving you a clear understanding of the project's cost and the production phase's requirements and timeline.
Transparency and Clarity: We outline the project's steps, ensuring you are fully informed before making any commitments.
Once you decide to work with us, we move on to the detailed planning phase.
Our Role During the Planning Phase
Upon committing to our services, we dive into making the budget more specific. This involves obtaining quotes from our vendors for items like windows and doors, appliances, labor, materials, etc. Our planning phase is thorough and detailed, ensuring that every aspect of the project is accounted for.
Key activities during the planning phase include:
Detailed Budgeting: We refine the budget with precise quotes to ensure financial clarity.
Scheduling: We develop a detailed timeline to keep the project on track.
Walk-throughs and Reviews: Regular walk-throughs during the production phase ensure alignment with the planning phase, allowing us to address any discrepancies promptly.
Design Analysis: We thoroughly review the house plans to ensure all measurements are accurate. If necessary, we can redesign aspects to make the plans more customary for you. This detailed analysis also allows us to provide a more precise quote on materials by doing material take-offs and getting quotes from our vendors.
This meticulous planning not only helps us stay on budget and schedule but also ensures that the final build matches your vision.
In conclusion, the planning phase is an essential component of any successful remodel or custom home build. At Howland Homes, we prioritize this phase to deliver a high-quality and accurate construction experience. By investing in detailed planning, we minimize change orders and unknowns to ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish. Trust us to bring your dream home to life with precision and care.
