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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.   Would you give us a bid on our project?
Q2.   How does the final cost of the project typically relate to your original budget estimate?
Q3.   What is the typical process if we were to approach Britton Homes to do work for us?
Q4.   What am I (the homeowner) responsible for during the construction process?
Q5.   How long might it take to complete my project?


Q1:   Would you give us a bid on our project?

We do not give fixed "BIDS" per se. We prefer to work with our clients to arrive at the appropriate Budget Estimate, commensurate with the scope of work and the desired level of finish. A fixed bid contract can lead to an adversarial relationship when a contractor tries to cut corners to increase its profit. This built-in tension does not foster the trust necessary for a productive and successful project; especially where plans and specifications are not finalized at the beginning of the project. We know that fixed price contracts are considered common in the construction industry. However, the high-quality custom nature of our projects compel a different approach. Our approach establishes a relationship of trust and confidence where you benefit from our decades of construction expertise. Like any trusted advisor, as your builder we work to serve your interests. Starting even with a schematic design, we are able to rough-out a budget and move your project forward. Working with you, we use our knowledge of local material and labor costs to value engineer your project. In this way our clients are able to make informed decisions about the scope and cost of their project. Unlike the traditional tension in the contractor-owner relationship; we are on your side. Our clients seem to prefer a more open and honest approach to their construction projects. WE DO TOO.

Q2:   How does the final cost of the project typically relate to your original budget estimate?

Virtually every project has a number of additions and subtractions from the original scope of work as well as changes to specifications as the project progresses. We track the significant changes and indicate, through the use of "Change Orders," how they affect the original budget estimate. Historically, factoring in these changes, we find that our estimates are very realistic. The final costs pan out approximately as follows: 1/3 of the jobs come in 5% or less than the estimate, 1/3 are within a percentage point either way of the estimate, and 1/3 end up within 5% over the estimate. Rarely a project will come in 10-15% more OR less than the original estimate.

Q3:   What is the typical process if we were to approach Britton Homes to do work for us?

Initial Contact

If you are like most of our customers you probably heard about us through a friend or neighbor or saw one of our trucks or signs at a job.

Depending on who you speak with, at this point we would get some basic information about you and what it is you are looking to do.

Call Back

After the initial contact we will put together a ball park number to see if the project is feasible within your budget. Jim, the owner, will get back in touch with you to further discuss the project and, if suitable, arrange a meeting at your home.

The First Meeting

The first meeting is all about understanding your needs and desires. What is it you hope to accomplish with your new space? Once we have an understanding of the project we will go over some of our documentation so that you can start to get a feeling for the construction process.

After the first meeting we will send you a letter recapping our meeting and our understanding of the project. We would also invite you to get in touch with us if you have any further questions or would like to move forward with us on your project.

The Design

When you are ready to explore design possibilities, we have a graduated Architect who we work closely with, or if you have your own designer, we can work with them as well. We work in four stages: conceptual designs, design development, construction documents, and construction administration.

The conceptual designs will illustrate several options for what you would like to do and how it will be accomplished. The design development will further develop the chosen concept and produce initial framing plans, floor plans, elevations, and pricing. The construction documents will consist of the completed architectural documents for permit and construction of the approved design. The final stage is construction administration where the designer, working on your behalf, will verify during the construction process that the project is built as specified in the plans.

Our designer would be happy to speak to you about his process and your project.

Construction

When you are ready to sign a construction contract with Britton Homes we will have a pre-construction meeting to discuss any practical issues about working on the site such as start time and parking. At this time we will also review the construction documents to ensure we are all on the same page with regards to the specific finishing materials and preliminary construction schedule. This schedule will aid you in planning your time relative to construction activities and ease the tension of the construction process.

Follow Up

All of our work is guaranteed for one year. Since we want you to be a customer for life, we make sure to follow up promptly on any repair work that needs to be done. You are what keeps us in business, so we are sure to make you our number one priority.

Q4:   What am I (the homeowner) responsible for during the construction process?

  1. Prompt selection of customer specific items such as flooring, cabinets, light fixtures, bath fixtures, etc…
  2. Timely payment according to the contract and, if you choose to make changes after the project has begun, timely payment of change orders as well.

Q5:   How long might it take to complete my project?

  1. Most additions involving a foundation and kitchen take approximately 4 months.
    • Site work - 30 days.
    • Frame work - 30 days.
    • Rough Mechanicals and plaster - 30 days.
    • Finish work and inspections - 30 days.
  2. Most Kitchen Remodels take approximately 1 month from permit to completion.
    • Add two weeks for granite or Corrian counter tops.
    • Cabinets must be ordered at contract signing so that they are available for installation otherwise project completion would be pushed out.
  3. A typical ranch bath remodel with basic fixtures takes 2 weeks.
    • Toilet and shower will be out of use for 1 day.

If you have any other questions please e-mail admin@britton-homes.com and we will address them as soon as possible.

Member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry
Home Improvement Contractors Registration #130323
Construction Supervisors License # CS051865
Proof of liability insurance and workmen's compensation available upon request.