The pre-construction phase of building a home is a crucial stage that lays the foundation for a successful construction project. It involves tasks and planning activities to ensure the project progresses smoothly for all our clients. Here are the critical steps involved in the pre-construction phase:

1. Project Planning:

• We help you define the size of the home you want and your goals.

• We thoroughly analyze the project with you to ensure it is within your budget, timeline, and regulatory constraints for where you want to build your home. This analysis estimates the construction cost in the area you wish to develop through our construction management platform, Buildertrend.

2. Budgeting and Cost Estimation:

• We create a detailed estimate for you on Buildertrend, including land acquisition costs (if you choose to purchase land from us), permits, design, construction, materials, labor, and contingencies.

3. Site Selection and Evaluation:

• We help you choose an appropriate location based on accessibility, zoning regulations, proximity to amenities, and soil conditions.

• We conduct site surveys, soil tests, and environmental assessments to ensure the land is safe for building your home.

4. Contract Signing and Financing:

• We work with your bank or lender of choice (we can also recommend some excellent lenders) to submit all the necessary paperwork to secure financing for your home! (Note: we do not include financing costs or attorney fees in our estimates.)

• We work with your attorney (if you choose to hire one) to negotiate a contract for our services and close on the land (if you’re purchasing land through us). 

5. Design and Architectural Planning:

• We help you hire an architect or a design team to create a concept and detailed blueprints for the home. (We can recommend a few phenomenal architects.)

• We incorporate your vision, preferences, and any specific requirements.

6. Obtaining Permits and Approvals:

• We identify and obtain the necessary permits and approvals from local authorities, including building permits, zoning variances, environmental clearances, and regulatory compliance.

7. Subcontractor Selection and Bidding:

• We go through the process of assembling the proper team of subcontractors through competitive bidding and negotiation.

• During bidding and negotiation, we consider factors like experience, expertise, reputation, and pricing.

8. Scheduling and Timeline Development:

• We create a detailed project schedule that outlines milestones, tasks, and timelines from pre-construction through completion, which you can see through our client portal on Buildertrend.

• We consider factors like weather, material availability, and labor availability.

9. Risk Management and Contingency Planning:

• We identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.

• We establish contingency plans for unforeseen events that may impact the project.

10. Procurement and Supplier Management:

• We source and secure construction materials, equipment, and services from reliable suppliers and subcontractors.

• We establish contracts, delivery schedules, and quality standards with all our vendors and subcontractors.

11. Safety Planning and Compliance:

• We develop a comprehensive safety plan that addresses potential hazards and outlines safety procedures for workers and visitors.

• Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.

12. Communication and Stakeholder Management:

• We establish clear lines of communication between project stakeholders, including you, the design team, us, and subcontractors through Buildertrend.

• We post regularly on Buildertrend to update you on progress and to address concerns.

13. Establishing Project Documentation:

• We ensure all project documents are appropriately filed in Buildertrend for ease of accessibility for everyone on the project, including contracts, blueprints, permits, and any other relevant paperwork.

The pre-construction phase is critical for setting the stage for a successful construction project. Thorough planning, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial elements to ensure a smooth transition into the construction phase.