Getting Started -Residential FAQs by Gerard Lee Architects, Inc.

RESIDENTIAL GUIDE

Where To Begin Budgeting & Costs Project Delivery Selecting Your Architect Remodels & Additions New Custom Homes Additional Info

THE RESIDENTIAL OWNER'S GUIDE AND FAQ

Here at Gerard Lee Architects, Inc., we believe that educating our clients results in a better project experience for everyone involved. While a developer, public or institutional organization is experienced with the design/construction process, for many residential clients, it's uncharted territory.

With that said, we have attempted to create a guide that to cast some light on this process which at times is more cumbersome than it needs to be. In no way should anyone infer from this that this is a comprehensive guide that covers all aspects of having a project designed and built. Every project and client is different and should be addressed accordingly.

WHY?
First thing to consider is why you have decided to do it at all. A home is a big investment and in some cases, buying another home may not be in the cards. If the school district and the neighborhood are great, you may not want to move. If the existing house has great bones but missing elements you would like to see, then remodeling maybe your answer. Sometimes it helps to create a list of reason to stay or move.

Costs of remodeling vs buying another home
Great school district
Current market conditions may favor low bids for construction
Great house- just needs improvements to make it perfect
Sentimental value
Growing family/ returning adult children or home care for the elderly

Lists your reasons and know why you are doing it. Having a clear idea of what you want will help the project move forward.

Starting the project
Once you know why you want to embark on this project, you probably have tons of questions as to how to get to the finish product. You may choose to work with an architect, designer or contractor to fulfill your dreams. Here are a few suggestions for your start up list.

Create a budget -understand your finances and how much you are willing to pay for this
Select an architect/ designer -research and talk to as many architects or designers as possible
Will you be staying or living somewhere else during construction?
Understand your likes and dislikes - how does your family live or function
Do you have stylistic preferences?
Do you have an idea of the improvements you would like?

For us at Gerard Lee Architects, we feel that developing long term relationships is more important that any short term profit that maybe gained by taking on projects where the client does not have a firm grasp of all the facts. Even if it means losing a client or project because they may not like what they hear, we think it's better to have all our cards on the table, be honest and provide a reality check whenever a situation calls for it. A well educated client tends to be a happy client and usually a repeat client.