Our Process
We understand that the construction process can be daunting and make you feel uneasy. We’re here to walk you through our step-by-step, proven process developed over nearly twenty years in the business. Here are a few foundations of what we do differently to drive value through our process:
- Secure multiple bids in each category, so you don’t have to. We guarantee our market-value price by taking the competition in house and showing you the savings.
- Minimizing your time spent with multiple general contractors (none of which are very excited that they are a part of a bidding war)
- Value-engineering throughout the process with multiple bid presentations, and continuing to refine scope until you’re completely satisfied
Remodeling and building a new home are massive undertakings - both financially, with your time, and with the stress on your family as you undergo the process. As a family-owned business, we strive to make the process as understandable, easy and fun as possible for you and your family. Safety, professionalism, and your satisfaction are at the core of what we do. Below you’ll find our detailed process and estimated completion timeline.
Partnership and Planning Phase (2-4 Weeks)
The first step in our process is to make sure that we are a good fit for you and your project. We’ll start with an initial consultation to understand and refine your vision for your remodel or home build and make sure you feel comfortable with our team, knowledge, and process. During this phase we will establish an approximate budget for the scope or phases of your project. This approximation is based on similar projects we’ve completed in your area in the past 1-2 years, to give you confidence that we are landing within an acceptable and market-driven price range. We’ll then draw up and review our construction agreement. Once you are ready to begin the creative process, we each sign the agreement and move to the Initial Design Phase.
Initial Design Phase (2-4 weeks)
Once your construction agreement is signed, we’ll start working on the design and architectural components of your project. We’ll select an architect and designer from our team that fit your project, and they’ll get to work on the as-built structure and drawings of your future home. We build the scope in-house as the design process continues, and then conduct an Open House at the home. The Open House is where we invite multiple subcontractors in each category to have a look at the project and submit bids. After we’ve compiled the bids, we’re ready to present the Preliminary Bid. This bid tends to include all the bells and whistles, and is the appropriate time to begin the Final Design Phase of refining and building out the Final Scope.
Final Design Phase (2-4 weeks)
We’ll continue crafting the final design for your home by refining our drawings and scope to your satisfaction and making material selections. We then establish and present the Final Scope and Bid, detailing the full cost of your project and every fine detail of the final product. Once we’ve reviewed and agreed upon the Final Scope, you will approve and sign off on construction prints, the scope of work, estimated timeline and the final budget.
Pre-Construction Phase (2-4 Weeks)
Now that your design is complete we can move into pre-construction which includes permitting and scheduling your project. We’ll take care of all permitting for your remodel or home build and ensure the structural engineering and trades are compliant to your local building codes. During this phase we will also be able to establish a Production Schedule and present you with a firm timeline of activities. Our operations team will provide access and onboard you to our project management software enabling you to communicate with each trade partner, monitor daily job logs and photos, and track real-time completion of your project. Finally, during this phase you will confirm your material selections so they can be ordered on-time.
Construction Phase (10-12 Weeks)
This is when the action happens. Once we’re squared away with pre-construction we’ll install protection at your home and begin demolition and construction on your project. Your project manager will visit the job site daily, meeting subcontractors to discuss details and the day’s work. You’ll be able to track the progress of your construction progress in our project management application - what was accomplished, what is upcoming, and answers to any questions you may have. Here we’ll also communicate any pertinent information with you, as well as through weekly onsite meetings with your project manager and owner of the company. During this phase we process any change orders, and address implications on project timeline and budget.
Post Construction and Warranty
Construction is complete and you are now welcome to enjoy your new home! After we’re finished, our team will go through a punch list to make sure everything is completely to your satisfaction. We’ll then present you with a certificate of warranty and a project completion survey where you can make any final comments about working with the Black Dog Homes team. We will ask for your referral and to leave us a review on Google and conduct post sale follow ups at 6 months, 12 months, and 2 years to make sure you are completely satisfied with your project.
Ready to Get Started?
Are you ready to start your remodeling project or new home build? We’re ready to help you get the most out of your construction project. Contact us today to set up a time to learn more about our values and team and discover if Black Dog Homes is right for your construction project.