Construction Insights

At A.M Construction,

We pride ourself as being a resource for our current and potential clients. We are here to help the homeowner through all phases of the process; from selecting the right contractor, through the sales process, refining the design etc. We are truly invested and passionate about the success of our clients and our projects. Below you will find tips to keep in mind along the way.

choosing the right Contractor

Choosing the right contractor is a difficult decision, but here are some things that an owner should consider before signing with a contractor. Some contractors will employ several tactics to secure a project, many of them are perfectly above board, and there are many reputable contractors in the area that will provide straight forward dealings. Unfortunately, there are those contractors that do not, and they are largely responsible for some of the negative stigmas that the trade sometimes carries. Here are a few ways to recognize the difference.

1. “on the spot estimates”

I strongly suggest avoiding any estimate that is given on the spot or during any initial meeting and walk throughs. Frequently I am asked what I might “guesstimate” a project cost might be. Though I will discuss project aspect and Budgetary thoughts I always refrain from discussing any specific cost associated with many mid-sized to large projects. The reason being, it is virtually impossible to estimate a project on the spot. during the estimate project it is very important, 1, to understand the owner’s projected budget. 2, to capture all of the design details and to do this through continued communication. The importance of this can not be underestimated, being sure to capture a detailed design is key to producing an estimate that will not lead to additional cost during construction and will ensure that the owner and the contractor start open the right foot. 3, it is vitally important, in the estimate process, to source and cost eminities and accessories, this goes hand in hand with design details. unless this is done an estimate will never be accurate. for example, a simple kitchen faucet cost can vary from $50 to $250.

Unless all these things are understood in detail an estimate can not be provided to a homeowner, doing so puts both the contractor and the homeowner at risk.

2. Avoid the Lowest bidder

Building a dream living space can be costly and time consuming, An experienced and honest contractor will never shy away from this. It is the contractors responsibility to match project budget to the scope of work, meaning that sometimes we have to discuss expectations on what can be accomplished within a project budget. Understanding the not all of the cost associated with a project are Material and design related can lead to some much better relations between owners and contractors and will help owners to avoid contractor that will leave out specific cost in an estimate only to add change orders during construction. Here are some insights to cost and some reason s that you should consider when encountering “the lowest bid”

1. Protecting the Homeowner is Expensive

On top of all the operating cost that a Contractor runs into is Liability Insurance, and it is not cheap. But it insulates both the contractor and the homeowner should there be any issue in the construction, from damage to material malfunctions etc. Many uninsured contractors offer, "significant discounts" because they don't have liability insurance to add into their overhead calculations. Should, God Forbid, any problem arise those contractors are gone in the wind leaving the homeowner wondering how to proceed. 

2. Short-Cutting Craftsmanship and Inferior Quality Materials 

Another reason for a lower bid is that the contractor is cutting cost on Material that is of lower quality. Most contractors want to build a "showcase" for their customers. This is great for you and great for us. When we build a showcase for a client it means that they are more likely to entertain at their home and ultimatlely refer the contractor to their interested guest. Because of this, quality contractors will try to fit in the best finishes that fit within the homeowners budget to achieve the best outcome possible. The lowest bidder is starting with the lowest quality material possible and works up from there, which means "Change Order City!"

3.  Unskilled workers

Some Contractors will cut cost by hiring unskilled workers and Day Laborers, resulting in substandard work. Not to mention putting homeowners and the workers at risk. If a Contractor is paying workers in cash it is sure that they're not caring Workers Comp Insurance. This puts Everyone at Risk should a worker get injured on the job, not to mention that this is Illegal! Always ask for proof of insurances!

Construction Projects are often more expensive than most realize. Always discuss your project with skilled professionals  and be willing to be flexible on your scope and budget and a true professional will do everything to give you a quality space..