Budgeting is the #1 Renovation Discussion
Here is a little known fact about the architectural design field: budgeting is the #1 conversation that takes place when it comes to renovations. At the outset, even before a scope of work is developed, the project budget needs to be discussed. Afterwards, it should be closely monitored throughout the design process. Whether the discussion is between the designer and the clients, the clients and the realtor, or the contractors and the designer, it is happening every step of the process, and deserves proper discussion. Here are some key factors to take into account when setting a budget for your architectural renovation.
Setting Budget Expectations
Whatever you think your budget is, honestly, it’s probably too low. A Boston area architectural renovation typically starts out at $250,000 according to various local contractors, who have years of experience in the field. There are many factors that can't be considered at the outset until you know more about your project. Hiring an Architect will help begin the budget conversations and set realistic expectations.
Accurate Budget Estimates
The most accurate budget estimate will be delivered from a contractor who intimately understands Homeowner needs & wants, municipal zoning, your property’s existing conditions, and the Architect’s proposed design. Attempting to garner a price range before then is likely to be inaccurate and disappointing. It is always beneficial to wait until a contractor has everything he or she needs to develop an accurate budget estimate for your renovation project. Once the contractor has all the preliminary information—a concise scope of work, product specifications, accurate construction drawings, interior elevations showing finish details—a realistic budget can be assembled and discussed between all the various parties involved.
The Pre-Budgeting Process with DGS/a Architecture
Before diving into a budget, the following steps are helpful:
Zoning Review: Have an architect perform a preliminary zoning analysis that gives you an idea what zoning regulations are governing the project. Read our article about zoning here.
Existing Conditions: Perform an Existing Conditions Survey (ECS). An ECS entails measuring the existing floor plan and drafting accurate base plans from which a multitude of tasks can commence.
Proposed Designs (these are not final plans): Obtain “good-better-best” scenarios to understand what is feasible to build.
These are all services that DGS/a Architecture provides. Understanding these steps beforehand allows for an accurate budget based on your design needs. Your zoning review will reveal how your home can legally be renovated. Establishing the existing conditions will define the amount of work that needs to be done both before the process starts, and during the renovation. For example, if the home’s electrical wiring is not up to code, it will need to be replaced. After these two steps, at DGS/a Architecture, we develop 3 proposed designs based on all of the information we acquire. At this point, it is safe to move forward with defining your budget and scope of work.
Defining Your True Budget and Creating a Scope of Work
Final plans with fixture and material selections will give you your most accurate estimate of cost. Construction Documents (CD’s) include very detailed floor plans, elevations, scope of work, and a general cost level for all new elements. This information will be given to contractors who will then create a bid based on their knowledge of industry products at the price point they have been asked to use. For example, you may wish for your home to have doors that typically cost $500 instead of $800. Design industry professionals will be able to find the best brands to fit your budget. Ensuring the bidding contractors all use the same specifications—the Construction Specification Institute (CSI) templates—you will be able to analyze multiple estimates on an “apples to apples” basis.
At DGS/a Architecture, we ask contractors to deliver a budget range, instead of one set number. A range is more realistic and makes room for the potential, and usual, changes that occur during renovations. At this point, if your budget doesn’t allow you to complete all of the work you wish to have done, a change in the scope of work must occur. Changing small items, such as using a less costly tile or faucet fixture, will not make a big difference. Moving walls, however, can affect the budget dramatically, which is why the design process is so important. Taking the time to work out all the details on paper is the best way to keep expectations aligned.
Conclusion
Budget issues will arise, this is the nature of building exquisite homes in Boston. Being flexible, both financially and emotionally, is the best way to navigate high end home renovation. When you’ve entrusted your renovation and budget management to DGS/a Architecture, rest assured that we have the experience and expertise to lead you successfully through the process.