Is there a way to estimate how much my project will cost?

Each project will require and receive a detailed bid from TCG. A number of factors go into pricing. Are there kitchens and bathrooms involved? Is a new foundation required; is the remodel within the existing footprint? Many customers simply want a realistic idea of what they could spend on their project.

How will I keep track of costs and changes from the original bid?

At TCG we employ a concept called transparent pricing. This means that you will see our costs for materials, labor and the profit we are securing for providing our general contracting services. This is all broken out in great detail. In addition, you will see the names and licenses of all of my subcontractors. This ensures that all parties know what is happening and are comfortable with the arrangement. Many of our customers have been surprised at our willingness to share all of this information, but we find this works best for everyone. In fact, if you feel that a subcontractor's price seems high, we will encourage you to get quotes from other reliable subcontractors.

How do I find and decide on a builder?

If you have engaged an architect, have them provide a list of builders they have worked with in the past. Also, ask friends or acquaintances if they could recommend someone.

First, meet the builder and decide whether this is someone you could work with during your project. Are they clear in describing the work to be performed? Is there a detailed bid with no surprises? Does the builder have adequate resources? Who is your main contact person during the project? Can you (or your architect) work with them?

Second, no matter who provided you with the builder's name, check references and licenses.

Will I have to move out of my house?

At TCG we work very hard to keep homeowners in their home, but sometimes it is necessary to relocate. Of course it depends on the size of the project and what part of the house is actually being renovated. If it is a high priority for you or there are extenuating circumstances, TCG will work with you to help layout a plan of work to keep you in the house as long as possible.

Will my project be completed on time and within budget?

TCG keeps dedicated personnel on your project until the job is complete. Our detailed methodology helps to ensure that all expectations are realistic and that the plan adequately reflects existing and future conditions.

How will I keep up on costs and progress?

With TCG a comprehensive spreadsheet is provided weekly to show progress in terms of work completed. This spreadsheet will also show payments to date. TCG strives to balance the percentage of work completed with payments.

What is the best way to communicate ideas or changes?

We find that a weekly meeting including the builder, homeowner(s) and architect is the best way to fully communicate issues, ideas, etc. The success of the project depends on these channels of communication being open so that necessary information can be conveyed to insure that the project outcome is what the homeowner expects.

What will the architect's role be after the project begins?

The architect usually stays on to monitor the project, make suggestions or provide input along the way. The architect can play a large or small role depending on how detailed the original plans are and whether you prefer or require input along the way. TCG will work with your architect in whatever way you deem appropriate.

We work closely with two respected architectural firms in Newton, MA. Often, the relationship between the contractor and the architect is strained at best, but we are an exception in the world of contracting. We can see their point of view and can appreciate their vision. We will work closely and effectively with any architect to achieve that final product they are seeking for you, their clients.

 

A word about pricing:

Many times I am called to a project after the relationship between the owner and the contractor has failed. The current contractor has left the job and the owner refuses to pay any more money. What went wrong? Usually the contractor bid the job incorrectly, i.e., too low. The owner shows me the progress (or lack thereof) so far and complains of poor quality. I agree. Then I ask what the scope of work was and the total bid. When I do some calculations, I realize the previous contractor did not get enough money even to cover his costs! Well, the mystery is solved. Once a contractor realizes that there is no money to be made on a job, he either starts rushing (causing poor quality) or puts his effort into other, more profitable jobs.

It would be better to think of an addition as a process rather than a product. Consider an alternate scenario: if you are on the lot of a car dealership, haggling over price is a logical move. There is nothing to loose. The car is already built. (For better or worse). You won't void any warranties by giving the salesman a hard time. However, this logic does not work for remodeling. If the contractor is asked to do the same job for less money, he thinks: "Where can I rush? Which materials can I use that are cheaper? What can I hide?" You get the idea.

Our numbers are up-front

Most contractors will not break down their bids. In other words they won't show you how they arrived at the cost. TCG bids are detailed: we show where all the costs are — even the profit margin. We find that a detailed quote alleviates many questions later about what was included and what was not. Allowances are needed in many cases such as choices in tile or cabinet quality. We disclose all quotes from the subcontractors that we use, and the owner is always free to get other bids from competing subcontractors.