Planning a project timeline, no matter what the size, is the most important part of your project.
The first three questions that I ask people when they reach out to me about a potential project is:
- Budget (what is the max. amount that you are willing to spend on the project – everyone has this number)
- Square Footage
- Timeline
Pause before moving forward with your project until you can clearly answer all three of these questions.
The Truth?
In the Seacoast of Maine & New Hampshire, we are busy – very, very busy. I am currently taking projects that will start Spring of ’18. Most contractors are in the exact same boat.
Another Truth?
Projects are taking almost twice as long. To be honest, this is because of the sheer saturation of the industry on all aspects. The distributors are backed up, the vendors are backed up, all the subcontractors are overworked and backed up. There are only so many hours in a day. In the design & construction industry, are all having to work harder because if there is even one weak link in the system (and now there are many) it throws off the entire schedule.
The Reality?
Be patient, flexible and plan ahead!
What homeowners can do to move projects along successfully?
- Respond quickly to answers by your builder or designer. Any delay in answering questions will delay your project. This isn’t just about you, this is about other people and their livelihoods, keeping schedules and responding to other equally important projects.
- Make sure that you have made ALL your decisions on material selections well BEFORE construction begins. From cabinetry, tile, lighting, plumbing fixtures, wall/ ceiling finishes to flooring, paint colors, countertops, staircase finishes and details and many more. The contractor will need this information quickly as he is building in order to avoid mistakes and needing the either stop the project.
- Pay your invoices in a timely manner. Being clear about expectation of budget and payment schedule is a key component to moving the timeline along efficiently. Do not pay for items such as cabinetry in full until you have completely been able to inspect them installed and completed. Do pay your designer and contractor for all fees that we originally negotiated in the contract. There are clear terms and conditions to all contracts, read them, understand them and hold up your end of the agreement.
If you need help working on your project and establishing a realistic timeline, email me questions: amy@amyduttonhome.com and I’ll respond / post again about the topic.