What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

The whine of power saws on your new addition or remodeling project can be the exciting sound of your dreams taking shape. Major construction projects can be scary and expensive. But doing homework on the front end can help you develop a firm budget, a clear vision, and a more fruitful relationship with your contractors. It might also lessen the fear factor. Start with the biggest, broadest question: What do you hope to accomplish with your project, and how much do you want to spend? Your contractors can help you work your way to the smaller questions about specifics, like materials and other details. That kind of strategic planning should bring more clarity to the project, and this can be a valuable asset to you.

• Size and Complexity of the Addition or Remodel
• Cost factors like the size of a porch, or an extra room are easy to identify. But the nature of each project carries levels of complexity that might not be immediately apparent. Early on, you’ll want to get a handle on how many general contractors, electricians, plumbers, carpenters and decorators you’ll need to complete your project. You’ll also want to consider the cost of permits and inspections. Then, budget some extra cushion for the unexpected. Here are couple of example: Perhaps you have an older home, and when your contractors tear up your carpet, they discover structural problems with the flooring. Maybe the plumbers find old pipes that need to be replaced. Hope for the best, but plan for a bit of the worst.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

1. ASSESSMENT: DFW Remodel Team listens to your needs and wants, and then proceeds to identify strengths and weaknesses of ideas. First phase is to review the Dream Renovation Outline, Budget, floor-plan and/or assisting the owner in developing these criteria; researching applicable local city zoning and building code requirements for the project; and developing concept floor plans from the previous criteria to establish special relationships and approximate square footage for the New Home.
2. DESIGN: We identify opportunities, room for betterment, and processes to take your home to the next level. The Design phase consists of producing presentation drawings of refined concept floor plans, including approximate square footage's; producing rendered elevation sketches to describe the material’s stylistic character, and overall assemble the proposed residence; assisting Homeowner in selecting the materials or Sub-contractors, consultant, i.e. structural, lighting, landscape, Engineers etc
3. IMPLEMENT: Once we have everyone on board with the project, we oversee the implementation process from start to finish. The Design Development phase consists of translating the approved Design floor plan with any owner-requested modifications into a computer-generated format and reproduce at 1/4″ = 1′- 0″ scale, with precise square footage information for owner’s review; and producing a roof plan and designing the rear and associated side elevations based upon the front elevation, which will be coordinated to create a spacious home.
4. EFFICIENCIES: DFW Remodel Team works with you adjusting strategies as needed to meet the mutual goals. Pre-Con-Doc consists of finalizing building and zoning codes, and review with authorities having jurisdiction; producing a Construction Document package for Final pricing and construction of the project; and participating in owner, contractor, and inter-professional conferences as required for the timely and effective completion of the New Custom Luxury Home.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

We focus on the best in design, personalization and possibilities, so you can experience a home that reflects your desires and your uniqueness. The result is a home renovating or building experience that is more personal, more collaborative, and more empowering than homebuyers could have ever imagined. As a Developer, Builder and Renovator, we strive to meet and exceed your expectations when it comes to your project experience .

How did you get started doing this type of work?

My grandfather was a master craftsman, and my father was a developer. I watched them work from the time i was a child. I’ll never forget the joy, happiness and pride they felt in doing jobs well, and in treating people with respect. They passed the blueprint down to me and they instilled in me the values for creating a great customer experience.

Size and Complexity of the Addition or Remodel

Cost factors like the size of a porch, or an extra room are easy to identify. But the nature of each project carries levels of complexity that might not be immediately apparent. Early on, you’ll want to get a handle on how many general contractors, electricians, plumbers, carpenters and decorators you’ll need to complete your project. You’ll also want to consider the cost of permits and inspections. Then, budget some extra cushion for the unexpected. Here are couple of example: Perhaps you have an older home, and when your contractors tear up your carpet, they discover structural problems with the flooring. Maybe the plumbers find old pipes that need to be replaced. Hope for the best, but plan for a bit of the worst.

What Do I Need To Know To Set The Renovation Budget?

We’re careful with the budget because every penny counts!  When prospective Clients talk to us, they tell us that one of the things that worries them the most, is the thought of making an agreement to build a home for a certain price, and then getting surprised later when they learn that the price has increased significantly without any notice.

Here are some things that you can do to reduce your risk of running into this problem:

1. Do your research at the beginning.  Get information from your prospective contractor about all of the details, including materials and labor.  This way, you’ll know what to expect, before you sign the contract for your project.
2. Match your taste with your budget.  Make a list of the materials that you’re going to use and price them. Material prices vary greatly depending on what you buy, what’s in stock, what has to be special ordered, and what has to be custom-made.
3. Make as few changes as possible to the project that you contract to build.
4. Make sure that you have a highly detailed contract that includes information on materials and finishes.
5. Never leave open or undecided items in the project.  We make sure to cover every detail with our Clients. We explain the process and provide details about the costs, the project and the things that might come up.  Here’s an example: no one knows for sure about what’s behind the walls until the demolition is done.
6. Resist the temptation to hire different people to handle different parts of your project. Have one contractor take responsibility for your project, and get one price for everything from start to finish, including the final C/O and cleanup.
7. Hire the right people.  When you arrange for a contractor to look at your project, be prepared to ask some important technical questions about the job. If the contractor is unable to give you answers on the spot, then do not hire them. Many people pretend to be construction specialists, but very few are.
8. Never sign a contract unless and until you read it and fully understand every part of it.  We always go over all of the details with our Clients, before they sign. This prevents misunderstandings and surprises at the end of the project.  Promises always sound good, but it’s always best to get everything in writing.
9. Always have the contractor provide an Item Finish Schedule (Includes items like trim model, trim size, paint color, paint finish, light fixtures, door models, vanity sizes, counter specs, plumbing fixture finishes, floor finishes, shower doors, tile, tile layout, payment schedule and time schedule.)

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

Where to Start Remodeling?

If you have a remodeling to-do list that's a mile long, you may be confused on where to start. Many would suggest starting with those projects that will bring the best return or create the most value for the money you spend on it. We took a different approach. Our focus was on:

• a) what we could afford and
• b) what contributed most to the home environment
• You will want to get projects done right away. Instead of being patient and saving for it, you’ll choose to put it on your credit card or take out a home equity line of credit. Many people choose that route and have gone deeper into debt seeking that immediate gratification.
• Our advice is to be patient and save for your renovations. Home remodeling costs can be extreme, especially once your emotions get involved. Envisioning how that brand new kitchen in the store showroom may look in your home may cause you to make a bad financial decision.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their Regular remodel or Insurance project?

• Does adding a room increase my home value? Will an addition help me refinance due to an increased equity? Most likely, yes. The first step is to determine your home value in comparison to your neighbors. Determine the per square value of your home. (Example: Home value/square footage= value per square ft.)
• Do you offer free estimates for Insurance Claims? Your Insurance company will send out an Adjuster to provide you with an "Adjuster's Report" listing all visible damage at time of inspection. This is your estimate. You may contact us for your Insurance Claim but we will not set an appointment until you have your Adjuster's report in hand for review.
• We do not write estimates for Insurance Claims because the Adjuster's Report is your estimate for the repairs and is the amount we will do the repairs for. Nearly all Adjustor reports are low and additional supplements will have to be filed by the contractor performing the work. Your only out of pocket expense is your deductible.
• What is a deductible and who pays it? A deductible is an amount which a policyholder agrees to pay, per claim or per incident, toward the total amount of an insured loss. For example, if you incur a loss and your insurance company determines repairs for the damages will cost $20,000.00 and your policy has a $2,000.00 deductible, your insurance company will pay $18,000.00 and it will be your responsibility to pay the remaining $2,000.00 balance to the contractor.
• Exactly what does the Insurance Company pay to replace? Your insurance will pay to repair your home with material comparable to what was damaged. If you desire upgrades, you pay the difference in cost. For example, if the insurance company is paying to replace your carpet, but you'd prefer hardwood floors, you would pay the difference in the cost for the upgraded material and labor.

What Is A Paudel Homes Construction Package Assessment?

The Construction package assessment provides key information about often overlooked costs involved in developing your project. The WACC Analyst will prepare the construction package assessment during your PDH-DES Custom Home Planning Meeting.

Are There Any Hidden Costs (I.E. Transportation, Drawing Plans, Change Orders)?

No, there are no hidden costs. All costs for transportation/material delivery, drawing plans, structural and services design etc. are included in the package cost. However, if you alter the drawings, or move walls, change materials selections then change order will be needed. ($950-$9,550 per change order to execute the work order)

What Are The Payment Terms?

Payment terms are linked to construction progress.

1. On signing of contract Retainer fee of 25-50%
2. Upon Demolish completion 25%
3. Upon Completion Rough Material install 25%
4. Final Punch walk Complete 10%

What Does Our One Year Home Warranty Cover?

• Construction defects like leakages.
• Wires will be changed if damaged (except when due to overload).
• Bathroom taps, flush valves and sanitary ware will be repaired where dripping.
• Plumbing Leakages due to incidental construction faults will be corrected.
• Door Handles that do not operate properly will be repaired or replaced.
• Defective door frames/doors will be replaced.
• Defective window bearings will be replaced.
• Warranties as offered by a material/fitting manufacturing company shall be back to back transferred into the customer’s name.

Note: Paint fading or discoloring due to exposure. Normal wear and tear due to usage is excluded from the one year Home warranty.

What Are The Customer’s Responsibilities?

• Set up Water and Electricity: Single point water and electricity supply
• Apply for statutory approvals/Building Permit / CO (if not included in PDH-DES deliverables).

How Does our PDH-DES system Maintain Quality Control During Construction?

Quality control is overseen internally by our in-house team.

“I Live Out Of Town… Can You Still Build My Home?”

Yes. Although staying closely involved is clearly easier when you live in town, you can manage your project remotely with our PDH-DES Turnkey online construction services. Once your floor plan has been designed, the only decisions left to make are your colors, fixtures, materials and finishes. Plan to visit the construction site from time to time.

“Why Can’t You Just Give Me A Cost Per Sq Ft Estimate?”

Land value is determined by Pre-Development however Home construction cost will be determined by inner and outer space finishes. Once your lot is fully vetted, then we’ll have the cost and zoning data. Your choices for finishes and fixtures will play a role, along with the pricing for the flooring, tile, cabinetry and other items that you choose or you provide.

Costly, Commonly-Made Mistakes To Avoid!

The PDH-DES system has been proven over many years of Builds & Renovations. It can provide a faster and more cost-effective result than any other alternative. Our customers have avoided many of the pitfalls that can occur when building a custom home. By working with Paudel Homes, you can avoid such common mistakes as:

• Being unfamiliar with the Survey, Zoning and local Ordinances
• Combining development and home construction costs
• Incorrectly calculating actual square foot equivalents
• Using simplistic per-square-foot estimates for budgeting
• Underestimating allowances for finishes
• Relying on rough estimates that are not based on construction drawings
• Being unfamiliar with project Developmental Costs
• Making structural changes after the project has started
• Hiring the wrong builder

Why Should We Hire You?

First of all, don’t feel overwhelmed by the process. We’re going to start by outlining your qualifications to the home- renovation requirements. Are you qualified to hire us ? Brainstorming how these qualifications play out in real construction life, and then assessing what makes you stand out. Wanting what you want based on the picture and shopping the materials is Just the 20% of your dream home renovation. Once you outline the means and resources and your dedication to renovate, only then will our Builder Advisory council consider the engagement.

What is Turnkey Project?

Turnkey projects give owners the control to say what they want and how they want it done. The difference? The construction company provides the project management services, dictating things like schedule and budget allocation. Working with a turnkey company can protect you in case your project hits setbacks the firm often covers overages, since they fall under project management responsibilities.

Handing off the project management aspect of your job may seem like giving up control, but it’s often well worth it. Not having to worry about overseeing a massive building project is worth the cost alone! Your structure is likely to get built on time, under budget, with an end result that looks exactly like you want it to.

What is Design-build project ?

Design-build construction is aptly named because the same firm does both the designing and the building for your project. Project owners dictate the process, telling the firm exactly what they want, when they want it and how they want it done. If you’re looking for complete control over your building project, it’s often best to work with a design-build firm.

Of course, there’s a dark side to all this control. Design-build projects often take longer and can run over budget if you’re not careful. The ability to make changes and set deadlines often leads owners to overshoot their own expectations. It’s a lot to handle especially if you’re unfamiliar with construction.

HOW OUR PROJECT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM WORKS

For most remodeling companies, the highest priority is often getting the job done correctly and up to standard. However, at DFW-PDH our highest priority is a little different. While constructing a stunning remodel comes in at a close second, our number one goal is always to create lasting relationships based on trust, respect, and care.

WHAT DOES YOUR PROJECT MANAGER DO?

During the twenty (plus!) years we’ve been in business, we’ve created and fine-tuned processes that are centered around making our clients’ lives easier during what can be a stressful time. Today, our team operates like a well-oiled machine, and much of that success can be credited to our hardworking project managers.

Essentially, your project manager acts as your personal point of contact throughout your project. You can reach him/her any time you have a question, a suggestion, or if you just want an update on the status of your renovation. Your project manager is dedicated to keeping you involved as your project progresses, and they also coordinate and support the team of craftsmen that will shape your home. Your project manager is your advocate during the process, making sure that valuable time and money are saved by helping craft your remodel according to your needs and specifications.

WHEN DOES YOUR PROJECT MANAGER COME INTO THE PICTURE?

At InSite, we believe that preparedness is one of the most important factors in success. We do everything we can to prepare all members of our team for each and every renovation we undertake so that we can deliver consistently breathtaking results. Since our project managers take such an active role, they are among the first to know when a new remodel is in the works. With our team of experts, we know that there is a “right person” for every step of the process. That is why during your project, you will have one project manager for the design portion of your remodel, and another during construction.

Your project managers are assigned to your remodel very early in the process and during the transition from design to construction, all of the nuances and finite details of your project are relayed to your construction project manager.

One of our project managers put it this way:

“Understanding a customer’s expectations is always rule #1 and that’s where I begin. During the preconstruction meeting, I ask questions that no one else has so that I can understand beyond the sticks and bricks of a renovation what is most important to my client. As PM, the client is my top priority, and it is my job to advocate on their behalf and to produce the end product they desire and the value they expect.”

YOUR PROJECT MANAGER’S ROLE IN THE REMODEL ITSELF

From design to construction to the final walk-through, your project manager will be your advocate. As the design phase of your remodel kicks off, you may be feeling excited about the prospect of putting together the home of your dreams. Your project manager will often attend internal design meetings so that they can gain a deep knowledge of your vision from the very beginning. The more they know, the more effectively they can direct your team of craftsmen during the construction phase.

As part of the hand-off from the design team to the construction team, we hold an internal meeting in which we discuss every aspect of your remodel. We make a plan going forward based on the input from everyone present so that we can streamline the process as much as possible. After the internal hand-off, your project manager will meet with you one-on-one to discuss the plan, timeline, and address any concerns you may have.

When everything is ready to move forward, your project manager will schedule a regular weekly in-person meeting with you. These meetings are a reliable, planned way to keep you updated on the progress of your renovation. In addition, your project manager will be on your job every day, and you can call him/her any time you have a question or concern.

We’ve developed extensive checklists to make sure no important detail is missed. Our team works hard to make sure every remodel goes as smoothly as possible. However, as with any vision, sometimes there are bumps in the road along the way. They are unavoidable but having a dedicated point of contact makes it much easier to know where the project stands and what the plan is to solve the issues.

In the words of one of our experienced project managers: “a career in construction has taught me [to] always expect the unexpected. Junction boxes in walls; irregular framing; jerry-rigged electrical wires; a toilet that was yanked out of the floor and replaced by a piece of furniture…the list of surprises I’ve encountered over the years is endless. By anticipating that all of the moving parts and pieces of a home renovation rarely come together smoothly or easily, I rely on teamwork, perseverance, and experience to successfully grab a job and wrestle it into submission.”

What Is The Paudel Homes PDH-DES Difference?

We’ll implement our proprietary “PDH Development Execution System” during the Design Phase, to target your pre-determined budget parameters. This way, you’ll be informed, and able to avoid construction delays due to budget overruns.  During the Construction Stage, the GC, Analyst & Builder will continue to oversee your project and will be readily available. There’s never any finger-pointing. You’ll find helpful updates regarding milestones and onsite appointments with the WACC Analyst, Developer and Builder. Your Portal is the place to follow what’s happening now and what’s happening next!

How Do You Benefit By Choosing Paudel Homes?

You’ll enjoy having confidence and peace of mind, about your decisions, and about the next steps in your home building experience.

How Do We Get Started?

We start by hearing from you about the vision you have for your new home. We’ll also discuss the approximate size of your home and projected cost range. This way we’ll be in step with the financial requirements that you have in mind.

What Is The Project Timeline?

Initial design to detailed drawings usually requires anywhere from 4-6 months depending on the information gained from the initial pre-development stage, and the complexity of the project.  Construction usually takes about 12-18 months, but we can fast-track the project depending on your timetable.

What About Pricing, Fees, And Draws?

Our fees are based on project scope, rather than square footage. We typically fit into the median range, when compared to other quality builders. Payments are commensurate with services. Architectural fees are typically payable in 3 installments. Construction requires a 10% deposit when the contract is signed. Most of our construction contracts are fixed fee. There are usually 10 -12 draws over the build period. We may consider a cost-plus agreement when the scope of the project is more extensive.

What Is The Free PDH-DES Custom Home Planning Meeting?

We’ll want to hear about your ideas, and then, based on the information you share, we’ll examine how to best utilize the space on your lot. The survey will be required to confirm ownership of the property, and the placement of your new home.  Your planning meeting will provide you with enough information to prepare a rough budget.  We’ll help you determine the overall feasibility of your project.

• Pre-development for the foundation of your choice.
• Outline what’s involved in building a contemporary post & beam, timber frame, or traditional truss-roof.
• Provide the information you need to start planning the exterior look and interior layout of your new custom home.
• Review your printed Architectural or Structural plans.
• Discuss the structural materials that will give you the best results, based on your personal preferences, your location, and your budget.

When you work with us, the next step is to set a realistic budget. Then we’ll create and finalize your concept design.

What Happens During The 2nd Meeting?

Most Ideas can come from your dreams.  They may come from your current house, or you may want to expand on something you saw online.  The Architect will be scheduled to verify following:

1. Concept Floor Plan.
2. Plot Plan.
3. Elevations (No dimensions or notes).
4. Preliminary Site Plan if available.
5. 50% of the Architectural design fee is due.

What’s The Advantage Of The Online Visualizers?

While the Architect is working on your dream home, you can use our online Visualizers  to design and pick materials, before you spend any money. We have a wide selection of Counter-tops, Tiles,  and Back-splash materials, along with a huge photo Gallery . We’ll work with you to finalize the details on the style and size of your custom home.

How Can I Bring My Own Contractors?

Absolutely as long as Meets the industry standard.

How Can I supply My Own Materials to Paudel Home to build my Home?

Anything You Have bring it on.

When Can I See The Floor Plans? 3rd Meeting

1. Floor Plans and Elevations with Dimensions
2. Foundation Plot Plan with Dimensions
3. MEP Plans (Rough)
4. Preliminary Site Plans
5. Architectural fee balance due

What Happens Next? 4th Meeting

The Architect will deliver your final plans. Now it’s time to setup your escrow account and your reserve fund so we can start building your new home.

1. Finalize All Engineering plans GSA-MEP
2. Select Materials & Design MRPL
3. Final Plans (minor changes expected)
4. Pre-Development balance due
5. Escrow / Construction Reserve fund

What Is A Construction Reserve Fund?

Construction Escrow Services are used when a lender or Homeowner finances a construction project. The title company oversees the disbursement of all construction payouts. Having the title company administer this process ensures that no mechanic’s liens are recorded against the real estate as a result of the work performed on the property. The Title Company usually does not administer a construction escrow when there’s no lender involved.

Why Do I Need A Construction Escrow Account?

Construction Escrow Services protect both the lender and the owner during the construction of the project to make sure that payment is made properly.

What Is A Paudel Homes Construction Package Assessment?

The Construction package assessment provides key information about often overlooked costs involved in developing your project. The WACC Analyst will prepare the construction package assessment during your PDH-DES Custom Home Planning Meeting.

Are There Any Hidden Costs (I.E. Transportation, Drawing Plans, Change Orders)?

No, there are no hidden costs. All costs for transportation/material delivery, drawing plans, structural and services design etc. are included in the package cost. However, if you alter the drawings, or move walls, change materials selections then change order will be needed. ($950-$9,550 per change order to execute the work order)

What Are The Payment Terms?

Payment terms are linked to construction progress.

1. On signing of contract (as advance) : 10% (Recoverable in next four stage of payment)
2. Upon Set-up Construction Fence, Form, T-pole : 10% – 2.5*%
3. Upon completion of Rough Plinth & Plumb : 10% – 2.5*%
4. Upon completion of Slab: 10% – 2.5*%
5. Upon completion of Framing : 10% – 2.5*%
6. Upon Completion of EXT D-W-R-Mason: 15%
7. Upon Completion of INT W-C-T: 15%
8. Upon Completion of MEP & Flooring Work: 15%
9. Upon Completion of Landscape & Painting: 10%
10. On Possession : 5 %                                    *Recovery against advance

What Does Our One Year Home Warranty Cover?

• Construction defects like leakages.
• Wires will be changed if damaged (except when due to overload).
• Bathroom taps, flush valves and sanitary ware will be repaired where dripping.
• Plumbing Leakages due to incidental construction faults will be corrected.
• Door Handles that do not operate properly will be repaired or replaced.
• Defective door frames/doors will be replaced.
• Defective window bearings will be replaced.
• Warranties as offered by a material/fitting manufacturing company shall be back to back transferred into the customer’s name.

Note: Normal wear and tear due to usage is excluded from the one year Home warranty.

What Are The Customer’s Responsibilities?

• Set up Water and Electricity: Single point water and electricity supply to be provided at Plot.
• Apply for statutory approvals/Building Permit / CO (if not included in PDH-DES deliverables).

How Does our PDH-DES system Maintain Quality Control During Construction?

Quality control is overseen internally by our in-house team.

“I Live Out Of Town… Can You Still Build My Home?”

Yes. Although staying closely involved is clearly easier when you live in town, you can manage your project remotely with our PDH-DES Turnkey online construction services. Once your floor plan has been designed, the only decisions left to make are your colors, fixtures, materials and finishes. Plan to visit the construction site from time to time.

“Why Can’t You Just Give Me A Cost Per Sq Ft Estimate?”

Land value is determined by Pre-Development however Home construction cost will be determined by inner and outer space finishes. Once your lot is fully vetted, then we’ll have the cost and zoning data. Your choices for finishes and fixtures will play a role, along with the pricing for the flooring, tile, cabinetry and other items that you choose or you provide.

Costly, Commonly-Made Mistakes To Avoid!

The PDH-DES system has been proven over many years of Builds & Renovations. It can provide a faster and more cost-effective result than any other alternative. Our customers have avoided many of the pitfalls that can occur when building a custom home. By working with Paudel Homes, you can avoid such common mistakes as:

• Being unfamiliar with the Survey, Zoning and local Ordinances
• Combining development and home construction costs
• Incorrectly calculating actual square foot equivalents
• Using simplistic per-square-foot estimates for budgeting
• Underestimating allowances for finishes
• Relying on rough estimates that are not based on construction drawings
• Being unfamiliar with project Developmental Costs
• Making structural changes after the project has started
• Hiring the wrong builder

Why Should We Hire You?

First of all, don’t feel overwhelmed by the process. We’re going to start by outlining your qualifications to the home-ownership requirements. Are you qualified to hire us ? Brainstorming how these qualifications play out in real construction life, and then assessing what makes you stand out. Ownership of the land is Just the 20% of your dream home. Once you outline the means and resources and your dedication to built only then our Advisory council will consider your proposal.