Changes can occur during the building process.  We use written, signed and dated Change Orders to ensure that everyone is aware of the impact of the changes on the schedule and the budget.

Planning the Project

It’s never too early to start planning. At Housewrights and Craftsmen our job begins during the earliest conversations with our clients. We are committed to guiding our clients through each step of the process. This is a time of creativity and excitement for the client…and for the builder!

We also provide the same attention to detail when working with an architect or when using an existing set of plans.

Research is the first step. We urge our clients to gather pictures from decorating magazines and books and to collect material and color samples that reflect their tastes and ideas. By talking with our clients about their needs, their desires and their means, we help them articulate their vision for the project. This helps provide the broad strokes for the project and the inspiration for the final design.

The next step is the preparation of a set of building plans and specifications that will bring this vision to reality. These plans are the heart of the project. At Housewrights and Craftsmen we prepare comprehensive plans that include our recommendations on reliable, energy-efficient building materials, including the latest in “Green Design” technology and innovation.

Next comes the budget. An affordable and realistic budget means making choices. We help our clients take a realistic look at how their goals and desires will translate into project costs. We spend time evaluating the cost-to-benefit ratio of various building materials and techniques, and we explain this information to our clients so they can base their spending decisions on reliable data.

From experience we know that this transparency throughout the planning and budgeting process gives clients the assurance of knowing their money is being spent wisely.

Planning for a project also involves the preparation of a comprehensive contract reflecting the clients’ expectations and our responsibilities. The contract is a document that describes what we are going to do; how we are going to spend our clients’ dollars; and when we are going to complete the work.

The Building Process

At Housewrights and Craftsmen we manage all aspects of construction from the foundation to the roof. We use our own skilled workers along with pre-qualified subcontractors we have used in the past. These are proven contractors we can count on. As a result, our clients can be assured of getting quality workmanship and fair prices from our staff and from reliable local firms.

Each project is unique. Each project comes with a unique set of characteristics. New projects may have site constraints or other challenges such as easement or boundary questions or complicated permitting. In any case, we work with our clients to get them through this phase of the project as easily as possible.

Remodeling projects may also be a source of unexpected challenges. Existing structures, especially older homes, may have hidden structural problems that must be addressed. From years of work on older buildings we’ve learned how to deal with all kinds of problems.

We strive to complete each project in the shortest time possible without sacrificing the high quality of craftsmanship for which we are known. We work with our clients to develop a schedule that will cause as little disruption as possible in their daily lives.

Communication is still the heart of project management. We are always available to respond to clients’ questions, concerns and requests. Any requests for changes in the design or the schedule are thoroughly discussed so that clients are aware of the impact on the budget and the schedule.

When we complete our work and turn the project over to our client we want to be sure that we have gained a satisfied customer who will serve as a great reference for Housewrights and Craftsmen.