• First off, create a file folder and write down a wish list of things you would like to add or change to your home. Some items will be mostly functional, such as adding an extra bedroom. Others will be primarily
  aesthetic, such as upgrading the kitchen and bath.
  
• Consult with a realtor to find out which features will add value to your home. You want to ensure you build in the maximum equity with a renovation.

The design/build approach combines both design and construction elements into one complementary and integrated process. With the design/build process, homeowners work with one company from start to finish in creating and executing their remodeling project - establishing a single source of responsibility for the entire project. Because they work as a team with the same philosophy and goals and have the clients best interests in mind, the architect and builder can create and deliver the best possible solution to suit the homeowner's aesthetic
preferences, functional needs, and budget requirements.

A key advantage of the design/build process is that the client can make well-informed decisions throughout the entire process. By bringing design and construction expertise to the table from the outset of the project, all options and implications can be discussed early on and reviewed.

Communication is greatly simplified, cost alternatives can be evaluated, and changes to the overall design are easier to implement.

Pricing in the design/build process is negotiated as opposed to bid out. The process starts with a budget established by the homeowner, in some cases
they may look to the architect and builder to provide guidance based on the project scope. The project is then designed and built based on this budget
with respect to any changes of scope determined by the homeowner during the process.

To Learn more about the Sundquist design/build process please go to THE SUNDQUIST DESIGN/BUILD PROCESS

If you prefer to hire your own Architect, use the following guidelines. If you already have an Architect, congratulations! You are on your way. Keep in mind that we have several outstanding Architects we can refer.

Ask friends and your contractor for references, then interview at least three architects. Ask the following questions.

• Does the architect listen to your needs and desires?

• Can the architect present visual interpretations of the architectural style you're looking for prior to drawing up plans?

• Does the architect understand and (preferable, not paramount) have experience in the locale of your home? Planning Commissions can be very particular and an experienced architect can be a valuable asset when submitting plans for approval.

• How comfortable do you feel with the architect? Remodeling a home is personal and you must feel comfortable with all the team players, starting with the architect. A good relationship between you and your architect is crucial if the design process is to be successful.

• Do you like the architect's past projects? How well has the candidate blended new design into existing – do the designs match, or look out of place or "stuck on"?

• Ask to speak with two or three past clients for a reference check.

At this stage you will either review the in house conceptual designs, or those of an Architect, to establish a design direction. It let's you see if the initial design meetings are leading to a meeting of the minds.

Once you have a set of preliminary or conceptual drawings, it's time for a cost analysis. This is by no means the final bid. Rather, it's an opportunity for you to get your arms around the costs associated with the ideas. This is also a good time to find out if it is feasible to live in your home during construction or if you will need temporary housing.

• Cash.
• Home Equity Loan. The most common loan for home improvement and some custom build projects. The lender uses the equity in your home to guarantee the loan. Many lenders like equity loans due to the added value the improvements will bring.
• Contractor Financing. Some contractors, particularly on smaller projects, offer financing to the homeowner with varying terms. This option is less common than the others.

Now that you know roughly what the project will cost and that you will get financing (or have the cash in hand), you progress to a full set of working drawings, or plans. At this point outside consultants such as a Structural Engineer, Soils Engineer, Surveyor, and Title 24 energy consultant may be hired as necessary to provide additional information which will most likely be required by the Building Department for permit approval.

After the working drawings are completed, the contractor will provide a final budget for the project. Generally, you will get the contractor costs before the building department's final approval of the plans and before you receive the building permit. The contractor can also provide the cost estimate for lending institution use

Once the plans are approved by the local planning and building department, you will be required to pay some fees. The contractor takes possession of the plans after you have your permit to build. It's also the time for moving to temporary quarters if you so desire, while your house undergoes renovation.

You and your contractor have established a start date for the project based on a general understanding of when the permit will be available. In most cases, and with proper planning, construction should begin shortly after the permit is issued, unless you and the contractor made some other specific agreement. The contract, budget, and schedule are firmed up, and the construction work begins!