Why do you prefer fixed price contracts when all other builders I’ve spoken to only offer cost-plus?
We are firm believers in the transparent, “no surprises” approach to homebuilding—from beginning to end. Instead of the cost-plus model which often leads to budget overruns and unforeseen expenses, we follow the construction best practice fixed price method recommended by major professional construction institutions.
Our process starts and ends with detailed planning and cost management. Unlike builders who proceed without professional pre-construction planning, our process employs a sophisticated cost estimating system where we closely focus on every detail of your project from the outset to calculate the best fixed price possible for you. At the completion of projects, our clients often remark what a refreshing change the fixed price model provides.
How do you get to the fixed price?
We use the latest digital takeoff measurement and estimating software to calculate exact material, labour and equipment requirements. In addition to our many years of experience, we manage a detailed database of items, comparing current pricing against historic cost analysis.
What about changes? We need flexibility.
No problem. Change happens. Our building contract makes clear and easy provisions for changes made by you or third parties.
How do we make selections?
In due course you, or with the help of an experienced designer, will choose your selection items. These will be incorporated into the schedule and the price adjusted openly and fairly.
When it’s not possible to specify all finishing items before the contract is signed, we use generous cash allowances for unspecified items. Beacon will notify you of all selection decision dates to keep the project schedule on track.
We don’t have a design - where do we start?
We have great working relationships with a number of highly skilled architects and designers. We will put you in touch, then oversee the cost planning of the project.
We have a design. What happens next?
Great! You are one step ahead. We will review the drawings for detail and specifications, then will draw up a contract proposal detailing a specification, cash allowances and a simplified cost breakdown.
What’s your average price per sq ft for a new home?
That depends! There are a significant number of variables that go into building a home including:
- Site conditions and location
- Soil conditions
- Size - every square foot counts
- Specifications
- Complexity of build
Depending on all these factors, the usual cost ranges from $280 - $340 per sq ft. While, this is a general guide and we would be happy to review your drawings to give you a more accurate idea of cost.
What’s the best time to get you involved?
As early as possible! An early engagement offers the greatest cost planning and value engineering benefits.
How do we secure you for our project?
Our business approach is always in demand, so it’s always best to involve us as early as possible. We take a $10,000 pre-contract commitment fee to secure our full pre-construction service. This secures a spot in the schedule. This fee acts as a deposit, which will be credited to the final contract price.
What’s included in the fixed price?
Everything to make your ideas into your new home including all professional fees, permits, insurances, through to light fixtures, closets and towel rails. We’ll even install your mirrors. We’re happy to provide hard and soft landscaping or we can leave those finishing touches to you.
How long will the project take?
If starting from scratch, and depending on all the factors that affect cost, the usual duration of the builder-client project relationship is usually 8-12 months. The actual build schedule usually takes 6-8 months.
How is project communication managed?
Don’t fear! We will be in close contact with you throughout the duration of your project. Transparent communication means a good working relationship – our goal! Major decisions such as changes, selections and schedule management are communicated by our client friendly on-line project management system.
What’s needed from us to get started?
Simple! Pick up the phone for a chat or send us an email. We’d love to hear from you.
