The first step is the evaluation of each project, whether it’s a renovation, addition, or new custom home by Chris Sobczyn and our team at CMS Builders. There is no cost to our clients for the initial meeting and review of the house, site and preliminary program.

If desired, we begin working together with our client through our design/build program. We assemble a team of professionals to plan and design the construction. This work is done under a separate design agreement between the client and CMS Builders. Upon completion of the design, a detailed proposal is presented. We then proceed with the construction.

This process of planning and building results in a timely completion of an excellent plan at a cost that is within the client’s budget.

For the client who already has plans for renovation, an addition, or new custom home, CMS Builders staff will review the program and plans for construction, then complete a detailed proposal for the work desired and then proceed with an agreement for construction.

Benefits of Design-Build

Singular Responsibility:

With both design and construction in the hands of a single firm, there is a single point of responsibility for quality, cost and scheduling which avoids "buck passing" and finger pointing

Quality:

The greater responsibility implicit in Design-Build serves as a motivation for high quality and the proper performance of building systems. Once the client's requirements and expectations are documented in design terms, it is the Design-Builder's responsibility to produce results accordingly. The Design-Builder confirms to the client that the design documents are complete and free from error. By contrast, with "traditional" design-bid-build, the client warrants to the contractor that the drawings and specifications are complete and free from error. Under "traditional" design-bid-build, there can be restrictive contract language and extensive audit and inspection to ensure final project quality.

Cost Savings:

Design and construction personnel, working and communicating as a team, evaluate alternative materials and methods efficiently and accurately. Value engineering and constructability are utilized more effectively when the designers and contractors work as one team during the design process.

Time Savings:

Because design and construction overlap, total design/construction time can be significantly reduced. Under this method, construction work can begin while the final drawings are being completed. The time savings translates into lower costs and earlier occupancy of your home.

Early Knowledge of Firm Cost:

Because CMS Builders is responsible for design, we are simultaneously estimating construction costs and can accurately conceptualize the completed project at an early stage. As a result, construction costs are known far sooner than is otherwise possible. This permits early establishment of financing, reduces exposure to cost escalation and avoids the possibility of committing substantial time and money for design, only to learn that the cost of the project is prohibitively high.

Risk Management:

Project performance aspects of cost, schedule and quality can clearly be defined and appropriately balanced (individual risks are managed by the party best able to manage that risk). Change Orders due to drawing and specification errors are eliminated because the correction of such issues is the responsibility of the Design-Builder, not the Owner.

For all these reasons we believe that our Design & Build Custom Home Program is the best way for you to build your home.

CMS Builders has the following qualifications to do this work:

• Depth of resources
• Exceptional reputation
• Management plan and project organization
• Financial capability
• Previous experience of the Design-Build team for similar projects
• Previous experience of the Design-Build team members working together
• Innovation and creative problem solving
• Key personnel committed to the project
• Quality assurance

Follow our 9-step guidelines. You will see that the process is simple when it's all mapped out ... particularly when you've got a pro working with you. CMS Builders is ready to assist you through every phase of this exciting process. We'll make sure that the home we design and build with you is the home you've always dreamed of.   

Step 1 - Determine the Feasibility of the Project

Can the home you own or an existing home you wish to purchase be renovated to meet your needs? What style do you want your new home to be? Will that style blend well in the neighborhood? CMS Builders will assist you in this evaluation. There are existing structural concerns, municipal zoning requirements and many more things to consider at the very beginning of this process.

Step 2 - Determine Your Needs

Before any drawings can begin, together we must prepare a detailed list of guidelines for the design.  What is your budget? What changes to the existing home do you want to make? What additions are needed? What are the features of your new home that you desire? Through CMS Builders free HOME PLANNING CONSULTATION, you can be sure nothing is overlooked. Our knowledgeable staff will work with you at no charge.

Step 3 - Formalize The Design Agreement

This contract authorizes the preparation of the preliminary drawings of your home. If you desire CMS Builders to design your new home or to do a renovation or addition to your existing home, we will assemble the necessary team of professionals to prepare the preliminary plans, including property planning and sitework. 

Step 4 - Review Preliminary Drawings

Before construction begins, a fixed price for the work at your home will be given, along with a complete accounting of features, finishes, allowances and options to be included in the design of the home. You will know what you're getting and what it will cost.

Step 5 - Approve Final Drawings

Your final approval is necessary before the project proceeds any further. CMS Builders will review all aspects of the work with you, from layout to features to finishing touches, to ensure your satisfaction with the design of your new home.

Step 6 - Approve Fixed Price

Before construction begins, a fixed price for the work will be given, along with a complete accounting of features, finishes, allowances and options to be included in the design of the renovation and/or addition. You will know what you're getting and what it will cost. 

Step 7 - Enter Into A Formal Building Agreement

This is the final step before construction begins which assures in a signed contract that you will receive everything you've asked for. CMS Builders wants to make sure there are no surprises and expectations are clear.  

Step 8 - Oversee Construction

During this very exciting stage, you will watch your home being transformed. Our staff will continue to work with you on final decisions (interior and exterior colors, finish materials, fixtures, etc.), and any revisions you may request to the original plan. You can feel confident during this time that an experienced CMS Builders consultant will be there to offer invaluable guidance and assistance.  

Step 9 - Enjoying the New Features of Your Home

After the construction is finished, CMS Builders will be at your service. Quite simply, our goal is to build you the perfect home. Discover what so many other CMS Builders customers have discovered: renovating your home is easy when you've got a pro on your side.