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A:  The selection of the builder whether for a commercial project, new home or renovation requires the owner or the owner’s representative do their homework. In today’s financial environment there are plenty of builders ready, willing and able to take on your project. As a savvy consumer you have the opportunity to select your contractor based on your needs.  First, keep in mind as in any relationship, do you feel comfortable with that person? Simply, do you like them and do you see yourself feeling this way when the project is completed because you will be practically “married” to this person for the duration of the job!  As a builder I know price is a major consideration.  Other significant qualities when selecting a builder should be the number of years they’ve been in business, financial stability and the ability to complete your project in a timely manner.  But again, my suggestion is that you should interview with prospective contractors and select the person you feel most comfortable working with.

A: This has always been a tough question because it requires you to analyze a great amount of information, much of which is emotional. The first question I would ask someone is whether they are happy in their present location.  It really wouldn’t matter what you might do to renovate an existing structure; if you’re not happy in that location renovating probably doesn’t make good sense.

A: If you’re like most people you will need to finance your new home. I would suggest you meet with your bank, a mortgage company and financial advisor to get an idea as to the total amount that you and your lender will have available for your new home.

A: Since we’ve established that for most of us where we live is of primary concern, the next logical step would be for you and your builder to evaluate the land you are considering for your new home.

A:  You can, but you may still have to have the plan modified to meet the Florida Building Code, local conditions and the size of the property that you intend to build on. My suggestion generally is to select a local architect or residential designer. They will design your new home to meet requirements of the site, building code and the specific needs and desires of your family.  Let me emphasize that you don’t want to rush or be rushed through the design process. The final cost of any project is directly related to how closely the final product resembles the plans and specifications that were used to establish the contract price. Simply put, the more time spent in the design phase means the less likelihood of there being excessive change orders.

A: A lot! Renovating older structures in many cases is a much more complex and demanding job than that of building a new home. Depending on the age of the structure, you can find numerous items that  may have not been a part of your remodeling plan but will certainly have to be done in order to comply with state and federal law. Residential structures built prior to 1978 have to be tested for lead paint during alterations. Many times the basic structure of the building may be in great shape but quite often we find major components such as plumbing, gas, electrical and HVAC systems are not as safe as need be or just grossly inefficient.

A: Not at all! Some of the most exciting and enjoyable jobs I’ve done have been structure renovations. A common element in every renovation is that there is always something that no one had anticipated. If you are considering a major renovation, it is important to involve your entire team early, from the designer to the builder. I, like most builders like to be involved from the beginning. This way I can offer input as to structural considerations as well as helping to develop a meaningful budget.