Initial Inquiry and Introductory Call
Upon receiving a website inquiry, we reach out to lead by phone to introduce ourselves and gather additional details about their project. Subsequently, we schedule a discovery consultation call with our head builder.
Discovery Consultation
During the discovery consultation, our head builder personally engages with the client, delving into the intricacies of their project. In this conversation, he assesses their current position in the project journey.
We find that generally homeowners are at one of three stages in their construction journey:
- They may be at the initial phase, having not yet enlisted a designer and approaching us as their first point of contact.
- They have already partnered with a designer and have conceptual plans in place
- They have already partnered with a designer and their entire build is documented and ready for construction.
This comprehensive discussion establishes the foundation for the upcoming phases of their building journey, allowing them to evaluate the potential collaboration with our builder. Fostering a strong relationship between the builder and the client is crucial for the smooth progression of the project.
Designer Introduction (where required)
If a client comes to us without design plans, we can guide them towards a suitable designer, being an architect or draughtsman depending on the client’s preference, who aligns with their needs. This juncture is crucial for the client, determining whether the project proceeds seamlessly or encounters challenges.
Builder Design Consultation
Once clients engage with a designer or architect, they can also enter into an agreement with us to participate in the design discussion and facilitate discussions on buildability and cost estimates to support a design that can be built within budget.
Letter of Engagement Issued
Next we offer a Letter of Engagement, a paid pricing service that outlines the terms of our collaboration. Our pricing model centres on a more cooperative framework compared to the traditional Competitive Pricing option.
Pre-Construction Selections
During the pre-construction phase, we collaborate closely with the client to conclude selections such as fixtures, fittings, and appliances. Simultaneously, the building surveyor reviews the plans, paving the way for imminent building permit approval and establishing a robust foundation for the upcoming construction phase.
Presentation of Quote
With all the documentation prepared and final selections in place, Eltcon can provide an accurate project estimate. As the client, you will be provided with a detailed breakdown encompassing all elements in the quote, ensuring clarity on every inclusion. Additionally, the quote will outline a timeline for each construction stage. Any necessary amendments are thoroughly discussed between the builder and client, and upon mutual agreement, a contract is signed based on the presented quote.
Construction Commencement
To keep you well-informed about the project’s progress, we conduct regular on-site meetings. Additionally, we uphold consistent communication via WhatsApp and email, ensuring that you stay fully informed about your project. This proactive approach helps minimise delays, and we make every effort to ensure your project aligns with the agreed-upon timeline.
Handover
Post Construction Support
After your project is complete, we will schedule a 3-month and a 12-month follow-up inspection from the date of completion to reassess and ensure everything continues to meet our high standards. We will revisit your new home to conduct a thorough review and inspection, identifying any maintenance needs that may arise, whether obvious or not.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why do we advocate for maintaining a distinction between builder and designer?
It's noteworthy that we advocate for maintaining a distinction between the builder and designer as separate entities. In cases where a construction company owns the plans and construction costs surpass the budget, clients exploring other builders might face copyright issues as the initial builder retains ownership of those plans and may withhold them. This is a commonly overlooked pitfall.
Why we advise against Competitive Pricing Contracts?
In our experience, we caution homeowners against opting for Competitive Pricing contracts, as such arrangements may lead to a builder solely focusing on cost, potentially overlooking early identification of issues. This could result in unexpected contract variations later on. We encourage homeowners to choose a builder who advocates for their interests, providing explanations and proactive solutions during the review of documentation and pricing. The costs associated with our pricing services are deducted from the deposit if the project moves forward.
What is Early Contractor Involvement?
Eltcon’s preferred approach when engaging with a new client is the Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) process, which proves to be highly advantageous for the client in most instances. This method revolves around forming a cohesive team before the actual construction begins. The builder, architect, and client collaborate closely, ensuring that the client's best interests take precedence throughout the entire process of building the home.
What is Eltcon’s Concept Pricing Service?
When a client approaches us with an existing concept plan, we extend our Concept Pricing service, which is a paid offering. The cost is project-dependent and will be discussed with the homeowner. We strongly encourage clients to opt for this service as design plans often have the potential to surpass the initial budget. Identifying this early allows for timely adjustments to the design, addressing the significant challenge of aligning costs with the budget— a critical factor in project success.
Our Concept Pricing process involves utilising square metre rates, considering job-specific elements, anticipating project preliminaries, evaluating risk factors, and quantifying various aspects. It serves as a ballpark estimate, providing clients with an initial understanding of building costs. However, inherent risks remain, such as unforeseen expenses related to internal finishes, soil conditions, and structural design not yet determined.
At Eltcon, we charge for Concept Pricing because we invest the time and effort to deliver the most accurate costing based on the provided information. The construction industry faces challenges, and unfortunately, some building companies do not act ethically or financially responsibly. Moreover, this phase often occurs at least 12 months before project commencement (if it proceeds at all), making some builders hesitant to provide free, accurate concept pricing without a commitment. Our fee reflects the investment of time and resources required for precision.