First Thing: Architect or Contractor?
My husband and I are looking at a property that clearly needs work. Before we make an offer, we need to bring someone in to get a sense for how much the renovation will cost. the question is, do we bring in an architect or a contractor to get the best cost estimate?
My husband and I are looking at a property that clearly needs work. Before we make an offer, we need to bring someone in to get a sense for how much the renovation will cost. the question is, do we bring in an architect or a contractor to get the best cost estimate?
From the message stated above, who would be better to contact for an evaluation and to give an estimate for a renovation project. I would have to say a general contractor who has vast knowledge of brownstone renovations. I have been in the construction industry for quite some time and have been on countless “go-sees” and from what you have said, I think I have a pretty good understanding of the situation you are in, it is quite common.
It is VERY important to have someone who understands renovating in NYC and also one who knows the material and labor cost from structural work to the finished coat of paint. Also, it is just as important to consult with someone who is well informed with the strict NYC building codes, rules and regulations because renovating in NYC requires special care and attention. With that said, the owner must have some general idea of what they want beyond the replacement of mechanicals (which needs to happen on most projects) as well as the level of finish so that the GC can properly interpret the owners needs and provide a “ballpark” estimate.
With a bottomless well of knowledge and a resume full of brownstone renovations and satisfied, repeat customers and architects in the NYC area for over 30 years, I would highly recommend contacting John Buchbinder, President of Grand Renovation Inc. to assist you with your needs. It is very important to have someone by your side who understands this type of project to save you time, money, and headaches. Although John’s time and expertise is extremely valuable, I have never been on a “go see” with him where he has charged for evaluating and giving a “ballpark” figure like many GC’s and architects are known to do.
Best to you on your endeavors,
Dustin Wilkinson
Project Manager
Grand Renovation Inc.
718.599.7070
http://www.grandrenovation.com
Ideally both but to find out what your renovation will really cost a general contractor is who you need first. Any good contractor will be well versed in design,nyc code issues and will have a close working relationship with a good architect. Even without architectural plans the contractor should be able to give you a pretty good idea of costs after a thorough conversation regarding your vision for the home. My neighbor had an excellent experience with bullfrog builders and coincidentally a coworker of mine just hired them to do his reno in red hook.
with an architect there is a good chance you will never win your bid if you are looking to be competitive. these are row houses, have been for 100+ years, any contractor worth his salt knows what limited possibilities exist in square boxes.
If you are looking at major $1mm plus budgets where your bold unparalleled visions can soar to life and you yourself believe you live in a magical kingdom yourself and will secure the house in question at any cost, then yes bring an architect!!!! don’t even hesitate!
Otherwise, see Pietro: http://bk.ly/sPe
he is a great guy.
This is what he does.
Hate to pile on, but it can’t be said enough. You need the architect to describe the FULL extent of what is to be done, and a contractor to describe the FULL extent of what that is going to cost. Jock and JC are both right. If cost is going to guide your renovation, you are smart to start out addressing it at the very beginning.
Agree. Both. I’m an architect and have a design-build relationship with a contractor, and we do this on occasion when people are serious about the offer. We provide an estimate of both the architectural and construction work, separately of course.
Jim Hill RA, LEED AP
Urban Pioneering Architecture
I will tell you this: If you don’t control your project, including the architect, contractor, and/or subs, it/they will control you.
This starts from the first contact with any of them. It would be very helpful if you could get an idea of some of the major items yourself.
For example: kitchens, huge expense! Anywhere from $30,000 for modest and functional to the sky is the limit!
It will be 400k.
Both. If someone is too busy to meet, you do not want to hire them.
As an architect/client rep jcarch is correct. It is difficult for a GC to price a job without a defined scope.
Having both parties present will better establish a gross budget.