how to bid out a job for contractor/architect?

Hi, We have recently gone into contract on a house in the South Slope and are beginning to figure out how best to approach a necessary renovation.  Can anyone tell me what is customary in bidding out jobs to architects and contractors?  I’m concerned particularly on the architect’s front that I not ask too much of someone without committing to working with them, or offend/exploit those who’ve advised me through our hunt. I’d also like to know arrangements people jave had – from having an architect oversee an entire job to having the architect exclusively prepare plans and having the contractor oversee the job, or other ways??  We are dealing with a budget that is probably less than we need for the scope of work, so any ways I can do this – right! – for less money, will be better for us. That said neither my partner nor I has a ton of experience with renovation; we have full time jobs and kids, so I can’t be unrealistic about what either one of us will contribute in terms of oversite, either. Thanks for your thoughts and suggestions.

elm_bk

in Brownstoner Renovation 13 years and 4 months ago

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jeanmarine2 | 12 years and 10 months ago

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I’d be interested to know how your project ended up going; I’m in a similar boat and learning very quickly how these things work.  I made the mistake of hiring “more architect than we needed” at least during the design phase, and committing to a percentage of completion pay scale when really we would have done better with either just hourly design services and going from there, or someone who did a fixed-fee proposal with some flexibility.  I hired more architect than we needed because I was scared of hiring LESS architect than we needed.  Turns out, both are newbie errors.  You want someone who will really listen to what you want and hear you, and step back, and be flexible.  The architect we hired wanted to manage the project  – when I wanted to be the project manager with the archiect’s help.  So some of it is, it depends whether you really want someone to run with the project or whether you want to be more actively involved.  I’m figuring out my role in the process and will need to lean on professionals, but the highest priority is getting help figuring out what will work, not just looking at drawings but really figuring out a good game plan.  And finding good partners.

bostudio | 13 years and 4 months ago

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You should not be worried about offending anybody.  You need to shop around for architects and find the right one for you.  Renovations can be stressful and you do not need to add to the stress by hiring an architect that you cannot speak freely to.  We are used to this interview process so there is nothing to worry about. Meet with several architects, check references, look at their work and request proposals.  In terms of the involvement of an architect during construction: you definitely want the architect involved, especially if you do not have the time / expertise to be deeply involved yourself.  Many architects (including myself) won’t even give proposals just for the design phase, without construction observation.  It is a crucial part of the process, and all parties benefit from it.  Make sure you bid out the job to several contractors as well.  It is customary for the architect to give contractor recommendations to the client.  Good luck!

masterbuilder | 13 years and 4 months ago

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My company does not follow any one procedure for managing a project.  It depends on what the client wants.  Half of my clients bring their architects and engineers to me and the other half ask me to help them find an architect or engineer.  My company designs in house for most clients, and some of my clients are architects.  Do your research and find the path that works for you.

AnArchitect | 13 years and 4 months ago

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There are 2 common ways for project delivery: Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) and Design Build.  There are sub categories within these 2 methods, but these are the most common.  Both methods require an active presence by the architect throughout construction.    We are architects and engineers.  We manage the design process from survey through bidding to contractors, through construction, and through completion and move in.  We would welcome an opportunity to be considered for this project:   Agencie Group 145 Hudson Street, NY (212) 203-0291 www.agenciegroup.com

chris123 | 13 years and 4 months ago

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We YKM Restorationhave done a lot of renovation jobs in Brooklyn, We would be more than happy to discuss the job with you and provide you with an estimate. You can call Asad at 917-807-7498.

josh | 13 years and 4 months ago

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You’ll probably want the architect to have a role during construction.  Think of the architect as your advocate during this phase- someone who not only makes sure the design is advancing in accordance with the drawings, but can assist with the inevitable modifications to the design that might result from unforseen site conditions or a change of mind.  Without an architect on hand you might start to lose the handle on your original vision.

allans | 13 years and 4 months ago

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Hi, I was a newbie as well in 2005 / 2006 and my budget was high so I was extremely fearful of the process as well.  My experience ended up being a good one, mostly because I found a contractor who was caring enough to explain everything and work closely with me.  The contractor I used was All Renovation Construction, we can talk off-line if you like as I have alot of information to share.  You can contact me at allans1935@gmail.com – I’ll send you my contact number. Best, Allan S.

jockdeboeraia | 13 years and 4 months ago

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Same as with a contractor, give a few a call, talk with them what you want to do and see what they have to say. Generally it helps to meet on site and see how the building speaks to you. A proposal is produced and/or you can hire someone to do inintal design work to see if you like the direction. You want to make sure you pick someone you are comfortable with, listens and understands your needs. Good luck.