5 Big Advantages of a Design-Build Firm

Design-build firms continue to grow in popularity, but if you’ve never worked with one before, you might wonder why you should. Unlike the traditional build system that requires owners hire an architect for design plans and then wait for bids from contractors, design-build firms offer both architect and construction services in-house. This means owners sign a single contract and work with one unified team to see their project all the way through from ideation to completion.

At Valley Home Builders, we believe the design-build system is the best approach for homeowners to achieve their desired results with the least complications or budget overages. Our team of architects, designers, and project managers works closely together to ensure each client’s needs are consistently exceeded.

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Homeowners that hire a design-build firm like Valley Home Builders can anticipate five major benefits:

Improved Communication

Previously, when a remodel required hiring an architect and a contractor separately, there were numerous opportunities for the relationship between the two to become adversarial. Such a scenario has the potential to create strained communications for homeowners. Wouldn’t you rather spend time pushing your project forward rather than managing architect/contractor relationships? A design-build firm solves the problem entirely by ensuring architects and project managers are always on the same team: Yours. And since you’re working with a single party and signing just one contract instead of two, there is less opportunity for miscommunication.

Better Project Management

Improved communication also paves the way for strong and effective project management. Instead of playing middleman between architect and contractor, homeowners can let qualified project managers do the heavy lifting. They’ll work one-on-one with designers to make sure the project is to spec from beginning to end. They’ll use designer connections to source the best materials at the best prices. And they’ll do everything they can to stay well within the project’s estimated budget.

Cost-Saving Opportunities

Speaking of budget management, there are multiple cost-saving opportunities when working with a design-build firm. In the bid system, a homeowner works with an architect to create a design and accompanying estimated budget. Contractors bid on said project anticipating material and labor costs, oftentimes driving up budget numbers before the project has even begun. When you engage in a collective discussion with the designer and project manager, you can determine materials and methods before finalizing your design—and your budget. Likewise, with a single team prioritizing a shared goal and in constant contact, you’re less likely to experience unexpected increases throughout the project

Faster Completion

Another advantage of ditching contractor bidding? You get to skip the wait time, too. In fact, a design-build firm can sometimes have your remodel in the works before your design is even finalized. Homeowners can also expect a decreased chance of delays overall.

Less Owner Risk

Last but not least: Working with a design-build firm means that you won’t be coming to a contractor with an established design. Thus, the quality of the design falls to the design-build firm rather than you. In other words, any errors become the responsibility of the firm. Since most homeowners have little remodel knowledge and limited understanding of design, letting experienced professionals shoulder the risk just makes more sense.

If you’re ready to work with an award-winning design-build firm you can trust, contact Valley Home Builders today.