Learn Before You Begin

Buying construction services may not be your main concern every day, but when the time comes to begin a project, a little education can help ensure a smooth, straightforward construction experience.

Before you begin your construction project, carefully reflect on the following items and know that at every point in the learning process, EFH Co. can help you decide on what best fits your needs.

• Consider your needs
  • Think about why you want to expand. Should you build instead of lease?
  • Begin with a feasibility study. We can help to initiate one.
  • Decide on your time line and what you can afford.
  • Create a list of priorities such as location, function, financing, completion date, etc.
• Understand contracts
  • Learn about the different types of contractual relationships: bidding contractor, design/build contractor, construction manager with no general contractor, construction manager with a general contractor and a construction manager acting as the general contractor.
  • Be prepared to accept minimum quality if you go with the lowest cost bid.
  • Ensure that someone on your team performs and records appropriate inspections and tests. EFH Co. always takes care of these details for you.
• Estimate costs
  • Consider all the costs that may be included in your project, such as land, legal fees, consultant fees, contractor costs, furniture, etc. When you work with us, you know your total cost up front.
  • Research average costs and standard contract documents to gain a better understanding of what you may pay.
• Choose your team
  • Who will you need? Your team may include a contractor, architect, engineer and others. EFH Co. can act as your design/build contractor, your general contractor, construction manager or simply a provider of specific development services. In any case, we will be there for you throughout the whole process.
  • Consider a company's recent and past jobs, current workload, credit history, communication skills and more.
  • Look for people that you can trust, people with whom you can build a solid relationship.

For more information, we recommend Jack Miller's short workbook; "Rules You Should Know Before You Build Your Important Project - A Guide for the Buyer of Construction Services".  Inquire for a complimentary copy with EFH Co. or learn more at www.jackmiller.com.

Contact us early in the process, and we can discuss any questions you may have about beginning a project.