Why do I need a Project Design & Development agreement?

Why should we enter into a design and development agreement with a contractor?

 

One question homeowners might ask when they begin to move forward with a landscape design-build project is: Why should we enter into a Design & Development agreement with a contractor? Which is frequently followed up with: Can’t we just get a free estimate and base the finances of our project off that? The short answer is that you really do get what you pay for – and basing a project budget on a free estimate is truly a recipe for disaster.

In design-build, a free estimate or ballpark range of a project is essentially a guess based on the contractor’s past experience with similar projects. With new construction, sometimes a contractor gives a homeowner a ballpark range, and they are literally plugging a project into a very simplistic formula of x square feet multiplied by $x per square foot.

 

Unfortunately, both approaches don’t take all of your needs, your existing home or any nuances of your property into consideration – and that could be a huge mistake. These approaches; however, may be helpful to a homeowner to determine if a project is realistic for their budget or expected investment.

 

While these contractors who provide free estimates are not intentionally trying to mislead you, they may not be taking all of your project’s needs into consideration, which means that a free estimate can be very far afield. That can cost you financially if you use that estimate to plan your loan amount and “extras” pop up later in the process that you will have to scramble to pay for. It can also take an emotional toll if you have your heart set on a project only to discover after the process has begun that you can’t afford what you really want.

 

A Project Design and Development Agreement like the one we use, in contrast, provides clients with an accurate fixed-cost dollar amount based on a well-defined scope. Clients pay a nominal planning fee based on their project’s estimated budget range, and that fee is then applied to the cost of their final project, so it’s not an added cost. It’s a commitment by a serious homeowner to get a solid price on their project upfront and before construction begins.

 

Among the things our Project Design and Development Agreement includes are: Conducting a comprehensive needs analysis for the client’s project and how it will tie into their existing home; determining a well-defined project scope; taking as-built measurements and photographs; meeting with various tradesmen, and vendors; reviewing preliminary plans; preparing conceptual drawings (if required); and establishing material allowances for selections (tile, hardwood, countertop materials, cabinets, plumbing fixtures, lighting, etc.). It also entails preparing final drawings (as required) and coordinating any required architect and/or structural engineer’s stamps as well as pricing the entire project to determine a final fixed cost. The final step in our process is presenting a detailed Construction Agreement for the client’s review, approval and signature. This Agreement will include, among other items, a defined work description, material allowances, definitive start and completion dates, initial payment and progressive payment schedule, plus many other required project details.

 

As you can see, a Project Design and Development Agreement is far more complex than a free estimate. As such, it reflects your commitment as a serious client who appreciates working with a professional who will add value to your project and minimizes the possibility of surprises in the scope and cost of the project. Which means that it is essentially an investment in your peace of mind.

 

Our Process

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Dear Valued Client,

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We appreciate you considering colaborating with us on transforming your outdoor spaces. At Brandywine Designs LLC, our commitment to creating exceptional landscapes and outdoor living environments is at the core of everything we do. To ensure clarity and transparency in our partnership, we would like to share our approach to our customer’s projects and how it sets us apart in the industry.

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Our Approach: Design-Build with a Fixed Cost Model

We operate on a design-build fixed cost model. This means we are entrusted not only with designing your project but also with bringing that design to life, all within a pre-agreed budget. This model is based on a comprehensive construction agreement that is finalized after the design phase. It ensures that you have a clear understanding of the cost from the outset, allowing for a seamless and predictable project journey.

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Quality Over Quantity

In a marketplace often dominated by price wars and volume-driven strategies, we have chosen to step away from the traditional competitive bidding process. Our experience has shown us that focusing on quality over quantity not only allows us to dedicate the necessary attention to each project but also ensures that we deliver an unparalleled level of craftsmanship and customer service.

We believe that each project is unique and deserves a tailored approach. This philosophy has guided us away from competitive bidding, as we feel it does not always allow for the nuances of individual projects or the high standards of execution that we set for ourselves. Instead, we strive for a process that values precision, bespoke design solutions, and the highest execution standards—qualities we find are not always achievable in a bid-focused environment.

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Why Choose Brandywine Designs LLC?

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Choosing Brandywine Designs LLC means partnering with a company that prioritizes:

• Bespoke Designs: Tailored specifically to your needs and aspirations.

• Fixed Costing: Predictability in pricing from the very beginning.

• Quality and Precision: A commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.

• Personalized Service: Direct communication and collaboration throughout the project.

 

We understand that embarking on a landscape design and outdoor living project is a significant decision. Our goal is to make this process as predictable, enjoyable, and rewarding as possible. At Brandywine Designs LLC, we are not just building outdoor spaces; we are creating environments that enhance lifestyles and bring joy to those who experience them.

 

Thank you for considering Brandywine Designs LLC for your project. We are excited about the opportunity to bring your vision to life and to exceed your expectations in every aspect of our work.

 

Warm regards,

Mark Wagner, Owner, Brandywine Designs LLC