Planning a remodel can be a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to evaluating bids and proposals from a remodeling company. At Excel Builders, we believe transparency is key, which is why we’re giving you an overview of what a proposal from a design-build company entails. Keep reading to learn what a design proposal is, why it’s important, and what it includes.
Design-Build vs. Remodeling Contractor
Before we dive into the design proposal, let’s first talk about what makes working with a design-build company different from a typical remodeling contractor.
To put it simply, it all comes down to the process. A traditional remodeling contractor generally only handles the execution of the project, whereas a design-build company tackles both the design and execution. With design services built into the company’s offerings, there is no need to hire an independent designer — although you certainly can if you want.
There are many advantages to working with a design-build company. One of the biggest benefits is that every project includes a detailed design proposal.
Why is a Design Proposal Important?
A design proposal is a document that clearly outlines important elements of your home remodeling project. This detailed document is vital because it allows you to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the project scope, vision, and budget.
All in all, the design proposal:
- Helps the client envision the completed project
- Sets clear expectations for the project
- Eliminates potential miscommunication
- Outlines the project scope, budget, and timeline in one place
- Makes it easy to request changes before the project begins
What is Included in a Design Proposal?
While the details included in the design proposal are pretty standard, they may vary from one company to the next. Our design proposal provides essential information related to the project scope and the covered allowances.
Project Scope
The project scope is the work included in the remodeling project. These details include an overview of the remodel and specify who will obtain permits, provide debris removal, and the level of cleanup at the end of the project. Defining the scope of the project upfront is essential for setting expectations. Everything is listed in detail so you can see exactly what is included and, more importantly, what’s not included before the project ever begins.
If you have any questions or concerns while reviewing the project scope, don’t hesitate to ask. It’s our job to guide you through the home remodeling process, from the design proposal to project completion.
Selection Allowances
Allowances are the estimated monetary values for the selections included in your project. Listing out the selections and their allowances creates a baseline for the project’s total cost and helps to keep you on budget while making design selections. For example, let’s say you have a $3,000 allowance for light fixtures. Your actual cost will depend on the light fixtures you choose, but spending $3,000 or less will keep you on budget.
Our designer will help you throughout the selections process, which will include picking out items such as:
- Countertops
- Flooring
- Tile
- Cabinetry
- Lighting
- Plumbing fixtures
- Windows
- Interior millwork (doors and trim)
Allowances are great because they give you an idea of how much your home remodel will cost without having to finalize your design selections upfront.
Trusted Design-Build Company in Minneapolis, MN & Nearby
If you’re planning to remodel your kitchen, bathroom, basement, or another room in your home, Excel Builders can help. We are the leading design-build company in the Twin Cities area. With more than 20 years of experience, our design process is second to none, and we can help with home remodeling projects of all sizes. We can even design and build custom cabinets, millwork, and furniture for your project through our in-house custom cabinet shop!
To get started, call us at (612) 306-4064 or reach out to trent@excelbuildersmn.com. Excel Builders proudly serves homeowners throughout Greater Chanhassen and the Twin Cities West Metro, including Minneapolis, Plymouth, Edina, Carver, Chaska, Excelsior, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Shorewood, and nearby Minnesota cities.