In a perfect world, homeowners and architects would fully understand each other and enjoy smooth sailing throughout the entire construction or remodeling project. Unfortunately, this is not the world we live in, and sometimes misunderstandings happen. However, these misunderstandings need not lead to arguments. When starting any custom home building or remodeling project, there are some common confusions that arise. Kitchen Renovation Tacoma, we want to help you identify them and talk about how to prevent them from turning into arguments.

Homeowner thinks: You never finished my checklist.

At closing, the builder and owner do a walkthrough list of the project as a whole, to see if there’s anything that still needs more work. It must be in writing and signed by both parties. Be careful not to frustrate your builder, or yourself, by constantly adding “one more thing.” Adding things to the list makes it look like the constructor never ends, which isn’t good for you or your constructor. So agree on the initial list. If you can think of more things to consider, create a separate new list.

The homeowner thinks: Why is it difficult for me to put two more windows in the house? I am already paying a lot for this house.

While it is a fact that you are probably paying too much to get your home, your builder has calculated your price with clear specifications at the beginning of the home building process. If you add specifications, you affect their costs and their profits. If there are adjustments you need or want, that’s okay. To protect both of you, these changes should only be clearly communicated and made in writing.

The homeowner thinks: I’m paying for a quality home and it’s not perfect. I want it to be fixed.

You are right to expect quality. But it becomes difficult if not impossible to fulfill the expectations. Architects are people (and therefore imperfect) and use imperfect materials. Before signing the contract, the owner and builder should clearly define their expectations. Although it will take a little time, it is worth it. And if you’re not sure, your builder can help you determine what’s realistic and what’s not in your home building plan. By getting it down on paper, you’ll avoid arguments over expectations.

Builder Thinks: The homeowner is asking for changes, but I don’t think they have enough funds to pay for them. Homeowner believes: Builder did not communicate changes and charges in a clear and timely manner.

Agree to any changes in writing after the contract is signed. It is also a good idea for the owner to pay for changes as they occur and not wait until the job is finished. By doing this, there will be no financial surprises and it will put both parties on good terms.

The homeowner thinks: My custom home builder is not taking my concerns seriously. They are falling on deaf ears.

It would be smart to have regular, perhaps weekly, meetings with your builder. This will allow the two of you to update the schedule, discuss any changes, express your concerns, and discuss items the builder may need to order to finish your home. . Regular meetings allow you to address concerns without feeling like you’re bothering the builder. Your builder will appreciate it because you won’t feel like you have to constantly put construction on hold.

The homeowner thinks: I talked to the subcontractor and he told me that he would fix a certain problem without involving the builder. Streamline the process.

Everything needs to go through the builder in the construction manager because they have the “big picture”. If you try to avoid it to save time, it is actually more likely to cause confusion and delay.

The homeowner talks to everyone but the builder about what’s going on with the project.

It’s important to have honest and open communication with your builder, especially when it comes to issues. It is very important to have a good relationship with your builder. So don’t spoil the relationship by talking about him behind his back. Let him do what you hired him to do.