Purchasing a Built-to-Ship Home
Our years of building experience have proven
that no two projects are alike - each one presents a unique set of circumstances and challenges. At Allen Associates,
we guide you through the process as it unfolds – and while the unexpected is likely, we do our best to prepare you so
you will know what to expect and when. The more you understand the process, the more likely you will enjoy the experience
of building your new home.
Step One – Decide location, general design, and project viability
o If you do not
already own property, avoid sticker shock and/or wishful thinking - consult with a Realtor and become very familiar with potential
locations and property values. Keep in mind that building in remote areas, on a slope, in tsunami zones or flood plains,
or on rocky/unstable soil can increase building costs.
o Come up with a general idea of what you would like
to build – perhaps you like the plantation style houses on our website. How big/small/custom do you envision your house?
Will your finish materials be standard or high-end?
o Do the math - Pencil out the rough numbers on your project
to make sure you are comfortable with the direction you are going. (A few minutes of realistic planning now could be
vital.) Include property/holding costs, travel, taxes, and all building costs. Feel free to consult with us if you need
a rough price for your calculations.
Step Two – Get to know your builder
o Once you know where and what you want to build
and are comfortable with a rough budget, it’s time to get to know your builder. We encourage you to visit our
websites to learn more about us: www.builttoship.com and www.dennisallenassociates.com Ask builders you are considering for references and
check them.
o Call or email us – we are happy to answer any initial questions you have over the phone
or via email, but of course we prefer a face-to-face meeting to get acquainted and talk about your project.
o Initial
Meeting – ask any questions necessary that will help you feel comfortable working with us. We will set aside an hour
or so for you to answer questions, talk about your project concept, and advise you on design.
o Site Visit
– if possible, we will come out to your building site to get the lay of the land. We will assess the terrain,
view, parking, utilities, drainage, neighbors, etc., and advise you on design and any apparent issues or concerns. We
try to arm you with the essential information you need to make your decision.
o At this point, it’s
time to decide if you are ready to move forward to the next step – the Design Phase. This phase is very exciting
and also requires a considerable investment, so be sure you are prepared to move forward.
Step Three – Design Phase and Contract
o Once we begin dedicating time to developing/designing your project, we begin to incur costs and so ask that you sign
a Design Contract with us. The Design Contract lays out costs to you and the terms of our relationship in the design
phase.
o Typically, the following items will be completed in this phase:
| · Finalize Design Concept | · Engineering Stamp |
| · Full set of Architectural Plans/Drawings | · Septic Design |
| · Detailed Job Estimate | · Permit Procurement |
| · Architect Stamp | |
o Upon completion of these items, it’s time to sign a Construction Contract and move forward with building.
Step
Four – Construction Phase and Contract
o At this stage, we sit down with you to finalize material
choices for your new home:
| · Paint Color | · Decking/Siding |
| · Flooring | · Roofing |
| · Cabinets/Countertops | · Plumbing/Electrical Fixtures |
| · Tile | · Doors |
| · Appliances | · Hardware |
o We
will develop a specific construction schedule and action item list for your project.
o Every two weeks
we will update you to let you know how your project is progressing. Generally, within 3-5 months of breaking ground,
your new house is move-in ready!
