ConstructionBuild in Downtown Charleston

By Charlie Letts, Planning & Development Coordinator – Luxury Simplified Construction

One of the many joys of homeownership is the freedom to make improvements and updates to your property as your needs and preferences change. While some projects may be small enough for the ambitious “do-it-yourselfer, ” more often people rely on a local contractor to handle the work. Whether it’s a small-scale renovation/addition, or a completely new home of your dreams, the following will help ensure your project is a complete success.

Thorough and accurate planning is the best way to get your project going in the right direction, so spend the time before work starts to get everything in order. Establish a comprehensive budget that works for you and then determine the appropriate design and finish details. Oftentimes the true costs of Charleston construction surpass what most people think, so be realistic from the start and do not plan your project using the most optimistic scenario. It’s simply not realistic and such actions will ultimately result in disappointment or budget increases. Further, a project scope that is straightforward and clearly defined will allow potential builders to provide an accurate estimate while also ensuring they each cover the same level of details.

One way to make this happen is to hire an architect. Your builder of choice can recommend someone whom you both can trust. Another approach that may be appropriate, especially for complicated jobs, is to hire a contractor under a design-build agreement. In such cases, the builder will be involved in all aspects of the project from the start, and will help coordinate everything from planning through to completion. When considering who to hire, it is recommended to meet with at least three firms in order to get a good understanding of how each one would anticipate getting the project completed. While there are services available online to help find local builders, word-of-mouth often remains the best way to go; or visit a local real estate office to get their recommendations. Remember, for better or worse, the contractor hired will become an integral part of your life during construction so you want someone who will work well with you to meet your needs. And at the very least, it’s imperative the contractor is fully insured and licensed through both the state and city.

A well-done construction project can certainly add value to one’s property and provide a lovely space to call home, so it’s important to find the right builder that works with you to make this a reality. Honesty and transparency are keys to a successful job, and when the right builder in downtown Charleston is found, everyone involved walks away happy and stress-free.

Luxury Simplified Construction is able to assist you with construction and custom home projects. For more information visit www.luxurysimplifiedgroup.com