At Lakefront Building & Design, we specialize in designing and building custom homes in Northern Wisconsin. By only building a limited number of homes each year, our approach ensures each project receives the detailed attention it deserves.

Our preconstruction process involves working closely with our clients to ensure their new home exceeds their expectations. This article outlines our detailed preconstruction process for new custom homes, providing a clear roadmap from your initial contact with us to the beginning of construction.

Our Preconstruction Process

The path to building your new home may seem overwhelming, but our structured systems and processes are here to guide you.

Step 1: Site Consultation
Our journey begins with a site consultation. During this in-person meeting:

  • We walk your site together, allowing us to understand your vision and goals.
  • We help you understand our process and values.
  • Together, define the scope of work for your project.

Step 2: Budget Meeting
The next step is a thorough budget discussion. During this meeting:

  • We discuss a comprehensive wishlist encompassing your desires and requirements.
  • We assess your target budget to determine the feasibility of your project.
  • We establish a Preconstruction Service Agreement to proceed.

Step 3: Design Process
This phase is when your project begins to come to life. In the design phase:

  • You will share ideas and layouts from inspiration photos during a design take-off meeting.
  • We will draft a design intended to fit your budget and align with your overall vision.
  • You will receive up to three design revisions to ensure your satisfaction.
  • Preliminary Design Acceptance is required to proceed to the next phase.

Step 4: Selections Process
We believe in detailed planning, so we have a dedicated selections process during preconstruction. During this phase:

  • You will receive a comprehensive Selections Workbook.
  • We work through the assigned selections together, week by week.
  • You will meet with our preferred vendors to learn about projects and make informed decisions.

Step 5: Bid Process
We engage in a competitive bid process with trusted partners and suppliers to ensure the best quality and pricing. During bidding, we send your bid plans to our preferred trade partners and suppliers.

Step 6: Proposal / Contract Signing
Before construction can begin, we engage in the final contracting steps. During this phase:

  • We prepare Construction Specifications.
  • We present a detailed Construction Cost Proposal.
  • We finalize the Construction Agreement.
  • We establish a payment schedule and project timeline.
  • Benefits of Smart Siding

Our Preconstruction Scope of Work

Throughout the preconstruction process, we engage in the following Scope of Work on your behalf.

  1. We provide expert insight into constructability, local building codes, municipality requirements, and more. This includes soil testing (if applicable), building material choices, preferred trade partners, and design details.
  2. Based on information gathered during the Site Consultation and Budget Meeting, we draft a set of preliminary construction plans. This includes up to three revisions at no additional cost. Significant alterations beyond the initial agreement may incur additional fees.
  3. We assist you with custom home selections. You’ll meet with preferred vendors and suppliers to finalize choices before bidding. This helps define building materials and details, ensuring cost goals are met. If selections are incomplete, we provide an allowance.
  4. We create detailed Construction Specifications, outlining material expectations, labor requirements, and the tasks to be completed by Trade Partners.
  5. A comprehensive Construction Cost Proposal summarizes the expenses associated with the Construction Specifications.
  6. We also draft a preliminary project schedule, which includes a detailed payment schedule based on construction milestones.

Your Preferred Partner for Custom Home Building in Eagle River, WI

At Lakefront Building & Design, our mission is to provide the best building experience possible for our clients. Our goal is to craft your dream home through a process you can trust. By following our defined preconstruction process, you can feel confident in the steps we take together, ensuring your new home is a perfect reflection of your vision.