The Design-Build Approach

Every week, homeowners present us with architectural drawings asking for estimates on their additions or renovations. Far too often, we hear the same frustration: “Our target budget was $X, but the estimates we’re getting back are $2X or $3X. Can CAD Construction build this for $X?”

The root cause is almost always the same: the plans were designed as a highlight film, and the budget was an afterthought.

At CAD Construction, we take a smarter, budget-led approach. We establish your ideal investment upfront and work backward to design a space that maximizes your budget without financial surprises. Renovating your home requires significant time and energy; our proven design-build framework keeps the process transparent, efficient, and aligned with your financial goals from day one.

The CAD Construction Design-Build Framework

(Typical Duration: ~4 Weeks)

1. Complimentary On-Site Consultation

We meet at your home to evaluate existing conditions, discuss your vision, and explore design possibilities. We will discuss your target budget during this initial meeting. There is no cost or obligation for this consultation.

2. Design Proposal & Commitment Letter

Following our visit, we provide our Design-Build Commitment Letter for your review. By signing this letter will transition you from a prospective customer into an active customer.

With a signed commitment letter, the following process is followed.  

  • The existing home is field measured, and findings are entered into a computer program.
  • We will need a copy of your survey of the existing home.
  • We draw preliminary floor plans for your project.
  • As the designs are prepared, CAD Construction will verify the costs associated with the options for your review.  Typically, 1 or 2 designs will be provided for your review.
  • Your design-build process includes the use of the CAD Construction Preferred Vendors.  We ask that you visit the appropriate vendors so we can obtain real selection costs to use in our analysis.  
  • Vendors include.
    • Kitchen design & cabinet selection.
    • Countertop selections.
    • Appliance selections.
    • Plumbing fixture selections.
    • Electrical Fixture selections.
    • Flooring selections.
    • Tile design and selections.
    • Roofing and siding selections.
  • As you complete the design-build process, assuming you are comfortable with your findings, you will be presented with a draft construction agreement for your review.  At this point, you already know the full cost of construction and the cost of fixtures, giving you a very close look at your total commitment.  We here at CAD Construction feel spending +/-2 – 5% on the design-build process is well worth the exercise, resulting in taking the guesswork out of your project.  

Design-Build Retainer Policy

CAD Construction requires an initial Design-Build retainer to initiate architectural drafting, site measurements, and budgeting. Retainer amounts are scaled to project scope.

  • Contract Credit: 100% of your retainer is applied directly toward your first construction payment upon signing your formal agreement.
  • Alternative Outcome: Should you choose not to move forward, the retainer compensates CAD Construction and their team for the time spent on your project. Retainers are non-refundable.

Next Steps

To discuss an upcoming project, review portfolio examples, or schedule your complimentary site consultation, contact CAD Construction at (732) 713-8827 or submit an inquiry through our contact form.