28/12/2023
ARCHITECT'S ADVICE
Architect's 24-advice to 2024 house dreamers.
Before you manifest your House in 2024! You need to know these.
1.If you want convenience, buy a house and lot. You can move-in right after the turnover.Less hassle than building from ground zero.
2.If you have a parcel of land/lot, initially you would want to get an Architect to design your home. The technical plans (Architectural to engineering design) will be handed over to you. (Blueprints, specifications and bill of materials etc.)
3.The probable cost of the house construction will be given to you by your Architect. (30k to 45k per sqm is the most realistic cost)
4.The house can be built by reputable contractors through bidding (3 contractors are recommended then select 1)
5.After choosing the builder, you need to comply with the PERMITS such as building permit, barangay permits, fire safety evaluation certificate etc. (Refer to your local government for requirements)
6.Compliance with these, we can now start your house construction. Bring your deep pockets na.
7.Always keep in mind to hire a third party project manager if you're not a technical person in relation to construction. Your architect and engineer can always help you.
8.Remind yourself,structural work is expensive, architectural finishing is luxury. π
9.Keep your budget in check, progress billing of your contractor must be aligned to the actual accomplishment.
10.As the owner,you also have the responsibility to pay what's completed progress.
11.If you have changes to the actual work that's not specified on the plans, the contractor has the liberty to ask for additional cost. This is called "change order/variance".
12.Along the way you will be having delays, it may be the cause of your decision making or the contractor's delay due to various instances. Just in case this happens, add a clause to your contract for "liquidated damages". This corresponds to the cost of delay each day.
13.When choosing materials, seek for the quality made. It's your lifetime investment,not just a mere cheap one. If money is not a problem, "top of the line specs", i suggest π Don't take your chances to substandard-china made faux.
14.Aesthetic is ok, function is better.
15.When dealing with contractors and engineers you need to acquire the harmony of collaboration. Para walang sa sakit sa ulo, build trust and rapport.
16.Peace of mind is the product of hiring professionals.
17.Professional's duties of building your house.
Architect - Predesign, design and construction
Project manager - Design to construction
Contractor - Construction to post construction
Property manager - Post construction
18.Your house must have a warranty,it must be agreed upon if how long, 3 months,6 months or 1 year.
19.Workmaship and material defects are okay for warranty. But if you caused the damage to the components, it may fall under additional charges.
20.Your house is done and you want to design/decorate your interiors,ask for the help of an Interior Designer, they are the expert on this field!
21.Make your house smart, purchase energy efficient appliances and control everything through wireless fidelity. Don't forget sustainable energy from solar panels.
22.Maintain your house brand new, schedule yearly house maintenance cleaning,monthly utility check and upscaling to quality material finishes.
23.Always remember this, a house is a liability if it doesnt give you revenue.
24.Last but not the least,small or huge, make your house a HOME of memories.
-Raw House Architect,2023
