FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About Home Design & Construction
Clients often have questions about working with a residential architect.
Here are some common concerns and their answers.
Please feel free to contact us with your own questions.
START your home project
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Design and construction is a complex and often expensive undertaking that requires professional training.
Creative design, an understanding of construction technologies, structural design, a mechanical & electrical engineering design team, knowledge of pricing, and ability to coordinate lots of complex technical information with a diverse team of people is what an architect will bring to your project.
It is the time-proven best way to get a building designed and built.
Staying with in your budget and schedule has to be coordinated by an experienced design professional.
Without an architect, you will be unlikely to meet your goals and you will be subject to a lot of risk during this process.
Still have questions? Book your FREE architect call now
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Because of our 20+ years of experience, we provide a lot more information and value in an initial consultation than other design professionals. We call this initial consultation a Home Project Review. During the home project review, we help with defining the scope of work, preparing budgets, give design advice, discuss zoning requirements, detail information on the process of design through permitting, customize services, share pitfalls that could impact the project, and other information customized to the your project’s specific needs. This information is yours to take to any design professional you meet and will give you a jump start on your project and help you define realistic goals. We also offer FREE phone consultations if costs are a concern.
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Home Architect Studio accepts cash, checks, home equity checks and money orders. We also provide payment options for credit cards, yet need to charge a 3.5% credit card charge to cover the transaction costs.
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A designer is not licensed.
An architect is licensed by the State and must have completed a minimum of 8 years experience of education and internship, extensive testing and regular continuing education to receive and keep their license up to date. Architects are also required to have a working knowledge of building systems, such as structure, heating & cooling, plumbing, electrical, and many more.
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Compensation for architectural services varies greatly, and is the same as asking “How much does a car cost?”
The rate of compensation really depends on the complexity of the project; as a rule of thumb, most projects have fees that range anywhere from 3% to 15% of the construction cost. The first step in understanding costs is to have a conversation with an architect before any design is initiated. Our phone consultation is an option if you are still in the early phases of your project.
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You need an architect and a contractor because each brings separate and necessary skills to make your project a success.
An architect provides creative design skills, an engineering team, detailed documents for bidding and construction, and is the owner’s eyes and ears on the project to ensure quality construction as well as protect the owner’s interests. An architect is your representative and minimizes your risk in all your interactions with the contractor and subcontractors. In residential architecture, this is often crucial to the success of the project.
In addition to designing your project, we can also provide construction management services where the questions between you, the builder, and the architect disappear as we will manage your project from the beginning until the day you move in.
Looking for more proof that hiring an architect is worth it? Take a look at this Popular Mechanics article for great insight.
And if you ready for a chat? Schedule your FREE Architect Consultation. We would be happy to help with your project.
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Have any other questions about your home project?
We can help. Click here to schedule your FREE Architect Consultation.
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Have any other questions about your home project?
We can help. Click here to schedule your FREE Architect Consultation.
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Compensation for home architectural services varies greatly, and is the same as asking “How much does a car cost?”
The rate of compensation really depends on the complexity of the project; as a rule of thumb, most projects have fees that range anywhere from 3% to 25% of the construction cost. The first step in understanding costs is to have a conversation with an architect before any design is initiated.
Our free phone consultation is an option if you are still in the early phases of your project.
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- Commercial architects are specialists in commercial spaces.
- Residential architects are great in designing homes.
A quick online search for a nearby architect or reviewing a website like Houzz can serve as an important first step in your search; you should also seek referrals from those you know who’ve worked with the architect in the past.
Looking for an architect who specializes in home design?
We can help. Click here to schedule your FREE Architect Consultation.
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Unless you would like your architect to chose your finishes. 😊
You should really have an architect assist you in its design and construction documentation. And if you are fortunate enough to live near an architect who can help with the construction (like us 👷♂️) then he or she can also build the project for you.
Have any other questions about your remodeling project?
We can help. Click here to schedule your FREE Architect Consultation.
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You will save a lot of money with a good set of architectural drawings and specifications.
The contractors will have very clear and complete information to enable them to prepare a very competitive bid. Vague or incomplete drawings will leave too many items unclear and result in higher prices, delays, and change order costs. You will usually save most of the architect’s fee when you open your contractors’ bids because a complete set of plans and specifications has eliminated virtually all of the unknowns that drive your costs higher.
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Yes we can! To protect our client’s privacy, we only provide references upon request.
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- Do I want to fix my own car?
- Do I want to write my own will?
- Do I want to replace my own roof?
- Do I want to install this beam by myself?
- Do I want to cook my own meal every night?
All of these tasks you can technically complete by yourself. But do you want to?
If the answer is yes & you have the wear withal, then we wish you the best of luck on this great task.
Just remember one very important thing; if anything goes wrong you can blame only blame YOURSELF.
Not really interested in drawing up your own house plans?
We can help. Click here to schedule your FREE Architect Consultation.
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- Do I want to self-medicate myself?
- Do I want to fix my own car?
- Do I want to write my own will?
- Do I want to replace my own roof?
- Do I want to install this beam by myself?
- Do I want to cook my own meal every night?
All of these tasks you can technically complete by yourself. But do you want to?
If the answer is yes & you have the wear withal, then we wish you the best of luck on this great task.
Just remember one very important thing; if anything goes wrong you can blame only YOURSELF.
Not really interested in drawing up your own house plans?
We can help. Click here to schedule your FREE Architect Consultation.
DESIGN your home project
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Click here to schedule your FREE architect phone consultation.
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Because of our 20+ years of experience, we provide a lot more information and value in an initial consultation than other design professionals. We call this initial consultation a Home Project Review. During the home project review, we help with defining the scope of work, preparing budgets, give design advice, discuss zoning requirements, detail information on the process of design through permitting, customize services, share pitfalls that could impact the project, and other information customized to the your project’s specific needs. This information is yours to take to any design professional you meet and will give you a jump start on your project and help you define realistic goals. We also offer FREE phone consultations if costs are a concern.
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An NJ ResCheck refers to the ResCheck energy compliance report required in New Jersey to demonstrate that a residential building meets the state’s energy code requirements. ResCheck is a software tool developed by the U.S. Department of Energy to verify that homes comply with the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and other applicable energy standards.
When is a ResCheck Required in New Jersey?
- For new residential construction, additions, or major renovations that must meet NJ energy efficiency standards.
- When applying for a building permit, local building departments may require a ResCheck report to ensure compliance with the current energy code.
- Typically applies to one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses.
What Does a ResCheck Include?
- Building envelope details (walls, roof, windows, doors, foundation insulation).
- HVAC system specifications to ensure energy efficiency.
- U-factors & R-values for insulation, windows, and doors.
- Heating and cooling load calculations to confirm energy efficiency compliance.
- A pass/fail determination based on energy code requirements.
Who can provide a ResCheck?
- An architect (like us 😁 ), engineer or energy consultant.
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We will:
- Be photographing each room as well as the exterior.
- Be measuring building systems (doors, windows, walls, etc.)
- Scan the rooms if the wall surfaces are readily available (meaning not too much furniture in front of it)
- Need access to all of the home’s locked areas
What should you bring to the ECS?
- A fun loving attitude since we’ll be formally introduced to your home. 😁
- A copy of your property survey.
- Any other building related documents you may have (old floor plans, etc)
- The project’s initial deposit.
- Cash or checks are preferable. Credit cards are acceptable, and will carry a 3.5% processing fee.
- Checks can be made out to Home Architect Studio
So how long will a ECS typically take?
- On average, we can complete the ECS within about 4 hours.
- Sometimes, we may require an additional visit (especially after the model is completed) to confirm certain dimensions.
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A variance is a “variation” from the local township’s Zoning Code for a certain type of construction or use.
Variances are typically granted by a Board of Adjustment or Zoning Board.
Variances are only granted in special situations, as they would essentially provide a basis for future variances. They should be viewed only as a last resort option, due to costs and time. Variances basically allow the applicant to be permitted to violate a city zoning ordinance while all other citizens must still be required to abide by it. That is why variances are only granted when conditions at the property are so unusual that they warrant such a special treatment.
For example a typical variance is to allow someone to construct a new home closer to the rear property line than is permitted by the Zoning Code because the land configuration does not permit them to build any other way.
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- Modifying a wall.
- Bringing in a previously unknown team member (like a kitchen designer)
- Changing material types
- Adding a room
- and any major changes.
Small changes like reversing a door swing would be minor in our opinion, and made without any additional costs. 😊
Have any other questions about your home project?
We can help. Click here to schedule your FREE Architect Consultation.
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- Any drawings of your existing home.
- A property Survey
- Ideally within the last 10 years
- Having it in Autocad format would also be great
- Inspiration images of what you would like your home to look like when its completed.
- Quick FYI. Creating a pinterest board is a good way to collect them.
- and any other documents you think would be useful to communicate your vision.
Have any other questions about your home project?
We can help. Click here to schedule your FREE Architect Consultation.
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- ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLING SUBCODE (NJAC 5:23-3.21)
- BUILDING SUBCODE (NJAC 5:23-3.14) (Typically for larger residential, and all non-residential)
- PLUMBING SUBCODE (NJAC 5:23-3.15)
- ELECTRICAL SUBCODE (NJAC 5:23-3.16)
- ENERGY SUBCODE (NJAC 5:23-3.18)
- MECHANICAL SUBCODE (NJAC 5:23-3.20)
- FUEL GAS SUBCODE (NJAC 5:23-3.22)
- REHABILITATION SUBCODE (NJAC 5:23-6)
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Note: Having a design in mind already, will help speed up the process.
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Home Architect Studio issues invoices on a regular basis two week basis for larger projects, and immediately upon completed completion of smaller projects. Initial retainers are used as a credit toward the final payment. Feel free to contact our billing department for further information.
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First drafts take anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks. The speed to draw up house plans depends on:
- The size of the project
- The complexity of the project
- Availability of the client to review the progress
- How quickly decisions could be made
- The details needed to build it
- Defining who will build it.(General Contractor, DIY, Construction Manager, etc)
- The project plan on how it will be build
Looking for a more realistic timeline to draw plans? We can help.
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Absolutely whenever we can. With our principals being LEED professionals, we strive to provide our clients with the most sustainable design when possible. Here’s a quick list of what we generally put in our homes:
- 95% efficient furnace
- 2×6 exterior walls
- dual-pane vinyl windows
- R-50 fiberglass insulation for ceilings
- R-23 fiberglass insulation for walls
BUILD your home project
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The best home builder is the one who is most organized, experienced, and the best to work with.
As every construction project can be stressful, we’ve seen the best builders act as trusted advisors who you could depend on when things get rough.
So how do you find the best builder? Usually we recommend asking your closest friends/family or an architect for their top recommendation.
And if you are one of our neighbors here in New Jersey, we’d be happy to help with your home construction project especially since we’re architect builders. 🖊️+🔨=😊
Schedule a call today so we can learn more about your home design problem.
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General Contractors should carry at least three types of insurance:
- New Jersey state Home Improvement Contractor license
- Workman’s compensation
- Comprehensive general liability (CGL).
You should require proof of insurance before allowing a contractor to begin work on your property. As an architect led construction management firm we can manage all of the license proof and insurance proof before your home project begins.
To help verify your contractor’s license, feel free to use the NJ License Verification tool.
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Our referral discount program rewards clients who help share our work with others. When you refer a friend, neighbor, or family member who signs up for our construction management services, you’ll receive a referral discount applied to your project package. It’s our way of saying thank you for helping others discover architect-led construction management.
Who is eligible for the referral discount?
All Home Architect Studio clients are eligible for the referral discount once they’ve completed or are actively engaged in a project with us. The referred client must sign a construction management agreement for the discount to be applied.
How does the referral discount work?
Once your referral becomes a confirmed client, we apply a referral discount directly to your construction management service package. The discount can be used across all package levels (Basic, Standard, and Elite) and helps lower your overall project cost while supporting future collaborations.
What are the requirements to qualify for the referral discount?
To qualify for the referral discount, clients must permit Home Architect Studio to schedule limited showings of their completed or in-progress home to interested prospects. This may include both in-person walk-throughs and digital showcases.
Additionally, clients agree to allow the use of photos and short videos of their project for marketing and educational purposes. This helps future clients visualize the quality, detail, and professionalism of our work while keeping all private information confidential.
How many people can I refer?
You can refer as many people as you like. Each successful referral (who signs a contact with us) results in an additional discount or affiliate payment, subject to the program’s terms. Multiple referrals may be combined to further reduce your project’s final balance.
How are referrals tracked and confirmed?
Referrals are tracked by name and verified once the new client signs an agreement with us. To ensure credit is applied correctly, please have your referral mention your name when they contact us or submit their project inquiry.
Why does Home Architect Studio offer a referral program?
We believe that the best projects come from trust and reputation. Many of our clients come through word-of-mouth, and this program formalizes our appreciation for that loyalty. By opening your home for limited showings and allowing us to showcase your project, you help inspire others who value quality, design, and architect-led construction.
How do I join the referral program
Simply let your project principal know you’d like to participate. We’ll provide a quick referral form to record the terms for transparency and proper documentation.
And never forget quality is our #1 priority, which is why we always want to remain welcomed in our clients homes. 😎
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At Home Architect Studio, our project coordination levels are designed to match your desired level of involvement and the complexity of your project. Each tier defines how we communicate, coordinate, and manage the various parties involved in bringing your project from concept to completion.
Why is project coordination important in construction management?
Effective coordination keeps your project organized, efficient, and aligned with the original design intent. It ensures that architects, contractors, consultants, and clients are all working from the same page, reducing delays, cost overruns, and miscommunication.
What does the Basic Level of project coordination include?
The Basic Level provides essential coordination between the design team and contractor.
This level focuses on clear communication at major milestones, helping to resolve key questions and maintain project direction without unnecessary complexity. It’s ideal for smaller projects or for clients who prefer a hands-off approach once construction begins.
What does the Standard Level include?
The Standard Level offers balanced coordination throughout construction.
Our team engages with the contractor and project stakeholders at regular intervals, reviewing progress, addressing challenges, and ensuring that all decisions align with the design intent. This level is suited for clients who want consistent communication and proactive problem-solving.
What does the Elite Level include?
The Elite Level provides comprehensive, continuous coordination from start to finish.
Our team manages ongoing communication among all project participants, including contractors, consultants, and suppliers. This level ensures seamless execution, quick resolution of field issues, and complete transparency throughout the process. It’s ideal for complex or high-value projects where precision and accountability are essential.
How do I know which project coordination level is right for me?
Your choice depends on your preferred level of involvement and the scope of your project.
- If your project is straightforward and you prefer simplicity, the Basic level is often sufficient.
- If you value balanced updates and smooth communication, the Standard level is the most efficient.
- If your project demands high-level organization, detailed follow-through, and full oversight, the Elite level is the best fit.
Can project coordination levels be adjusted later?
Adjustments to coordination levels can only occur through a Construction Management Services Change Order. This ensures transparency in expectations, scope, and costs as your project evolves.
How do coordination levels affect overall project management?
The level of coordination determines how efficiently project decisions are made, how quickly issues are resolved, and how well quality and schedule are maintained. Regardless of the tier, our architect-led process ensures design integrity, cost control, and accountability at every step.
What makes Home Architect Studio’s construction management approach unique?
Our architect-led coordination model integrates design, construction, and client communication into one cohesive process. We act as your single point of contact, ensuring that every aspect of your project aligns with your goals, vision, and budget.
And don’t forget our motto, “Juggling knives is fun”….Just like project coordination. 😎
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At Home Architect Studio, we offer flexible onsite visit levels designed to match your project needs and your preferred level of oversight. Each tier provides a different degree of site presence, ensuring you have the right balance of professional supervision and efficiency throughout construction.
Why are onsite visits important in construction management?
Regular onsite visits help maintain quality control, verify progress, and ensure that work aligns with design intent and specifications. The frequency and depth of these visits determine how closely the project is monitored and how quickly potential issues are identified and resolved.
What does the Basic Level of onsite visits include?
The Basic Level provides essential site presence at key construction milestones.
This level focuses on verifying major project stages and ensuring that critical work is completed in line with design documentation and code compliance. It is best suited for experienced clients or smaller projects requiring limited oversight.
What does the Standard Level include?
The Standard Level offers a balanced approach to site supervision.
Our team performs regular visits during construction to review progress, coordinate with contractors, and provide visual documentation. This level works well for clients who value consistent oversight without requiring full-time monitoring.
What does the Elite Level include?
The Elite Level provides comprehensive onsite management and coordination throughout all phases of construction.
Frequent site presence allows for proactive communication, detailed reporting, and immediate response to field conditions. This level is ideal for clients seeking high-touch service and continuous alignment between design and execution.
How do I decide which onsite visit level is right for my project?
Choosing the right level depends on the project’s complexity and your desired involvement.
If your project is straightforward and you trust the contractor’s performance, the Basic level may be sufficient.
If you want regular updates and collaborative management, the Standard level is the most balanced choice.
If your project involves high value, tight schedules, or complex details, the Elite level provides complete confidence through continuous oversight.
Can onsite visit levels be adjusted later?
Adjustments to onsite visit frequency can only occur through a Construction Management Services Change Order. This process ensures that expectations, fees, and deliverables remain transparent and aligned with your evolving project needs.
How do onsite visit levels impact project outcomes?
The chosen level affects how quickly issues are identified, how thoroughly workmanship is reviewed, and how effectively communication flows between all parties. Regardless of tier, every project benefits from architect-led oversight that ensures design integrity, quality, and accountability.
What makes Home Architect Studio’s construction management approach unique?
Our approach is architect-led, meaning each site visit is informed by design understanding, technical expertise, and a focus on long-term durability. We bridge the gap between design and construction, ensuring every decision made onsite aligns with your vision and project goals.
And please forgive us if some of our communications have “Dad joke vibes”, we are architects…not comedians. 😎
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At Home Architect Studio, we offer flexible construction management service levels tailored to your project’s needs and your preferred level of communication. Each tier provides a different degree of involvement, reporting, and coordination to match your desired level of engagement during the construction process.
Why are communication levels important in construction management?
Effective communication ensures that your project runs smoothly, on time, and within budget. The level of communication you choose determines how frequently updates are shared, how decisions are made, and the level of support you receive from our team throughout the construction process.
What does the Basic Level of communication include?
Our Basic Communication Level is ideal for clients who prefer a streamlined experience.
We manage the core aspects of your project and provide essential updates at key milestones. This level focuses on efficient project execution without the need for constant communication or detailed reporting.
What does the Standard Level include?
The Standard Communication Level offers a balanced approach.
Clients receive regular progress updates, scheduled check-ins, and access to project documents through our shared system. This level is best suited for homeowners who want to stay informed and involved but prefer a simplified communication process.
What does the Elite Level include?
Our Elite Communication Level provides the highest degree of involvement, coordination, and transparency.
You’ll receive detailed project reports, frequent site updates, and direct access to your project manager. This level is ideal for clients seeking a fully managed experience with comprehensive oversight and proactive communication throughout every phase.
How do I know which communication level is right for my project?
Choosing the right level depends on how hands-on you’d like to be.
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If you value simplicity and trust our team to handle the details, the Basic level may be sufficient.
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If you prefer consistent updates and collaboration, the Standard level offers the best balance.
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If you want full transparency and high-touch communication, the Elite level delivers a concierge-style experience.
Can I upgrade or adjust my communication level later?
Adjustments to communication levels can only occur through an approved Construction Management Services Change Order. This ensures clarity, transparency, and alignment with the updated scope of work.
How do communication levels affect overall project management?
The chosen level of communication impacts reporting frequency, meeting schedules, and decision turnaround times. Regardless of tier, all projects are managed with the same attention to quality, efficiency, and professionalism — the main difference is how closely and how often you prefer to engage with our team.
What makes Home Architect Studio’s construction management approach unique?
Our architect-led management approach ensures that design intent, budget, and construction quality are aligned at every step. Unlike traditional builders, we act as your trusted advisor. We will oversee the subcontractors, coordinate design execution, and keep you informed via your preferred communication level.
And as always, we’ll try to make it fun as possible. 😎
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At Home Architect Studio, our client reporting and quality control levels define how information is shared and how construction quality is monitored throughout your project. Each tier is designed to align with your desired level of involvement and the complexity of your build, ensuring that every detail meets your expectations.
Why are reporting and quality control important in construction management?
Transparent reporting and proactive quality control create accountability at every stage of construction. They help identify issues early, maintain design intent, and ensure that the final result meets both architectural and performance standards.
What does the Basic Level of client reporting and quality control include?
The Basic Level provides essential progress updates and key milestone reviews.
We will conduct periodic assessments to confirm that construction aligns with approved plans and specifications. This level is best suited for smaller projects or for clients who prefer limited updates during the construction phase.
What does the Standard Level include?
The Standard Level offers regular reporting and systematic quality checks throughout construction.
You’ll receive consistent progress summaries, photo documentation, and performance observations from our team. This option provides balanced insight into your project without overwhelming you with day-to-day details.
What does the Elite Level include?
The Elite Level provides comprehensive reporting and detailed quality control oversight.
Our team conducts frequent reviews, generates in-depth reports, and communicates directly with contractors to ensure full compliance with design and construction standards. This level is ideal for clients who want complete transparency, meticulous attention to detail, and top-tier quality assurance.
How do I know which reporting and quality control level is right for my project?
Your choice depends on your project’s size, complexity, and how closely you want to be involved.
- If you prefer simplicity and trust our process, the Basic level will meet your needs.
- If you value structured updates and steady visibility, the Standard level offers the right balance.
- If you want full transparency, detailed reporting, and continuous oversight, the Elite level provides the highest level of confidence and control.
Can I adjust my reporting and quality control level later?
Adjustments to reporting and quality control levels can only occur through a Construction Management Services Change Order. This ensures that expectations, deliverables, and costs remain clear as your project evolves.
How do reporting and quality control levels impact overall project success?
The chosen level influences how information is shared, how quickly issues are identified, and how thoroughly workmanship is reviewed. Regardless of tier, Home Architect Studio maintains a commitment to quality, professionalism, and clear communication throughout the process.
What makes Home Architect Studio’s approach to reporting and quality control unique?
Our architect-led approach ensures that every report and quality check is guided by design knowledge and construction expertise. We blend visual documentation, professional evaluation, and transparent communication to keep your project aligned, accountable, and on track.
And never forget quality is our #1 priority, which is why you should chose architects to build your dream home. 😎
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The process to obtain a permit is similar in most towns.
Step 1. Client should consult with an architect, who will help guide them through this process. Once an architect is retained, then he will need a survey and your zoning.
Step 2. Zoning Analysis. Once an architect is retained, he or she will need a survey documenting your property’s zoning information. If you don’t have the zoning information, your architect can call the town to find out what it is. The architect will then perform a zoning analysis, and see what you will be permitted to do with your property. Every town has different requirements, so it is an important step to make sure the design doesn’t go down a path where the project can’t be built. You can ask the town for a zoning variance, if your property has issues, or a design MUST be a certain way, or you desire to make a building which does not conforming to its zoning requirements. Some towns are easier than others when trying to get a zoning variance, yet application for a zoning variance is never guaranteed.
Step 3. Design Phase. After zoning analysis, there will be a design phase. Your architect will go over your space needs for your building or house. When the design is complete, the architect will move the project into the construction documents phase. The construction documents are what are used by the the contractors to build the project as as well as to obtain a building permit.
The architect can then offer you permitting services, or you can take the plans to the town yourself. There you will need to fill out all the required paperwork, and upon the building department’s approval you will obtain a permit. The permitting process can take anywhere from 1-4 weeks to obtain, depending on the building department’s work load. In the event you will need a variance, a denial letter will be required from the building department prior to going before the planning board for a variance.
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The construction process will vary greatly based on the following:
- Size & scope of project
- Contractor availability
- Materials used for the project
It also really depends on your selected construction team members. For example if one of the construction team members is very busy, their start date will be farther than a similar team member who is not as busy with work. The materials used will also vary the construction time frame due to associated labor intensity. Brick houses typically take longer to build than a vinyl sided house. The more labor intensive the home’s materials, the longer it will take to build. A typical residential addition on a house can take about 2-6 months to complete, if the proper project management is in place.
Having a proper construction schedule in place with all team members committing to it from day one is the best way to have a successful project completed.
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The first thing you should know is whether your home project requires a permit. Most towns & cities have their building permit requirements on their website. If not, a phone call to your local Building Department is the best first step.
Generally, cosmetic work you perform inside your home doesn’t need a permit. Things like flooring changes, painting and updating bathroom fixtures don’t usually require special permission.
Any major remodel to a kitchen or bathroom may need one, especially if you move plumbing, gas lines or electrical lines. If you want to finish a basement a building permit is definitely required.
Outside work such as roofing projects and siding may need a permit. Although, recent legislation in New Jersey may have permitting removed from roofing and siding.
Decks may also confuse homeowners. Most towns require permits for a deck attached to a home, or a 30 inch and higher unattached deck.
To avoid confusion over whether or not you need a permit, take a few minutes and do your homework. Building without one would cause trouble down the road in the way of code violations, fines, and possibly preventing you from selling your home. Good Luck!