Again, not much to report. Met with two more architects, one in Bothell WA the other in Renton. They both seem very qualified, and come recommended by my UBuildIt team. The one in Bothell (JM Consulting) was able to get me a proposal back in just a few short hours. He prices his work at $2.50/sqft - which comes to around $8000. The other (CW Design) is preparing a proposal and will have it ready next week.
Not entirely sure which way I'll go - I do know I can't afford the $30K that the premiere firm in Seattle wants. With the UBuildIt guys help I feel confident that I can get a good design and permits package put together by either firm. I'm leaning towards the Renton firm because they are located more conveniently to my home, work and new house - I expect we'll be meeting about six times and the architect will likely visit the site a couple times during the process.
I spoke with AquaQuip Pool salesman yesterday. I sent him the current iteration of the main floor plan showing pool and spa. He's going to get back to me next week to discuss any problems or concerns he sees in what I've drawn up.
I was thinking about the floor material to use in the pool room. The architects have asked me what material I was planning on and I said concrete, but I'm now thinking it will be cheaper to use traditional wood framing, with a sturdy plywood subfloor and waterproof backer-board, overlaid with ceramic tile. The HVAC and pool/spa plumbing should be an easier install as well. I'm thinking the pool people can help with this decision.
Building a new house in western Washington.
2 comments:
I'm thinking about going the UBuildIt-route and appreciate everything you've written about the program so far. Questions I have are: 1) do you need them at all? and 2) is it worth the money?
Sorry I didn't see this sooner.
Yes, I find UBuildIt useful. It helps to have someone I can get on the phone or email to answer questions.
Plus, very importantly, most lenders won't allow someone without GC experience to be their own GC.
I figure using UB I save about 1/2 the cost of a GC.
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