When beginning a construction project, it is important to evaluate the appropriate time to engage the services of a General Contractor. If a traditional project delivery method is selected, the Architect completes the design documents and the General Contractor is asked to submit a lump sum price to construct the project. The Owner has less control on the subcontractor selection, the true costs of the General Conditions for the GC are unknown, and the General Contractor is driven to achieving the maximum profit on the job, driving the overall project price to be higher than alternative delivery methods. In Design Build or CM at Risk, it has been proven that overall project cost is lower and the project can be completed more quickly, saving the Owner time and money.

In a Design Build or CM at Risk scenario, the selection of a General Contractor is based upon qualifications. There is typically a fixed fee for architectural design and construction services. The Contractor, and subcontractors are involved with the project during the early phases of design. The Contractor, Designer’s and Owner work as a team with the common goal to meet the project budget and include the maximum value in the design. The contractor is responsible for performing cost estimating and value engineering during the design process so there are not any budget surprises when the design is complete. It is notable that the cost impact of value engineering suggestions is directly proportional to the level of design that is complete. The earlier the suggestions are made, the larger the cost savings are to the project. At ANF Group, Inc. we guarantee our clients that our final contract amount will not vary from our projected budget more than 5% when we are involved in the design process from the beginning of a project. An experienced General Contractor, with a proven track record, can identify costly items being considered by the design team and Owner and can offer solutions to constructability issues while the design continues. When the construction documents are completed, they are on budget and ready to be constructed efficiently. The subcontractors that are most qualified to perform the construction of your project type compete for the work, including a complete scope of work, ensuring a competitive price for the project. Construction begins and the project is built quickly and efficiently by the most qualified team. If I were an Owner, I would not consider building a project any other way.