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HPM House Plan already permitted and I'm ready to pick contractor for my project. I have 2 bids on hand and waiting for the other 3 bids. There was a big difference in the total price for the first 2 bids and I need suggestions/advise on how to navigate this. Both bids are on one page paper with the total amount indicated. House will be built on concrete slab, 10K gallon Water Catchment, septic system. I upgraded flooring, cabinetry, bathroom tiles,countertops and outside wall sidings. All my candidates are listed at HPM lists of contractors so I assume all are licensed and bonded. I intend to speak to them before my final pick but I need advise what to ask so i can discern the best fit. I have a brother in law that resides near my lot that will be my eyes/ears during construction as work in the mainland prevents me from staying put in the island to oversee construction. Thanks for your time.
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In addition to the bid, you need to talk to people who have had these contractors build a house for them and go see the houses. (References).
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All I will suggest is to make sure your bidders also include a list of what is not provided. Reduces surprises.
Some time back a Punawebber was getting bids on framing. Went with a low bid. Later the framer wanted to be paid and the roof wasn't framed. The contractor said the roof was not included. Caveat Emptor.
Assume the best and ask questions.
Punaweb moderator
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"I assume..."
Assume NOTHING!
Hopefully you haven't signed anything yet...
As Rob and Mangosteen said, look at things they've done and make sure you both understand what you are paying them to do.
The contract should spell out as much as possible. There is no such thing as too many things specified in the agreement. Then you BOTH know what is expected. This will also make it easier for the contractor to give you an accurate quote.
The upgraded items you mentioned should be specified by amount, make, model # and as much other information as you can provide.
We financed ours, and in doing so the bank ended up providing a lot of protection from getting ripped off. Well, not US getting ripped off, them, but in doing so protected us as well. This included the release of any liens by contractors.
I think you may be able to get that protection with a "bond" if you're not financing but I don't know enough about it to advise. I will say you want to be careful, as I know someone on the mainland who basically lost their entire investment due to shady contractors, liens and legal expenses.
As far as prices, our bids varied by as much as 100%!!! I don't think that's entirely due to them overcharging. Subcontractors and suppliers such as HPM give different prices to builders depending on their relationship with them. This can have a huge effect on the final price
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Try Charlie Rapoza. He lives in HPP, General Contractor. Been building homes, etc. for years. Always does a quality job - on time. 896-5586
Mahalo!
Mahalo!
