Table of Contents
Introduction — You Have the Plans. Now the Real Work Begins.
Before You Hire the Builder
Choosing the General Contractor
Choosing the General Contractor
The Contract: Put the Deal on Paper
The Contract: Put the Deal on Paper
Build the Budget Before the House
Build the Budget Before the House
Build the Schedule Before Construction Starts
Build the Schedule Before Construction Starts
Site Work, Foundation, and the Point of No Return
Site Work, Foundation, and the Point of No Return
Structure: When the Drawings Become a House
Structure: When the Drawings Become a House
The Rough-In War: HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical, and Low Voltage
The Rough-In War: HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical, and Low Voltage
Insulation, Drywall, and Closing the Walls
Insulation, Drywall, and Closing the Walls
Finishes: Where Budgets Go to Die
Finishes: Where Budgets Go to Die
Outside the House
Managing Contractors and Subcontractors
Managing Contractors and Subcontractors
Change Orders, Mistakes, and the Unexpected
Change Orders, Mistakes, and the Unexpected
Inspections, Quality Control, and Punch Lists
Inspections, Quality Control, and Punch Lists
Money, Draws, Liens, and Final Payment
Money, Draws, Liens, and Final Payment