What to Expect During a Showroom Consultation at Custom Built
September 29th, 2022 | 4 min read
By Brian Taylor
What to Expect during a Showroom Consultation at Custom Built
Following the design-build process, we are now at the stage where we can begin to formulate what your project is going to be.
This next step in the process is the showroom consultation (or “consult B,” as we call it at Custom Built).
As a custom design and remodeling company, we have daily showroom consultations with clients. We want you to have the best experience possible, and set your expectation levels appropriately.
By the end of this article, you’re going to understand the purpose of this meeting, the decisions you have to make, and what you can do to come prepared to make those decisions.
What is the purpose of a showroom consultation?
A showroom consultation, or consult B (as we call it at Custom Built), gives us the opportunity to discuss the following items:
1. Project overview
We will start by reviewing the Project Overview. This provides a high-level description (or Scope of Work) for your project to make sure everyone is on the same page, adjustments can be made as necessary.
2. Proposed budget range
After discussing the overview, you will receive the Proposed Budget Range for your remodeling project. This is our best estimate as to where your final Fixed Price will fall, since specific details have not been finalized yet. These details will be finalized during the Design Phase of the process.
Based off conversations with you, the Project Advisor will determine an appropriate budget for your estimated materials- this is typically assembled from a good/better/best scale. As long as your project stays within the scope as outlined, it will fall with the Proposed Budget Range.
3. Timeline
We will provide you with a rough timeline for your project. This, of course, depends on when we enter the Design Phase, how quickly decisions are made during the Design Phase, and estimated lead times on all materials.
4. Product samples
In our showroom, we have a selection of product samples that you can view. These include, but are not limited to:- Composite deck materials and colors
- Deck railing options
- Cabinet door styles and finishes
- Quartz and granite countertops
What decisions will you make during the meeting?
When the time comes to decide if Custom Built is right for your project, you have 3 options available.
1. Custom Built is not right for your project
If you decide that Custom Built is not the right remodeling company for your project, we understand and there are no hard feelings between us!
We know that you have still have a project to accomplish, so we will do our best to recommend other companies that will fit what you are looking for. Our goal is that you find the best solution for your family, even if it's not with Custom Built. Here is an article outlining other home remodeling options available that might be better for you.
2. Custom Built is the right company, but the project is outside of your budget
If the project budget proposed to you is outside of your means, you may have the option to discuss a new project that is more within your means.
This option is not feasible for every type of project. However, your project development advisor will guide you towards this option if it is a good fit your project.
3. Custom Built is right for your project
If you decide we are the best company for your project, that’s great! We look forward to working with you.
You will sign a project development agreement (PDA) which begins the agreement between us that says Custom Built is going to begin designing and planning the various aspects of your project.
When signing a project development agreement, we require a 10% deposit on the proposed budget range for your project.
Once the (PDA) is signed, we will schedule a Step 1 meeting. This meeting happen at your home with our design team present. We will assess mechanics further and gather all of the measurements we need of your space.
These measurements will be used to create your 3D drawings, conceptual, and final project plans.
What can you do to prepare?
Coming to a showroom consultation prepared makes the process easier for both parties. The following tips will help you and your family best prepare for the showroom consultation.
1. Have decision-makers present
To prepare for a showroom consultation, make sure that the time you choose to come into our office is available for yourself and anyone who is going to be a part of the decision-making process.
It is best to have all decision-makers at the meeting so there is no miscommunication about the proposed budget range or any of the details provided to you.
You will also have the opportunity to view initial product samples to see their colors and textures. This is another major reason to have the decision-makers present so everyone has access to viewing the samples.
With all of the decision-makers in attendance, you will also be able to consult with each other and decide if Custom Built is the right fit for your project, or if you want to go with another remodeling company.
2. Get decision-makers on the same page
Another way to prepare for the meeting is to have conversations about the project’s details between decision-makers before the meeting.
These should cover your budget, potential timeline, what you want from a home remodeling project, and what you want from a home remodeling contractor.
Because you have had time to discuss these details, you will know whether or not Custom Built is the right fit for you and your project.
3. Be prepared for the 10% deposit for the PDA
The main purpose of the meeting is for you to decide if you are signing the (PDA). As stated earlier, this requires a 10% deposit so come prepared for this.
Conclusion
You now better understand what to expect from a showroom consultation. This is an exciting process and we know you are going to enjoy the finished product once it's all said and done.
We know that by following these tips, your experience will be much better and you will enjoy your time working with us on your home remodeling project. You are still early on in the remodeling process but we hope you enjoy the experience.
If you decide not to work with Custom Built for your remodeling project, that’s ok! You can still get your home remodeled. Here is an article to learn about the different remodeling options available to you.
Want some more information about our process? Here is an article outlining the entire design and remodeling process from beginning to end.
You can also connect with our sales staff with questions and they will be happy to assist you.
Brian brings 20+ years of experience in the home remodeling industry to the table. He’s worked with families in all areas of whole home performance (science-backed solutions for home health, safety, comfort, and efficiency), residential renewable energy, conservation, foundation, and hydrostatic issues and solutions.
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