The Process

Understanding Our Process

Clients can expect creative thinking, detailed planning, and exceptional project management from Prestigious Homes. The client knows when the project starts what it will look like, how much it will cost, and approximately how long it will take. Here’s how:

1. Initial Appointment
At the first home appointment, the client’s overall needs and wants are discussed. We listen and evaluate the existing area and discuss how to incorporate new design and space. We ask for the client’s ideas, give design suggestions/recommendations, and determine what is important in the way the client will use this new or renovated space. We review our planning and building process and how it is structured to ensure the project’s success. Additionally, we discuss the overall project budget in attempt to design within. Photographs and measurement are taken to bring back to the office for work-up of a preliminary design & project budget.

2. Preliminary Design & Project Budget Process
To begin the design & budgeting process, the existing structure is measured, photographed and property conditions are reviewed. We take this information back to our office; perform necessary consultations with the Prestigious team, architect & designer, subcontractor(s), and material supplier(s). At the next meeting preliminary design/plans is presented along with project budget for client comment & review. Preliminary design remains the property of Prestigious Homes until a commitment is offered to proceed forward in the form of Design-Build Retainer Agreement or Construction Agreement as mentioned below.

3. Project Scope
A comprehensive scope of work is prepared from the approved design. This is a detailed description of each step of the construction process, from concrete to framing to electrical. We review this with the client to assure that all previous discussions regarding construction details are included in this document. This scope of work clearly describes what is and is not included in the project, providing a clear understanding of expectations.

4. Agreement & Forms
The next step is a Design-Build Retainer or Construction Agreement. For the design phase of renovation a Design-Build Retainer Agreement will be drafted for approval, final design will start. When design is complete including structural and engineering aspects, a fixed-price Agreement will be presented for review and acceptance by client. Warranty, payment schedule and general terms are all outlined; required pamphlets are furnished as required by the state of Illinois. Design-Build fee will be credited against final price of Construction Agreement; percentage of fee varies for Design-Build Retainer, and is typically very reasonable in price. Depending on the complexity of the project, this step can take between two weeks to two months. If Design is not required, we will enter into a Construction Agreement.

5. Project Plan & Selections
At this point we finalize all materials and equipment choices and reconcile project material allowances. This is when the fun starts! Tom Abbatemarco, the Prestigious Homes Interior Designer and/or material suppliers help to assist the client to make selections that are coordinated, from the color of the countertops to the pattern of tile backsplash to the design of plumbing fixtures and cabinetry handles. Each of these small aspects, when coordinated, makes the new space unique and show quality. Specifications and details for all choices are put together in a complete job site plan.

6. Project Initialization
With plans, permits and materials selected, the project begins. The Owner and Tom Abbatemarco review the entire project to ensure that any unanswered questions can be addressed. They meet the client on the job site, review the entire scope of work, walk the project and discuss how the job will be built. At this time specific items are discussed, such as where materials can be stored, how the home will be protected from dust, and how to safeguard family & pets during the build.

7. Project Supervision
Tom Abbatemarco provides a time frame and is always available to discuss the overall project. Clients also may contact him 24/7 at any time with questions. The Owner works on a daily basis with the Prestigious Team and performs daily site visits as necessary. Our goal is to have work completed in a timely fashion in order to move the project along to completion. Ensuring that we deliver on time!

8. Project Review
Prior to completion, the client and Tom Abbatemarco walk the project and record any items or details that need to be perfected to ensure 100% project satisfaction. Changes in scope of work are reviewed as they occur with appropriate Work Orders for approval of such revisions or changes.

9. Project Completion
When the project is complete, the client receives a detailed packet of information about warranted products and services and is asked to complete a satisfaction survey. We value client feedback so that we can continue to identify ways to make our remodeling process streamlined, enjoyable and predictable. If we’ve done our job well, we’ve earned a client for life.