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Low Construction Cost

A goal of virtually all construction projects is to get a finished product with a low construction cost. A low construction cost can be arrived at through a number of different ways, from the type of delivery method used to the types of materials, designs and employees used on the project.

If a low construction cost is a primary objective of a property owner, it is likely they will decide to have their project built using the design/bid/build approach. The most often used and oldest design method, the design/bid/build method limits the responsibilities of the construction contractor. The property owner hires an architect to design the project before any contractor is hired, then puts the project out for bid once the design is done. The contractor who comes in with the lowest bid, and thus the lowest construction cost, is hired. Their job is to follow the architect's design and nothing more.

Some proponents of the design-build method say it delivers a low construction cost as well. The design-build delivery method combines architects and contractors together, as the property owner puts a request for proposals out for design and construction teams to submit their bids. The responses come back with a design from the architect and the construction cost from the contractor, all in one bid. While this method could lead to the low construction cost, it is more likely the owner is looking for the best design and working relationship between the architect and contractor.

A low construction cost can also be arrived at by the selection of the materials used. Some materials can be substantially more expensive than others and make a major difference in the price of a project. If a low construction cost is a must, substitutions can be made. Instead of using brick or cement stucco siding, the exterior of the house can be assembled with vinyl siding. Instead of hardwood floors or plush carpeting, a cheaper carpet or laminate flooring can be put down. Even the type of toilets installed, the fixtures selected, the type of counter tops and appliances can be downgraded to ensure a low construction cost.

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