Kathleen, this is a great topic of conversation!
The issue is deeply flawed; In most cases, Architects rely on false or incomplete information and dare to make representations to their client, outside their area of expertise.
I find this to be, on one hand, reckless, and on the other, from an Owner's point of view, not in his/her best interest.
The problem is, especially with small projects and custom residential, Owner relies on the Architect's professional opinions and representation and seldom seeks a second opinion.
The only way to estimate costs at any stage of the project is by doing exactly that: Estimating. What do Architects know about this?
The Owner or the Architect should include either an outside consultant at an early stage and as the project evolves, or obtain budget / opinions from qualified contractors who will participate in the bid process.
Yes, the Architect may rely on opinions from GC's for similar projects of the same magnitude / scope, but these should not be relied upon, they should just be a reference, and only with such disclosure should they be relayed to Owner.
Though there is a higher initial cost, if a project does not have a realistic valuation when it gets to the bid phase, the cost of project rework, time lost, and bidders "wheel spinning" is even higher. Not to mention the potential conflict that could arise from a disgruntled customer, when he/she learns the improvement will cost double.
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Ivan Contreras, LEED AP, AIA
CONTRERAS MUNOZ & CO
Miami FL
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Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2022 12:22 PM
From: Kathleen Sullivan
Subject: Probable construction costs ?
To identify the sticker shock earlier in the process and to guide the project scope - how are firms handling - estimator ? sf costs? roll the dice?
Thank you!
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Kathleen Sullivan AIA
Trio Architecture pllc
Hastings on Hudson NY
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