Our Process
Initial Contact
Our relationship starts when you contact our office via email or phone. Or perhaps we have
been given your name as a referral and have contacted you. In either case, the first in-depth dialog with a representative from
Maryland Heritage will cover over-arching themes such as scope of work, budget and time frame. During this phone conversation,
we attempt to determine if our company is a good fit for you and your project. It is important to note that the key elements
in the most successful construction projects are open communication and relationship building. When both parties sense
a good fit, it is time to move forward. If, for a variety of reasons, either party determines this may not be a good fit,
we may be able to give you a reliable referral. See Proposal Philosophy
for more information.
“Face-to-Face” Meeting
We will set up a time, at your convenience, for the preliminary get-acquainted
meeting on-location, where we will spend some time getting to know each other. You will learn about our company, how we operate
and may be introduced to some of our systems and processes. We will get a feel for your project and what you are trying to
accomplish. We may take notes, pictures and do a preliminary site-survey to determine the overall feasibility of your project.
Our research may uncover some “hidden” items that affect the scope and cost of your project. You will be left
with a package which contains company information and reference lists.
Preliminary Estimate
Using the information we have gathered at the preliminary site visit, we can present
you with a “best guess” estimate within 20%, based on historical data from similar projects. Remember, this
process is entirely dependent on your specific scope of work. Perhaps, with a little more information gathering, we may
be able to deliver a more accurate figure prior to the generation of construction drawings. Our turn-around time may vary
from less than 24 hours to one week. There may be some additional dialog needed to review this preliminary estimate.
This can be accomplished through phone conversations, email, or if so desired, another site visit. In order for us to present
the most accurate job costing, complete with job specifications and selections, it is important that construction drawings
be initiated.
Design Phase
Your financial investment begins with this phase. The only cost to you thus far as been a
few hours of your time and a lot of thought. It is during these pre-requisite phases that we hope to lay the foundation for what
will be the beginnings of a long-term relationship built on trust and mutual understanding. Upon your request, we will set up
a design development meeting with one of our residential designers/architects, during which additional pictures will be taken
as will vital field dimensions of existing spaces. We will get a more accurate picture of how you currently live and how you hope
to use your new space. This, coupled with the field data, will allow us to present a professionally produced set of conceptual
drawings for your review. You may be given a floor plan(s), rear, side and front elevations, and a foundation plan (if required)
with a relatively simple level of detail. Your initial investment normally is around 1-2% of the preliminary estimate.
This will cover the cost of the preliminary drawings and enables us to prepare a 5% estimate based on drawings and product selections.
Contract Phase
Because construction drawings are included in our cost, the initial investment will be used
as a partial deposit. Should you decide to continue with Maryland Heritage for completion of your project, this amount will be
counted as a credit towards the final cost. We will provide a construction agreement, which will contain a contract,
preliminary work schedule, payment schedule, scope of work document, project specifications and project allowances. Our design
team will make any necessary changes or additions to the drawings and permit/construction drawings will be prepared and finalized.
It is during this phase that we will obtain a down payment (amount varies with project).
Permit Phase
Maryland Heritage will take the client approved construction drawings along with the client provided
site plan to the county and/or municipal offices for approval and payment of fees. It is the responsibility of the client to obtain
needed HOA approval, if required.
Construction Phase
As soon as we obtain needed approvals, we can begin work.
Constant Communication
During the construction process, your Project Manager will be available at any time. We
will schedule regular meetings at your convenience to discuss progress, changes, and any updates to schedule.
Completion of Project
At the completion of the project, your Project Manager will review all aspects with you
to be sure that you are completely happy with the results.
Follow up Communication
We will contact you periodically thoughout the year following the completion of your
project to be sure you are still as satisfied as the day of completion.
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