All Forum Posts by: Jared W Smith

@Karen Margrave I'm trying to understand what the benefit is to cut back the roof other than aesthetically alteration and removal of shed. If you are removing this just for the purpose of "updating," then I would say to just leave it. 

I've encountered revising the roof line for a horizontal or vertical expansion/addition but seems like a lot if this isn't the outcome. The roof-line is so prominent in this home. Messing with it may make it quirky if not adhering to the original style of the home. What are you ultimately trying to achieve on the outside? Gain interior space?    

Steep learning curve if you are not familiar with the process, however it's all about getting the right parties on your team. You should get a title survey when you purchase/purchased property. I'd recommend starting out with:

• Local Architect. You will need an architect whom is familiar with the property location and building/zoning codes.  
• Local Engineer.  A civil/structural engineer for soil samples and understanding of site for building and also site grading. 

You will also want to start reaching out to contractors however, this may be something to tackle when you have a sense of what you want built and what your limitations are. Then you can talk with contractors familiar in the project type, size and location.  

Welcome @John Livanos! I've also grown up in Westchester. 

Get a local architect, zoning expert and real estate attorney on your team. They will be invaluable. 

Many problems using a price per square foot option. Search the forum. It has been discussed several times. It all boils down to the finishes and expected construction composition. Widely varies. 

An architect can also assist you, if the property is a single family or duplex / smaller property. I have a contact in Architect team in CT that may be able to assist you. PM me if you'd like their contact info.  @Nicole Grenier

I cannot speak to the rates since my locale has higher labor rates, however you should get a detailed cost break down from the contractor. It should state all that is included with labor and material rates shown. Always get three quotes.. or at least two.  

Are these the only drawings you provided to the contractor @Tim Wang? Any permits necessary? In my area, you would need plumbing permits for relocating water and gas lines for island, sink and DW.. also you'd need a general permit to move the wall.

What type of flooring do you want? $8k is a lot for a 800 SF space. $10/SF!? hardwoods are typically $3-5/SF installed. Doesn't add up.   

Thanks! @Masashi Borges-Silva & @Tom Ott

Gotta love when GCs blame the Architect. (Hint hint I am an Architect) 

FYI- Architects don't place boilers on plans as a final location. It's up to the GC to walk with heating/mechanical subcontractor to establish the best location in mech. space and orientation for his ducts/piping. 

If your GC is considering this "architect mistake" and benefiting from the extra work as a change order (more money to him) you should be weary. 

Second thought: What Mechanical contractor installs a boiler based off architect floor plans when they're installing the system!?

Unless you know of a very good GC, provided by someone you know well and knows construction, I would not recommend this route. As an architect myself, this is what we do- space planning. Creating an efficient design aids in the comfort of your tenants. Get a local architect on board.  (Also look at what permits are required. You may need an architect/engineer anyway.)  

I understand I will have to bring something to the table. I have a couple backers which I am in talks with. We would compile our funds for that 10-25% downpayment if necessary. Thank you for the contact. I will reach out to him. 

@Ceasar Rosas- Yes, I run my own small practice- Architect Owl. I tend to stick to my local counties however most of my corp. work experience is within all of NYC. What type of projects do you tend to receive request for? PM me.