As you plan the future for your business in Tulsa, you might decide to create a stand-alone building. Or you may rather decide that taking over a pre-existing space aligns with your business goals. Building out a tenant space is typically easier than creating a new building from scratch, but there are still a few things that we at Decor Construction would recommend business owners can do to improve the process.
Before you begin your office build-out, you should carefully plan your project. Identify the primary reasons you’re developing or expanding your workspace. For example, project your brand, create more functional space, install newer technology, create an energy-efficient environment, etc. Determine what you truly need in your new space versus what you would like to have.
Research design ideas and have a clear vision of what your ideal workplace will look like. Consider the future needs of your clients, employees, vendors, and even your municipality. Fine tune your wish list. Rank your needs and then your wants.
Solicit a “preliminary cost estimate” for your project to get you in the ballpark of the final costs. Some architects are willing to offer their opinion on costs as well. True final costs will be derived from the detailed drawings and engineering. It is usually best to wait until the construction plans are ready to be submitted to the City for the first review before requesting firm pricing. The more your plans change, the more price changes you will have as a result. Keep in mind that you affect the final price.
When your plans are clear and firm, expect a detailed and itemized cost estimate. A single price bid with no details can be a sign that things are being hidden or omitted from the estimate. Expect category breakdowns of General Condition Costs (supervision, equipment, etc.) All contractors have the costs of construction, overhead & profit, and taxes and should be willing to disclose the specifics.
If construction specifics are unidentified in a given area, an “Allowance” line item will help identify cost increases or decreases when that item’s final price is identified.
You can definitely expect an estimate of “Time to Construct” at the same time the costs are estimated so that you can plan your move to your new space.
Whether it’s a restaurant build-out, office build-out, or retail build-out, Décor Construction has the expertise to make your vision into a reality. Décor Construction is a licensed general contractor with years of experience doing residential remodels, multi-family construction, and reconstruction services.
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