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Frequently Asked Questions
How can we get an estimate of building costs?
We can give you a current "per square foot" preliminary estimate, based on comparable, recently completed homes -- taking into account your location, the size, style and level of finishes of the home. We find it helpful that our clients have some basic cost estimates in advance - before they commit to a set of plans and specifications. However, a final and proper estimate can only be realized when final plans and specifications have been completed.
How long does it take to build?
Of course this depends on the size of your home, and the finishes you choose. A home with approximately 3500 sq ft will normally take about 6 to 7 months. A larger home with more custom finishes will take about 7 to 9 months. Homes we have built which are over 10,000 sq ft generally take over 12 months. The level of finishes largely drive the time frame. Horan Building Co. will commit to scheduled dates for construction prior to the start of each home, so our clients know, and can plan, accordingly.
Can you incorporate pool, spa and site work into our build?
Yes. If requested, we will manage and oversee selection and implementation of landscape features including pools, spas, cabanas, pergolas, tennis courts, outdoor cooking areas, etc. We find most clients prefer we are engaged to construct these elements so they are built in harmony with the rest of the home.
How do we find and price out different finish options as we go through the build process?
We are accustomed to providing our clients with a variety of finish options, their benefits, and pricing. We never build the same house twice. However, it is important that our clients invest their own time in exploring the various options, products and methods so that they are able to properly decide on which material/method is best suited for their needs. We encourage people to visit showrooms, attend trade-shows, and educate themselves on the process in general. It is fun to learn what is possible, and to create one's own "space" that suits their needs, habits, hobbies and lifestyle. Nearly every thing we do is custom, so if you can design it, we can build it.
Is it OK to bring our own decorator into the build process?
Very often a space designer or decorator is involved from the start of the design process. It is important that a clear communication process and chain of command is established from the start so that all parties work in collaboration. We welcome the involvement of Interior Designers, Decorators, Specialty Finish Applicators, and Faux Finish painters to the process. In fact, we know and have worked with many of the best interior professionals in New England, and can recommend those with whom we have worked before.
Where do we start?
If you have a parcel of land, we start by meeting at that parcel to discuss home style and general orientation of the house on the land. Thereafter, we will talk about lifestyle, family needs, hobbies, and health or physical issues that may relate to the home design. The design process itself starts with your ideas -- photos, scrapbook ideas, floorplans, etc. which you have collected prior to our meeting. The next step is to determine if you will be engaging an architect, or using a modified stock plan. We have worked extensively with local architects and also have adapted existing plans to fit the local climate and location.
Once a floor plan has been ironed out, and exterior elevations are generated, the next step is to discuss and review the specifications -- it is from these details we can provide a formal estimate, and time-table for building.
Do you help us with permits and site orientation?
Of course we do! We have extensive experience in challenging and creative builds. To a certain extent, all designs are site specific, taking into account light exposure, adjacent properties, topography, water table or other environmental constraints. We have expertise in local rules and regulations, energy efficiency methods, and sensitivity to existing landscape features. We have extensive experience with local planning boards, historical commissions, state wetland and environmental agencies such as DEM and CRMC. We will guide you through the complexities of all these matters.
We are excited about what we do. We enjoy the process and are eager to share our knowledge with you to ensure you receive a quality experience when building your home.
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Horan Building Company
174 Bellevue Ave.
Newport, RI 02840
Phone: 401.848.9284
Fax: 401.847.0460
Email: mhoran@horanbuilding.com

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