Pre-Construction (what to expect)
Thinking about a remodel, addition, or new build? Great! That first step is the most exciting. Polli’s Design & Build pre-construction process takes your idea and turns it into a clear, realistic plan so you can move into construction with confidence. We keep things friendly, straightforward, and transparent, no pressure, just expert guidance and real answers.
Below is the step-by-step journey we take with homeowners, plus what you’ll see, when decisions happen, and how to prepare.
Why Design/Build? It makes a difference.
- One point of responsibility. No hand-offs between designer and builder, one team owns design, estimates, permitting, schedule and construction. Fewer surprises, fewer delays, and a clearer path to the finish line.
- Faster decisions, better value. With designers, estimators and builders working together early, we optimize choices for cost, schedule and performance so your budget goes farther.
- Peace of mind. Transparent pricing, clear deliverables, and regular communication so you always know where the project stands.
- We treat your home like family. We plan around your life, protect your home during construction, and keep the site tidy and safe.
Our 3-STEP Design/Build Process
STEP 1 – PRE-CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
Pre-Construction is where ideas become plans. This phase covers all planning, evaluation, and design work, so you have a realistic, reliable picture of the scope, schedule, and risk before any construction begins.
We do things like:
- Site evaluation and review of existing conditions (structure, access, utilities).
- Programming: we listen to goals, priorities, and budget to create a project brief that guides every decision.
- Conceptual & schematic design with options (Good / Better / Best) so you can see tradeoffs and choose the right path.
- Cost modeling and early budget checks to flag cost drivers and set realistic expectations.
- Permitting strategy and coordination with architects, engineers, and local authorities. We develop a path to approvals and identify potential hurdles early.
- Risk register and schedule: identify site constraints and timing considerations (seasonal impacts, approvals, utility work) so there are fewer surprises later. Permits and approvals take time; starting early matters.
- Questions on permitting? Read about Permits.
Deliverables you’ll receive: feasibility findings, schematic drawings, a preliminary project scope, and an early budget estimate, along with everything you need to decide whether to move to pricing.
If Pre-Construction shows the project is viable, you’re ready for Step 2: Project Pricing.
STEP 2 – PROJECT PRICING
Once the scope is confirmed, our estimating team prepares a complete, no-surprises bid so you can budget with confidence.
What our pricing includes:
- A line-item estimate or guaranteed maximum price (depending on the project) that covers materials, labor, permits, allowances and contingencies.
- Clear alternates and allowances so you control finish decisions without unclear costs.
- A realistic construction schedule and milestone dates tied to the estimate.
- Full disclosure of exclusions and change-order procedures so you always know what’s included.
Our goal is simple: give you a hard number and the peace of mind to move forward or fine-tune the plan without pressure. If you choose not to proceed, we can refine the design or scope so your options remain open.
Result: a documented, transparent bid that lets you decide with confidence.
STEP 3 – CUSTOM BUILDING SERVICES (CONSTRUCTION)
If you accept our bid, we smoothly transition into construction, the team that planned the project builds it. That continuity reduces delays and minimizes unexpected challenges because everyone already understands the design, constraints, and the plan.
During construction you’ll get:
- A single project manager who is your main point of contact and coordinates trades, inspections, and deliveries.
- A vetted trades team and quality-control checkpoints including craftsmanship with consistent oversight.
- Weekly progress updates, scheduled walkthroughs at key milestones, and clear change-order procedures.
- Site protection, daily cleanup, safety protocols, and respect for your family’s routines. We lock your start date, handle submittals, order materials and coordinate inspections to keep the project on track.
- A final walkthrough and warranty: we complete a punch-list, review maintenance and stand behind our work.
Outcome: a finished home or addition that performs as promised and feels like the vision you started with.
Typical timelines (examples)
We’ll give a project-specific schedule during Pre-Construction so you can plan with confidence. Timelines vary by project type and scope, but these examples give a practical sense of what to expect:
Pre-Construction: typically 2–6 weeks, depending on site complexity and approvals.
Project Pricing: 1–3 weeks after finalizing schematic drawings and scope.
Remodels (example): a mid-size kitchen often runs 6–12 weeks from the start of construction to finish.
New homes / large builds: typically measured in months (often 6–12+ months), depending on size, sitework, and approvals.
The benefits (in plain language)
- Less stress. One team answers your questions and solves problems fast.
- Fewer cost surprises. Early budgeting and integrated estimating keep cost drivers visible.
- Smoother schedule. Design decisions informed by builders reduce rework and delays.
- Better quality. When designers and builders collaborate from day one, the finished product performs better and lasts longer.
Common questions
How do we get started?
A short call and an on-site visit lets us listen, measure and sketch ideas. From there we recommend the right Pre-Construction package for your goals.
Do you handle permits and inspections?
Yes. We handle permit submissions, inspections and coordination so approvals are managed properly and your start date is secured. More on Permits.
Can you work with my designer or architect?
Absolutely. We collaborate with outside designers or provide full in-house design/build services, whichever keeps your project moving smoothly.
Get ready for the next step.
Imagine the relief of having a single, experienced team guiding your project from idea to keys in hand. If you’re planning a new build or a complex project and want a partner who will listen, plan carefully, and build with pride, let’s start with a free design consult.
Call us at (802) 482-5777 or contact us online. We’ll answer your questions, share examples, and outline the next steps so you can choose with confidence. We’re neighbors who build for neighbors. Let’s create something you’ll love for years.