Hi Onerachel,
In my experience it's rather difficult to define a "typical project", the cost of a residential development will be mainly determined by :
- Square meterage (new + refurbished)
- Design (you are correct.. some designers will over design/over specify.. this is often done to impress/deliver a good product for clients, but sometimes {sadly} it's done to increase fees.. )
- Finishes - perhaps have a look at what has been specified as floor finishes, sanitaryware, switches and sockets, light fittings etc etc. Spend a bit more time on research and get the "look" for less (your designer should be doing this).
- Builders - some builders are genuinely more expensive than others, when going out to tender on my projects I sometimes get a difference of up to 15-20% between builders. Sometimes builders are expensive because they are good (i.e. better finishes, management etc etc) but sometimes they are just expensive because of their reputation and because they know they can be. (expensive)
If you are concerned about the project being overvalued and paying over odds I would consider :
- Getting your current design and tender prices reviewed by a separate (independent) designer/architect or a quantity surveyor.
- Or go out to tender again to different builders (let me know if you need builder recommendations)
I hope this helps and good luck with your project.
E
Decimus Design
www.decimusdesign.co.uk
