PRELIMINARY CALL
Our first phone call is an opportunity to get to know you and your project. We’ll ask key questions about your timeframe, budget, location, and project scope to better understand your vision and priorities, while also giving you a clear picture of how we work. If everything aligns, we’ll move forward with the onsite meeting.
ON-SITE MEETING
The onsite meeting sets the foundation for accurate planning and budgeting. We will meet you and your decision-makers for a one- to two-hour brainstorming session at the project location to cover both the big picture and finer details of your project. By the end of the meeting, we can formalize a feasibility agreement to refine estimates and ensure your goals and budget are well matched.
DESIGN/REMODEL AGREEMENT
The design/remodel agreement establishes ETI as your contractor and outlines our commitment to pre-construction design services, typically 7-12% of the construction budget. Once finalized, we take detailed measurements, assign an architect or designer, and begin conceptualization. You’ll walk away with a clear picture of the project’s costs and practical ideas to make the most of your budget.
DESIGN PROCESS UNDERWAY
Once the design process begins, you will be invited into the Client Portal—a centralized platform where you can view and track every step of the project. Using "As Built" and "Design" drawings, we create a detailed visual package, complete with written specifications, work timelines, payment schedules, and material samples. The portal keeps everything organized and accessible, providing full transparency as the project progresses.
DESIGN REVIEW AND FEEDBACK
Depending on the complexity of your project, the design phase may take a couple weeks to several months. Throughout this time, you’ll have the opportunity to share questions and input through the portal and in meetings, which may lead to revisions and budget refinements to ensure the design aligns with your vision.
DESIGN APPROVAL AND FINAL SELECTIONS
After you finalize your material and product selections, we’ll coordinate with our network of trade specialists to verify numbers for the project. A signed letter of intent at this phase will be required to secure your spot on the schedule and initiate orders for long-lead time materials.
FEASIBILITY BUDGET STUDY
Before finalizing the construction agreement, we conduct a thorough feasibility budget study to ensure the design aligns with your financial goals. This step involves refining cost estimates, evaluating potential adjustments, and confirming that the project’s scope, materials, and timelines fit within your established budget. This proactive approach minimizes surprises and sets a solid financial foundation for the construction phase.
CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT
Our estimating team will package the total investment for your project and prepare a fixed-price agreement. If your design selections align with the finish level we’ve been working toward, this figure will reflect the feedback provided during the design phase. Once the Construction Agreement is signed, we’ll review the payment schedule, collect an initial deposit or establish an escrow account, and outline next steps.
PRE-CONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE
Before construction begins, our Design Coordinator, Production Manager, and Superintendent will meet with you to go over each stage of the process, set expectations and review work hours, the sequence of tasks, and any periods that may cause disruptions. We’ll also set up logistical essentials in and around the project site.
SCHEDULING
Through our client portal, we prioritize transparency by providing a detailed schedule that keeps you informed at every milestone. From excavation to the final cleaning, the schedule outlines each phase of your project and when every trade will be involved. Should there be setbacks, you will be informed of shifts in work to keep the project moving along.
COMPLETION
As we wrap up the final phase of construction, some projects may require an additional “punch list” of final tasks. Together, we’ll create a list of what still needs to be done, along with any additional costs, and take care of them while you start enjoying your new or renovated space. Once everything is complete, the final payment will be due.
CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY
Our construction crews and contractors are not only reputable but also deeply committed to delivering the best experience by minimizing disruptions, respecting your property, and maintaining open communication. Any changes during the project are communicated via the portal and discussed with your Project Manager, unless immediate action is required. Budget impacts will be detailed in a clear Potential Change Order (PCO), where you’ll review and approve all changes.
FOLLOW-UP
Our support doesn’t end when the final punch list item is checked off. We’ll conduct a final walkthrough with you and schedule a post-project review to make sure all your goals have been met while gathering feedback on ways we can improve. Within the first year, we’ll follow up to address any warranty concerns that may require attention and check in on other projects that you may have in the pipeline where we can be of service.
