WHEN THE PRICE IS RIGHT

While searching for materials on how to prepare for a renovation, I came across many different recommendations, checklist, to-do list—you name it and Google has it all. And one article on choosing the right builder caught my attention. There’s a section that talks about price negotiation.

Many homeowners often struggle between a tight budget and a builder that they are comfortable with but are over their budget. So, how do you choose? Some may call up their preferred builder and tell them to cut down cost. Others may go for the cheaper alternative. But one rule stays the same in all industry--you can never have cheap, fast and high quality all-in-one. And one of the best ways to resolve? Communication.

What my client did was amazing. We met up and he openly shared with me how much I was over and asked for suggestions to modify some works in order to lower the price. My practice is never to cut corners to save cost, and so I asked him a few specific questions on materials selection, which I know can save him some money and man-hours. And at the end of it, there are two happy men.

Over-promises and cutting corners can pose a huge danger in the near future. Just look at the number of housing and constructions accidents. I sincerely hope that every one of us take responsibility in ensuring a safe environment for our future.

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