Welcome to Luxury Locations Real Estate, your trusted partner in turning your dream of owning a perfect island getaway property in Antigua into a reality. With an abundance of undeveloped virgin land available, many buyers are eager to build their own slice of paradise. However, embarking on a construction project can be overwhelming, especially for those who have never built their own property before. That's where we come in.
At Luxury Locations Real Estate, we understand that you may have questions and uncertainties about what steps to take once you've found your ideal location. We have established strong connections with top-notch architects, builders, contractors, and interior decorators who can provide the expertise and assistance you need to transition from envisioning your dream property to actually living in it.
To give you a general idea of building costs, here's a rough outline:
Building Costs: When it comes to pricing, individuals often inquire about the cost per square foot. These prices can range from US$200 up to US$1000. However, it's crucial to note whether the price includes only the building cost or the total cost, encompassing all fittings and fixtures. The latter significantly impacts the overall expenditure. A seemingly low building cost may end up being more expensive if it only covers the basic structure, excluding essential elements like painting, fixtures, kitchens, bathrooms, and windows.
Building contractors employ various approaches, including:
Per Sq. Ft.: The contractor provides a quote based on the total square footage of the building. While this method is simple, it requires detailed pre-planning to ensure both parties agree on the quality of finishes and fittings.
Total Cost / Fixed Price: Similar to the per sq. ft. model, this approach calculates the overall build cost rather than assigning a cost to each square foot. The advantage is that it allows for upgrades, additional elements, and customization. These adjustments can be incorporated into the design early on, with the costs factored in accordingly.
Open Book: In this transparent approach, the contractor maintains an open set of books, enabling the client to account for every cost. The client has more control over the build costs. The contractor may charge a percentage override on the total build cost or a fixed fee.
Our advice at Luxury Locations is as follows:
Choose a building contractor that aligns with your needs and review their past work. If you're uncertain, consider hiring a professional to accompany and guide you through the selection process.
Invest ample time in the design phase to ensure you make informed choices regarding your layout and overall design. A few additional dollars spent on architects' fees to modify a drawing are far more cost-effective than making changes during the construction phase.
Once the design is finalized, avoid making changes. Take the time to contemplate and provide final approval. Making alterations after finalizing the design often leads to escalating costs. Even seemingly minor changes, such as increasing the size of a window, can unexpectedly impact plumbing, electrical systems, structural supports, and other elements.
With Luxury Locations Real Estate by your side, you can navigate the process of building your dream property in Antigua with confidence. Let us guide you through finding the perfect location, connecting you with reputable professionals, and offering valuable tips to ensure a smooth and successful construction journey. Contact us today to embark on your island dream!
Luxury Locations Magazine Issue 20. Antigua and Barbuda property and lifestyle Magazine.
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