Pre-Construction Advisory and Consultation (PAC)
A smarter way to build
Our Pre-Construction Advisory and Consultation (PAC) process flips the traditional design-bid-build method on its head.
Building or renovating a home is one of the biggest investments you will make. By engaging us early, we keep your project within scope, on budget and on time.
The PAC process
What is the PAC process?
The PAC process flips the traditional design-bid-build method on its head. Instead of waiting until the design is complete before bringing a builder on board, it brings us in right from the start.
The traditional way, and the PAC way
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Traditional
Design-bid-build
- The design is finished first
- Builders are then asked to price it
- Over budget? It goes back for rework
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Our way
The PAC process
- The builder is on board from the start
- Costing runs alongside the design
- A fixed-price contract once it is final
How PAC differs from design-bid-buildRead moreShow less
This means we collaborate with you, your designer (whether it is an architect, building designer or draftsperson) and key consultants to shape the project from its earliest stages. By working together from the beginning, we can identify potential challenges before they become costly problems.
The PAC process starts as early as the pre-design phase. Whether you have already engaged a designer or are still exploring your options, this is the perfect time to bring us on board.
For example
If a design feature like a cantilevered balcony looks stunning on paper but pushes your budget over the edge, we can suggest alternative approaches, perhaps by adjusting the structure or exploring different materials, that maintain the aesthetic without breaking the bank.
Real-world examplesRead moreShow less
At Finer Touch Projects, we have seen first-hand how the PAC process benefits our clients. Here are a couple of examples:
Dan’s example: Luxury Home Renovation
A client approached us with plans for a major renovation that included a second-storey addition. After reviewing the plans during the PAC process, we realised the design exceeded their budget due to extensive structural changes. We worked with their architect to redesign key elements of the home, maintaining the desired aesthetic while cutting costs by 20%. The client was able to stay within budget, and construction proceeded without delays.
Dan’s example: Custom Home Build on a Sloping Site
One client wanted to build a modern home on a steeply sloped block, which posed significant challenges for both design and construction. During the PAC process, we collaborated with the architect to come up with a design that minimised excavation and retaining wall costs, while still maximising the home’s living space and views. By identifying potential site challenges early, we kept the project on track and within budget.
How the PAC process works
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Initial Consultation
We meet to understand your vision, budget and timeline, and to assess your site.
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We meet with you to understand your vision, budget and timeline. During this meeting we also assess your site and talk through any early ideas you have with your designer.
- Your vision, budget and timeline
- An assessment of your site
- Early ideas, from the type of home to an outdoor living space, extra bedrooms or sustainable design elements
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Collaborative Design Development
We work closely with your designer on buildability and cost as the design evolves.
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As the design evolves, we work closely with your designer to give feedback on the buildability and cost implications of certain design choices.
- Buildability and cost feedback as the design develops
- More efficient construction methods, such as for a sloping site, to reduce excavation costs
- Advice on regulatory requirements, so there are no compliance issues later
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Cost Estimation and Budget Tracking
Ongoing cost estimates as the design takes shape, so you are never in the dark.
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During the PAC process we provide ongoing cost estimates as the design takes shape. They are based on real-world construction experience, so you are never in the dark about what the project is likely to cost.
- Ongoing cost estimates as the design takes shape
- Cost breakdowns for high-end finishes or custom features
- You decide where to invest and where to cut back, without sacrificing quality or style
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Final Design and Fixed Price Contract
A fixed-price contract once the design is final, so you know the cost before building starts.
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Once the design is finalised and all consultant documents are in order, we provide a fixed-price contract based on the comprehensive scope of work agreed during the PAC process.
- A final design, with every consultant document in order
- A fixed-price contract based on the agreed scope of work
- You know exactly what the project will cost before construction begins
Why it works
Benefits of the PAC process
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Stay on budget
Real-time costing advice as the design develops.
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One of the biggest challenges homeowners face is falling in love with a design, only to realise later that it exceeds their budget. Because we are involved early, we can give you real-time feedback on how design decisions affect costs.
For example: You might be considering high-end materials like imported stone or custom cabinetry. While beautiful, these can drive up costs significantly. By discussing them with us during the PAC process, we can advise you on how they fit your budget and suggest alternatives that achieve the look and feel you want at a more manageable price point.
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Feasibility from the start
We find out early what is practical to build.
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Sometimes a design looks perfect on paper but is not practical to build. Without early involvement from a builder, clients can end up spending time and money on a design that simply is not feasible.
For example: We have seen clients work with designers to create intricate rooflines that are aesthetically pleasing but structurally complex and costly. In the PAC process we would spot this early and offer more efficient ways to achieve the same visual effect, so the design can be built realistically without a huge hit to your budget.
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Less stress
You know what is possible, in design and cost.
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With the traditional process, clients often experience disappointment when a completed design is far beyond their financial reach. By involving us from the outset, you will have a clearer understanding of what is possible, in both design and cost. This early collaboration keeps your expectations aligned with what can actually be built within your budget.
For example: If you are hoping for floor-to-ceiling windows throughout your home, we can work with you and your designer to decide where they will have the most impact without significantly increasing your construction costs.
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Less rework and delay
We catch budget blowouts before you redesign.
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One of the biggest risks of the traditional design-bid-build model is costly rework. With the PAC process we identify potential budget blowouts early, saving you the stress and frustration of redesigning the project.
Dan’s example: Imagine completing your home design, asking builders to price it, and discovering that it is 30% over budget. You are forced back to the drawing board to rework the plans. That costs both time you could spend starting construction, and money already spent on design.
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Fixed price contract
You know the cost of the build before it starts.
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We believe in providing clarity and transparency when it comes to pricing. Once we have worked together during the PAC phase to fully scope out the project, we offer a fixed-price contract. This means you can move forward with confidence, knowing exactly what your project will cost.
For example: If we have agreed on certain materials or finishes during the PAC process, those will be reflected in your final contract price, so everyone is on the same page.
There are no hidden surprises or unexpected charges halfway through the build.
Trained in the PAC process
Why the PAC process is right for you
Building or renovating a home is a complex and often stressful endeavour. By choosing the PAC process, you are not only gaining a builder, you are gaining a partner who will guide you through every step of the journey.
Whether you are starting from scratch or already have plans in hand, the PAC process ensures a smoother, more efficient and cost-effective project.
Get started
Ready to build smarter?
If you are ready to take the next step in your home-building journey, tell us about your project and we will take you through the PAC process.
Get started