“For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.”
This is Isaac Newton’s Third Law of Motion. Newton’s law applies whether it is an apple falling from a tree or building a custom log or timber home. Consider three primary opposing forces at work when building a new home – Cost, Quality and Time. We call this the CQT Triangle. Understanding the opposing forces of the CQT Triangle is critical when selecting the right builder to build your new home.
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Cost, Quality and Time Triangle
The CQT Triangle has three opposing corners that tend to pull at each other – Cost, Quality and Time. Putting emphasis on one corner tends to have an opposing, negative effect on the other corners.
For example, if your primary concern is meeting an aggressive timeline, then cost will likely increase. There is also a risk that quality will be compromised in order to meet an aggressive timeline. Conversely, if the builder has a more flexible building schedule, it may allow him the time to achieve a higher standard of quality and more opportunity to better control costs.
If quality is your primary consideration, the cost will be higher and construction may take longer. If your primary concern, however, is staying within a specified budget, accepting a more modest quality standard may be required. For example, tile countertops might be perfectly acceptable as opposed to granite countertops and will save on costs. Or, carpeting the bedrooms and limiting hardwood to the great room and kitchen areas might be an opportunity for cost savings.
Using the Cost, Quality and Time Triangle
Understanding the relationship of Cost, Quality and Time is important in choosing the right builder. PrecisionCraft’s BuilderSelect™ construction solution will give you much needed information about prospective builders. It’s not uncommon for builders to have more strength in one or two of the CQT corners. For example, a builder that specializes in a high-quality craftsmanship might have an “artwork” standard. But, there is a price to pay for “artwork” usually in time and/or cost. Aligning your priorities with the strength of the builder will help you achieve your objective.
Having a clear understanding of your CQT priorities will help you make the right choice in selecting a builder. It is always best to talk with your PrecisionCraft Construction Manager and the prospective builders about your expectations and priorities.
