The short answer: no, we do not design in-house. The better answer: We like to take an active role in helping you with your design and plans. Although we do not draw plans in house, we have a number of draftsman, designers (plans and interior), as well as architects we work with. We are happy to help with this process. In fact, we prefer to be a part of this process.

We do not have a set number of crews. Since we are identified as a construction management company, we subcontract most of the work. We ensure our subcontractors meet state and local standards on the following: Licensed in their field. Carry insurance. This may include General Liability, Worker’s Compensation, Commercial Auto, and umbrella. Additionally, Gage takes an active role in cultivating relationships with our trade partners to ensure we are striving to produce the best product possible. We do this through on-site coaching, weekly activity communication, and quarterly meetings – just to mention a few. Most of our trade partners we have been working with for many years and we do everything within reason to continue these relationships. Gage does have the following employees: Matt Gilpin – Owner PJ Calcutt – Operations/project manager Robin Gilpin - Accounting

There are three primary documents used throughout the process. Plans (blueprints) – these should be as detailed as possible. Plans should include foundation/footers, elevations, floor plans, mechanical, and any detail sheets necessary. Specifications – This document is a written document created by Gage Construction, and contributed to by the client. This should be very specific and fill in any gaps that may be missing from the plans. If there is discrepancy between the specifications and the plans, Gage will always defer to the specifications as taking precedence. Contract – this document will detail the requirements for all parties involved. Simply put, this is the legal document. During the bid and permitting phase, the main documents will be the plans and specifications. The contract will be executed when all parties decide to proceed with the project.

During the due diligence phase, you will typically be dealing directly with Matt. Matt will handle the initial meeting(s), rough estimates, document creation, bidding, and proposal. If a proposal is accepted and a contract signed, we then will transition to the “hand-off” phase. This is where we will set a time with you, Matt and PJ (Project Manager) to meet and review the specifications/plans and any other relevant documents. This will be to familiarize PJ with the project and ensure all information is conveyed so we can start your project as efficiently and smoothly as possible. After the hand-off, the project manager will take lead on the project. Matt will transition to an advisory role and handle all billing.

As with any project we undertake, Gage will take the following approach: We will meet the current IRC, as adopted by the municipality the project takes place in. The IRC is code. Keep in mind, code should be viewed as the minimum requirement to meet Life/Safety for a home. If applicable, we strive to meet Energy Star standards for new builds. Gage uses the adopted South Carolina Residential Construction Standards. Of course, most of the work Gage performs will far exceed the minimum standards required by code. Yet, each home is unique and the level of those standards will be dictated by the plans and specifications.

This depends on how the project is set up and if a lending institution is involved. It is always best to have a complete understanding of how this is addressed within the contract, but hopefully, this will help give more insight. For ease, we will classify the project as either a “cash” job or a “bank” job. Cash – as invoicing is received by Gage from our trade partners, Gage will then enter the invoice into QuickBooks, then you will receive an invoice from Gage through QuickBooks. No matter the amount or volume of invoices received, we simply ask you process payment per the contract. Bank – Each bank may be slightly different on their process. Therefore, it is important to consult with the institution you intend to work with and understand their policies/procedures. Typically, a bank will have a draw schedule that is identified prior to the loan being finalized with the builder. The builder is allowed a certain number of draws throughout the process, otherwise inspection fees are incurred for additional draws (of course, the dollar amount cannot exceed the predetermined construction amount). Draws will not be disbursed to Gage until the bank inspects and releases finds. Usually approved funds are deposited via wire transfer.

Anything above what is in the specifications/plans/proposal will be invoiced directly to the customer, through Quickbooks – no matter if you are working with a bank or the project is a cash project. Any extras are billed directly to you, the customer, and you are responsible for payment. Typically, anything billed as an extra/additional will be identified on the QuickBooks invoice as “*Additional”.

Payment expectation specifics are identified within the contract. Typically, payment is expected within 7 days of receiving the invoice. Gage does accept wire transfer, checks, or cash. Although, checks are the preferred method of payment.