Architect/Home Builder

Hello Everyone,

Not new to the forum but very seldom post, just wandering the best architects and home builders in the Dumaguete area to get a house drawn up and quotes on a house build.
Anyone with the any experience or knowledge would be greatly appreciated.

 

Probably a difficult question, I imagine some members might be hesitant to share their recommendation for either an architect or a builder, since one good experience doesn't necessarily lead to a good experience for the next customer, and nobody likes to be the one that gets the "but he recommended" reproach on his plate.
That said, whoever you eventually pick to do the job, you better read up on "best building practices" yourself anyway, I know plenty stories about builders cutting corners without proper supervision, and the best supervisor is an informed principal.

 

Thanks

 

https://www.facebook.com/BandAConstructionservices

 

No clue on the best answer to the above but my one suggestion for a successful build is to pay for the materials yourself, even if you let the contractor spec them. I have yet to meet a Dumaguete metro builder who is a good builder and a good cash flow manager.

 

Good sound advice

 

My father is a good builder, and he doesn't do bad things like corrupting and overpricing. He has 40+ years of experience in Building Construction. He studied Bachelors of Science in Industrial Technology major in Building Construction, and he is the only one who graduated on that course because it's the only course for poor people at that time. He was a student foreman when he was in college. I wouldn't say he is the best, but he is pretty good in his craft.

 

No company I know of.
Problems here, as I am sure you have read, are substandard labor and materials.
Be your own sub contractor.
Draw the house you like and have an architect give you the blueprints.
They are basically used as a guide and for building permits.
After that- pray you make good decisions.

 

There are a few good builders here, some run by foreigners. The concern of making a recommendation is that good builders often have multiple projects concurrently. That can lead to the real skilled laborers being spread too thin possibly resulting in two houses not being finished the same. Skilled and experienced roofers, plumbers, electricians, cabinet makers are not always put on your build, whether you use a builder or decide to hire a local foreman to put together his crew.

 

My experience, beware of Sub standard materials.......Filipino will save on almost anything.....Termites do exist and eat wood, so minimise wood! Hollow blocks usually made of dust, drop one on your foot at home and you'll be in hospital, not so in Philippines, your foot will be unscathed! Filipino like putting electricals under the concrete.....impossible to fix if problem. Water pipes use green welded plastic never blue PVC. Have all electrical points with earth........Most water fittings in Philippines made from monkey metal, look good but last about 2 years. Have definite HOLD points on all major steps......foundations etc etc............Good Luck, you will need it!