TV Builders vs Aftermarket
 

I have a design meeting on December 18th for a build on an Iris. I intend on putting in Plantation Shuttters after closing but for comparison I got a price from the builder to have blinds installed, which cost $2000. I then contacted 48 Hr Blinds, which numerous residents said did a great job, to get a ballpark on shutters and found out that they do blinds for 1/2 the cost that TV charges.

Now on to the question; are there other options that can be done aftermarket by good contractors which will be less expensive than TV? Any input would be appreciated.

Are they the same quality? Made of the same material?

They claim to made of better quality with a better waranty and built in their shop.

The short answer is yes.

All add ons thru the builder carry a markup, say they quote you $2500 for something, it is billed perhaps with 20-40% margin of profit.

But you do get the warrentee behind it.

The trick is finding reliable contractors which this forum can help with recommendations.

Just don't give any upfront money, pay after work is complete and you are satisfied.

Thanks for the reply. I was reather surprised that the markup on the blinds was 100%. Many people in this forum have recommended 48 hr blinds so they seem like a good choice. Needless to say that no one gets paid in advance. Do you know of any other options that would be best done after closing?

Im also moving to Fernandina and hope to find good after settkement contractors for window treatments and granite

Gator Blinds
Granite Solutions

It would be easier to reply if you listed your needs.

Ceiling fans, attic steps in garage, flooring in attic, garage door openers.

Fans U can opt out and get more color or options, but the $$ is a wash otherwise.

Attic steps, after market, $185-$200

flooring attic I think they include some??
But U can go to HD after the steps R in and lay it yourself.

Door openers, let them do it as already included, saving negligible.

Hello chiefrose:

First, congratulations on your move to the villages. It wasn't too long ago that we felt much of the excitement and anticipation that you are likely experiencing.

Second, am I inferring correctly that the builder quoted $2000 as the full cost to install plantation shutters throughout your entire Iris? And that 48Hour quoted the same job for about half of that amount?

Geesh!

I would think that the $2000 by itself is an excellent price, yes? But a 100% markup is pretty steep.

George

I guess that things like poring a pad for BBQ, adding extra insulation in garage and lania, insulating garage doors, under counter lights, adding or moving electrical outlets.

Most options can be done by aftermarket MUCH cheaper than TV. Many with as good or better quality and better warranties. It's just a matter of you wanting to put up with the hassles after closing. However, another bonus is your property value at closing is less if done after, thus less taxes.
With the exception of structural and grass, everything else is possible. However, I even saw where someone built a standard house and it was less to have added sq ft later.
Examples of at least 30-50% less aftermarket are: front door sidelights, landscape, granite/corian countertops, tile flooring, appliances, even pools.
Be aware too. Doors and walls CAN be moved if not a bearing wall. For example, on the IRIS, we put the door on the laundry room versus the hallway to the kitchen. Light switches can be moved. Most are not mentioned and they tell you no many times, but not true. Good luck

the more features that you would like that can be delayed until after the closing, will save you a considerable amount of $$$.

There is NO advantage to have TV do it other than convenience and having it done and over with. If $$$ is no object then there is no problem.

btk

poring a pad for BBQ, The builder is the cheapest by far, also done at the same time the color and surface texture is the same.....

adding extra insulation in garage and lania, I think it's a waste of $$
(U can add extra to lanai later the attic is accessible)
The more important thing is to face your home correctly for the suns solar orientation, that is the lanai should be SSE.
The garage will take care of itself

insulating garage doors, after market HD $50

under counter lights, after market HD wayyyyyy cheaper.

adding or moving electrical outlets, builder $15 PER outlet


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