BYSTRY INC. FAQ.

Frequently Asked Questions

Click Here To View A Typical Project with Stage by Stage With Photographs

Are the homes on the website site built?

Do I have to build the homes featuring on the website?

Why Bystry Inc. pricing is so competitive? Value engineering and design.

Can Bystry Inc. build a home on my property?

Can Bystry Inc. design a home based on my ideas and wants?

How long does the construction process take?

What is the main area of service for Bystry Inc.?

What do website prices include?

Are you licensed and insured?

Do you have any models open and ready to view?

What kind of contract/agreement and payment arrangements do you prefer?

Estimating?

What amenities are included with my BYSTRY Home?

What appliances are included with my BYSTRY Home?

What kind of Warranty will my BYSTRY Home have?

Does Bystry Inc. use Green (energy efficient ) construction principals?

Can I afford the monthly payments?

Can I qualify for financing?

Why is buying a better option for me than renting?

Cost plus fixed fee contract.

Cost plus percentage contract.

Fixed price contract.

DESIGN AND BUILD aka Design Build aka Turnkey Contract.

Copyright/Blueprints

THE DESIGN-BUILD PROCESS-SEQUENCE OF EVENTS

Are homes on the website site built?

All homes are built on site. All models are customizable to best suite home owner’s specifications, budget and lifestyle. All homes are custom built by BYSTRY Inc.

Do I have to build the homes featuring on the website?

No. The homes shown on our website are the most popular previously built homes. The price indicated is an adjusted cost of the amount spent to build this particular home. We are full service custom design-build company constructing of various plans and specifications.

Why BYSTRY Inc. pricing is so competitive?

We run a very lean operation minimizing waste and wasted motion of action.

We have a very efficient structure and low overhead, which enables us to provide our clients with great quality work and rare values.

We spend a lot of time planning construction, optimizing design and shopping the best value from vendors INSTEAD OF learning on the job and wasting time and money fixing mistakes and shortcomings.

We use latest estimating and planning systems.

We take pride in our achievements in Value Engineering.

We work harder and do most of operations IN-HOUSE.

We buy a lot of materials direct and also enjoy multiple discounts from the vendors. All these savings are transferred directly to our clients.

We prefer staying busy and make a fair return on our services VS. "get rich quick" concept abused by many.

We closely manage projects to avoid costly call backs and repairs.

The fundamental principles:

• Build Efficient - Too often, building size is dictated by image and not by function.

• Design simply and elegantly — A great deal of materias and money is wasted on excess, such as unnecessarily complex roofs and appliqué decoration, instead of being invested in the design of timeless structures whose appeal relies on beautiful proportions and fine craftsmanship.

• Design for flexibility — A house that can accommodate a variety of household types, lifestyles, and functions is less likely to require remodeling than one that is designed for a narrowly defined market.

• Build for disassembly — Too often, the only way to get a building apart is with a wrecking ball, reducing valuable materials to rubble. Use screws and bolts, instead of glue and nails, whenever possible; avoid unrecyclable composites, especially those that are short-lived.

• Build a durable structure — Repair and replacement of deteriorating wood accounts for a significant percentage of the total demand for new wood. A well-detailed, solidly built house will outlive its DETAILING FOR DURABILITY shoddy counterpart by many years.

• Plan to minimize waste — Wasted materials are paid for twice: once to buy them, and again to dispose of them. Estimate carefully so you buy no more than you need; use materials to their fullest

• Collaborate with the rest of your team — Opportunities for material efficiencies and time savings often can be found when the developer, architect, engineer, and builder combine resources. Set a meeting as early as possible in the project to discuss this goal.

Can Bystry Inc. build a home on my property?
Vast majority of our homes are built on our clients' properties.

Can Bystry Inc. design a home based on my ideas and wants?
Should you want to make changes and customizations to the plans you had purchased elsewhere (with your architect's proper permission); or just bring your own ideas into our home plan: we will design your home for FREE including a 3D model and blue prints (with the active construction contract). Custom design and 3D computer visualization are a part of each project.

How long does the construction process take?
2 to 9 months depending on the size of the construction process and the weather conditions. Our clients always receive a detailed schedule before the construction begins.

What is the main area of service for Bystry Inc.?

Our base area of operation is located between North Chattanooga and South Knoxville.

What do website prices include?

The website prices include basic and normal construction (City water, regular and accessible septic/sewer, standard parking pad). Default conditions of your building site are: leveled or slightly rolling, not rocky; without large trees within actual building pad. If your building site is rather complicated, we will perform the extra work and utilities hook ups with minimum possible expenses to our clients.

Are you licensed and insured?

Bystry Construction Inc. is a full service construction BC-A, BC-B, company with years of design and construction experience. We carry all required licensing; insurance and certifications. We have a staff of highly professional craftsmen and carpenters.

Do you have any models open and ready to view?

No. We are full service custom design-build company with a very diverse portfolio. We rarely construct same projects multiple times. Although we do not see fit having open models we certainly able to provide you with a list of previously constructed projects and references. We are also able to show our ongoing projects with owners’ proper permission.

What kind of contract/agreement and payment arrangements do you prefer?

We always require a good faith/commitment deposit with the contract signing including a proof of secured financing or proof of available funds.

There are 3 basic contracts that we use:

Cost plus fixed fee contract.

Cost plus percentage contract.

Fixed price contract.

DESIGN AND BUILD aka Design Build aka Turnkey Contract.

Cost -Plus usually being the least expensive more Transparent/flexible homeowner's option.

Cost plus fixed fee contract.

Under this arrangement the contractor is reimbursed for the actual cost of labor and materials, plus charges a fee (typically an agreed-upon lump sum) for overhead and profit. The consumer and contractor will create a list of specifications and an estimated budget to match to those specifications. Although the contractor under this arrangement will have to keep copious records of its costs. Where the consumer wants to have open reign to select materials and workmanship as the project proceeds, this arrangement can be extremely flexible and accommodating. Also, cost-plus typically requires the contractor to obtain competitive bids from subcontractors, translating (in theory) to lower construction cost. Because cost-plus contracts are usually used where the scope of work is uncertain, consumer can not get spending and upgrading happy- the costs can quickly get way out of control. As one might imagine, the cost-plus contract tends to cause construction lenders fits. However, it is used frequently to great success.

Cost plus percentage contract.

Under this arrangement the contractor is reimbursed for the actual cost of labor and materials, plus charges a fee (typically an agreed-upon percentage of the total costs) for overhead and profit. The consumer and contractor will create a list of specifications and an estimated budget to match to those specifications. Although the contractor under this arrangement will have to keep copious records of its costs. Where the consumer wants to have open reign to select materials and workmanship as the project proceeds, this arrangement can be extremely flexible and accommodating. Also, cost-plus typically requires the contractor to obtain competitive bids from subcontractors, translating (in theory) to lower construction cost. Because cost-plus contracts are usually used where the scope of work is uncertain, consumer can not get spending and upgrading happy- the costs can quickly get way out of control. As one might imagine, the cost-plus contract tends to cause construction lenders fits. However, it is used frequently to great success.

DESIGN AND BUILD aka Design Build aka Turnkey.

In a design-and-build contract, the consumer contracts with a single party that both designs and builds the project. It results in possible substantial cash and time savings by using one party; predictable cost; and better execution of the project due to clearer understanding of the creative vision by the builder. Also, in the event of problems, the consumer may look to a single source for the responsibility for the finished product. In other words, whenever a problem arises in construction, the consumer will not be stonewalled by a separate builder and design professional each blaming the other for whatever error occurs.

Fixed price contract.

This type of contract promises to build X project for Y dollars. A Fixed Fee or Lump Sum Contract is suitable if the scope and schedule of the project are sufficiently defined to allow the consulting contractor to estimate project costs. For consumers who are able to fully articulate the project specifications they want.

Estimating.

There are two kinds of estimates that we provide:

1. Preliminary, study estimate. This is a PRECONSTRUCTION ENTRY ESTIMATE that is generally derived from client's specification description, considering today’s labor / material pricing and Bystry Inc. previously complete similar project, This estimate is designed to serve as a study (ballpark) estimate.

2. Detailed preconstruction estimate. This estimate is provided as the client and Bystry Inc. enter in a construction contract. Bystry Inc. uses very detailed, transparent and comprehensive estimating systems. Estimates include everything to quantity of nails and screws used, specified as a line item. These estimates could be as extensive as 100+ pages. It is required for the client to have a proof of available construction funds, construction schedules, and to be willing, able and ready to start construction immediately.

Click Here To Request Estimate Consultation.

What appliances are included with my BYSTRY Home?
BYSTRY Homes are owner-ready with a complete kitchen appliance package: stove/range, above-stove microwave/vent, dishwasher, refrigerator and in-sink disposal. Your home will also come with a remote garage door opener.

What kind of Warranty will my BYSTRY Home have?
Every new BYSTRY Home comes with 1 (2 to 10*) Year Builder's Warranty. *Additional warranty is available.

Can I afford the monthly payments?

BYSTRY INC. is committed to making home ownership affordable and sensible. We build homes that should allow most people to own for less than they would pay to rent a comparable home. Although interest rates are constantly changing, our experience over the last year has been that a buyer with a moderate to good credit rating can qualify to finance a Home. To find out how much your monthly payment would be to own meet with an loan originator to get Free Pre-Approval for a mortgage. Pre-Approval won’t obligate you to purchase anything but it will give you accurate finance information so you can make better decisions about buying. How much will my mortgage payments be?

Can I qualify for financing?
Although some people are fortunate enough to be able to buy their home outright, most will have to secure a mortgage in order to purchase a home. Mortgage lenders have numerous criteria for qualifying an individual for financing and determining the rate at which they will approve a loan. Much like getting a loan for a car, it is necessary for a person to complete a formal application for pre-approved financing in order to determine exactly what their monthly payment will be and their ability to afford owning a BYSTRY Home. In general though, we have had the most success qualifying individuals with a household income of at least $27,000 per year.

Why is buying a better option for me than renting?
There are many reasons for owning your own home but we believe the most important is the opportunity for you to build equity through ownership. Your monthly payments go towards ownership of your home rather than into your landlord’s pocket. In addition, it can be less expensive than rent and the interest on your mortgage payments are tax-deductible. Don’t forget the other advantages of home ownership, which include the opportunity to keep a pet and to decorate any way you like.

Copyright/Blueprints

As with any work protected by the Federal Copyright Act, as amended in 1990, 17 U.S.C., copyright belongs to the creator of the work. The blueprints are protected — and they belong to the architect/ design-build contractor, who created the blueprints, unless ownership is otherwise transferred.

The homeowners are granted only a license to use the blueprints on a one-time basis, called nonexclusive use. The copyright owner may reuse the plans as many times as he/she wishes and in any location.

The architect/ design-build contractor owns all rights to the blueprints.

In the case of Bystry Inc. handling design and construction of the project, it is Bystry Inc. responsibility to purchase blue prints and/or obtain necessary permissions and licensing

In the situation where Client/Homeowner retains a third party architect/designer or blueprints form a source other than Bystry Inc. it is Client/Homeowner responsibility to obtain all obtain necessary permissions and licensing. The Client/Homeowner will be responsible for all the fines and legal fees in case of architect/designer copyright lawsuit/claim due to improper permissions and licensing.

THE DESIGN-BUILD PROCESS-SEQUENCE OF EVENTS

INITIAL MEETING	Free
Client-Contractor Interview	Free
A. Contractor qualifications	Free
General Liability and Workers compensation insurance	Free
Appropriate licensing	Free
References	Free
Financial stability and readability check	Free
Quality construction, green construction and value engineering competence check.	Free
Company successful history check	Free
Contractor warranty and warranty record check	Free
B. Client Background Information	Free
Client proof of available funds	Free
Client proof of being able ready and willing to start construction.	Free
Client property and construction wish list assessment	Free
Project Overview by Priority	Free
Budget Discussion vs. General Costs vs. Value	Free
Discussion on Design-Build Process	Free
Design Choices and Costs of Services	Free
Industry Standards (Residential Construction Performance Guidelines)	Free
Client Living Requirements during Construction	Free
DESIGN MEETING	Free
Reviewing of past designs	Free
Reviewing of clients design ideas and priorities.	Free
Reviewing Project Overview and Budget	Free
Discuss Fees and Design Agreement	Free
Choose a design concept	Free
Evaluate project	Free
Develop a conceptual (preliminary, no line items) estimate	Free
Assess design/project concept versus the budget	Free
DESIGN AGREEMENT MEETING
If project conceptual estimate is within budget -Read, discuss, and sign Design / Cost Planning Agreement
Collect retainer for Design / Cost Planning Services	*5% of the estimate, charged $100 per hour, refundable once construction is complete by Bystry Inc.
Create conceptual design	$100/hr- refundable*
Verify that concept is within budget.	$100/hr- refundable*
Develop design and budget	$100/hr- refundable*
Schedule design services	$100/hr- refundable*
COST PLANNING, DESIGN ASSESMENT	$100/hr- refundable*
Forecast areas and magnitude of likely change orders.	$100/hr- refundable*
Flag other necessary construction that can be most cost-effectively done at same time as primary project	$100/hr- refundable*
Determine requirement for new Survey of Lot	$100/hr- refundable*
Establish feasibility of project	$100/hr- refundable*
Verify zoning	$100/hr- refundable*
Field measure home for Preliminary Drawings	$100/hr- refundable*
Block out tentative place in schedule for construction.	$100/hr- refundable*
Create preliminary design / Create preliminary estimates	$100/hr- refundable*
Propose ideas for construction methods that will lower cost of realizing design.	$100/hr- refundable*
Suggest alternative construction methods to help maintain alignment of design with the owner's budget.	$100/hr- refundable*
Suggest technologies for decreasing long-term costs for operation and maintenance	$100/hr- refundable*
Present ideas for maximizing environmental benefits.	$100/hr- refundable*
Optimize plans with respect to lumber ,sheathing sizes and all materials	$100/hr- refundable*
Ensure a tight seal throughout the structure. Minimize size of opening for mechanicals through framing and air barriers	$100/hr- refundable*
Present alternative contracts for construction.	$100/hr- refundable*
Analyzing logistics and waste reducing techniques	$100/hr- refundable*
Discuss Design alternatives, Estimate cost of alternatives	$100/hr- refundable*
Produce final design drawings, specifications, and final estimate	$100/hr- refundable*
To protect against incompetent contractor building from Bystry Inc. plans all the plans are stamped “Not for construction purposes unless build by Bystry Inc.”	$100/hr- refundable*
Sign construction contract
Collect construction deposit	Construction contract
Schedule construction. Develop full schedule present to the homeowner	Construction contract
Complete preconstruction work	Construction contract
Produce working drawings	Construction contract
Obtain permits	Construction contract
Build by Coordinating designs with construction crew and subs.	Construction contract
Manage and control all construction	Construction contract
Post Production warranty service	Construction contract

Click Here To View A Typical Project Stage by Stage With Photographs

Does Bystry Inc. use Green (energy efficient ) construction principals?

WE ARE AN OFFICIAL ENERGY STAR PARTNER. WE ARE EFFICIENT AND ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY!

It doesn’t matter what color it is on the outside; every home that BYSTRY Inc. does is green on the inside. By specifying recycled or high-efficiency products where it counts, making better use of materials and reducing waste, a builder can play a big role in reducing pollution and conserving natural resources. The process starts during the planning and design stage and continues right through to how that home functions for its owner.”

Homes that filter and deliver fresh air more efficiently create an environment that contains less dust, fewer odors, and remarkably pleasant temperatures. Combined with interior moisture management and advanced combustion safety features this helps reduce potential health risks. Special framing techniques, improved insulation, and efficient ductwork help ensure that your energy usage is manageable. Homes that are more comfortable, more durable and more energy efficient are ultimately more desirable.

BYSTRY INC. uses:

■ Energy Star-rated HVAC systems

■ Value engineering to reduce waste and pollution

■ Programmable thermostats

■ Low-flow faucets and showerheads

■ Engineered wood products to reduce the need for long spans of dimensional lumber

■ High performance windows

■ Low-VOC paints

■ Carpet with Carpet and Rug Institute IAQ (indoor air quality)

■ Blown cellulose attic insulation that contains more than 75 percent recycled material

■ Gas fireplaces with non-standing pilot systems that save natural gas

■ Every home is wrapped and taped with a moisture/air infiltration barrier or sprayed with Invyro Spray.

■ HERS Energy inspections and certifications.

Building envelope upgrades:

High-performance windows, added sun control

Controlled air infiltration and zoning

Upgraded heating and air conditioning systems

Added close cell foam spray insulation

Thermostat controlled whole house fan

Hybrid water heater

Envyro Spray

Dimmers

BYSTRY INC. has initiated its own program for recycling scrap wood, vinyl siding, cardboard and concrete. BYSTRY INC. devotes more time and resources to land planning, habitat restoration and water conservation to restore the harmony between new communities and the environment.

We build great homes by never losing sight of what is important: our customers, our employees, our communities and the environment in which we live.

We always remember that homes that we are remodeling or building are surrounded by homes that people are living in!

ENERGY STAR homes

Bystry Inc. is official and certified ENERGY STAR partner. ENERGY STAR homes are independently verified to be at least 30 percent more energy-efficient than homes built to the 1993 national Model Energy Code or 15 percent more efficient than state energy code, whichever is more rigorous. As a result homeowners can realize dramatic savings in heating, cooling, and hot-water energy use.