Frequently Asked Questions
What does FirstBuild Advisory do? We provide independent, client-side renovation cost advice to homeowners and property buyers before builders are appointed. Our role is to help you understand realistic costs, scope, and risks so you can make informed decisions early — before committing time or money to the next stage.
What does FirstBuild Advisory do? We provide independent, client-side renovation cost advice to homeowners and property buyers before builders are appointed. Our role is to help you understand realistic costs, scope, and risks so you can make informed decisions early — before committing time or money to the next stage.
What does FirstBuild Advisory do? We provide independent, client-side renovation cost advice to homeowners and property buyers before builders are appointed. Our role is to help you understand realistic costs, scope, and risks so you can make informed decisions early — before committing time or money to the next stage.
Who is this service for? This service is well suited to you if: You’re planning a renovation typically in the £40k–£150k range You’re buying a property and unsure what works will realistically cost You’ve received builder quotes that vary widely You want independent advice before committing
Who is this service not for? This service may not be suitable if: You’re looking for a builder or project manager You want fixed prices or guarantees You’re planning a minor cosmetic refresh You’re already mid-build and seeking dispute resolution
Are you independent of builders? Yes. We are completely independent and do not: Recommend contractors Appoint builders Receive referral fees or commissions Our advice is client-side only.
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Why do you use fixed fees rather than percentages? Fixed fees keep the advice independent and transparent. You know the cost upfront, regardless of project value, and there is no incentive for us to influence decisions based on spend.
What happens during the consultation? We meet at the property for a focused, in-person consultation. We discuss: What you’re hoping to achieve Feasibility and likely constraints Scope assumptions Indicative cost ranges based on national average pricing The discussion is practical, structured, and client-led.
What will I receive after the consultation? You will receive a written renovation cost and planning report summarising: Indicative cost ranges Scope assumptions Key risks and sensitivities Guidance on how to use the information Many clients find the report useful when deciding whether to proceed at all.
What do you mean by “indicative costs”? Indicative costs are reasonable cost ranges, not fixed prices. They are based on stated assumptions, typical market conditions, and national average pricing. Final costs depend on specification, contractor pricing, and site conditions.
Do you guarantee costs or savings? No. We do not provide guarantees. Our role is to support informed decision-making, not to predict or control final construction costs.
Do you review builder quotes? Yes. Once you have quotes, we can review them on a fixed-fee basis to help you understand: What’s included and excluded Whether quotes are comparable Where cost risk may sit This service is advisory only and does not involve recommending builders.
Do you manage or oversee renovation projects? No. We do not provide project management, site supervision, or contractor oversight. Any ongoing support we provide remains advisory only and clearly defined in scope.
Can this be used before buying a property? Yes. Many buyers use our service before exchange to understand whether a renovation is realistically affordable and whether the purchase still makes sense.
How quickly will you respond to enquiries? We typically respond within two working days but aim to respond within one working day.
How do I get started? You can request a consultation via our contact form. We’ll review your enquiry and confirm next steps. There’s no obligation at this stage.
What if I decide not to proceed with the renovation? Many clients use this advice to decide not to proceed — which is often the most valuable outcome. There is no obligation to continue beyond the consultation and report.