Not sure if people are interested in the tear down process. But if you’re wondering how much it costs, this will all the depend on the size and the materials. For example a concrete home is much more expensive than a wooden frame home. So when you’re getting you’re quote just make sure everything is itemized, from scaffolding, waste disposal to land preparation. You don’t want any surprises. We ended up getting a quote for a little less than 4man per tsubo including disposal of concrete for the large driveway. We had 3 bids for the contract and managed to bring down the cost by about 14%. Since workmanship is not so much a factor in demolition, making a decision based on cost was a no-brainer.
Day 2- The scaffolding preparation.
Day 4 – The scaffolding is up. No heavy machinery yet. Workers are busy tearing down the interior first. I didn’t go in because I was in sandals. Today was hot and windy which made wonder about the tarp if a typhoon hits Tokyo. One worker mentioned that they roll up the tarp in the evening before finishing up the day.
The materials are neatly separated which makes me wonder if they make a little on the side recycling some of these materials. I would not be surprised.
Let's hope they recycle what they can, who cares if they make a little... it wouldn't be much.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks for describing the whole process. This is something we're beginning to consider and are struggling to get an idea on how to choose an architect & builder. Sakamoto-san seems to be very good. We're bewildered with how to choose a builder...
ReplyDeleteMay I ask how long the design process took and how long the construction is anticipated to last as we are selling our apartment, buying land and having to move back to rental... It would be useful to know the time scales to be able to judge potential costs...
Don't want to discourage posting but anonymous comments can be a pain. In this case there may be confusion as to whom I'm replying. Anyhow...
ReplyDeleteAbout selecting builder and architect, it's all about knowing what you want. We first got the introduction to the builder who then referred us to the real estate agent and architect. for sakamoto-San he met all our requirements, he was experienced, solid portfolio, was willing to serve our needs and can communicate in English so we did look any further as we were quite specific about what we wanted.
For builder, references count for a lot. Sakamotosan also built his own home with our candidate builder. But we have not signed on this yet. Price is still an important parameter.
As far as design process, it depends how you invest in time. I think we took 4 intensive months. Depends on the shape and location of the land as well. I'd give yourself at least 6 months.
Hope this helps.
Understood about the anonymous bit... it was just the easiest option and I'm lazy!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the info... We're slowly getting through all the info but it's quite a tough battle when you can't understand everything going on...
We've identified a nice rectangular plot of land we want in Jiyugaoka but are only in the process of approaching the owner. We've been through a skeleton reform with the apartment we bought so the internal fittings part of it won't be as much hassle as before since we know the ropes...
Good luck with the entire process
@CurrencyAnalyst: congrats on finding a candidate piece of land. My advice if you've found the land yourself via the internet and need a broker is shop around for the agent that gives you the best deal. The buying process is pretty much standard and commoditized so I would choose the agent with the cheapest price. Jiyugoaka isn't cheap so shaving a few points here goes a long way.
ReplyDeletegood luck.