Our Process

Every project starts with different levels of information. Our process is designed to meet clients where they are and move them toward a buildable plan and executable price.


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A man wearing a black polo shirt with a construction company logo and tattoos on his arms, is looking down at a stack of papers or blueprints held in his hands. There is a green plant in the foreground, and a framed black-and-white historical photograph of an old street scene on the wall behind him. Part of a neon sign with the word 'construction' is visible on the wall.

Our 5-stage discovery and estimating path

Our goal is to provide clarity, realistic budgeting, and a structured path from concept to construction.

We use a 5-stage estimating and discovery process to guide each project forward. This allows us to progressively refine scope, improve cost accuracy, and ultimately deliver an executable proposal.


Berkley Construction’s staged process is especially effective for:

  • ADUs and garage conversions

  • additions

  • major remodels

  • complex renovations

  • projects where scope is still evolving

  • projects that need budgeting before full design is complete

The 5-Stage Path

Stage 1

Initial Scope and Budget Range

A quick phone call or in-person meeting allows us to understand the project at a high level and discuss a starting budget range.

What this stage includes

  • high-level project discussion

  • broad scope review

  • early budget conversation

  • general pricing range based on project type

Client investment
No cost

Goal
Determine whether the project and budget are aligned enough to move forward.

Stage 2

General Scope Definition and Math-Based Budgeting

At this stage, we define the project in general but meaningful terms. For example: a 600 square foot ADU with one and a half bathrooms, a kitchenette, bedroom, and office.

Using project type, size, complexity, and known scope components, we apply math to create a more accurate budget.

What this stage includes

  • general project definition

  • preliminary scope organization

  • math-based budget refinement

  • clearer alignment between concept and cost

Goal
Move from broad conversation to a more realistic preliminary budget.

Stage 3

Feasibility and Cost Analysis

This is where preconstruction becomes real.

We visit the site and investigate how current conditions are likely to affect scope, logistics, and cost. The future project manager is involved at this stage, along with the appropriate project partners. We focus heavily on rough construction because that is where many of the most important cost and feasibility issues live.

Rough construction focus includes

  1. site preparation

  2. demolition

  3. foundation and underground work

  4. framing and structural components

  5. rough plumbing, electrical, HVAC, network, and security

  6. exterior building envelope, including weatherization, roofing, siding, exterior doors, and windows

  7. insulation and drywall

Finish placeholders remain in the budget during this stage, but by the end of Stage 3, the major cost-driving components of the project are much better defined.

This is also the stage where we prepare a budget suitable for permitting, when needed.

Goal
Develop strong cost confidence around the major components of the project before full execution pricing.

Stage 4

Preconstruction Development and Bid Building

If the client continues, the next contract goal is to move the project toward Stage 5: an executable price.

To reach Stage 4, we either work with a partner architect to build out the plans or prepare straightforward submittal sets in-house, depending on the needs of the project. Berkley Construction typically handles simpler permit submittals directly.

While permitting is underway, we work with our trade partners and suppliers to complete the deeper preconstruction effort.

What this stage includes

  • partner coordination

  • permit submittal development

  • subcontractor pricing

  • materials lists

  • finish selection input

  • timeline creation

  • rough stage logistics and planning

  • highly accurate project costing

Goal
Develop a near-final construction budget based on real bids, real materials, and real planning.

Stage 5

Executable Proposal

Once the project is permitted, we compare the approved or stamped plan set against our Stage 4 assumptions, subcontractor pricing, and in-house proposals.

If the approved plans require changes, we make final adjustments. In many projects, those changes are minimal relative to the Stage 4 work already completed.

The result is a proposal that is ready to execute.

What this stage includes

  • final plan comparison

  • final scope reconciliation

  • final pricing adjustments

  • executable proposal ready for client approval

Goal
Move directly into construction with confidence.


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  • "We hired Berkley Construction to redo our bedroom ceiling and closet (ran support beams, installed lighting, textured walls, painted). Keith had great design ideas to make the final project beautiful. His crew was respectful, cleaned up every night, and did a GREAT job. "

    —Jen James in San Diego

  • "Berkley Construction was very professional and courteous. Project costs were exactly as estimated and work was always completed with a great attention to details. Nothing was overlooked. Berkley and his contractors were always true craftsmen."

    —Brian Spencer of San Diego

  • "They were very prompt, responsive and did a great job. The quality of the work was excellent. I'd definitely use them again."

    —Demetrius D. of San Diego

  • "Keith and his workers began right away to prepare the house to be raised in order to replace the foundation. My wife and I are ecstatic with the results! We love our new house, and love even more that we found a company that we could trust!"

    —Hector M. of San Diego