Design-Build: From Consultation to Keys in Hand
Here's exactly what happens with Helio's design-build process. One team, one contract. No surprises. No guesswork. Clear timeline at every step.
Why Design-Build?
Traditional construction splits your project across multiple contracts. Design-build puts one team in charge of everything.
One Contract
Design, engineering, permits, and construction under a single fixed-price agreement. No coordinating between architects and builders.
Faster Delivery
No bid phase, no coordination delays. Our integrated team cuts months off traditional timelines.
Price Certainty
The price we quote is the price you pay. Material cost changes and scope clarifications are on us.
How does this compare to a general contractor? See the full comparison →
Initial Consultation
30 minutesWhat happens
We discuss your goals, timeline, budget, and site (if you have one). Our team handles these conversations personally to understand your specific situation.
Your homework
None. Just show up with questions.
Outcome
Clear understanding of whether we're a fit for your project.
Site Analysis
1-2 weeksWhat happens
We analyze zoning regulations, assess feasibility, and determine unit capacity for your specific property. Our in-house team handles all the research.
Your homework
Provide site access if needed for surveys.
Outcome
Preliminary feasibility report with unit capacity and initial financial projections.
Have a site? Submit it for a free evaluation
Design & Proposal
2-3 weeksWhat happens
Our architects create concepts, engineers develop the approach, we map out the permit application strategy, and you receive a fixed-price quote. Everything coordinated under one roof.
Your homework
Review and ask questions. We want you confident before signing.
Outcome
Complete proposal with guaranteed price and timeline. No surprises.
Browse our 9 building types to see what's possible
Permits & Approvals
4-8 weeksWhat happens
We handle all permit application services, municipal meetings, and any required revisions. Municipal permit fees are billed separately by the municipality. Our relationships with local planning departments help keep things moving.
Your homework
Sign where needed. That's it.
Outcome
Building permit in hand. Ready to break ground.
Construction
6 monthsWhat happens
Foundation to finish, all trades coordinated by our team. Licensed P.Eng inspections at every phase. Regular progress updates so you always know where things stand.
Your homework
Site visits encouraged but optional. Many clients visit weekly. Some prefer monthly updates.
Outcome
Completed building, ready for final inspection.
Handoff & Occupancy
1-2 weeksWhat happens
Final inspections, occupancy permit secured, keys handed over. We can also help with tenant placement if you'd like.
Your homework
Begin collecting rent.
Outcome
Cash-flowing asset. Your wealth-building journey begins.
Property Management (Optional)
OngoingWhat's available
Tenant screening, maintenance coordination, rent collection. We handle the day-to-day so you don't have to.
Your choice
Completely optional. You can self-manage or use any property management company you prefer.
Typical Project Timeline
Pre-construction varies by municipal permit processing times. Construction timeline varies by building type (6 months for a fourplex, longer for larger buildings). Guarantee starts at permit issuance.
Our Guarantees
Fixed Price
No change orders. The price we quote is the price you pay. Material and labor changes are our problem, not yours.
Guaranteed Timeline
From permit issuance to occupancy. Guaranteed delivery timeline with contractual accountability. 100% on-time track record.
Quality Assurance
Licensed P.Eng inspections at every phase. 2-year warranty on all work.
Explore More
Browse Building Types
Fourplexes to 18-unit apartments. See specs, pricing, and floor plans for all 9 building types.
See Where We Build
80+ locations across Nova Scotia. Find zoning info, rental rates, and building options for your area.
Calculate Your Returns
Model your investment with our pricing calculator. See NOI, cash-on-cash, and equity created.
Plan. Build. Done.
Ready to Start?
No obligation. We respond within 24 hours.
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