ProSpeak

Major renovations bring stress, uncertainty and questions. One of the biggest hurdles is deciding who to trust to complete your project on budget and on time. When embarking on a major renovation or build, interview potential companies before deciding who to hire for the project. Questions every potential company should be asked are, “Why should we hire you? What makes you different?”

I think the best thing a construction company can do for an owner is to identify and understand what is important. There are many components to a construction project: Budget, schedule and building function, just to name a few. Understanding what the owner is looking for starts with listening.

The first step is to work on a budget that meets the owner’s expectations. This is done by working with subcontractors and suppliers to finalize a price. There are times that taking the obvious route is not always the right decision. Looking at multiple options and materials may be required to make the numbers work. Being completely transparent and honest with the owner in terms of numbers is the best practice.

There are times when schedule is the most important part of the process. A specific date may be needed for the owner to move in, which leads to a different approach if certain products are not readily available. A specific occupancy date requires everyone to work toward the same goal. Close communication and active listening help identify which approach should be taken.

No matter the direction, communication is essential for a successful project. Meeting with the owner on a regular basis to review and provide updates on progress helps earn their trust. The goal is to meet the owner’s expectation while making the construction process enjoyable. If this can be achieved, then the contractor can consider the job a success.  

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