From time to time, I am asked how we manage to build projects in multiple states, often a long way from here, and how we have been consistent for 35 years. The answer is pretty simple: We have developed a group of traveling subcontractors and vendors who we trust. In return, they trust us. The key …
A couple of our customers have asked about the impacts the new steel tariffs might have on construction cost. There will now be a 25% tax on imported steel and a 10% tax on imported aluminum coming in from most countries. While I believe the steel production is currently healthy in the US, we still import a …
In our business, there are times when the tendency is to quantify by the unit. “Price per square foot” is used to measure all kinds of things, from the average property value, all the way to building cost. While it can be a quick and easy reference at times, a summary is just that. A …
Your average apartment building might be changing. I’m referring to multi-family buildings that are taller than garden-style, but not so tall as a high rise–generally five stories or 75’ in top elevation according to current codes. Wood is coming back into favor as a construction material for multi-family construction. As one of the oldest and …
To me, it’s always seemed like a good thing to give back just little of our time–maybe more–toward developing the next generation of professionals in our industry. Plenty of people certainly did the same for me. One way I serve is on the Advisory Council of the Auburn University Master of Real Estate Development program, …
Last week, one of our managers traveled 23 hours to Guanghzou, the manufacturing center of China. The reason for his visit? Robbie was headed for Shinegolden Steel Craft Co, Ltd., a steel fabricator, to check up on a production of hot rolled windows and doors that we commissioned for a historical renovation project constructed in …
Each quarter, I meet with a handful of real estate and construction executives to discuss what we’re seeing and the broader implications for the region. Our gathering this week included a visit with a DOT Director, John Cooper. A state’s DOT decisions are often the lynchpins in a development, so the trends are definitely worth …
With 2013 only a few days away, it seems like everyone’s looking ahead. Here’s a snapshot of what we’re seeing going into next year. Fewer subcontractors and vendors. This is a direct result of the Recession. I can say with certainty that those who have survived are stronger. Pricing pressure. If the economy expands next …
In this economy, reusing, repurposing and recycling construction material can make the difference in meeting a budget. Additionally, our experience shows that a portion of customers, whether they be landlords or tenants, are placing an increased value on green label buildings. In the right applications, repurposing materials makes economic sense . This article by Bill …
Economics of construction cost can be confounding at times. Just when we think pricing should stabilize, it moves in the opposite direction. Knowing the current cost for a project maybe painful, but it sure beats the alternative. This Construction Executive article summarizes the “why” behind the materials aspect. Factors impacting cost are: *Supply/demand balance; *The amount …
In short, sometimes. Last week, I was reading an article in Engineering News Record titled, “When Does It Pay to Use Innovative Concrete Construction Products?” The piece details a study by the Construction Industry Institute where three recent innovations in concrete were investigated, comparing them to traditional counterparts. The article explains the “why” behind their …
Last week, I was having a conversation about pricing on an HVAC system with Heath Cather in our office. Why had the mechanical engineer chosen hot gas reheat? It’s more expensive and sometimes unnecessary, I offered. He mentioned a trend he’s noticed. With all the mold law suits lately, we are seeing recommendations for a …