Construction Managers and Owner’s Representatives: The basic skill set

In simple terms, businesses work with a broker or internal real estate professionals through the leasing process. Once the leasing is completed who will guide the process to create your space?

You'll have 3 options:

1. An internal company resource
2. Allow the landlord to create the space (but are they looking out for your interests? If not, we're here to advocate for you!)
3. Engage with a 3rd party construction manager/owner's representative (We look out for your interests!)

For business or property owners and tenants embarking on a construction project that “lack the time, skills, or knowledge to effectively make decisions [for their construction project] an owner's representative can be invaluable.”(1)

Ensuring the success of your construction project hinges on hiring the right Owner’s representative. Construction managers and owners' representatives advocate for project owners, safeguarding their interests and ensure fluid project execution. Selecting someone experienced, reputable, and trustworthy to fill this role is imperative.

Informed decisions are crucial when considering a commercial tenant improvement or other construction projects. Therefore, it is recommended project owners only consider engaging with professionals who have the following basic qualities to effectively lead a project:?

1.?????? Inherent Problem-solver: All construction projects have unexpected challenges. An effective owner’s representative should be an intuitive problem-solver who knows when and who to assemble to resolve issues.

2.?????? Industry Experience: An effective owner’s representative should possess architectural and construction industry experience in their specific sector, be it commercial or residential construction projects. Look for a representative with a proven track record managing projects of similar size and complexity to yours.

3.?????? Technical Understanding: Your construction manager or Owner’s representative should fully understand the processes of architectural, engineering, and general contractors. This will allow them to truly understand each partner’s scope and the costs associated with your project to help inform the project schedule. Furthermore, this understanding will allow your construction manager or owner’s representative to identify and proactively navigate risks along the way.

4.?????? Strong Communicator: Successful project management rests on effective communication and establishing and maintaining relationships. An owner’s representative should be a confident and succinct communicator, proficient in conveying technical details in comprehensible ways, and clearly define expectations to all audiences effectively.

5.?????? Well Organized: Given the intricacies of construction projects involving layers of details, deadlines, and documents, your Owner’s representative must be detail-oriented and organized to chart a path forward, ensuring all work streams come together promptly.

6.?????? Skilled Negotiator: An Owner’s representative should be well-versed in the contracting process, as well as strategic, and fluent in negotiation. They play a crucial role in overseeing contracts, reviewing proposals, and negotiating with contractors and vendors on your behalf, ensuring fair and transparent agreements.

For additional skill sets that a seasoned construction manager or owner’s representative should have take a look at my other article, “What is an Owner’s Rep? A brief history, basic and advanced skills that every Construction Manager and Owner’s Representative should provide.

For further information about construction management or owner’s representation, please feel free to contact me I’m happy to knowledge share!

Wishing you the best in your construction project endeavors -

Erik Petersen

(1)?????? National Association of Realtors Article, https://www.nar.realtor/legal/owners-representative-agreement