Build vs. Buy Your Commercial Property: What Will Work For Your Business?

New Commercial Building with metal framing under construction.

Whether you’re starting a new business or expanding an established company, you need a building! But the question is, should you try buying a pre-existing commercial property and make it your own, or should you do a custom commercial property buildout to fit your needs? Like any major decision, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The answer depends on your business, your location and the time/money you can allocate. 

Here are some factors to consider when choosing the course of your next commercial construction project.

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When is it Time for Commercial Renovation? Here are the 7 Questions to Ask.

Interior of building undergoing commercial renovation.

Is your commercial space no longer meeting your needs? Do you prefer meeting customers away from your job site? Maybe it’s time to consider a commercial renovation. 

Commercial remodeling can make your building look and feel up-to-date, which, in turn, improves the impression you give your customers, increases the morale of your employees, enhances the efficiency of your operation, and (surprisingly) can decrease your operating costs. But, how do you know when it’s time for commercial building renovation? If you notice any of these warning signs, your building is due for an update. Read more

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How the Skilled Construction Trades Provide Opportunity for the Workforce of Tomorrow

Several cement mason apprentices receiving on-the-job training while pouring and finishing concrete.

It’s no secret that the nature of employment opportunities is constantly evolving. Although no one knows precisely what the American job landscape will look like ten years from now, one thing is certain–skilled construction trades will continue to offer high quality careers.

The demand and search for skilled labor is a constant concern for construction contractors. Many young adults graduate high school believing their only respectable option is to enroll in college and pursue a 4-year degree. This has led to a relative shortage of qualified individuals to fill the needs of contractors.

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How Will COVID Related Safety Measures Affect the Construction Industry in 2021 and Beyond?

Two workers in construction industry on jobsite wearing masks and bumping elbows due to COVID concerns.

The pandemic had a drastic effect on both the commercial and residential construction industries in 2020. Over a million jobs were lost during the shelter-in-place orders and forced shutdowns of mid-2020, with about 600,000 people hired in June as projects resumed. In most areas, construction was considered an essential business, which allowed projects to continue, but only with the recommended COVID precautions in place. 

With more people vaccinated and infection rates dropping, we’re finally seeing hope for the end of the COVID-19 pandemic…along with skyrocketing construction demand (due to record-low interest rates coupled with substantial supply chain challenges). 

At the same time, COVID precautions are still in place for workers, while some changes made during the pandemic are being adapted to improve business methods in the future. Those adjustments go well beyond the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and more frequent handwashing, though.

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The Crucial Benefits of Hiring Local Commercial Contractors

Framework of commercial facility under construction by local commercial contractors.

If you’re just starting to price your next commercial construction project, you may notice that national contractors sometimes appear to be cheaper than local construction companies. That’s typically because national companies can leverage their size to get better rates on materials, equipment and (sometimes) labor. 

However, there’s a lot more to completing a construction project than just economies of scale. Local general contractors bring expertise that can help your next project run smoothly, avoiding problems and delays that lead to major cost overruns. 

Let’s take a look at the top 8 advantages of working with a local business when completing your next commercial project.  Read more

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Benefits of The Design-Build Delivery Method in Commercial Construction

Construction workers on new roof in progress for design-build project.

Are you taking the optimal approach to your commercial construction project? If you’re not familiar with the various delivery methods contractors utilize for construction services, you may think it’s all handled the same way—hire an architectural firm to design the project, then have contractors bid on the design. This traditional process is known as “Design-Bid-Build,” and it can be a source of frustration from overruns and delays.

But, some of that risk can be avoided with Construction Management at Risk (CMAR), which adds overrun protection and brings in the lead contractor during the design process. 

However, more and more companies are turning to the design-build method for their projects. The design-build process, which combines design and construction across the entire project, is now used in over 40% of commercial construction projects in the U.S. So, what advantages does this delivery method have, and why should you consider it for your next project? Let’s take a look!

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Common Types of Commercial Construction Projects

Common Types of Construction Projects

It’s obvious that a commercial building’s construction process is different from residential construction for a homeowner. However, the requirements for commercial and industrial construction projects vary widely depending on the type of building being built and the intended purpose of the facility.

Commercial building projects can be broken down into several categories, each with its own unique requirements. Identifying where your project fits into these groups will ultimately help you locate a commercial construction company that specializes in the type of work you need. Keep reading to learn more about the features and requirements found in some of the most common commercial properties. Read more

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Trade Release January 4, 2021

Trade Release

U.S. Department of Labor Reminds Specific Employers to Submit Required 2020 Injury and Illness Data by March 2, 2021
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Importance of Choosing the Right Contractor For Your Commercial Construction Project

Commercial contractors handling materials for commercial project on roof.

Whether you’re starting a new business, need to move to a larger warehouse, or just need to remodel your current office building, you’ll be in need of a commercial general contractor. This contractor manages your construction project: buying materials, hiring professionals, and covering liability issues. Pick the wrong contractor, and you can end up with shoddy work, completion delays, and even lawsuits. 

So, how do you find the right general contractor for your project? Read more

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The High Cost of Cutting Corners on Commercial Construction Projects

Construction worker looking over commercial project plans.

When business owners get bids for commercial renovation projects or new construction, budget is almost always a major concern. And, while most responsible business people will look to save money when it’s practical, there is a right way and wrong way to approach potential cost savings. The decisions you make upfront will have a huge impact on the quality and value of the finished product, and cutting corners can come with many hidden, additional costs that you may not have considered.

Here are some of the common ways that people cut corners on commercial construction projects and the potential problems that can result.

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