Why employ a project manager?

BLOG #3 Why would you employ a project manager?

There are many things to consider when embarking on a home renovation project. You set a budget dependent on your financial position which defines the ambition, scope and timeframes of the work. Here are my key take aways so far:

RISK
A lot of homeowners will look beyond the professional services offered by Architects, Project Managers and even Structural Engineers, taking on responsibility, learning on the job and relying on the relationship with the builder to create a great finished product. 

Yes, it will cost more money, Yes you may think - ‘Oh, I could do that’ but as the client you need to agree the level of responsibility that you will be taking on yourself and the amount of capacity you have available to dedicate to the project. Which is always a bit more than you expect…

It’s way more risky to be learning on the job, especially when it’s your money that is being spent.   

Experience:

Self- Build projects are really exciting and deep down, we all want to have our own version of Grand Designs! I respect that decision and in fact did that myself, learning lots in the process and leading me to writing this blog. However, I had a headstart coming from a commercial property development background, so I was cheating slightly. You don’t have to be a seasoned professional but you need to be willing to learn quickly and expect to make some mistakes. 

PLANNING
Decision making can become a very stressful part of a construction project, working with a Project Manager will help to spread out the decision making process. 

When it comes to building, all the decisions have been made, orders processed and you know what door handles, tiles and even toilet brush holders you are going to have. Let alone, those mosaic tiles! 

Stress grows on a project, when you don’t have enough time to plan properly. 

TIME
We all live busy lives and the expectation to take on another job overseeing your home renovation on top of your existing responsibilities is big call! Expect to be able to take time out of your working day, work into the evening and your whole world becomes about ‘The Works’. If you don’t have time because you have a busy life juggling work, family and friends. Then using a professional will take away a lot of risk. 

INDEPENDENCE

The project manager, whilst employed by the home owner, works independently. Whilst an architect may be focused on the details, builder on construction, home owner on budget, the Project Manager is interested in all of these things and keen to find the sweet spot between each of them to make everyone happy. 

More upfront cost but save you money in long run.

I hope you enjoyed reading, please write a comment if you have any questions and share with anyone.

Look forward to sharing my thoughts with you next month.