As has been recently reported, Miami has one of the most cost effective real estate markets among global cities. A key part of this is that, when it comes to building and construction, there are plentiful options to choose from even before you’re shovel-ready.

When you’re ready to execute your residential or commercial construction project, you know you want to make sure you hire the firm that best suits your needs, but it may be tough to know which company to trust to get the job done on time and on budget.

So that’s why we decided to offer some characteristics of a good construction management company that we’ve seen from our time in the industry. Look for these qualities when you’re searching for a company to lead your next project to ensure you hire a firm that embraces integrity, professionalism, and communication that make them the right match for your project and for you.

1. Extensive knowledge of construction

If the general contractor at the company does not have a firm grasp on the basics of construction, there’s a good possibility that he won’t be able to tell if his subcontractors are doing their work the right way.  There are so many things that can go wrong in construction. Avoid headaches by making sure that your GC has a background in construction so he can ensure only quality work is being done on your project.

2. A reliable team of subcontractors

While we’re on the topic of spotting good subcontracting work, be sure a construction company has a solid team of subcontractors on their side. Most construction companies have established long-standing relationships with dependable subcontractors they work with regularly. Check that the company has a well-rounded team of specialists they do the work specific to your project.

3. A good communication style

You’re going to pay a lot of money to someone to lead your construction project, so make sure the company you choose has good communications skills.  If you don’t jive with their communication style, there may be misinterpretations of your needs or overall frustrations. Be sure the GC understands exactly what you want and can execute it so you get the most value for your investment.

4. Knowledge of Florida state and city regulations

Florida has building and remodeling rules and guidelines, and the city where your project takes place will have additional and/or different ones depending on the environmental conditions (think hurricanes, coastal areas, and natural wetlands) and the municipalities regulations. Working with a firm that isn’t up to date on the latest regulations can get you in to trouble with the authorities. Verify that your builder is licensed and fully aware of state and local codes before signing on the dotted line with them (on a related note: we also have a primer on getting permits in the city of Miami. If you want some pointers, go check it out).

5. Get Peer Feedback

As big as South Florida is, in the end it’s a small town and everyone knows everyone else. Getting to know what the rest of the industry thinks of a company, as well as those in specialty trades such as electricians and plumbers, can give you valuable insight into how they operate.

Have any questions? Feel free to reach out.