Embarking on a home renovation project is an exhilarating journey but one that can quickly become overwhelming. Home renovations are almost always challenging at the baseline; without effective project management, the project can quickly spiral out of control.
This article will delve into the world of project management for custom homes and home remodeling projects. We will unravel essential strategies to unlock the secrets of a successful project that will lead to life transformation. From meticulous planning and budgeting to navigating unforeseen challenges, this article will prepare you for the complex realities of home building and remodeling.
What is the Difference Between a Project Manager and a Contractor for a Renovation?
Contractors come in various forms, from a small independent general contractor who wears all the hats; to large-scale architecture, interior design, custom building, and remodeling businesses.
While not all contractors are project managers, a reputable contractor will have dedicated, experienced project managers as part of their team. Project managers serve as team leaders and primary liaisons with clients, focusing solely on the operation of a specific project. A high-quality project manager will be a central leader representing both sides: both the general contractor and the client. This ensures dedicated attention to client satisfaction, detail, and effective coordination.
The Project Management Institute defines project management as the skill of guiding and coordinating resources throughout a project's duration. A reputable company assesses the need for a dedicated project manager based on the project's size and complexity.
Do I Need a Project Manager for My Home Renovation?
Some homeowners may feel that they’re capable of managing their own project, but typically, they don’t have the know-how of renovation processes or enough clarity into how much time and emotional energy will be needed to successfully accomplish the project - especially for large projects. This is a full-time job.
A project manager is crucial for keeping the project on track. A reputable general contractor with dedicated project managers ensures that the project meets or exceeds the client's expectations and adheres to high-quality standards.
Good design-build contractors will have great relationships with their tradespeople and subcontractors. These relationships are key to ensuring home renovation projects run smoothly. When independent homeowners try to manage their own projects, they lack these relationships, which becomes a significant barrier to the overall success of the project.
It’s also not uncommon for homeowners who have project managed in other capacities to think, “How hard can it be?” Just because you’re a project manager for another industry doesn’t mean you have the expertise that a dedicated construction project manager has. Construction projects are extremely complex and high-risk jobs to project manage. The bottom line is that project management across industries is not the same. For example, you may be a musician, but can you conduct an entire orchestra (coordinating the right timing, the right volume, and the right tempo)? Just because you’re an avid DIY-er doesn’t mean you can properly construct your own home renovation and direct plumbers, electricians, HVAC, etc. These remodeling projects are multi-faceted, and this is where coordination is critical over a long period.
It comes down to getting the project done vs. getting the project done well (on budget, on time, and at a high quality).
What Does a Project Manager Do for Home Renovation?
Your Project Manager is responsible for thoroughly understanding the full scope of work and keeping the house renovation project moving according to plan. One of the main goals of project managers at Better Builders is to always finish your project on time and within budget while meeting all building permit codes and meeting or exceeding your expectations. Their job is to commit their time and efforts to you and your project, both on-site and off.
Quality general contractors will tell you that a thoughtful layout of the project and a step-by-step guide to the project plan before the home renovation starts will save time in the long run. One of our mottos at Better Builders is the 5 Ps: Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance. A slow start to the project isn’t very exciting, but it will minimize many challenges, like unexpected costs and delays, that come along with renovations.
Some of the basic Project Management tasks include:
Safety Management
Project managers will oversee the logistical safety of how work is being performed as well as the safety of the products being used (non-toxic). Most people think about safety relating to people, pets, homeowners, and workers. A reputable design-build contractor will also include the safety of the homeowner’s existing spaces, furniture, flooring, and salvageable items that will be reused.
Project Cost Management
High-quality project managers will know and thoroughly understand the budget of the project and reconcile actual costs vs. budgeted costs. For example, does the tile order for the specified spec and quality come in at or under the project budgeted amount for tile?
Time Management
Project managers will coordinate material lead times to minimize the time between the product being delivered and when it is installed to ensure there is no downtime during the home improvement project. They will also manage the remodeling process including sequencing of the project phases to ensure work is being installed in the correct order to eliminate rework or going backward.
Quality Management
Quality management means the project manager will ensure the final product meets or exceeds the plans for the client. A reputable design-build contractor who has dedicated project managers will have them regularly onsite, making sure the work performed meets the highest standards.
A reputable design-build contractor will have a quality control checklist that they will use as their quality standard throughout the life of the project. Additionally, a high-quality design-build contractor will work with vetted, reputable subcontractors and tradespeople to ensure their work meets the contractor’s and the client's standards.
Vendor and Trade Relationship Management
Building and maintaining strong relationships with vendors and trade partners is critical to a successful project. Home remodeling is an imitate experience, so knowing your contractor has trusted trade partners who are an extension of their business is crucial for a successful project. A regular onsite project manager will coordinate the schedule between vendors and trade partners while holding them accountable for their timing and the quality of their work.
Cloud-Based Project Management System
Utilizing a cloud-based project management system enhances team coordination, provides reliable backup, offers access from anywhere, and streamlines communication. Better Builders employs a cloud-based construction project management tool, allowing clients real-time access to project updates, schedules, daily logs, communication records, and progress photos.
The advantages of using a real-time, cloud-based program include:
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Improved team coordination
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Reliable backup
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Access from anywhere
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One stop communication
How Do I Find the Right Project Manager for My Home Renovation or Custom Build?
Hiring a reputable company with dedicated project managers and well-defined systems and processes is essential. The success of a project manager relies on the support and accountability provided by the company. Strong back-end support, training, and resources ensure project managers can effectively manage day-to-day client relationships and uphold quality standards.
Good Project Management is the Key to Success
Project Management is a significant aspect of the service you receive when working with Better Builders. Trust, transparency, and constant communication are the foundations of our client relationships. When choosing a partner for your house remodel or custom home build, consider not only the final product but also the journey to the finish line.
For further insights on preparing for your next project, download our eBook: “The Homeowner’s Guide to Planning a Remarkable Renovation.”
