Browse Forums Owner Builder Forum 1 Dec 07, 2013 2:53 pm We're looking into the idea of owner building but looking to engage the services and expertise of a project manager to oversee and ensure the building process runs as smoothly as possible. As we both work full time jobs located not very closely to the build site we have come to the conclusion that this may be the way to go. Anybody done/doing something similar? Care to give any suitable companies a plug? Re: Owner builder seeking services of a project manager 2Dec 09, 2013 7:08 pm Hi Bebe, I don't want to throw a wet blanket on your enthusiasm to owner build because I know you can save considerable money by managing the process yourself but it seems your idea to get someone to project manage the entire build for you can be just as expensive as employing a builder for the whole process with the added risk of you taking the ultimate responsibility for everything. Now all that aside I have helped many OBs achieve what they want with only minimal input from yourself. You do need a system that works and is easy but you do need to do some of the management yourself. I also assume the bank is happy for you to owner build? This is usually a huge stumbling block for many OBs. If you have your own finances then no problem. Before you commit to anyone check out my website. It has heaps of free info for OBs. If you think you would still like to OB then I can point you in the right direction. Www.greenifyconsulting.com.au Good luck Re: Owner builder seeking services of a project manager 3Dec 10, 2013 8:55 pm Hi Greenify, Thanks for your reply! We are currently in the early stages of exploring this option. I understand there is lots to take into consideration and I've never been one to make a rushed decision. I'm interested to know if anybody out there has built their home in this way, experiences, opinions about pros and cons etc. I came across a thread a couple of days back about somebody OB'ing and having to give their PM the sack because they weren't too happy with their quality of service...something along those lines. Thank you for the link. I'll be sure to check it out! Re: Owner builder seeking services of a project manager 4Dec 11, 2013 8:53 am greenify You can save considerable money by managing the process yourself but it seems your idea to get someone to project manage the entire build for you can be just as expensive as employing a builder for the whole process with the added risk of you taking the ultimate responsibility for everything... +1 to this. Most (if not all) builders you contract will become the "project managers"... they'll use their own chippies, plasterers, etc, unless you exclude those from your contract. I used a builder to lock-up, and he charged me an extra 18% on top of the labour and material costs -- his project management fee. It's a good idea, as the builder will know who to use, and they'll respond to him better than they will to you, as he's a repeat client. The disadvantage is the higher cost (which you'd be paying a PM anyway), and if the builder drops the ball (which mine did towards the end). If you don't have the time or the expertise, a builder with his own network of subs is the way to go. My storybook home build: https://forum.homeone.com.au/viewtopic.php?f=38&t=57987 Re: Owner builder seeking services of a project manager 5Dec 11, 2013 7:43 pm Hi Johnson, thanks for your comments. Ideally, I'd like to go with a builder and I'd like to believe that going with a builder will guarantee quality workmanship and a smooth build process however reading many of the posts on this forum lead me to believe otherwise. Builder/owner builder, there'll be headaches eitherway - just a question of which method will be more cost friendly/enjoyable..... Re: Owner builder seeking services of a project manager 6Dec 23, 2014 2:03 pm What area are you building in? Re: Owner builder seeking services of a project manager 7Dec 24, 2014 3:33 pm Bebe We're looking into the idea of owner building but looking to engage the services and expertise of a project manager to oversee and ensure the building process runs as smoothly as possible. As we both work full time jobs located not very closely to the build site we have come to the conclusion that this may be the way to go. Anybody done/doing something similar? Care to give any suitable companies a plug? Saving as an OB only comes form doing your own project management, and your own hands on building (other than electrical and plumbing). If you 're not capable of doing that, you're aren't going to save much, if at all. Please read your contract regarding handover process. Generally, once final payment invoice is issued you have 7 days to meet builder on site and present a list of… 3 1276 If you need to pay for a project manager you would be well advised to just engage a builder who would take full responsibility for the build. As opposed to you OB where… 5 15078 |