Owner Built Strategies

[hpp4me]

We're looking at several packaged home providers (although we're leaning toward one in particular). I'm curious about the various building strategies. It seems like there are three approaches:

1. Owner oversees all aspects of construction.
2. Use a general contractor.
3. Hire a nonlicensed project manager to supervise the project.

For us, #1 is out. We don't know enough about construction to do this.

What are your thoughts on using a general contractor versus a talented project manager?

Also, has anyone found a project manager who is good? What do they charge?

Thanks!

[John S. Rabi]

You either get an owner-builder permit or your GC pulls the permit, there is nothing between. If you are an owner-builder you can hire anyone to be your project manager, but "Project Manager" is a postion that does not require a license. You are still responsible for everything.

Aloha,
John S. Rabi, ABR,CM,CRB,FHS,PB
http://www.JohnRabi.com
Typically Tropical Properties
"The Next Level of Service!"

[hpp4me]

Thanks, John. How do you know a good project manager from a bad one? Also, how much money do you save by using a P.M. instead of a general contractor?

[John S. Rabi]

I have never used a "project manager" because it just adds to your cost without any benefit. I think it's a waste of money and you have no recourse should anything go wrong. Hire a reputable General Contractor and you will have no headaches!



Aloha,
John S. Rabi, ABR,CM,CRB,FHS,PB
http://www.JohnRabi.com
Typically Tropical Properties
"The Next Level of Service!"

[jdirgo]

If you are not on-island during construction to oversee your general contractor, I would consider a project manager. I happen to like Cathy for that role and I believe others have had good experiences with her as well.

John Dirgo, R, ABR, e-PRO
Island Trust Properties, LLC
808-987-9243 cell
http://www.hawaiirealproperty.com

[hpp4me]

I'm a newbie. Who is Cathy?

[Rob Tucker]

I disagree with John on a project manager. A PM can add a lot to the options for an owner.

1. A PM is not in a competitive position with the owners money. The PM gets a set fee and the owner gets to know and control the actual costs.

2. A PM can be fired if you aren't happy. A contract with a contractor is a complex thing to break usually with both sides exhanging claims and a lot of time and money to resolve.

If you have a knowledgable person available for a PM check references and don't pay in advance. Fire the PM if you are unhappy.

[Kelena]

hhp4me,

He is probably referring to Cat Dumond: Catherine Dumond
Blue Water Project Management
808 217-7578
http://bluewaterpm.125mb.com/index.html

[hpp4me]

Thank you, everyone!

Rob, would a Project Manager replace the general contractor or work with the general contractor? That is, are we talking about a partnership of owner/contractor/project manager or just owner/project manager?

Glen, thanks for the link!

[John S. Rabi]

quote:

---

Thank you, everyone!

Rob, would a Project Manager replace the general contractor or work with the general contractor? That is, are we talking about a partnership of owner/contractor/project manager or just owner/project manager?

Glen, thanks for the link!

---

The PM would act as your employee and would not replace the GC. There would be no partnership of any kind between anyone.
I agree with John Dirgo, you should have someone overseeng the project if you are not on island during the construction and I can recommend Catherine Dumond too. I only heard good things about her company and she certainly is very knowledgeable.
I have built several homes using a GC here in Hawaii and I checked on the status of the construction every two weeks. I also know there are some people here on Punaweb who built homes without being here and without using a PM. It can be done both ways.

Aloha,
John S. Rabi, ABR,CM,CRB,FHS,PB
http://www.JohnRabi.com
Typically Tropical Properties
"The Next Level of Service!"