BuildZoom Project Pulse – January

Client Highlight

Massage Envy in San Francisco, CA

The franchisee’s biggest concern was staying below their $900,000 budget for the buildout. This would be difficult because the building required the use of union labor during construction.

• The original bids were submitted across a wide range: $615k up to $1.2million.
• The contractor who provided the most detail submitted a 32-page itemized proposal.
• The BuildZoom Project Management team was able to level the bids, procure revisions from the contractors and ultimately negotiate a final price of $869,000 for the build, $31k under-budget!

Contractor Highlight

JMC Commercial Contractors specializes in franchise development, and operates across the United States with home offices in California, Texas, and Florida.

BuildZoom Partner Since 2022

BuildZoom Score Their BuildZoom score of 104 ranks in the top 9% of 191,428 Florida licensed contractors.

Previous projects include Cold Stone Creamery, Fatburger.

Project Types Restaurant buildouts, commercial construction

New Location

We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Paint Nail Bar in Midlothian, Virginia. The franchisees, Sasha & Dee, are marketing geniuses and have a very robust social media presence. They were able to build a ton of excitement around their grand opening on October 26th, 2024 and we are delighted with how their location turned out. Kudos to Stoker Construction Management LLC for their quality craftsmanship!

Pro Tip of the Month

Start 2025 Strong: Early Planning for Your TI Project

As we enter 2025, construction activity is expected to remain strong, driven by factors such as the ongoing recovery of the retail and dining sectors, a rise in franchise expansions, and increased investment in commercial real estate. Anticipated policy changes, like tariffs on imported materials, may further affect material costs, making proactive planning essential.

To navigate these challenges and position your project for success, consider these strategies:

• Set Realistic Goals Early: Clearly define your project’s scope, including size, layout, and functionality, to prevent costly revisions later.
• Create a Detailed Timeline: Develop a comprehensive schedule that accounts for permitting, material procurement, and potential delays, allowing for better control over the project’s progression.
• Order Long-Lead Items ASAP: Identify materials or equipment with extended lead times and place orders promptly to avoid delays caused by supply chain disruptions.
• Leverage Preconstruction Expertise: Engage preconstruction services to streamline planning, evaluate costs, and coordinate with stakeholders, ensuring a smoother construction process.

Why 2025 Will Be Busy

Industry experts project continued growth in tenant improvement projects as businesses adjust to changing consumer demands and capitalize on new leasing opportunities. According to reports, franchise openings are expected to rise as companies expand into untapped markets, increasing demand for experienced contractors and preconstruction teams. The push for multi-use spaces and the need for high-quality tenant improvements will also contribute to a competitive construction landscape. (Sources: NAIOP Forecast, Construction Dive)

Takeaway: Early planning and smart decision-making are more critical than ever in 2025. By setting clear goals, adhering to a detailed timeline, and leveraging preconstruction expertise, you can avoid potential bottlenecks and keep your project on time and within budget, even in a busy and dynamic construction environment.

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