There is a single truth about construction: you can’t build anything until the land is ready to be built on – that is to say, until after the land is developed. However, not every land developer is the same. Some focus only on commercial development, while others tend to focus on residential. Some are one-man operations that can take a longer time to get things done, though often at a cheaper cost, and others have a team to get things done within days. The difference between choosing the right land developer and the wrong one for your project could either save you or cost you precious time, money, and the quality of the final product.
So, how do you find a good land developer for your projects?
Choosing a Good Residential Land Developer
Residential and commercial development are not the same, therefore there are different things to consider when looking for a good residential land developer.
Background
Do they have experience with the type of home you want to be built on the land? Do they know the area and city codes? Have they worked in the neighborhood before? Have they developed land in this zip code before?
Additionally, check their reviews and ask if you can contact previous customers before you hire the. That’s where you’ll learn what the land developer is truly like to work with!
Determine Timeframe
If you want an A-frame house, then you need an A+ land developer who understands that the construction timeline begins with them. This goes back to the one-man team consideration – while they will likely be able to finish the project for less, they will take more time to do it!
Review Reputation
The company’s track record can give you the most accurate picture of how they get their job done. How are they viewed in the industry by their clients? How do they run their business? do they handle and correct any mistakes (they can happen – no one is perfect!).
A good land development company will know exactly what went wrong and will have an answer on how to remedy the problem, which is exactly what you want to hear.
Pay Attention to the Quote
Just because you’re quoted a premium price, does not always mean you will receive premium work. That said, we rarely recommend going with the cheapest option as it often results in the lowest quality final project. That’s not a foundation you want to build on.
On top of that, some quotes may include extra charges that you should review with the developer. You should always feel comfortable asking about charges and unexpected changes in the scope of your project that increase the cost.
How to Find a Good Commercial Land Dev Company
There are considerable differences with commercial land development. The raw land is likely going to be larger for a commercial project and the uses can span a wide variety such as:
- Multi-family (depending on the municipality codes)
- Office
- Industrial
- Retail
- Hospitality
- Mixed use
- Land such as parks
- Special purpose
Experience and Background
Knowing a land developer’s portfolio is a must to accurately determine if they are able to meet your needs. For example, a developer with an extensive background in small retail parcels will probably face more challenges and cost increases if hired to develop land for a large hotel.
Timeline
Similar to residential land developers,, a good land developer will be able to provide you with a realistic timeline. These will inherently take more time to develop given the nature of the projects.
Communication
As the project owner, you will need to set clear expectations before any ground is broken. Trust us, you’ll be a lot happier if you know you can trust them completely!
On the flip side, a good land developer will be proactive in their communication with you. They will inform you of any roadblocks, restrictions, and updates. Look for a developer that has plug-and-play solutions – in other words, a company that can take your plans and work with them flawlessly without you needing to micromanage the project site.
What About Both Commercial and Residential?
In need of a residential land developer? Look no further than BC Land Dev. Their team of land development professionals can masterfully handle land development for residential or small commercial projects. Give them a call today at 480-660-9798 and discover what a professional and a fun land development team can do for you.