80 | Strong partnerships and communication key Engagement with clients for a new home begins with an initial consultation, an opportunity for both parties to get to know each other better and to begin to ground the project’s vision. InHouse Construction T T Sue Russell “We ask our clients about their needs from the home, preferences and lifestyle. It’s also the place where we discuss the budget and timelines for the build.” BUILDING With a vision to deliver clients with the best possible building experience, Ben Cousins established Palmerston North residential building business InHouse Construction in 2018. Currently a team of three are engaged in creating high-end residential projects, developing outdoor areas, renovations and alterations and, if asked, enabling a complete design and build package. “While we’re based in Palmerston North, we’ve undertaken projects as far as Marton and Feilding, but the bulk of our work is in and around this city.” Asked how business has been of late, Ben’s response echoes that of many in the construction sphere. “It has been a bit of a grind. There just hasn’t been the demand we would normally expect. People are somewhat hesitant still to invest in major projects, but I do think that things will slowly pick up.” When Business Central spoke with Ben the team were engaged in building two townhouses and two spec houses. Ben says he’s worked hard on building strong partnerships with really trusted trade partners throughout Manawatu. “This has been critical to our success to date. They deliver goods and services to the standard I build to for my clients and I know I can rely on them to consistently add great value to a project.” Engagement with clients for a new home begins with an initial consultation, an opportunity for both parties to get to know each other better and to begin to ground the project’s vision. “We ask our clients about their needs from the home, preferences and lifestyle. It’s also the place where we discuss the budget and timelines for the build. “Sometimes plans have already been developed, other times, we have designers we recommend who will begin to formulate the design parameters.” Through the design concept phase there’s plenty of interaction and flexilibity to change and fine-tune ideas. “We take as long as it takes to get the desired look and feel for the home reflected in all aspects of its design. “This is an exciting time in the process, when our clients can begin to see their own home’s design begin to come to life.” The next step, proposal and contract, documents the scope of work, along with defining detailed cost estimates and the important project timelines. “Again we take the time to review our terms and conditions with our clients, answering any questions they may have so they proceed with absolute clarity as to what will happen and when.” With agreements signed off, the consenting process is enacted. As soon as consent has been received, construction can get underway. “This is the really good bit for our clients who see all their discussions with us and ideas of what’s important to them start to come to life,” says Ben. “We manage the total build from site prep, sourcing all materials, liaising with all sub-contractors and project managing.” And once the home’s construction is underway, Ben says communication with clients continues throughout. “They receive regular updates and if there’s any change in the building schedule, we ensure they understand why this is.” Along with new builds, renovations and alterations form the backbone of regular work at InHouse Construction. “We enjoy transforming a home, creating something new and better designed for owners. “These projects mean a great deal to them, given they want to stay in their home, but want it to better meet their current needs.” Mark McCoubrie 0274 35 8898 office@mpmtiling.co.nz Specialising in all aspects of tiling Professional finish every time! Proudly supporting Inhouse Construction LOOKING FOR PLASTERING SPECIALISTS? Proudly Supporting Inhouse Construction We’ve got you! • Residential • Commercial • Cladding • Painting • Interior Venetian Plasters • Repairs & Maintenance Ph: 06 355 1506 M: 027 222 0202 E: steve@centralplastering.co.nz www.centralplastering.co.nz
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