Successful real estate developments are built long before construction begins.
In this special combined interview episode of the RMS Real Estate Development Podcast, Curtis Way is joined by three experienced construction professionals to discuss the realities of delivering successful projects in today's market. The first conversation features David Powick and Mike Fraser from RMS Group, focusing on multifamily construction. The second features Chris Fillmore, President of Fillmore Construction, sharing insights from more than three decades in commercial construction.
Together, they explore the challenges developers face throughout the construction process, from assembling the right consultant team and selecting qualified contractors to navigating permits, inspections, supply chain disruptions and labour shortages.
The discussion also examines the differences between construction management and fixed-price contracts, how experienced contractors help reduce project risk, and why communication, planning and strong relationships are critical to keeping projects on schedule and on budget.
Whether you're building apartments, commercial developments or considering your first real estate project, this episode provides practical advice that can help you avoid costly mistakes and better understand the construction process from start to finish.
In this episode:
- Building the right consultant and construction team
- Choosing contractors and evaluating experience
- Common construction challenges and how to solve them
- Renovation versus new construction
- Managing change orders and project delays
- Building permits, inspections and occupancy approvals
- Supply chain challenges and material availability
- Labour shortages and managing today's workforce
- Construction management versus fixed-price contracts
- Managing project risk before construction begins
- Why scheduling is one of the most valuable assets on any project
- How owners should evaluate and qualify general contractors
- Legal considerations, liens and contractor relationships
- Lessons learned from decades of commercial and multifamily construction
One of the biggest themes throughout the episode is that successful construction projects are built on preparation, communication and experience. The right consultants, contractors and project team can often prevent expensive problems long before they appear on the job site.
Whether you're an experienced developer or just beginning your real estate journey, this episode offers valuable insights into how successful projects are planned, managed and delivered.
To learn more about the RMS Group, please visit:
https://rms-group.ca/This series was produced by Road 55 in Edmonton, Alberta – Learn more at:
road55.caWhat is Real Estate Development: The Curtis Way?
Ever looked at a vacant piece of land and wondered how it becomes an apartment building, shopping centre, or thriving commercial property?
Join the team at RMS Group as they pull back the curtain on the world of real estate development. Through conversations with developers, investors, lenders, brokers, lawyers, property managers, and construction professionals, we'll explore the wins, the mistakes, the risks, and the opportunities behind every project.
From proformas and financing to market cycles, approvals, construction and property management, this podcast is designed for aspiring developers, experienced investors, and anyone interested in how great real estate projects get built.
Real stories. Real deals. Real lessons from the people doing the work every day.