TRM-2024SeptOct

W ith big shortages of housing across the country, investors are increasingly building new spec homes from the ground up rather than flipping houses. But given current inflationary pressures, building new homes or custom-spec homes is becoming incredibly challenging. You must watch every penny you spend on these projects because costs can and do get out of hand fast on big projects. You might think, then, that cutting the number of people working on the project is a good choice. Think again! Everyone knows an architect and contractor will inevitably be a part of your team. But too often adding an interior designer to the team isn’t considered or is a last-minute thought. Although an architect and contractor are needed, projects can survive without an interior designer. Notice I said “survive,” not “succeed.” Although architects and contractors are experts in their field of structurally designing and building homes, interior designers are experts at choosing materials, space planning, and ensuring the flow, balance, and rhythm of a home. Interior designers often have a better understanding of which materials will sell homes faster and what buyers are looking for. Additionally, interior designers have better contacts for materials, meaning they can often work better discounts and deals. Adding an interior designer may increase your upfront cost, but overall they will benefit your bottom line. Let’s look at some top reasons why hiring a designer is crucial for your next investment project. VALUE AND VISION Most interior designers can see things before they exist. Think about the value

Interior designers are experts at choosing materials, space planning, and ensuring the flow, balance, and rhythm of a home.”

net that controls costs and protects your investment from going over budget.

that talent could add to a project. Interior designers can save investors thousands of dollars by being able to picture how things will look before they are finished— or even before they start. Investors and contractors know change orders are expensive, time-consuming, and better avoided. In that sense, having an interior designer on your team is an added safety

UNDERSTANDING CUSTOMERS It is an interior designer’s job to know what’s in or out, what’s old, and what’s new. Interior trends change

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