Joffrey Symons
Looking Forward To New York's $12BN Casino Skyscraper

Looking Forward To New York’s $12BN Casino Skyscraper

The Big Apple is planning on building a 12 billion dollar hotel-casino skyscraper making it the most glamorous place on earth. The ambitious project of this casino shall help in promoting New York as a leader in terms of luxury and leisure, a city full of towering architectural wonders, and

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The Importance of Locksmiths on the Construction Site

The Importance of Locksmiths on the Construction Site

There are lots of essential roles that contribute to the successful completion of a project in construction, but some of these are less obvious than others. We all see the bricklayers building the walls and the scaffolders and roofers adding roofs and structures, but there are lots of other behind

Read More »
6 Reasons Your Next Build Needs A Construction Project Manager

6 Reasons Your Next Build Needs A Construction Project Manager

Amidst the industry’s dynamic changes, numerous efficiency gains remain elusive. Despite the introduction of a plethora of technologies and equipment to enhance construction companies’ productivity and expand their capabilities, it is disheartening that 69% of construction projects still struggle to meet deadlines and exceed budgets by 10% (Source KPMG). In

Read More »
How Cost Segregation Can Optimize Your Real Estate Portfolio

How Cost Segregation Can Optimize Your Real Estate Portfolio

For property owners, maximizing the value of their investments is crucial. One way to accomplish this goal is through a cost segregation study. Cost segregation is a process of identifying and reclassifying certain assets to accelerate tax depreciation. This technique is commonly used in real estate and comes with significant

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Top Soft Skills for Real Estate Success

Top Soft Skills for Real Estate Success

Communication Effective communication stands as a pivotal skill for realtors in Newark, NJ, where the diversity of the property market demands clarity and precision in every interaction. For these realtors, it’s not just about conveying the features of a property; it’s about storytelling, painting a picture of a home that

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Can Brutalist architecture actually be calming?

Can Brutalist architecture actually be calming?

Brutalist architecture is something that often divides opinion. From the South Bank to the Barbican, Habitat 67 in Montreal to Preston Bus Station. Some of us love it, some of us hate it, but very few of us recognise how it can actually be calming. Architecture plays a vital part

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

Joffrey Symons

Getting the Highest Value for Your Manufacturing Business When It's Time to Sell

Getting the Highest Value for Your Manufacturing Business When It’s Time to Sell

If you are contemplating selling your manufacturing business, obtaining an appraisal should be among your first steps. Doing this will provide tangible goals to work toward for the sale and allow you to set realistic expectations. Your company’s value will depend on your niche segment, market conditions and growth prospects. Potential buyers are likely to prioritize customers you can retain upon exit as one factor of evaluation. 1. Prepare Your Financials Business owners decide to sell their manufacturing companies for various reasons. Lifestyle changes, family concerns or simply being disenchanted with running the company could all be catalysts for selling, but regardless of why this decision has been made it’s vital that all parties involved make sure the highest value possible for their investment when selling is made. First step of this process should be obtaining a professional company valuation. This will provide an accurate understanding of your company’s worth, helping you set an equitable asking price. Also important before selling is starting is making sure all legal issues have been settled; otherwise prospective buyers might be turned off by any unresolved legal matters that come to light during negotiations. Cleaning up the financial records as part of preparing to sell your manufacturing company is also key in getting ready to sell it, including tax returns and accounting records. Aiming for this goal 1-3 years before selling can make for an easier transition. Finally, make sure that you network within your industry to find potential buyers for your manufacturing business. Networking will enable you to connect with individuals who are truly interested in purchasing it. Once all these steps have been completed, it’s time to list your company for sale. Be patient as you go through this process and keep emotions under control; at its completion you will feel an incredible sense of freedom and accomplishment! Just don’t forget about taking care of yourself post-sale! 2. Create a Marketing Strategy Crafting and maintaining an effective marketing strategy is vital for any manufacturing business, not only because it will ensure they produce top-quality products but also to attract new customers while strengthening existing ones, leading to higher sales and brand recognition. Before embarking on any marketing strategy, it is crucial that you have a firm grasp on your desired goals for your business. Doing this will enable you to set SMART goals that align with overall company objectives – such as revenue targets, introducing new products or increasing market share – while making sure marketing objectives support such goals within available resources and capabilities. An effective marketing plan is also key to increasing your chances of selling your manufacturing company in the future. Showing evidence that it is growing and flourishing will make your manufacturing firm much more attractive to potential buyers, while creating an engaging sales proposal should highlight all its unique assets that could be leveraged by new owners is also useful. As well as creating an effective marketing strategy, networking is another effective strategy to use when selling a company. Not only can networking help identify prospective buyers but it’s also an opportunity to share knowledge of your industry while creating relationships with prospective buyers. 3. Hire a Broker Your manufacturing company was likely started for various reasons, from starting up a new venture or retiring; one thing remains certain; when the time comes, you want to extract maximum value from selling. To do so successfully, it’s crucial that you hire a broker with relevant experience and skills. Ideally, a business broker for manufacturing companies should possess significant manufacturing industry expertise as they will understand how best to navigate the unique challenges associated with selling a manufacturing business. In addition, your chosen broker should possess a large network of potential buyers as they go the extra mile in promoting your company to generate interest among qualified prospects. When selecting brokers, be sure to read testimonials from past clients as a barometer of satisfaction. Also be sure that they have an established track record in successfully connecting manufacturing businesses with buyers. Lastly, select a broker with an excellent grasp of the sales process who will keep you up-to-date throughout its entirety. Once you’ve secured an experienced broker, they can assist in valuing your manufacturing business. By considering its financials and any major capital investments made recently, an accurate estimation will be reached. Once this information has been compiled, they’ll use it to assist with finding a buyer and negotiating terms of sale. Once the deal has been finalized, they’ll assist with transferring ownership and making sure all necessary documents are complete – leaving you to enjoy newfound freedom knowing you got maximum value when selling. 4. Organize Your Team One of the greatest mistakes business owners make when it comes to manufacturing companies for sale is not starting their preparations early enough for sale. Prep work must begin years ahead of when you plan to sell. Attracting buyers means consulting an accountant who will assist in making adjustments that will make your business more attractive to buyers (as seen here), including altering tax advantages or shifting towards bottom-line earnings and growth strategies. Furthermore, key employees may need to be replaced so you can delegate tasks more easily while focusing on marketing initiatives. Train someone else to fill your role, particularly if you have been the primary contact between customers and your manufacturing company. Buyers may become alarmed if left with only one point of contact for any problems that arise; having an effective manager or staff member take on these duties can demonstrate that your manufacturing business is more than just you alone. Preparing to sell your manufacturing business can be an intricate and lengthy process, yet crucially essential if you hope to maximize its worth. By following these tips, you can increase its worth and ensure it continues long after you leave. Get in touch with Acquira now so we can assist with this journey and help estimate its worth using various valuation techniques as well as

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Looking Forward To New York's $12BN Casino Skyscraper

Looking Forward To New York’s $12BN Casino Skyscraper

The Big Apple is planning on building a 12 billion dollar hotel-casino skyscraper making it the most glamorous place on earth. The ambitious project of this casino shall help in promoting New York as a leader in terms of luxury and leisure, a city full of towering architectural wonders, and a lively spot for entertainment. Wynn New York City has recently revealed beautiful photos which are all about the condo tower designed in the latest way, with every part of it reflecting sophistication and luxury. The glass exterior of the building will let the city have a fresh museum with its glittering, appealing façade while standing above the clouds of New York. Besides its ravishing look, this resort is also marking a new era of the city’s dynamic entertainment and hospitality with the ever-growing demand for themed entertainment. As if revealing the extension of the current worrying scenario, large-sized projects like this indicate a continuous hopeful and investment outlook for the city. At the heart of this project is the integration of a world-class casino, offering visitors a lavish gaming experience unlike any other. With the dramatic rise in popular casino games online, one can argue that this project makes sense in tapping into the growing demand for immersive and experiential entertainment options. By combining the allure of traditional casino gaming with cutting-edge technology and amenities, the Wynn New York City aims to set a new standard for luxury gaming destinations. Furthermore, the skyscraper will be equipped with various facilities and attractions that are planned to be enjoyed by a varied group of people. Wynn New York City contains high-end restaurants, exclusive shops, spa facilities with the latest technology, and entertainment programs and thus aims to be a touchstone of attraction. Wynn New York City has something for everyone, whether they are looking for an adrenaline rush or a peaceful place to unwind, as the city is a complete destination with numerous possibilities. Aside from the fun it brings, Wynn New York City shall also be the developer of the economy, and this will be significant. The project construction is going to produce thousands of work opportunities, in addition to the ones that will arise at the time when the property will be functioning. Besides the real estate, which is the prime business beneficiary, the location will also benefit as we can expect various industries to utilise the tourists’ wave and thereby influence the dealer and the neighbourhood positively. Yet the journey to the full realisation of this ambitious goal might be marked by a few obstacles. Like every gigantic project, the project will be subject to a number of legal constraints, and the approval process will require technically feasible planning and coordination of all involved parties. Furthermore, the issue of the skyscraper’s influence on the urban areas and greenery will be a major concern, and it is our duty to deal with it properly. Despite these challenges, the unveiling of plans for the Wynn New York City marks an exciting chapter in the city’s storied history. As New York continues to evolve and adapt to emerging trends and technologies, projects like this serve as a testament to the resilience and innovation that define the city’s spirit. In the midst of uncertainty and upheaval, the promise of a $12 billion casino skyscraper offers a glimmer of hope and excitement for New York City’s future. With its blend of luxury, entertainment, and economic opportunity, the Wynn New York City is poised to redefine the skyline and capture the imagination of visitors from around the world.

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The Importance of Locksmiths on the Construction Site

The Importance of Locksmiths on the Construction Site

There are lots of essential roles that contribute to the successful completion of a project in construction, but some of these are less obvious than others. We all see the bricklayers building the walls and the scaffolders and roofers adding roofs and structures, but there are lots of other behind the scenes and less ‘obvious’ jobs too. From the original architecture drawings and planning of the site itself, the labourers keeping things running smoothly and those that add security or finishing touches. And locksmiths are a part of the last group, and play a critical, albeit often overlooked, role in ensuring the safety, security, and functionality of any new building. Here’s why locksmiths are indispensable in the construction industry. Security from the Ground Up From the very beginning of a construction project, security is a primary concern. Sites often contain valuable materials, tools, and equipment that need protection. Locksmiths are essential in providing the necessary security measures. They install robust locks on temporary structures, gates, and storage units to prevent theft and unauthorised access. This initial security setup safeguards the site and helps maintain a controlled environment, so that construction can proceed smoothly. Precision  When the building reaches the stage where doors, windows, and access points are installed, the expertise of commercial locksmiths becomes even more critical. Precision in lock installation is so important for  both security and functionality since poorly installed locks can lead to security breaches, potential damages and higher costs in the long run. Professional locksmiths bring their expertise to install high quality locks correctly so that they function as intended and provide the maximum level of security. Advanced Security Systems Modern construction projects often need advanced security solutions that go further than traditional locks and keys. This is where locksmiths’ expertise in high tech security systems becomes invaluable. Things like keyless entry systems to sophisticated access control systems, locksmiths can integrate these advanced technologies into the building’s security infrastructure. They make sure that these systems are installed correctly, tested thoroughly, and function seamlessly with other building systems. Locksmiths can also offer customised security solutions tailored to these specific requirements. Whether it’s a residential complex needing secure entry points and communal access control or a commercial building requiring restricted access areas and comprehensive surveillance systems, locksmiths design and put in place solutions that address these unique challenges. Regulatory Compliance Construction projects have to comply with numerous local, state and federal regulations- including those related to safety and security. Locksmiths make sure that all locks, security systems, and access controls meet the necessary standards and codes. Their knowledge of these regulations helps avoid potential legal issues.  Post-Construction Services The role of locksmiths doesn’t end when the construction is completed. Post construction, locksmiths provide essential services like re keying, lock changes, and maintenance of security systems. They make sure that the building remains secure and that all systems continue to function as best as they can.

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Nuh Cement and ABB complete retrofit of haul truck from diesel to zero-emission, fully electric propulsion

Nuh Cement and ABB complete retrofit of haul truck from diesel to zero-emission, fully electric propulsion

ABB has completed the retrofit conversion of a Nuh Cement-owned diesel-fueled Euclid R85B haul truck into a fully electric, zero-emission vehicle. The two companies worked together closely to design and build this retrofit project, which is the first time in the world that a vehicle of this size and class type has been fully electrified. In addition to overall system engineering, ABB’s contribution to the project included a BORDLINE® CC200, traction battery, an air-cooled traction motor, vehicle control electronics, a battery thermal management system, and a DC Fast charger. The cement mine, which is located in Kocaeli-Körfez, east of the Marmara region surrounding Istanbul, Türkiye, is positioned in such a way that the trucks travel downhill, fully loaded, on an average ramp gradient of between 18-20%. Regenerative braking enables the truck to recharge its battery as it descends, and once unloaded, ascend to the top of the mine using only previously regenerated electric power. The project delivers significant benefits by revitalizing a machine that was approaching the end of its operational lifespan. This approach further supports Nuh Cement’s sustainability goals by extending the lifespan of its haul truck, which had reached the end of its 30-year operational cycle, allowing it to operate for many more years. Rather than scrap and replace the original mining vehicle, which would involve disposing of several tons of material and purchasing a new vehicle at the cost of several million dollars, the project propelled greater returns on the initial investment made by Nuh Cement some 30 years’ ago. In addition to the economic efficiencies, the retrofitting of this one truck will save approximately 100,000 litres of diesel fuel and prevent 245 tons of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to 58 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles driven for one year.1 The use of ABB’s electric drivetrain solutions in place of a diesel combustion engine offers significantly lower operating costs via a reduction of both fuel consumption and maintenance requirements. In addition, the truck operates with higher performance, thereby increasing the vehicles productivity. On-site workers also benefit from the switch to electric propulsion through reduced noise, less vibration, and a cleaner work environment. Many of the largest mining operators have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030. Retrofitting trucks in this way is a viable, quick solution that mining operators can take advantage of as an immediate step towards meeting their ambitious sustainability targets. Group CEO of Nuh Cement, Gökhan Bozkurt said, “This retrofitting conversion is one of the first in the world and we’re delighted with the result. It leads the way towards a more sustainable future for the mining and cement industries and will significantly reduce our costs and impact on the environment.” ABB Motion’s Traction Division President, Edgar Keller said, “The completion of this project is enormously satisfying because it gives new life to machines that otherwise would have expired, whilst simultaneously lowering costs, reducing carbon emissions and boosting the productivity of Nuh Cement’s operations. It proves that converting diesel vehicles to full electric power is possible and at immediate reach. The time to decarbonise the mining industry has well and truly arrived.”[1]https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator#results Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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6 Reasons Your Next Build Needs A Construction Project Manager

6 Reasons Your Next Build Needs A Construction Project Manager

Amidst the industry’s dynamic changes, numerous efficiency gains remain elusive. Despite the introduction of a plethora of technologies and equipment to enhance construction companies’ productivity and expand their capabilities, it is disheartening that 69% of construction projects still struggle to meet deadlines and exceed budgets by 10% (Source KPMG). In 2022, Cornerstone Projects discovered that delays affected over 75% of builds, leading to extended completion times and increased costs. So, what does this mean exactly? It suggests that the construction industry is complicated and complex, and in an environment where many different things are being carried out at the same time, there is the scope of anything and everything falling under the radar and getting missed. These small incidences can all form a domino effect, ultimately impacting the end result and cost. Bringing your crew together and fostering a cohesive, high-performing team is a challenge in itself. However, it’s not an insurmountable task. The key lies in having an experienced construction project manager. This individual, well-versed in real estate and construction, leverages their expertise to guide your project from inception to completion. They ensure your project stays on track and within budget, manage risks, improve communication, and oversee quality control. In short, they are the backbone of your project, ensuring its success. A good project manager can be instrumental in aspects of the build, from acquiring the land to getting the appropriate permits to scheduling contractors, overseeing and preventing delays, and eventually helping you sell your completed project due to building relationships and gaining inside knowledge from expert real estate agents, such as MGP Property. They hold a lot of value on construction sites and can improve your efficiency no end. Read on to learn more. Boost Productivity and Efficiency Let’s start with one of the main sticking points in construction: efficiency. While you cannot overcome all delays, price increases, and unforeseen circumstances, an experienced construction project manager will be able to anticipate and plan for them based on their experience and knowledge of the industry. For instance, they can identify potential bottlenecks in the construction process and devise strategies to mitigate them. They can also ensure that all workflow budgets are met, and put their highly effective organisation skills to work to create a highly coordinated project that anticipates a variety of variables and schedules. This allows you to maximise time and funds and avoid delays, ultimately improving the efficiency of your project. Improved Communication There are many different people and job roles involved with bringing a construction project to life, from general contractors to the construction manager, architects, electricians, plumbers, quantity surveyors, safety officers and more and between all of the involved parties goes without saying that communication can sometimes get a bit confusing and things can be missed amid all of the work being carried out. A project manager will take on the role of improving communication between all involved parties to ensure that everything is being relayed as required and that they know exactly what’s going on and what needs to be done. They can take control of all aspects of conversing with all of your subcontractors and your team to ensure that your communication is clear and consistent and all information is divulged where needed to avoid any missing details and issues arising from a lack of communication. Risk Management There are a wealth of risks that can impact your ability to get the build completed on time and within budget. A project manager will be responsible for overseeing these risks and putting effective plans in place to ensure the disruption caused is eliminated or reduced so you can experience a smoother project from start to finish. From preempting any safety concerns and risks, i.e., incorrect working attire, damaged tools, or lack of equipment, to weather conditions impacting your ability to work, issues procuring supplies, cost increases from suppliers, and labour shortages. All of these can be detrimental to your project as a whole, but a project manager will be focused on knowing these issues and working towards finding a resolution that can keep you on track. Cost Control The more your construction project costs, the less profitable it is. That’s the bottom line, and if you let them spiral out of control, it will most definitely impact your bottom line. A project manager’s responsibility is to keep costs down and avoid losing money where possible. They can do this by carefully planning the project budget, monitoring expenses, and negotiating with suppliers and subcontractors to get the best prices. While some things aren’t able to be combated, such as price rises due to supply shortages or increased labour costs, they can be managed so they don’t take a chunk out of your budget, and they can be factored into the eventual costs so you know where you are and what you are likely to spend overall. This way, you can have a clear understanding of your project’s financial health and make informed decisions to keep your project within budget. Improved Team Control Your construction crew is your main team, and you need to rely on them to get the job done. But despite this, things don’t always run as they need to, and standards won’t always be as high as you need them to be. A project manager will work with your team to help your company with any issues, such as gaps in skills or knowledge, safety concerns, output quality absence, etc. They can work with your team to ensure they have what they need when they need it and redistribute people as required to keep things moving along. The more supported your team feels, the more incentivised they will be to get things completed right the first time and reduce any mistakes, time-wasting or other inefficiencies you might be experiencing. Quality Assurance You need to legally meet certain standards for your builds to be signed off and avoid having to go back and rectify any concerns or, worse, start again. This can

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How Cost Segregation Can Optimize Your Real Estate Portfolio

How Cost Segregation Can Optimize Your Real Estate Portfolio

For property owners, maximizing the value of their investments is crucial. One way to accomplish this goal is through a cost segregation study. Cost segregation is a process of identifying and reclassifying certain assets to accelerate tax depreciation. This technique is commonly used in real estate and comes with significant advantages for property owners. Herein below we discuss the most important aspects of the cost segregation guide for real estate. An Outline of Cost Segregation: Cost segregation is a strategic tax planning tool that enables property owners to reclassify assets into shorter depreciation periods. Typically, real estate is depreciated over 27.5 years for residential properties and 39 years for commercial properties. However, cost segregation allows for certain components of a property to be depreciated over shorter periods, such as 5, 7, or 15 years. By accelerating depreciation, investors can significantly reduce their taxable income and increase cash flow, providing more capital for further investments or property improvements. Given the complexity of cost segregation and the specific IRS guidelines that must be adhered to, it is crucial to engage a qualified professional with expertise in this area. A cost segregation specialist will conduct a thorough analysis of the property to identify segregable assets and ensure compliance with IRS regulations. Their expertise can maximize the benefits of cost segregation while minimizing the risk of audits or disputes with tax authorities. The cornerstone of cost segregation is the comprehensive study conducted by qualified professionals. This study involves a detailed analysis of construction documents, blueprints, and property records to identify eligible assets. Additionally, site visits may be necessary to assess the condition and functionality of various components. The results of the study provide the basis for reclassifying assets and calculating accelerated depreciation deductions. The Benefits for Real Estate Investors: Increased Cash Flow A cost segregation study allows property owners to front-load their depreciation deductions, reducing their tax burden and increasing their cash flow. Through the study, assets are reclassified into shorter depreciation periods, resulting in larger deductions in the early years of ownership. With more funds readily available, property owners have greater opportunities to invest in other projects or repay debts. Lower Tax liability Cost segregation is a powerful tax planning tool that can help property owners reduce their overall tax liability. By shortening the depreciation schedule, it is possible to reduce the tax bill significantly. Moreover, it also enables property owners to claim the retroactive depreciation on previously owned properties that qualify for a cost segregation study. This can result in substantial tax savings, freeing up funds that can be reinvested in other projects. Improved Property Valuation A cost segregation study can have a positive impact on property valuations. It can help identify assets that are significant and make important contributions to the property’s overall value. This can increase the property’s depreciation schedule, leading to more tax benefits in the future or higher resale values. Additionally, the study may help property owners negotiate better loan terms, increasing their borrowing capacity and improving cash flow possibilities. Increased NOI Cost segregation can improve the property’s Net Operating Income (NOI), which measures the cash inflow from the property after accounting for operating expenses. By identifying items that can be classified into shorter depreciation schedules, property owners can increase their deductions, lowering their tax burden, and improving their cash flow. This increased NOI can help increase property value and create more opportunities to invest in other real estate ventures. Reduced Audit Risks The IRS closely scrutinizes depreciation deductions and inconsistent practices can lead to an audit. A cost segregation study conducted through a professional service can reduce the risk of being audited, as they work with the IRS to provide accurate and complete documentation. A study also helps property owners keep up with current or changing tax regulations while reducing the likelihood of audits and compliance issues. Cost segregation is an essential process for property owners who want to maximize their investment returns. These five benefits highlight the significant advantages of cost segregation and provide property owners with the knowledge and tools they need to reduce their tax liabilities, increase cash flow, and improve property valuations. By utilizing cost segregation, property owners can make informed financial decisions, improve their portfolio’s overall value, and take their real estate investments to the next level.

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6 Key Financial Metrics Every Construction Project Manager Must Know

6 Key Financial Metrics Every Construction Project Manager Must Know

If you’re a construction manager, overseeing projects will be more than just knowing about building structure types. It takes a strong grasp of financial management to make sure that projects are done on time and within budget.  In this guide, we’re going to be talking about six key financial metrics that project managers must know before every project begins. By the time you’re finished, you’ll have a much deeper understanding of each one, so you will be able to look at the financial sheets and be able to know what is what. The first one will take a look at cash flow projections. Here, it will help construction project managers anticipate any incoming or outgoing cash. It will also give them a view of when the payments are expected and when the expenses will hit their account. This will allow them to have a better chance at planning and allocating resources effectively. If you’re looking to optimize cash flow, you want to incorporate certificates of deposits or CDs as part of the cash management strategy. If you want to know more about CDs, feel free to check out this Fidelity Investments COD review so you can be able to understand how you can choose the best options when it comes to funding your projects. ROI is the metric that will measure the profitability of a Project based on the initial investment. By calculating this, a project manager can assess whether the project will generate any sufficient returns that will justify the money put down. The formula that you will need to calculate Roi is the following: divide the net profit by the total investment followed by multiplying it by 100. That will give you the percentage of ROI. Be sure to use this metric When comparing different projects. It’s also a good idea to prioritize those that have the highest ROI possible. Using this metric will be important as it will allow you to make the most informed decisions on which projects are easy to pursue, making sure that the most effective use of resources and funding is possible – especially with multi-million projects. The cost variance is the difference between the estimated and actual cost of a construction project. A positive variance will indicate that the project is under budget. the opposite of that is a negative variance which means that the project has gone over its budget in regards to spending. By monitoring the cost variance, project managers will be able to detect any Financial issues early and take the necessary actions to correct the course. Cost managers need to stay within the lines when it comes to the financial aspect. As a project manager, you need to look for any patterns in cost variances across the multiple projects that you oversee. This will allow you to project better future forecasts when it comes to expenses.  Now, we take a look at another variance. This time, we focus more on the time aspect of the project than the monetary. Here, you’re measuring the difference between the planned timeline and the actual project’s progress. By monitoring the schedule variance, what you’re trying to prevent is avoiding costly overruns and making sure that the project stays on track in terms of timeline.  In addition, it will also help you identify any potential bottlenecks and allow you to take the necessary actions accordingly. This includes but is not limited to reallocating resources, adjusting timelines, and also negotiating with vendors and contractors to ensure the project remains on track. Your profit margin will measure the profitability of a project. To calculate this, you want to use the difference between total revenue and total cost. A higher profit margin will indicate that the profit will be financially successful. A project manager will use this to assess the financial health of the project and also the business as a whole. Working capital measures the liquidity of a project using the difference between current assets and current liabilities. Working capital will ensure that the project has the necessary funds to cover any day-to-day expenses including the unexpected ones that may pop up out of nowhere. To maintain optimal working capital, a project manager must consider using certain Financial products. These include CDs and lines of credit as ways to manage cash reserves. Final Thoughts As a project manager, it is important to make sure that every project is done on time and budget. Be sure to monitor these metrics that we have just shown you so you can be able to make sure that you are effectively making the best decisions possible. Every successful project will have a manager who is good with numbers and can be able to spot any potential issues and correct them before things get worse.

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7 Innovative Solutions for Reducing Food Waste in Construction Projects

7 Innovative Solutions for Reducing Food Waste in Construction Projects

Tackling food waste within the construction industry presents a unique set of challenges. As projects ramp up, so too does the scale of potential waste, making it critical for those managing these sites to think creatively about sustainability.  This guide explores seven innovative solutions aimed at reducing food waste on construction projects. From smart ordering systems to educating your crew, each strategy offers a practical approach to minimize waste while fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.  Together, these methods contribute to a greener planet and promote efficiency and community well-being. 7 Solutions for Reducing Food Waste in Construction Projects Exploring ways to cut down on food waste in construction projects is more important than ever. Here are seven solutions that can make an impact, ensuring sustainability on your site. 1. Implement Dedicated On-Site Composting Embracing sustainability in construction projects isn’t just about the materials you use or the energy efficiencies you implement; it also extends to how you manage waste. Recent data suggests that 72% of Americans don’t compost at home, so set up a system at your business.  Setting up a dedicated on-site composting system allows organic waste from your project to decompose naturally, turning it into valuable compost for landscaping or garden projects. This initiative reduces landfill contributions and educates your team on sustainable practices. 2. Use Fresh and Healthy Meal Kits When you’re managing a construction project, ensuring your team has access to nutritious meals can be a logistical challenge, yet it’s crucial for maintaining energy levels and productivity. A smart solution is to use fresh and healthy meal kits like the ones from HelloFresh.  Studies show that providing well-balanced meals can improve worker satisfaction and job performance by up to 25%. These meal kits offer precisely portioned ingredients, reducing food waste significantly. By streamlining meal preparation in this way, you not only support the health of your team but also contribute toward sustainable food consumption practices on-site. 3. Organize a Better System of Food Ordering Efficiency in food ordering is paramount to minimizing waste and ensuring that your construction team has the nourishment they need without excess. Here are three simple and effective ways employers in the construction industry can create a better system for food ordering: Adopting these strategies not only curbs waste but also contributes to worker satisfaction by providing them with choices that meet their dietary needs and preferences. 4. Donate Excess Non-perishable Foods In tackling food waste on construction sites, one effective strategy is to donate excess non-perishable foods. About 120 billion pounds of food is thrown away every year, which is about 40% of the entire US food supply. This staggering statistic highlights the importance of redirecting surplus food to those in need rather than discarding it.  Establishing partnerships with local food banks or shelters can facilitate this process seamlessly. Not only does donating unused items help combat hunger in our communities, but it also promotes a culture of sustainability and responsibility among your team members. 5. Educate Your Crew About Food Waste Raising awareness among your crew about the importance of reducing food waste is critical for fostering a culture of sustainability on your construction site.  Here’s how employers in the construction industry can effectively educate their team: By investing time in education and making it an ongoing conversation, you create an empowered workforce that understands their role in reducing food wastage on-site and at home. 6. Invest in Smart Storage Solutions Proper storage is key to extending the shelf life of food, thereby reducing waste and saving money. Here’s how employers in the construction industry can invest in smart storage solutions: Smart storage solutions not only help in cutting down food wastage but also ensure that your team has access to fresh, healthy meals throughout the project. 7. Partner with Local Food Recovery Networks In an effort to minimize waste and support your local community, partnering with a food recovery network can make a significant difference. There are food recovery networks all across the US and you can find yours at The Food Recovery Network’s website.  These organizations specialize in redistributing surplus food to those in need, ensuring that leftover perishables do not go to waste. Taking this step helps tackle the pressing issue of food insecurity and reinforces your project’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Reducing Food Waste is an Overall Good thing  As we’ve explored various strategies for reducing food waste in construction, it’s clear that every little effort counts towards creating a more sustainable and efficient industry. Now is the time to take action by implementing these innovative solutions on your projects. Also, you can prefer the Skip Hire Folkestone that helps to reduce the food waste in construction sites.

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Top Soft Skills for Real Estate Success

Top Soft Skills for Real Estate Success

Communication Effective communication stands as a pivotal skill for realtors in Newark, NJ, where the diversity of the property market demands clarity and precision in every interaction. For these realtors, it’s not just about conveying the features of a property; it’s about storytelling, painting a picture of a home that aligns with the client’s dreams and needs. They must articulate the benefits and potential of each property, ensuring that clients fully grasp the value and possibilities. This skill also involves being clear and transparent about the buying or selling process, helping clients navigate the complexities of real estate transactions. In Newark’s competitive market, realtors who excel in communication build stronger relationships with clients, leading to repeat business and referrals. Ultimately, the ability to communicate effectively sets the foundation for trust and success in the real estate industry. Listening Listening, in the realm of real estate, is an art that goes beyond hearing words; it’s about understanding clients’ underlying emotions, needs, and desires. Active listening involves paying close attention to the client’s tone, choice of words, and body language, enabling realtors to pick up on unspoken concerns or preferences. This skill allows agents to tailor their approach and recommendations to match exactly what the client is looking for, thereby enhancing client satisfaction. For instance, by carefully listening, a realtor can discern between a buyer’s need for a ‘cozy’ home versus a ‘spacious’ one, which can lead to vastly different property suggestions. Effective listening also helps in building rapport and trust with clients, as they feel genuinely heard and understood. In summary, mastery of listening equips realtors with the insights necessary to serve their clients better and forge stronger, more personal connections in their professional relationships. Negotiation Negotiation in real estate is a critical skill that involves much more than just agreeing on a price. It’s about finding common ground where all parties feel they have achieved a favorable outcome. A successful negotiator in real estate must understand the nuances of each deal, balancing client needs with market realities to reach an equitable solution. This requires not only a deep knowledge of the market but also the ability to empathize with each party’s position and constraints. For real estate professionals, effective negotiation means advocating for their clients while maintaining a fair and professional relationship with the opposing party. By mastering this skill, realtors can ensure transactions progress smoothly, fostering goodwill and long-term relationships with both buyers and sellers, ultimately leading to more successful deals and a stronger reputation in the industry. Problem-Solving Problem-solving in real estate is a vital skill, as the industry is fraught with challenges that can arise at any stage of a transaction. This skill involves identifying issues quickly and devising effective solutions to keep the process moving forward. A real estate professional with strong problem-solving abilities can navigate complex situations, such as negotiating repairs after a home inspection or resolving title issues before closing. This requires not only a keen eye for detail but also creative thinking to find workable solutions that satisfy all parties involved. Effective problem solvers in real estate are proactive, anticipating potential obstacles and addressing them before they escalate into larger issues. By cultivating this skill, realtors can ensure smoother transactions, minimize stress for their clients, and maintain their reputation as reliable and competent professionals. Time Management Time management is an essential skill for success in the fast-paced real estate industry. Effective time management enables realtors to juggle various responsibilities, such as client meetings, property showings, market research, and administrative tasks, without compromising on quality or efficiency. It’s about prioritizing activities, setting realistic goals, and allocating time wisely to ensure that critical tasks are completed within deadlines. For real estate professionals, managing time effectively also means being adaptable and able to respond swiftly to unexpected opportunities or challenges that arise. Good time management skills lead to increased productivity, reduced stress, and a better work-life balance, which are crucial for long-term success and client satisfaction in real estate. By mastering this skill, realtors can provide exceptional service to their clients, build a strong reputation, and ultimately, close more deals. Empathy Empathy is a powerful soft skill in real estate, enabling professionals to connect with clients on a deeper emotional level. It’s about understanding and sharing the feelings of others, seeing the world through their eyes, and recognizing the emotional nuances of each client’s journey in buying or selling a home. Empathetic realtors can anticipate their clients’ needs and concerns, offering support and guidance that is attuned to their emotional state and personal circumstances. This emotional connection fosters trust and loyalty, making clients feel valued and understood, which is crucial in building lasting relationships. Moreover, empathy helps realtors to navigate sensitive negotiations and difficult conversations with tact and compassion, ensuring that all parties feel heard and respected. In essence, empathy not only enhances client relationships but also contributes to more successful and fulfilling transactions in the real estate business. Networking Networking is a critical component of a successful real estate career, as it opens doors to new opportunities, resources, and knowledge that can significantly impact an agent’s success. Effective networking involves building and maintaining relationships with a wide range of individuals, including other real estate professionals, potential clients, lenders, and community members. Through these connections, realtors gain insights into market trends, obtain leads, and increase their visibility in the industry. Networking events, real estate associations, and social media platforms are valuable venues for establishing and nurturing these professional relationships. Furthermore, a strong network can provide support, advice, and mentorship, helping realtors to grow and advance in their careers. In essence, networking in real estate is not just about making contacts; it’s about creating meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships that can flourish over time. Market Awareness Market awareness is indispensable in the real estate sector, enabling professionals to stay abreast of the latest trends, pricing, and demand shifts within the market. It involves a continuous process of research and analysis to understand how various factors, such as

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Can Brutalist architecture actually be calming?

Can Brutalist architecture actually be calming?

Brutalist architecture is something that often divides opinion. From the South Bank to the Barbican, Habitat 67 in Montreal to Preston Bus Station. Some of us love it, some of us hate it, but very few of us recognise how it can actually be calming. Architecture plays a vital part in our mood, and surrounding ourselves in certain environments can really boost our mental health, whether suffering with depression, going through addiction treatment or simply looking for a lift after a difficult day. But Brutalist architecture? Surely not? Well, actually it has been proven that the Brutalist movement is proven to soothe the soul. And here’s why… Simplicity in Design One of the more calming aspects of Brutalist architecture is that it’s always simple in its design. Unlike the ornate embellishments of more classical styles, it celebrates the purity of form and function. There are clean lines, geometric shapes and unadorned surfaces. It’s clear in what it wants to achieve and that can rub off on people, providing calm in a world often filled with distractions. Sense of Strength and Stability Brutalist architecture often conveys a sense of strength and stability that can in itself be calming. The concrete and steel which makes up much of its architecture possesses a durability and solidity that can be reassuring. What’s more, the huge monolithic forms stand as enduring monuments to human ingenuity, which can be inspiring and provide confidence and tranquility in their presence. Harmony with Nature While many people may feel otherwise, Brutalist architecture can have a calming connection to the natural world. Many buildings of this style incorporate open space, including landscaped courtyards and large windows that let in plenty of natural light, something that’s incredibly important for our mental health. It can allow you to not only gain a deeper appreciation of the style, but also of nature which is soothing to many of us. Timelessness and Endurance Brutalist architecture possesses a timeless quality that can transcend other trends that come and go. In fact, many brutalist buildings are now being protected across London and beyond as a result. This permanence can provides a reassurance in a world of constant change and uncertainty, which again can be really soothing for the soul. Opportunities for Contemplation Finally, Brutalist architecture encourages those moments of tranquility and contemplation. It’s why many buildings of this style are found as galleries, theatres and other buildings where expression and introspection are valued. There’s a meditative nature to them and they can allow you to really immerse yourself in the surroundings, away from the distractions and noise of everyday life, as well as the complexities of life thanks to their simple and clear designs. So, the next time you walk past or go inside a Brutalist building, why not stop for a few minutes and take in your surroundings. It could well completely transform your day as the calmness starts to flow through your body and change your outlook and feeling of the day.

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