1. What is an Owner’s Representative?

An Owner’s Representative in construction is a trusted advisor who manages design, construction, and financial processes all on behalf of the owner. We work to align the costs, schedule, and quality to best meet our clients needs. Align Owner Representation brings incredible depth, experience, and value to the role.

2. Why should I hire an Owner’s Representative?

We act as your advocate. Our role is to align the project with your goals, protect against risk, and deliver quality outcomes while making the process less stressful.

3. Is hiring an Owner’s Rep worth the cost?

Yes. Owners typically spend far less overall when we are involved. By preventing overruns, controlling contracts, and eliminating inefficiencies, we often save multiples of our fee. In most cases, our work essentially pays for itself.

4. How is an Owner’s Rep different from a general contractor?

The contractor builds the project. The Owner’s Rep manages the contractor building the project as well as design team, vendors, insurers, building departments, lawyers, neighbors, and more to safeguard your budget, timeline, and vision.

5. When should I bring in an Owner’s Rep?

The earlier the better. Involving us during planning or acquisition lets us influence budgeting, scheduling, and team selection from the start.

6. Who hires the design and construction team, me or the Owner’s Rep?

Owners hire them directly. We lead the search, vet candidates, negotiate contracts, and recommend the best fit.

7. Does an Owner’s Rep replace the architect?

No. The architect designs the project. We coordinate the architect with engineers, contractors, and you to keep everyone aligned.

8. How do Owner’s Reps charge for their services?

Fees are usually structured as a fixed fee, a percentage of construction cost, or hourly, depending on the scope and complexity of the project.

9. Do Owner’s Reps only work on large projects?

Not at all. We add value on everything from single-family residences to multi-million-dollar developments.

10. Can I hire an Owner’s Rep for just part of a project?

Yes. Some owners engage us for budget reconciliation, contract negotiations, or construction oversight only. Indeed, quite often we are brought in when a contractor has caused an issue and we need to wright the ship.

11. How do Owner’s Reps manage project budgets?

We establish a baseline budget, track committed and uncommitted costs, review change orders, and provide regular forecasts so you always know where you stand. Find out more about budget in our knowledge base.

12. What role does an Owner’s Rep play in scheduling?

We work with the parties and tack the critical path. We ensure the contractors are scheduling, we review contractor schedules, identify unrealistic timelines, and monitor progress to keep the project on track.

13. How do Owner’s Reps handle quality control?

We work to ensure the proper steps are being made. The roofing manufacturer is walking, the HVAC system is being started correctly, the correct materials are being installed, the designers plans are being followed. We monitor work on-site, review drawings, and ensure contractors deliver to contract requirements and the level of finish you expect.

14. Do Owner’s Reps handle permits and approvals?

We spearhead the permits and approval process. We coordinate with architects, engineers, and expediters to keep permitting and approvals aligned with the project schedule. We chase people to get things accomplished.

15. How do Owner’s Reps reduce risk?

By structuring contracts carefully, verifying insurance, managing lien exposure, and resolving issues before they escalate.

16. What’s the difference between an Owner’s Rep and a Project Manager?

A project manager may work for the contractor. An Owner’s Rep works exclusively for the owner, with no conflict of interest.

17. How often will I receive updates from my Owner’s Rep?

We provide regular reports (often weekly or monthly) and immediate updates on major developments.

18. How does an Owner’s Rep handle disputes?

We mediate between owner, contractor, and design team to resolve issues quickly and fairly, avoiding unnecessary delays or costs.

19. Will I lose control of my project if I hire an Owner’s Rep?

No. You remain in control. We provide options, analysis, and recommendations so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

20. How do I choose the right Owner’s Rep?

Look for experience with similar projects, a proven track record, strong references, and a communication style that fits the way you want to work.

21. In what markets does Align Work?

In our careers, we’ve managed complex construction projects across North America and overseas. While we have broad experience, today we focus primarily on the high-end residential market and boutique cultural projects. In recent years, much of our work has centered in Manhattan, but we have also delivered projects in the Hudson Valley, Litchfield County, the Colorado Rockies, Nantucket, and East Hampton. Our deep industry network and long-standing relationships in these markets allow us to connect clients with the right teams and resources.