To be frank, a medical build-out is nothing to blink your eye at. It can be a pretty penny. Healthcare facilities are unique in their needs, and you don’t want to cut any corners.
Upon executing the lease of your space, you have a couple of options as you’re selecting your site. You can move in as is (maybe with some tenant improvements), you can do a partial renovation, or you can do a custom build-out. Constructing from scratch means that you get complete control over the office layout, style, function, etc. But a custom build-out also comes with the longest lead time and highest price ticket.
If you decide to go the custom build-out route, make sure you understand the project timing, process, cost and details before you begin. Here are some tips from some guys that have seen a medical build-out or two…
Do it Right from the Start
It’s in your benefit to invest in pre-construction planning and preparation. This phase of construction can take 6-12 months before the actual construction even starts but trust us when we say it will save you time, money and headaches in the future. It’s much harder to pause your business later down the road to renovate.
Flexibility is Key
Technology is changing so rapidly, especially in the healthcare industry, that it’s in your best interest to build the most flexible space as possible. That way, as technology and trends change, your office can easily adapt without having to do construction.
Here are some things to keep in mind as you are designing your space:
- Follow modular concepts of space planning
- Use generic room sizes
- Use easily modified mechanical and electrical systems
- Build in critical features from the start
Good Things Come with Time
While the amount of time needed to do a build-out depends greatly on the preexisting condition of the space, the building, scope of work, etc., even the fastest new construction process can still take 6-8 months to achieve Class A quality.
Make sure you examine your project timeline closely to ensure that you’re being efficient while also doing it right. You want to start seeing patients as soon as possible, but you also don’t want to have to do this process again any time soon.
Plan for the Future
Building out quality medical spaces is more important now than ever, as patient expectations and the emphasis placed on quality care have increased. So, make sure you maximize the value of every square foot in your office space.
As long as you design your space with the future in mind, you’ll be on the right track. That way, any future changes you make will be considered tenant improvements and not a new construction overhaul.
The experts at Gittleson Zuppas will help you negotiate your lease terms and ensure that you maximize the concessions and your construction goes off without a hitch.