Have you two collaborated on any recent projects where the owners faced the aforementioned conundrum–they found their dream property, but it wasn't quite turnkey–what did they do?
Ryan:
We've had the opportunity to collaborate on a few projects. Most recently, I had the pleasure of working with an individual searching for a fly fishing property in Western Montana. They ultimately found the perfect piece of land—a remarkable fishery with breathtaking views. However, the property lacked any existing improvements, and like many of our clients, they are absentee owners.
As they were eager to kickstart the improvement process, they found themselves a bit overwhelmed, uncertain of where to begin. They had an architect but weren't sure where to go from there. Fortunately, Kiyomi was available and a good fit for their needs. I've come to appreciate how deeply involved she is in all aspects of construction projects. With her extensive network of architects, general contractors, and skilled artisans, she connected our clients with the right people, forming a top-notch team and ensuring the successful execution of the entire project.
Sometimes, it's just about finding a couple of key people on your team, and then they can leverage their extensive network, adding a lot of peace of mind for absentee owners. Not everyone thinks of reaching out to an interior designer this early, but I've learned that they're just as connected and pivotal early on in projects.
Kiyomi:
The clients had already chosen their architect but needed help bringing the look and feel of their home, both the interior and exterior, to life. The design process is a lengthy one, often spanning several months, during which a continuous exchange of questions and answers transpires between the homeowners and myself. We delve into the overarching aesthetic they aim to achieve and their vision for life in Montana.
What's nice about working with an interior designer as an absentee owner is that I take the concepts and do all the legwork. My clients only had to fly out once to view the finishes and meet with the vendors we'd chosen, ask final questions, and approve them.
I strongly believe that it's invaluable for the homeowners to physically interact with the materials, have their questions addressed by the vendors, and ultimately cultivate confidence in their local team overseeing their build before the installation commences.
How can remote owners start assembling a team and local boots on the ground to help them manage and further develop or update their new investment?
Ryan:
In my experience, I would recommend that individuals explore and leverage any existing relationships they have to help them identify valuable resources in the area in which they are buying land. This could involve reaching out to their ranch broker, seeking advice from friends or family members who have prior investment experience in the area, or conducting their own research. However, we all know that referrals from a trusted source typically prove to be the most fruitful.
Moreover, it's beneficial to think creatively and look beyond the obvious choices. Professionals like interior designers may have established connections with architects and general contractors, which may help open doors more quickly.
Lastly, I would advise placing trust in local talent. It's usually wise to avoid the unnecessary complexities of bringing in architects, designers, or contractors from outside the area. The construction and design talent around Bozeman, as an example, is incredibly talented, well-acquainted with the region's specific requirements, and possesses the relationships locally, to get things done.
Kiyomi:
I recommend starting with your ranch broker and asking, "Who do they recommend?". I know firsthand the connections Ryan has developed over his career and that ranch brokers really know and care about the areas they represent.
Typically, brokers maintain a comprehensive network of professionals, including architects, interior designers, landscape architects, and contractors, making them an invaluable resource to kickstart your project.
Emphasizing the importance of assembling a local team is key to ensuring a successful building process. Local contractors have cultivated relationships with dependable subcontractors, ensuring high-quality work.
Since the pandemic, many desirable areas, like the Gallatin Valley in southwest Montana, where we're based, have enjoyed a steady flow of work in the construction industry. This has resulted in backlogs and reduced immediate availability for new projects. This has made it challenging for out-of-state clients, who often struggle to elicit responses from tradespeople. Having help from local connections is vital to overcome this hurdle.
