W&M Talk: Need to Close a Deal? Call W&M Construction

Need to Close a Deal? Call W&M Construction

Robert Lux

Tenants and brokers are well aware that execution and costs of tenant installations make all the difference in a leasing decision. A location may be ideally suited to a firm's needs, but the space layout may not be quite right. Or leases can be lost because of time constraints, budget issues or the inability to visualize what a space would look like after it's built out. In these instances, W&M Construction can step in to help brokers and clients make deals happen.

"We provide the missing link," explains Timothy W. Yahn, W&M Construction's president. "Many times, we've seen prospects overcome hesitation to sign a lease after learning that we can build out or renovate their space quickly and cost-effectively to their exact requirements."

During lease negotiations, W&M Construction plays a key consultative role, providing comprehensive estimates on what work needs to be done, how much it will cost, how long it will take, and in what sequence it will be carried out. At W&M buildings — and in most cases, at other properties — these initial consultations are free of charge to prospective tenants.

"People often assume that construction plans come into play after a deal is done," says David Block, first vice president of CBRE. "In reality, construction plans can make or break a deal. But W&M Construction works with prospective tenants and their architects to go over plans and make suggestions on how to best use a space. That input is important to getting a lease signed."

Adds Al Gutierrez, vice president of CBRE, "W&M Construction has always been responsive to my clients' needs. W&M people recently worked with me on two leases and were instrumental in alleviating my clients' concerns. They made sure the projects came in on budget and on time."

W&M Construction does not work exclusively within the W&M Properties portfolio. In fact, its clients include a wide range of tenants, brokers, architects, building owners, hospitals, and community service organizations throughout Fairfield and Westchester Counties. Recent assignments include projects for Keane & Beane PC, Stamford Hospital, Sterling Investment Partners, L.P., Gartner, Inc., CB Richard Ellis, and the Cos Cob Fire Station — all outside of W&M's portfolio.

"We're taking on more and more substantial projects, while offering the best execution on the smaller ones," notes Mr. Yahn. "We're expanding into new areas, so it's an exciting time for us."

One result of this expansion was the recent appointment of Robert Lux as vice president. In his new role, Mr. Lux, who has 25 years of construction experience, will lead W&M Construction's Special Projects Group, which focuses on out-of-ground construction, institutional and public projects, and hospital work. Mr. Lux also will spearhead the company's activities in Fairfield, New Haven, and Westchester Counties.