Home builders are often working on more than one project at a time. In fact, that’s our goal isn’t it? To have a constant stream of projects and the capacity to take on all of them at once.

The problem is that oftentimes, we are quick to commit to new projects even when our companies are not yet that equipped to handle the onslaught of tasks and deliverables. So in this post, we’re focusing on practical tips on how to effectively juggle multiple home construction projects.

1. Preparation is king

Before you start on the construction of a home, it’s of utmost importance to be as prepared as you possibly can. Gather all the information that you need. Make sure that you’re complete with all of the permits and paperwork. Ensure that you and the client are on the same page in terms of expected results. Check if you have sufficient manpower to take on the project. Double check the financials. Set project milestones. Finalize your expected project completion date. You don’t head out into a war without the proper tools! Preparation 101 is the first step to any project.

2. Don’t leave broken windows

We’ve mentioned earlier that you should set milestones for each project. Window installations? Roofing? Waterworks and piping? Electricals? Make sure that they are set at a reasonable schedule. It’s a given that plans will change as the project progresses and schedules will have to adjust, but when we say don’t leave broken windows, it means, don’t leave problems unattended. No matter how small an issue is, make sure that it’s properly addressed. Even the smallest problems will snowball especially when we’re dealing with multiple projects at a time.

3. Set up a monitoring system

So you’ve already set a schedule and sometimes they need to be adjusted, now the key is to make sure that everything is constantly monitored. Set up a monitoring or report system that is accessible to key people in the project. This is good for accountability and quick status updates.

4. Proper information dissemination

Deadlines are often adjusted and we always have to deal with various delays in delivery or completion. Vendors or contractual employees can change in the middle of a project. Clients almost always change their minds about the most trivial details. As a project manager, it’s your job to ensure that these changes are properly communicated to the rest of your team. Don’t monopolize the information. Share them and gather everyone on the same page. This is crucial when you’re doing more than one project. We don’t want you getting confused either.

5. Delegate!

No man is an island. You are not Superman. There is no “i” in team. Delegate!

When you’re trying to juggle several projects at a time, you need to ensure that tasks are distributed to the proper key persons. A good leader knows how to instruct and motivate his followers. Your company will not grow if you refuse to let go of the reins. Let your people do their job. In fact, do your best to train people so that they can take over some of the high-level tasks as well. That way, you can focus on getting new projects and further expanding your construction business.

To check out the best tools for multiple project management, check out SAM and VIC.