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Context

A large component of the real estate industry is oriented to the ownership and management of a property portfolio. Real estate trusts are a major feature of this part of the market, joining pension funds and insurance companies as the primary landlords for commercial, industrial, multi-family residential and managed-care property portfolios. Effective management of these assets over time is the key business driver, balancing income with upgrading and maintenance of facilities over long periods of time. Our services are oriented to the physical assets.

Drivers and Outlook

We develop long-term asset management strategies to ensure that adequate funding is set aside for maintenance needs. We assist owners in improving operating efficiencies, through improvements in building engineering systems. We undertake condition assessments. We deal with environmental liabilities. We guide owners through the process of adapting to new code requirements. We address changing tenant requirements for parking, telecom facilities, on-site recreation and day-care. We address building health and safety concerns. And the list goes on. Our building services group, backed by others active in the diverse needs of real estate owners, can provide the long-term technical support to facility management specialists, we can assist owners in that outsourcing process, including scope definition, development of performance standards, managing the procurement process and auditing the performance of service providers.

Changing Client Needs

This sector of the industry is often involved in large-scale property transactions involving many facilities across Canada. During these, we are often called upon for due diligence services for purchasers. Our geographic coverage, breadth of expertise, size and ability to respond rapidly are distinct advantages.

And while most property and facility managers are focused on an existing portfolio of buildings, expansion or redevelopment of those facilities is required from time to time. Our full-service building design capability, involving architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical disciplines is fully available to support those needs, from feasibility through to construction management and commissioning.