#BIMfor Real Estate

In real estate, be it development or management, it is very vital to optimize processes at every stage, design, construction and maintenance of buildings. With BIM, numerous small gains in efficiency in different parts of the process ensure that the estates can be developed and managed in a cost effective and sustainable manner, ensuring value for the client over the life of the asset. Here, we highlight 7 benefits to be gained from implementing BIM in different sectors of real estate

1. Advanced Planning with cutting edge technology

With BIM, designers can create 3-dimensional models that show all of the planned systems and parts to be constructed and how they are positioned relative to each other. For example, Using a model displaying electrical and plumbing systems, with their positions relative to the structural columns and walls, designers can ensure that a clash like a pipe passing through a steel beam is avoided. For a developer who may have planned and is carrying out several developments using one plan, such an error, if missed during the design stage of the project can be the difference between success and failure of the project. The BIM manager helps oversee the digital platform and updates information on it as soon as changes occur on site, with the database of information easily updated, rather than creating new 2D documentation, with all the time it takes.

2. Time and cost savings

Using BIM, construction delays can be reduced and cost overruns eliminated. It also facilitates offsite prefabrication of building components, reducing project waste and increasing efficiency during construction. The Clash Detection capability of BIM reduces the need for Request for Information (RFIs) and change orders, thereby saving time and money. More time and cost savings are also achieved through BIM optimization (of quantities, etc), automation (of changes to design) and interoperability features which create a synergy between different professionals. 

3. Coordinated Building Maintenance and Management

BIM can be used for managing buildings as details in it can allow it to be used in place of physical inspection, particularly when product and/or part-specific information is presented in digital form. A detailed BIM model can be used to schedule maintenance of building parts so that there is no stoppage of work due to breakdown of building systems. For example, using manufacturer information on standby generators in a building, including warranty and scheduled maintenance, a building manager can schedule periodic maintenance to avoid possible damage to the generator. If parts are changed, these changes can also be updated in the model. This ability to improve the model continuously over the building life ensures that maintenance work on the building will always be done using up-to-date information.

4. Improved Risk Planning and Management

For large property developments, where multiple parties contribute during the design and construction phase, risks of unanticipated design and construction flaws and delays can easily be identified and mitigated using BIM. This can be achieved through the simulation of construction process on the model using all attributes related to cost, planning and scheduling. With this, Contractors can see what can and can't be done, and how to deliver the project at the least possible cost.

5. Energy optimization

With BIM, architects are able to predict energy costs and understand how the digital design will impact energy use during the life of the building.. This way, they are able to better plan a mixed of use of energy sources such as solar and electrical that is sustainable both by the building and the environment.

6. Asset valuation over the property life

The model can be used for cost segregation studies where asset values can be assigned to building systems and materials in the model, making it easier to write off the value of the capital investment over the period of the lease. With BIM, designers can put the asset code into the 3D element in the building during the modelling stage and then tell the model at the end of the project to give an asset schedule.

7. Better marketing and promotion enabled using 3D Visualisation

BIM models can be used for project fly-throughs during marketing and promotion. The As-Built model helps developers explain their project better to development officials and the community, giving them a better understanding and perspective of what is to be developed. This allows for more timely feedback from stakeholders and ensures that they all understand what is to be done before the project commences.

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