Just what the doctor ordered

By Brian Berry

Whether you're a new dentist right out of school or a seasoned pro, now is the best time in years to build a new office. From the price of real estate to the cost of construction, everything is on sale. But before you make an appointment with a banker, it’s time to drill down and do your homework.

Here are a few tips that can save you a lot of time and money:

Shop around — When looking for the right construction company, look for one that gives you one-stop shopping. A company that has a relationship with realtors and knows the lay of the land can prevent you from choosing a location that’s either too expensive or won’t generate enough traffic to bring you success.

Experience — The number of years in business is only one way to measure a company. Finding a construction company that knows your area and the dental industry is critical. Because of the sluggish economy, many construction companies that have never built a dental office before are suddenly entering the market.

Check references — Good firms will have no problem supplying you with names and numbers of dentists they’ve built for in the past. Don’t be afraid to call a previous construction client and ask questions such as, “Were they on time and under budget?”

Beware of low bids — Everyone wants to save money. But some unethical builders will say anything to get your business and then figure out a way to make their profit once the project is underway.

Plan for success — Your new office should be large enough to comfortably accommodate the needs of your staff and patients. Don’t take on much more office space than you need or build one that can quickly become too small. A good construction company can help you plan for the future without busting your budget.

Stress-free building — Constructing a new office can be a stressful experience if you pick the wrong builder. You can’t run your practice if you’re constantly having to run over to check on your construction company. The only surprises should be good surprises. Each time you check on the project, it should be better than you expected.

The “wow factor” — Your office is your brand. The patient experience begins in the parking lot. A construction company experienced in building quality dental offices knows how to create a look and feel that patients will love from the minute they get out of their car.

The day your builder hands you the certificate of occupancy should be one of the happiest days of your life. Dentists are in the smile business and if you follow these steps, you’ll be wearing one throughout the whole process.

Author bio
Brian Berry is the president of MedTech Construction based in Rockwall, Texas. MedTech specializes in the design, construction, and renovation of dental offices across Texas and Georgia. For more information, visit: www.medtechconstruction.com.