Developers Cost Planning & Project Management
CM3 Consultancy provides cost planning, commercial support and project management services for SME property developers across Essex and the surrounding areas.
We work alongside developers and their professional teams from early feasibility through to practical completion, providing structured cost advice, financial control and hands on project oversight. Our role is to support informed decision making, reduce risk and protect development margins throughout the life of a project.
A Structured Approach to Developer Support
Development projects require clarity at each stage. CM3 Consultancy structures its developer services around four key areas, allowing our involvement to be tailored to the specific needs of each scheme while maintaining continuity and control from start to finish.
Development Appraisal and Feasibility
Early stage advice is critical to establishing whether a scheme is viable. CM3 Consultancy supports developers at concept stage by providing realistic cost intelligence to inform land appraisals, feasibility studies and funding discussions.
This stage focuses on identifying key cost drivers, assessing development risk and establishing an initial budget framework that supports sound commercial decisions before significant design or planning costs are incurred. Our input at this stage helps developers proceed with confidence or reassess a scheme before exposure increases.
Developers Commercial Support
During procurement and construction, CM3 Consultancy provides commercial support to help developers maintain control of costs, variations and financial risk. We monitor expenditure against the agreed cost plan, manage change control and provide clear cost reporting throughout the build.
This service is particularly valuable for developers managing multiple schemes or those requiring independent oversight of main contractor performance and supply chain costs. Our role is to protect the developer’s commercial position and ensure that financial decisions are supported by accurate and timely information.
Cost Planning and Design Development
As a scheme progresses through concept and technical design, CM3 Consultancy provides structured cost planning aligned with the RIBA stages. We develop starting line cost plans and detailed schedules of works that reflect the evolving design, procurement strategy and build methodology.
This service ensures that design development remains commercially aligned with the agreed budget, reducing the risk of cost drift and late stage redesign. Our cost plans are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect design changes, market conditions and procurement decisions, providing a reliable financial reference point for developers, consultants and funders.
Construction Management
CM3 Consultancy provides full construction and project management services. This includes overseeing programme, coordinating consultants and contractors, and managing progress through to practical completion.
This service supports developers who require a higher level of hands on involvement to ensure that projects are delivered efficiently, in line with programme and in accordance with agreed commercial objectives. Our approach is practical and delivery focused, with clear communication throughout the construction phase.
Developer Cost Plan Fees
| Project Value |
Concept Design Starting Line Cost Plan |
Technical Design Schedule of Works / Cost Plan Development |
Developers Commercial Support Extent of Work and Fee to be Agreed |
Construction Management Extent of Work and Fee to be Agreed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| £1m | £750.00 | £1,400.00 | 2% - 4% (of Construction Cost) | 5% - 10% |
| £1m - £2m | £1,100.00 | £2,400.00 | 2% - 4% | 5% - 10% |
| £2m - £3m | £1,500.00 | £3,000.00 | 2% - 4% | 5% - 10% |
| £3m - £5m | £1,750.00 | £4,000.00 | 2% - 4% | 5% - 10% |
A Flexible Service, Aligned to Each Scheme
Not every development requires every service. CM3 Consultancy works with developers to agree the appropriate level of support based on project size, complexity and internal resource. Our services can be provided individually or as a coordinated package covering the full development lifecycle.
If you are planning a development or require professional cost planning, commercial support or project management, we would be pleased to discuss your project.
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Phone Number
+44 7950028006
Our Email
adriangibbs@cm3ltd.co.uk
Our Location
Chelmsford CM3
Our Services
CM3 Consultancy