Preconstruction Consulting Services

Trusted Consulting for Thriving Businesses with GMD Custom

Embarking on the build out of a new project is exciting but it can also feel overwhelming and we believe best way to set yourself up for success is through careful strategic planning.  GMD Custom is dedicated to the holistic success of individuals and their passion projects and has over 30 years of experience working directly with small business owners from the initial feasibility and space finding to lease negotiations for commercial tenant improvement projects through the completion and beyond. We are highly experienced in the design-build process and  helping business owners define their needs before putting ideas into physical plans that are code compliant at an affordable price point. 

With a proactive, problem solving mindset and years of experience we anticipate issues before they become a problem and find creative ways to solve problems in ways that satisfy all stakeholders.

 

We understand that permitting, bid analysis, inspections, technical specifications, and the construction process itself can feel overwhelming and complex. At GMD Custom, we’re committed to ensuring that business owners feel informed, involved, and supported at every stage. Our goal is to simplify the technical details and help our clients navigate what can often be a high-stakes and stressful period in their business journey. GMD Custom goes beyond construction to help equip our clients with the tools they need for long-term success. From identifying potential funding sources and connecting clients with trusted business professionals, to providing post-occupancy support, we’re invested in ensuring that your space and your business continue to thrive well beyond project completion.

 

Transparent Pricing and Accurate Bidding

When people begin searching for a general contractor, it's common to collect multiple bids from different companies to compare pricing. Unfortunately, these bids are rarely true apples-to-apples comparisons. Many contractors submit estimates based on the bare minimum scope of work, leaving out key issues or potential complications that can drive up costs once the project is already underway.

At GMD Custom, we take a different approach.

Rather than rushing into the bidding process, we work closely with our clients to ensure their architectural plans are as complete and detailed as possible. This allows contractors to provide accurate, transparent pricing based on the full scope of work—helping clients avoid surprises down the road.

​

Our goal is to prepare you for the real costs of your project from the beginning, including identifying potential challenges upfront so you can make fully informed decisions before construction starts. Drawing on decades of experience across a wide range of construction types, we perform a thorough analysis of both your project and your plans to set you up for success.

GMD Custom is often brought into projects during the pre-construction phase to serve as consultants, helping guide the overall direction and laying the groundwork for a successful outcome. Our focus is on ensuring that your project aligns with your goals, meets your operational needs, and stays within your budget.

Importantly, there’s no obligation to hire us as your general contractor after the pre-construction phase. Our role during this stage is to help set you up for success—whether you choose to continue working with us or find another contractor better suited to your preferences. Your project’s success is our priority.

 

Many of our clients have expressed their appreciation of the human-centered approach we bring to every engagement. Our clients feel we have their best interest in mind and we develop a trust and respect that is absent in many professional engagements. GMD Custom truly cares about the success and well being of their clients and strive to help their clients make the most of the budget they have for projects even when our best advice might not align with our own business interests. That integrity gives our clients confidence in making critical decisions about their spaces.

We also challenge the often-toxic culture of the construction industry by cultivating a collaborative, inclusive work environment. Our team is eager to learn, support one another, and contribute to a shared vision of success for everyone involved in our projects.

 

 

Commercial Preconstruction feasibility

Choosing the right location is one of the most critical decisions in any commercial project—and it’s not always as straightforward as it seems. Before committing to a space or starting the build process, GMD Custom can help assess the true feasibility of your project.

We evaluate key factors such as:

• Total power needs and whether electrical upgrades will be required

• The long-term condition and reliability of existing plumbing and electrical systems

• Code compliance considerations and potential permitting challenges

• Lease negotiations, helping you secure fair and transparent agreements with landlords

• Connections to Seattle’s top subcontractors, vetted through long-term partnerships

Our goal is to help you understand potential risks early, so you can make fully informed decisions that set your business up for long-term success. Many clients find that the small upfront investment in our preconstruction consulting pays for itself—saving both time and money while reducing stress by identifying and addressing issues before they impact the project.

 

Consulting Services

GMD Custom offers expert consulting services alongside our construction capabilities. We’ve worked with the City of Seattle directly, both as consultants and as contractors, and we serve as Commercial Space Consultants for the Office of Economic Development. Our team has also been deeply involved with the City of Seattle’s Cultural Space Agency, providing both construction consulting and general contracting services on multiple projects.

What sets GMD Custom apart is our ability to problem-solve in real time and develop creative, practical solutions when challenges arise. Our deep industry experience, combined with a flexible and solution-oriented mindset, allows us to help clients navigate complex projects with confidence.

 

 

At GMD Custom, we measure our success by the trust and satisfaction of the clients we serve. Here’s what some of our clients have had to say about working with us:

 

 

 

“Guy Davis, and GMD Custom, are deeply rooted in Seattle’s small business community, and have served not only as reliable general contractors, but as trusted advisors on multiple projects for City of Seattle’s Office of Arts & Culture and the City of Seattle’s Cultural Space Agency and I would recommend them with absolutely zero reservations.

Guys’s wisdom, expertise, and his true sense of allyship with community-based organizations and projects is invaluable.”

-Matthew Richter

City of Seattle Representative for The office of Arts and culture and Interim Director for City of Seattle’s Cultural Space Agency

​

​

​

"We have had the absolute pleasure of working with GMD Custom since 2021. They have gone above and beyond to meet all our needs. GMD custom comes with a wealth of all aspects of general contracting, project bids, commercial lease negotiation and we highly recommend them as a consultant for any project. 

GMD Custom has been amazing with communication, collaboration and cared for us and the building beyond what we could ask for."

-Crystal Brown

Executive Director of Cultivate South Park