An experienced builder who works only for you.
An owner’s representative is your advocate, project manager, and translator through planning, design, construction, and move-in. You stay in control of the decisions. We handle the work of getting them right.
Owner’s rep vs. contractor vs. architect
Each role matters. Only one of them has no stake in what the project costs.
| Responsibility | Owner’s rep (VogelKC) | General contractor / CM | Architect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who they work for | You, the owner | The owner, under a contract with its own margin | The owner, on design |
| Sets & defends total project budget | Yes | Construction cost only | Design fee & estimate input |
| Helps select architect & contractor | Yes | No | Contractor only, sometimes |
| Reviews pay apps & change orders for you | Yes | Submits them | Certifies, limited scope |
| Manages owner items (FF&E, IT, permits, moves) | Yes | No | No |
| Financial stake in construction cost | None | Yes | Sometimes (% fee) |
The owner’s side of the project, handled.
- 01
Feasibility & budget
Site, zoning, and program checks plus a total project budget with real contingency.
- 02
Team & contracts
Architect and contractor selection, scope sheets, bid leveling, and contract terms.
- 03
Design & cost management
Estimates and constructability reviews at each design milestone.
- 04
Construction oversight
Owner meetings, pay app review, change order control, and site observation.
- 05
Owner items & move-in
Furniture, IT, security, signage, and moving coordinated around the schedule.
- 06
Closeout
Punch list, turnover documents, warranties, and final accounting.
Owner’s representation questions
How much does an owner's representative cost in Kansas City?
Fees depend on project size, complexity, and how involved you want us to be. Full owner's representation is commonly priced as a fixed fee or a percentage of construction cost, while targeted services like a budget review or bid leveling are priced as a fixed scope. You'll always get a written proposal first.
Do I still need a general contractor?
Yes. We don't replace your architect or contractor. We make sure the team you hire delivers what you're paying for, and we manage the owner-side responsibilities you'd otherwise have to handle yourself.
Can you take over a project that's already under construction?
Yes. We'll start with a rapid review of the contract, budget, schedule, and open change orders, then give you a recovery plan and take over owner-side management.
Do you accept payments or referral fees from contractors?
No. We are paid only by you. That independence is the point of the role.
Starting a project in the Kansas City area?
Send a few details and we'll set up a free 30-minute project review. You'll leave with a clear list of risks, next steps, and what to ask your design and construction team.