What's a Construction Advocate?
A construction advocate is 100% on your side during a remodel or build. Your contractor works for himself, your architect works on the design, an advocate works only for you. Part advocate, part concierge, I make sure the work is done correctly, the budget holds, and nobody cuts corners.
Where the role comes from
Big commercial projects have had this seat at the table for decades. The industry calls it an owner's representative, and no developer builds a $40 million property without one. Homeowners spend a considerable amount of money on construction with nobody in that seat. I brought the role to residential projects on the Treasure Coast because the need is underserved.
What an advocate actually does
Before a project begins, I vet the contractors: licenses, insurance, references, past work. When the bids come in, I review every line and describe what's fair, what's padded, and what's missing. During construction, I coordinate every trade in the right order, inspect the work, track every dollar, and manage the schedule. At the end, I handle the final walkthrough and the paperwork that protects you.
What an advocate is not
I'm not your contractor, and I don't replace them. I don't build, I don't sell materials, and I don't take referral fees from anyone I recommend. There's no markup hiding anywhere in my model.
When you need one, and when you honestly don't
If you're painting two rooms or swapping a water heater with a contractor you already trust, you don't need an advocate. If you're opening walls, moving plumbing, coordinating multiple trades, or living out of state while the work happens, that's when an advocate is necessary.
What this looks like on the Treasure Coast
Permit processing times vary depending on the location and scope of the project. I can recommend a permit expediter if necessary. Windows, doors, and roofs have to meet Florida's hurricane code, and products without the right state approvals fail inspection. The good contractors are overbooked during the season.
Who wrote this
I'm Miriam Cala-Morrissette, the construction advocate and concierge behind Peaceful Projects in Stuart. I spent 30 years in construction project management before starting this business.
Quick answers
Is a construction advocate the same as an owner's representative?
Yes. Owner's representative is the industry term, mostly heard on commercial jobs. Construction advocate says the same thing in plain English. Both mean one professional working only for the owner.
Does an advocate work with my contractor or replace them?
With them. Your contractor builds, I watch, coordinate, and protect.
The next step
If you're thinking about a project, start with a complimentary Project Assessment. I'll come to your home, walk the project with you, and give you an honest picture of what it'll take. No cost. No obligation. No sales pitch.
Book Your Complimentary Assessment