Do you really know what you can build ?

Listings often feature unit counts based on zoning regulations, which may not reflect practical limitations such as height restrictions, setbacks, buffer zones, open space requirements, and parking needs. A massing study provides a more accurate representation by addressing these constraints, ensuring that your due diligence is comprehensive and reducing the risk of investing in a project that cannot meet your expectations or regulatory requirements.

A massing study offers a cost-effective and time-efficient approach to understanding a property’s development potential. It integrates construction costs, financing, and operational efficiency into the analysis, providing you with actionable insights quickly. While architects are essential for detailed design and project execution, a massing study provides the initial data needed to make informed decisions before engaging an architect. Architects typically become involved after the land acquisition and massing study stages.

A massing study is valuable for investors, realtors, landowners, and any stakeholders involved in property development. It is particularly useful for those who need to assess the land's capacity—such as the number of units and project size—as part of their due diligence process. By incorporating a massing study, stakeholders can create accurate financial proformas, evaluate deals more effectively, and make more informed investment decisions.

The massing study provides a detailed assessment based on current zoning regulations and constraints, but the final number of units or buildable square footage may vary slightly. This is because the study includes a pre-application meeting with city officials to confirm compliance with zoning laws and uncover potential encumbrances such as plat issues, road dedications, and easements. The massing study aims to offer a reliable estimate, with adjustments typically being minor compared to initial zoning calculations.

A massing study directly influences your financial projections by providing accurate estimates of buildable area, potential unit counts, and space allocation. This data helps in creating precise proformas, estimating construction costs, and evaluating the project's overall viability. By incorporating these insights early on, you can better understand the potential return on investment and financial feasibility of your project.

A massing study takes into account various factors including zoning regulations, building codes, site topography, environmental constraints, and infrastructure requirements. It also considers market conditions and construction costs to provide a comprehensive analysis of what can be feasibly developed on the property.

The duration of a massing study varies depending on the complexity of the site and the scope of the project. Generally, a massing study can be completed within a few days to a couple of weeks. This timeframe includes the analysis of zoning regulations, site assessments, and any necessary consultations with city officials.

Yes, a massing study can be adjusted if new information or regulatory changes arise. It is essential to stay informed about any updates in zoning laws, building codes, or site-specific conditions. Revisions to the massing study can be made to reflect these changes, ensuring that your project remains compliant and feasible.

The results of a massing study provide a solid foundation for negotiations by presenting a clear and detailed understanding of the property’s development potential. This information can be used to justify offers, assess the value of the land, and negotiate terms based on the feasibility and profitability of the proposed project. Having accurate data strengthens your position and supports informed decision-making during negotiations.