How can you establish trust and rapport with planners and regulators?

Working with the right city planners and regulators can really help shape a project. I recently collaborated with an extremely experienced city planner who helped shape our project for a better result for everyone involved. Together we visited past projects of his as well as failed projects that we wanted to avoid. Understanding what their core values are and the needs of the community too, are critical in the early concept phases. For this recent project on site affordable housing as well as open space were core initiatives. Because we were able to work together as professionals and the city planner understood the developers needs and perspective, we were able to create a unique project.

Certainly, a "strategic" approach to transparency in presenting the project dynamics will aid in building a trust-based relationship with regulators and the neighboring community. "Strategic" meaning one needs to present pertinent project details in such a way as to not get caught up in the weeds until you hear from the regulators/community and understand what their areas of focus will be. We work to make the decision making easier for the regulators by listening to their observations and priorities early in the process and then providing clear and concise responses to their priorities. Regulators will also be looking to hear solutions to community-based issues. Essentially, work to make it easy for the regulators to grant approvals.

Understanding the politics of the entity you are dealing with is critical. What is their vision? What do they believe? What have they done before? Research, understand, prepare, strategise, act. It's also essential to know whether your proposal will be controversial or attract undue attention in the media and community. Prepare for this. Attend pre-application meetings to assess the situation and to gather more information before making your Authority application.

Building a relationship takes time, so it's important to be mindful of that 🫱🏽🫲🏼 In one instance, we entered a new market with a project that was expected to take 24 months to complete. During the planning phase, we introduced ourselves to the county liaison and began to lay the foundation of our relationship. A few months later, we had some issues getting a permit, so we reached out and she was able to advise who we should speak to and offered to speak to them herself (they worked in the same building). Had we only reached out when there was a problem, I'm not sure we would have received the same response. People like to help people they like, so try to be friendly and show them that your interests are truly aligned.

To establish strong relationships with planners and regulators, you need to invest time, effort, and dedication. Attending industry events, leveraging social media platforms, partnering with other professionals, being transparent and honest, and following through on your commitments are some of the effective ways to build trust and rapport with these professionals and increase your chances of success.

Understand Their Perspective: Familiarize yourself with the roles, responsibilities, and challenges that planners and regulators face. Understanding their objectives, constraints, and regulatory frameworks can help you approach them with empathy and insight.

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To build trust and rapport with planners and regulators, practice open communication, understand their perspectives, hold regular meetings, adhere to compliance and ethical standards, respond promptly, solve problems collaboratively, acknowledge their expertise, provide educational resources, and build personal connections. In addition, establishing a feedback mechanism where planners and regulators can voice their concerns or suggestions regarding the project. Actively addressing this feedback demonstrates your commitment to collaboration. By employing these strategies, you can effectively establish trust and rapport with planners and regulators, paving the way for smoother project facilitation and successful outcomes.

Always be transparent and honest and demonstrate a good level of knowledge and professionalism. Use your past experiences to shape the future and be prepared to listen to other peoples ideas.

City planners and staff can be skeptical based on a perception that developers disdain land use rules and planning generally. I make sure to express respect for the people and the rules and I acknowledge the challenges and importance of their roles. Also, a thoroughly researched and clearly written presentation that recognizes any rules or limits but addresses every detail reflects respect for the process which goes a long way in building rapport.

Always be transparent and honest. No fluff or garbage corporate words to cover up and fill spaces. Saying "I don't know but let me get back to you by x" is one of the most important things anyone in development can learn. Also no one likes a know it all, they are annoying. Back up your points with data, proactively answer the questions that you know they'll ask anyway because then you can focus on what's really needed to drive decision making. Don't waste time, don't complain - everyone has their own frustrations and they aren't responsible for solving yours. Be proactive, come with solutions and ideas, not problems. Be timely in comms when it comes to issues, I've yet to see a development that doesn't have challenges.

Establish clear, open, and honest communication from the outset. Be transparent about your project goals, timelines, and potential challenges. Consistent and truthful communication builds trust.

In the dynamic realm of real estate development, cultivating strong relationships with planners and regulators is integral to success. 1. Transparency is Key: Be straightforward and honest in your communication.If there's uncertainty, admit it, and commit to providing accurate information. 2. Humility Goes a Long Way: If faced with a question you cannot answer immediately, promise to follow up by a specific deadline. 3. Data-Driven Decision Making: Planners and regulators often rely on evidence to support decisions. By providing relevant data, you can contribute to informed decision-making processes. By embodying these principles, real estate developers can enhance and navigate regulatory landscapes more effectively.

To say “ I don’t know “ sometimes it is the most professional attetud “ instead of saying things that you are not sure or for convincing the other

Es muy importante vivir con una premisa clara, la reputación tarda una vida en mantener y un solo momento en arruinarse. Nunca mientas o exageres o prometas aquello que no sabes con certeza si vas a poder hacer o cumplir. Una vez te haces de "una mala fama" puedes causar consecuencias de por vida, así que aprende a escuchar, analizar y solo hablar cuando estes seguro y sepas que es verdad y que podrá cumplirse.

Maintaining open lines of communication is paramount. Regularly update planners and regulators on the project's progress, addressing any concerns promptly. Emphasize collaboration, showing a willingness to work together to resolve issues and optimize outcomes. Acknowledge potential challenges and propose proactive solutions. Additionally, foster a culture of accountability, assuring stakeholders that you take responsibility for the project's impact and are committed to adhering to regulations. This approach builds credibility, reinforcing the idea that your project aligns with shared goals and values within the community.

This is very true I agree to agree that clarity and honest are amongst the ways we as service providers can build trust in our expected end consumer.

Being transparent is essential, and is very likely why I have clients going bac k as far as 41+ years. It also is helpful with local, state, and national authorities.

Absolutamente, la transparencia y la honestidad son fundamentales en cualquier interacción con planificadores y reguladores. Establecer una comunicación abierta contribuye a construir relaciones sólidas y a abordar cualquier problema de manera efectiva.

I have dealt with administrative agencies that regulate my clients’ rights for decades. I am an aggressive advocate for my clients. But it is imperative that regulators can rely on your positions as legally viable. In negotiations, it is imperative that regulators can trust your representations and commitments. I believe that I’ve achieved both components. As a result, I’ve been able to reach many negotiated resolutions with regulators that resolve disputes in a fair and equitable manner.

be honest, be upfront, and be communicative. Our job is to make sure your project gets done right, not to put unnecessary or unreasonable obstacles in your path. If we say 'no' there is likely a very good reason, and chances are we will follow the no with 'but here's an alternative way to do what you want that meets code.' we want your project to succeed if it's a good project; there's no benefit to shutting a good project down just because 'someone doesn't like it'!

Engaging regulators with a professionally composed team not only demonstrates seriousness but also lends additional credibility and weight to your concerns and proposals. It is a common frustration among planners and regulators to field queries from individuals who lack a fundamental understanding of the relevant codes and regulations. A well-prepared team effectively mitigates this issue, fostering a more productive and respectful dialogue.

Once one is grateful and appreciative of the work output and expectation, then there shall be a multitude of steps covered towards the right direction.

Honesty, professionalism transparency. Remember you dealing with people. never try to pull the wool over the anyone's eyes. Prepare and never over promise.

Having a respectful and appreciative relationship with planners and regulators is key in making sure that they will be respectful and work hard on behalf of your clients. Making it "us against them" is never helpful. Understanding that you're on the same team, hopefully working towards the same goal, and acknowledging their hard work can go a long way in moving any project along.

To demonstrate respect and appreciation for planners and regulators, maintain a polite and courteous demeanor. Actively listen to their feedback, concerns, and suggestions, and acknowledge their perspectives. Express gratitude for their collaboration and recognize their valuable contributions. Building positive relationships with them will foster effective communication and cooperation.

I’m always honest and upfront with them. If they raise an objection I always ask why and how would they suggest I resolve it. It’s always better and easier to solve the problem the way they recommend.

Recognizing the challenges faced by planners and regulators is key to fostering positive interactions. Acknowledge their busy schedules, the demands on their time, and the complexities they navigate. Show genuine respect and appreciation for their expertise. Approach interactions with politeness and courtesy, steering clear of rudeness or aggression. Listen actively to their feedback and concerns, acknowledging diverse points of view. Express gratitude for their cooperation and collaboration, recognizing the significance of their contributions and achievements. Building rapport and showing understanding lays the groundwork for constructive engagements in the real estate realm.

Pas de jugement, ni d’attaque personnelle, la diversité des opinions est la base d’un réseau collaboratif qui doit permettre l’échange et l’écoute

Many municipalities are dealing with lack of affordable housing or housing in general. Research proposed urban boundary changes, zoning changes and tax incentives in your area to understand the city governments goals before proposing a project. An angle of mutual benefit will be much better received.

Involve community members and stakeholders in the planning process. This can lead to better project outcomes and demonstrates commitment to the community’s interests.

El ganar - ganar, existe. Siempre ha existido, pero debido a la información de internet y otros medios esto se ve aún más necesario en las decisiones o compras. Cuando el cliente desea un servicio o producto, previamente ya hizo una indagación, ya conoce incluso, la respuesta a lo que te preguntará. El ganar - ganar no solo te dará un cliente, sino un sin fin de compras de la mismas personas y sus referidos por la confianza y estabilidad que le brindas.

Before meetings, be well-prepared with all necessary documentation, plans, and data. Demonstrating that you are informed and organized can significantly increase your credibility.

Understand what each party is looking to achieve before the meeting so you can identify what matters most to both parties and where compromises can be made to get results.

The concept of mutual benefits and solutions for all is way rooted in trust and rapport with planners and regulators, by seeking out for then as partners and allies.Demonstrating how value is added to community, environment, or economy, and how it aligns with all the vision, mission, and standards; By Identifying common ground and shared interests, and emphasize them our discussions and negotiations, these being about mutual benefits and solution a step closer to being achieved.

One challenge here in the Greater Toronto area is that it is increasingly difficult to built affordable housing due to rising costs and decreasing revenues. Further, we have some of the longest approval periods in the world which adds to carrying costs. Municipal planners do not care about project feasibility, they feel it is not their problem. However, if they want to tackle the affordability issue, they should care about feasibility. How can they help? Allow more density, expedite approval periods and offer incentives (ie remove development charges) for projects with affordable housing. This will lead to better housing supply and in turn, better affordability.

Approaching planners and regulators as partners rather than adversaries is crucial for successful collaboration. Highlighting the mutual benefits of our project and its alignment with the community's goals is key. Emphasizing shared interests and values strengthens our position as allies. We're committed to demonstrating the value our project adds to the community, environment, and economy, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with their vision and standards. Flexibility, compromise, and innovative problem-solving are our cornerstones, ensuring a harmonious and mutually beneficial partnership.

This is communication at its best. Stay in communication during construction and after. Planners and community boards need on going input and support.

Rapport is the main essence of why we do our work, after there has been delivered services, how do we make sure that tomorrow when we approach the same office there is clarity and chance between the two parties.

Thank you. It's about building a relationship and taking that personally. Also be nice because you never know who is going to work for, with or by you. Also honesty goes long

Information flow with value-add feedback is crucial to keeping a team dedicated and motivated on tricky assignments or arduous tasks.

To maintain trust and rapport with planners and regulators, follow up and follow through on commitments. Keep them informed regularly, promptly respond to queries, and deliver on promises. Adhere to rules and regulations, and communicate any delays or difficulties promptly. Be proactive and transparent to build strong relationships.

Always try follow up and meet them 1st thing in the morning. Try meet be at their offices 15 min before they open. Also be respectful and not pushy

Follow up, follow up, follow up... You’re going to get a lot more no’s than yes’s. The people who are most successful understand there’s a fortune in following up. Sometimes we do business on the first contact, sometimes it’s the tenth. I made an offer on a property one time and the seller didn't seem very motivated after hearing the offer. After a month, I figured I'd follow up since I hadn't heard a definitive NO from them last time we spoke & it was a property I really wanted near others I own. Come to find out their computer had crashed a few days later and they lost all my contact info, and had been trying to remember how to contact me. Contract re-sent, locked it up and still own it today! Never assume its a NO until it’s a NO!!

Esa es una recomendación clave. La comunicación constante y la transparencia son esenciales para mantener una relación positiva con los planificadores y reguladores. Cumplir con los compromisos y ser proactivo en la gestión de cualquier problema contribuye significativamente a la confianza mutua.

El seguimiento no se basa es preguntarle si comprará o no, sino en resolver las dudas y preocupaciones que previamente ha indicado mediante una llamada telefónica, una visita al proytecto o a la empresa. Significa preguntar, incluso por su trabajo si indicó que tenía un proyecto que requiere de su tiempo o incluso compartirles datos que beneficiarán la decisión de tranquilidad y respuesta. El seguimiento es no crear clientes, sino amigos.

The first thing is to understand their respective functions and their painpoints. Secondly religiously follow their rules. Following rules and regulations is one way to win trust and build rapport. And lastly, learn how to be a effective communicator. Saying only whats needed. Remember less spoken yields more. Ta!

Know the regulations before starting any project. Having a clear understanding of what to expect can help you avoid frustration, and unnecessary delays and costs.

Continuous engagement and communication is key in keeping the authorities updated, consulted and informed achieves wonders as it gives the message that they are part of the project and have involvement in its development.

There is one thing that I recommend about all when engaging with regulators: Engage EARLY and PROACTIVELY. Initiate early engagement with planners and regulators during the project planning phase. Attend community meetings, public hearings, and regulatory workshops to understand stakeholders' concerns and regulatory requirements. Proactively seek feedback and guidance from planners and regulators to address potential issues and mitigate risks upfront. Don't wait for feedback, seek it.

Proven track-record and consistency. It is very essential to build credibility through past works and consistently deliver as promised. To be thorough with guidelines and innovate around it will help maintain the said credibility. To unite and collaborate for reforms beneficial to all is equally essential.

Proven track-record and consistency. It is very essential to build credibility through past works and consistently deliver as promised. To be thorough with guidelines and innovate around it will help maintain the said credibility. To unite and collaborate for reforms beneficial to all is equally essential.

These five points seem to be the cornerstone of professionalism and high emotional intelligence. In a world of digitization and impersonal modes of communication, the 'human touch' still trumps all. People crave authentic interpersonal engagement now more than ever, so take the time to know something about who you are talking to that you need something from, and be interested in building longstanding authentic relationships that go the distance in your personal and professional life. People read through hard selling and manipulative behavior, so at your core, you should strive to really be doing your work and collaborating with others for a greater purpose that allows for both parties to benefit

Success in planning and regulatory compliance hinges on strategic team composition and preparation. Essential is the inclusion of experts like architects, civil engineers, or land-use attorneys who interpret complex regulations, clarifying negotiable aspects for project compliance. Prior research is vital, ensuring informed discussions about property opportunities and constraints. A professional team boosts credibility, avoiding common pitfalls of uninformed queries and enhancing dialogue with planners and regulators. This approach, focusing on team expertise and thorough preparation, greatly increases the likelihood of favorable development outcomes.

Antes de establecer una estrategia con planificadores y reguladores, deberá analizarse la regulación aplicable al desarrollo inmobiliario de acuerdo a su ubicación en materia de ordenamiento territorial y desarrollo urbano. No es recomendable pretender establecer fórmulas generales pues la normatividad en estas materias dependerán del país, régimen nacional, gobierno estatal y gobierno municipal o ayuntamiento de que se trate. Por ejemplo, los procesos y normas de regulación y planificación aplicables en el Condado de Orange en Florida, U.S.A., serán totalmente diferentes a los aplicables en la Alcaldía Benito Juárez en la Ciudad de México por lo que las estrategias hacia las instancias planificadores y reguladoras serán diferentes.