“The average client doesn’t understand that when you make one change, it affects lots of other plans,” he says.“And it delays the project very significantly.” In Grand Cayman specifically, changes that impact structural layouts, electrical, or plumbing often trigger the need for revised planning permissions—a process that can meaningfully slow down delivery. For that reason, customization tends to be limited to selections that don’t alter core systems, such as cabinetry or bathroom finishes, unless the project is structured from the beginning as a truly custom build. Thompson notes that he generally avoids full custom homes because they are often less efficiently planned and executed, making it difficult to deliver the “good product at a good price” that defines the company’s market position. RELATIONSHIPS THAT MAKE THE MODEL WORK Like many island-based construction environments, the supplier ecosystem is tight. Thompson points out that there are only a few local suppliers, and relationships are personal. Most business flows through real estate agents, which Thompson views as a practical advantage. While the company maintains a website and advertising presence, he believes buyers ultimately 20 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 13, ISSUE 02
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