EP 88 | Simplify Your Build: How Permit Professionals Save Time & Prevent Costly Delays | Ramie Elizondo

Feb 27, 2025

In this episode:

In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, host Curtis Lawson sits down with Ramie Elizondo of Permit Pros to discuss the crucial role of permitting in construction projects. This episode explores the value of having a dedicated permitting professional on your team, the common mistakes that can delay the process, and the strategies for navigating the complexities of permitting to ensure a smooth and efficient project start.

TOPICS COVERED:

  • The Value of a Permitting Professional: Understand the specialized knowledge and expertise that a permitting professional brings to a project, including their understanding of local regulations, relationships with city officials, and ability to navigate the permitting process efficiently.
  • Building Relationships: Emphasize the importance of building relationships with city officials and plan reviewers, highlighting the benefits of open communication, proactive collaboration, and a customer-service oriented approach.
  • Common Permitting Mistakes: Identify common mistakes that can delay the permitting process, such as incomplete or inaccurate applications, missing supporting documents, and overlooked code requirements.
  • The Importance of Checklists: Discuss the value of using checklists to ensure that all necessary information and documentation are included in the permit application, minimizing the risk of errors or omissions that can lead to delays.
  • Staying Current with Codes and Regulations: Highlight the importance of staying up-to-date on the latest building codes and regulations, and the role of a permitting professional in keeping track of changes and ensuring compliance.
  • Managing Expectations: Discuss the importance of setting realistic expectations with homeowners regarding the permitting timeline, acknowledging potential delays and communicating proactively to minimize stress and frustration.
  • The Impact of Technology: Explore how technology has transformed the permitting process, with many cities moving towards online platforms and digital submissions, and the importance of adapting to these changes and utilizing available tools effectively.
  • The Value of Teamwork: Emphasize the importance of a collaborative team approach to permitting, involving the architect, engineer, builder, and permitting professional in the process to ensure a coordinated and efficient effort.
  • The Benefits of Early Preparation: Discuss the advantages of starting the permitting process early, gathering necessary information and documentation in advance to avoid delays and ensure a smooth transition into construction.
  • The Importance of Due Diligence: Highlight the importance of conducting thorough due diligence on the property, including verifying flood plain status, zoning requirements, and any other site-specific considerations that may impact the permitting process.
  • The Role of the Homeowner: Discuss the homeowner’s role in the permitting process, emphasizing the importance of providing accurate information, making timely decisions, and communicating openly with the builder and permitting professional.

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GET IN TOUCH: 

Guests: Ramie Elizondon

Company: Permit Pros

Website: https://permit-pros.com/

 

Bonus:

  • Visit the Houston Permitting Center website to learn more about local regulations and requirements: https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/
  • Consult with a permitting professional to discuss your specific project needs and ensure a smooth and efficient permitting process.
  • Attend a permitting workshop or seminar to gain a deeper understanding of the process and learn about best practices

How to get in touch: Have questions about permitting, building codes, or other construction-related topics? Reach out to us at info@yourprojectshepherd.com.

About Our Guest: 

Ramie Elizondo is the owner of Permit Pros, a permitting and expediting company serving the greater Houston area. With her extensive knowledge of local regulations, strong relationships with city officials, and commitment to providing exceptional customer service, Ramie is a valuable resource for builders, architects, and homeowners navigating the complexities of the permitting process.

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Full Transcript