How RAM Realty Advisors Uses OnsiteIQ to Improve Construction Oversight and Drive Results

Introduction

RAM Realty Advisors, based in Chapel Hill, NC, specializes in multifamily and retail developments. Their portfolio spans multiple projects, emphasizing strategic investments backed by a nimble operating model. What sets RAM apart is its dual focus: maintaining SEC-compliant financial structures while ensuring hands-on project execution. Scott Kross, VP of Construction, oversees project progress across sites, leveraging decades of construction experience to ensure operational efficiency.

Challenge

Before adopting OnsiteIQ, RAM Realty Advisors (RAM) faced several critical challenges that hindered efficiency and transparency in their construction projects. As an owner-operator relying on external building teams, RAM had limited visibility into field operations, making it difficult to track real-time progress or hold contractors accountable. Disputes with contractors over schedule delays and claims often required contentious negotiations due to the absence of clear and consistent documentation. The reliance on manual photo documentation further compounded these issues, as field teams struggled to capture a comprehensive and accurate visual record, leading to missed opportunities for proactive problem-solving. Additionally, costly schedule delays, such as missed Certificate of Occupancy (CO) deadlines, posed significant financial risks, with penalties reaching up to $30,000 per day.

“OnsiteIQ has enhanced my credibility with our development team—almost to a 'wizard-like' level. The data speaks for itself, making it easier to justify timelines and underwriting decisions. It’s a powerful solution for keeping projects on budget and on time.”
— Scott Kross, Vice President of Construction, RAM

Solution

RAM partnered with OnsiteIQ in late 2019, addressing these challenges with a scalable and advanced solution. With OnsiteIQ, consistent 360-degree site documentation ensured full-coverage walkthroughs that replaced inconsistent manual photography with time-lapse photo tracking, enabling the team to monitor progress and verify milestones more effectively.

An added bonus came with its platform, OnsiteIQ Momentum™, which introduced momentum tracking and trendline analysis, providing actionable insights into RAM’s project schedules. This allowed the team to detect potential delays early and proactively mitigate risks. OnsiteIQ also streamlined regulatory compliance by enabling virtual inspections, helping RAM navigate critical last-minute challenges and avoid costly penalties. RAM has been able to not only improve operational oversight but also strengthen relationships with contractors, who viewed the platform as a collaborative asset rather than a monitoring tool.

“OnsiteIQ saved us $400,000 in a dispute with a contractor by providing clear, time-stamped visual documentation of their lack of progress. It’s one of the best tools we have for managing contractors and holding them accountable. This platform is some of the cheapest insurance you can get.”
— Scott Kross, Vice President of Construction

“Using OnsiteIQ has been a game changer for RAM Realty Advisors. The comprehensive job site documentation and construction monitoring helped us identify issues early and resolve disputes with contractors, saving us $400,000 on a past project.”
— Scott Kross, Vice President of Construction, RAM

Results

Cost Savings in Disputes

In a 2019 dispute, OnsiteIQ’s documentation capabilities helped RAM contest a contractor’s claims of timely progress. By showcasing the lack of progress through a detailed timeline, RAM saved approximately $400,000 in conflict resolution.

In another instance, RAM was billed by the contractors for site damage that turned out to be their failure to create proper site drainage. OnsiteIQ demonstrated that the contractor failed to secure the site, which caused a costly issue. This saved RAM an additional $70,000 in change orders.

“We had a contractor claim extra costs for removing mud, but by using OnsiteIQ’s documentation, we proved the issue stemmed from their failure to build proper diversion ditches. That saved us $70,000. OnsiteIQ gives us the evidence we need to hold contractors accountable.”
— Scott Kross

Avoided Schedule Penalties

OnsiteIQ enabled RAM to conduct a critical inspection virtually when an electrical inspector couldn’t physically access completed areas. By showing historical records through OnsiteIQ, RAM obtained a CO on time, avoiding a $30,000 per day penalty.

Improved GC Relationships

Contractors viewed OnsiteIQ as a partnership tool rather than a surveillance mechanism. For example, GCs proactively used OnsiteIQ during inspections to resolve issues efficiently.

“Contractors see OnsiteIQ as a partner in problem-solving rather than as a tool for criticism.”
— Scott Kross

Enhanced Budgeting and the Underwriting Process

OnsiteIQ’s scalable pricing model allowed RAM to embed the service into project budgets early. The visibility provided during the underwriting process also improved RAM’s ability to predict realistic completion timelines and ensure better financial planning.

Reduced Risk and Improved Efficiency

By eliminating manual photo documentation, OnsiteIQ saved hours of fieldwork and enhanced data reliability. Scott’s team used trend analysis to re-sequence work, ensuring timely completion of critical milestones.

“OnsiteIQ is more than just a monitoring tool—it’s a strategic investment. By tracking milestones, identifying trends, and improving transparency, it has saved us significant time and money on multiple projects.”
— Scott Kross, Vice President of Construction, RAM

Conclusion

OnsiteIQ has become an indispensable part of RAM Realty Advisors’ operations, delivering quantifiable value in cost savings, risk mitigation, and operational efficiency. By fostering transparency and collaboration, OnsiteIQ empowers RAM to consistently deliver projects on time and under budget.