What characteristic of the owner/client may influence construction costs?

The characteristic of the owner/client that most directly influences construction costs is the design requiring high standards of quality. When a client prioritizes high-quality materials and craftsmanship, this significantly affects the overall budget for a project. High standards typically lead to the selection of premium materials, specialized construction techniques, and may necessitate skilled labor, all of which can increase costs.

High-quality designs often involve more rigorous specifications, adherence to exacting standards, and potentially longer timelines for completion due to the meticulous nature of the work. This focus on quality can also lead to higher costs for procurement and project management, as there may be a need for greater oversight and coordination to ensure that all aspects meets the client's requirements. Therefore, the overall financial impact of a commitment to high-quality design is substantial, making it a crucial factor in determining construction costs.

In contrast, while elements like the number of employees or proximity to suppliers might have some relevance to costs, they do not directly influence the inherent quality standards that dictate significant budget considerations the way that design priorities do. Funding sources can affect the feasibility of the project but are less tied to the actual costs associated with the quality required in the construction process.