Why Developers Are Turning to Multi-Trade Teams

A growing number of developers are rethinking how they approach subcontracting and for good reason.

In today’s fast-paced construction landscape, traditional methods are falling short. Tight deadlines, shifting scopes, and labor coordination challenges are just a few hurdles developers face. With decades of boots-on-the-ground experience, we know firsthand how hard it can be to keep projects on time, on budget, and free from surprises.

So what’s the solution?

More developers are discovering the power of working with multi-trade subcontractors and seeing serious results.

What Is a Multi-Trade Subcontractor and Why It Matters

A multi-trade subcontractor is exactly what it sounds like: a construction partner who brings several trades under one roof. At TenM, we streamline the process by managing framing, roofing, siding, finish carpentry, and more, all in-house.

Our model consolidates coordination, simplifies timelines, and protects your bottom line. When you work with TenM, you’re dealing with fewer subcontractors, fewer emails, fewer headaches, and one single point of accountability. That means no finger-pointing, no scope confusion, and no preventable delays.

Unlike traditional subcontracting models that silo trades and increase margin stacking, our integrated team functions as one cohesive unit from start to finish - estimating, scheduling, executing, and solving in real time.

TenM Leading the Multi-Trade Movement on the East Coast

From Upstate New York to Florida, TenM Construction has become a trusted name in premium commercial and residential building. Our multi-trade structure gives general contractors and developers a major advantage on complex jobs. By owning more scopes as a shell contractor, we simplify communication and keep crews aligned, leading to better quality, faster execution, and less risk.

The TenM Construction team installing custom millwork in Skaneateles, NY.

Real-World Example: How TenM Delivered for a Multifamily Project in Virginia

Let’s take a real example: the Virginia Greens multi-family housing project in Williamsburg, VA.

When we were brought onto the job by long-time GC partner Mike G., we were awarded framing, roofing, siding, finish carpentry, and interior trim. Thanks to our integrated structure, we hit every milestone on time, with no trade conflicts or change order chaos.

“They came in with enough manpower to get the job done and in the timeline I needed,” Mike says. “Multi-trade is so attractive to general contractors because it takes off the stress of managing everyone on the job site. So much easier having one company to communicate with.”

That’s what it’s about: predictable execution, high-quality work, and smart solutions that protect your schedule and your sanity.

TenM Construction took on framing, roofing, siding, finish carpentry and interior trim at a multifamily build in Virginia.

How TenM Cuts Time Without Cutting Corners

Here’s where our model really shines. Our internal coordination eliminates the common issues that slow projects down.

Estimating: Our cross-trade estimating team identifies scope overlaps and gaps early, saving time and budget down the line.
Pre-Construction: We catch drawing mismatches and installation conflicts before boots hit the ground.
Construction: Because our crews are used to working together, we keep projects moving without delay or rework.

The result? A build that’s not just fast, but also clean, coordinated, and built to last.

The Business Case for Developers & GCs

Still weighing your options? Here’s the bottom line.

Faster delivery = faster revenue.
Fewer change orders = fewer headaches.
One point of contact = more control.
Less risk = more profit.

“I’ve been working with Gary and his team for 9 years and give them more with each project because they have the manpower to get the job done efficiently and on time,” says Mike. “They’ve got the connections, backup plans, and solutions if something does arise. There are no delays.”

That’s the kind of reliability developers need and why multi-trade teams are quickly becoming the new standard.

The Future of Subcontracting Is Integrated

At TenM Construction, we’re not just a subcontractor, we’re your multi-trade partner. From concept to completion, we work side-by-side with general contractors, developers, architects, and investors to bring your vision to life with less waste, less risk, and more reward.

If you're still managing four or five subs for every job, it’s time to rethink the old way. Multi-trade isn’t just efficient, it’s essential.