Why is Commercial Real Estate Market Space Listed as Class A, B or C?

Posted on May 29, 2020 by bafcorp20

The commercial real estate market often assigns a specific class to leased spaces. Such spaces are listed as either Class A, Class B, or Class C. If you are on the market to lease a new commercial property, be sure you understand the difference between each type of space class before you sign the contract. This will help you predict how the leasing terms might affect your business’s operations or overall success.

Continue reading to review some details regarding all three classes of commercial real estate, and where to get the best industry advice on commercial space planning.

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Class A

Class A commercial real estate is usually the higher end of the market. These are properties that retain the highest quality attributes. Such attributes typically include factors like location, local public services, surrounding infrastructure, building finishes and features, and even the competence of the property’s management group. Common areas where you will find Class A commercial real estate are city centers, business districts, suburban business parks, and urban marketplaces.

Although Class A space is more catered to higher profile tenants, as well as national or regional companies, they can also be well-suited for local businesses. Keep in mind, this is the highest-priced type of commercial real estate. For this reason, many business owners lease this type of commercial space.

Class B

As you can imagine, Class B commercial real estate is much similar to Class A, but just a step down. Several Class B properties are simply older Class A properties. In other cases, a commercial space might be listed as Class B because it offers less amenities than a Class A space, or its location is at the edge of areas like city centers and business districts. Additional areas that typically have Class B commercial spaces include high-end strip malls, outdoor malls, and smaller office complexes.

It is very common to turn a Class B space into a Class A space with the right commercial space planning and general contracting services. Compared to Class A, Class B properties come with a more lenient price tag. In fact, they are well-suited for those who want to open a studio space.

Class C

Class C commercial real estate is on the lower end of commercial space. It is generally the least preferred type of commercial property to lease. These properties are usually located in run-down areas of town, surrounded by urban and suburban markets. Very few Class C spaces are turn-key, so although they are the cheapest commercial real estate to lease or buy, they will most likely need extensive renovation, which costs money.

Because of their poor locations and lack of profitable amenities, Class C commercial properties are not well-suited for many types of businesses and industries, especially luxury businesses like Pilates studios and esthetician spas.

Indianapolis Commercial Space Planning and Construction Professionals

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial space planning and construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

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How to Cater to Club Members During a Fitness Center Remodel

Posted on May 26, 2020 by bafcorp20

When you have an upcoming renovation or remodel scheduled for your fitness studio, you don’t have to close the doors until the project is complete. It is common, and very reasonable, to remain open while your gym or studio is under minor construction. To be successful, simply come up with some ways you can keep your club members content during the process.

Continue reading to learn some tips on how to cater to your club members in order to keep them happy during a remodel.

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Plan Ahead

Every gym or fitness studio will need a remodel or renovation, eventually. When the time comes for you to remodel your space, take the good advice of professional commercial construction managers and plan ahead. This will guarantee an easier process for you, your contractors, and most importantly, your clientele. Inform your staff ahead of time, and then inform your members a week or two before the project commences.

Trust Your Design Build Team

Your commercial general contractors will know the best strategies and practices for establishing an efficient and workable timeline. Talk to them about their recommendations for streamlining the project and remaining cost-effective, while also minimizing disruption to members. For instance, if your studio is not open late, you might elect to have much of the work done in the evening, after hours. In some cases, nighttime labor is more costly, but in many cases, it is worth it since it cuts costs elsewhere.

Understand the Process

Get with your commercial contracting team and discuss each step of the process. Ask how long each stage will take and what it will consist of. By knowing what will happen at each stage of construction, you can better plan on how to cater to members and work around it all.

Consider Lead-Time Planning

Lead-time planning is the practice of ordering all necessary items and supplies for a remodeling job, prior to the construction start date. This strategy ensures everything needed will already be at your fitness center when the time comes for them to be applied. It is a common commercial construction strategy used to cut timelines and increase efficiency. It avoids having to wait on materials, which ultimately prevents unexpected and costly delays.

Beef Up Your Customer Service

During your fitness center renovation, it is likely that certain areas of the studio will be shut down, taped off, or inaccessible. Other areas might be accessible, but pose certain inconveniences. Either way, be prepared to hear some members complain. Talk to your staff ahead of time about this, and remind them to be good listeners and accommodate their complaints as best they can. You might want to instruct them on how to answer some predictable questions, such as “when will the remodel be done?”, “what is changing?”, and “will this increase membership costs?”

Communicate With Your Members

Prior to, during, and after your fitness center remodel, have an open line of communication with your members. Post signs, make class announcements, send emails, mail postcards, or use social media, to keep your clients informed of all construction start dates, progress, and completion times. It also helps to show members what the finished design will look like, so consider displaying a 3D model or poster to show what the finished results will be, and to build anticipation.

Fitness and Gym Construction Contractors in Indianapolis, Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation today at 317-253-0531 for commercial fitness and gym construction services you can trust. Whether you are looking to start a new fitness center, remodel an existing one, or simply move locations, our commercial general contractors have the economical workable solutions to get the job done right, the first time, on time, and within budget. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts.

Security Tips for Commercial Office Buildings

Posted on May 21, 2020 by bafcorp20

Building safety is more than just having a strong, protective structure that can withstand the forces of inclement and dangerous weather. In today’s modern world, there is a higher awareness of the threats and potential dangers around us. For this reason, commercial building safety now includes a vast scope of factors and considerations, from technological applications and AI, to security planning, protection, and more.

As a commercial office building owner, it is in your best interest to ensure your property is a safe and hazard-free environment for all. Whether you are planning a new build, or you wish to incorporate some security upgrades, there is no better time to get started than right now.

Continue reading to learn some tips for improving the security of a commercial office building.

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Commercial Building Security and Safety Planning

When it comes to building security, cameras and monitoring equipment are just the tip of the iceberg. It is important to apply a thorough design and quality construction plan to improve your property’s safety and security. A trusted and skilled commercial general construction management team can help you achieve this goal through comprehensive brainstorming, analysis, and preconstruction planning.

Here are some top, industry-endorsed tips and ideas to consider when deciding on building security renovations or improvements:

Parking Lots and Garages

Begin your security improvement planning outside in the parking lot or parking garage. Vehicles are potential weapons, and possible tools that can be used to commit crimes. For this reason, managing the traffic of vehicles on and off of your premises is an essential security consideration. It is suggested to incorporate types of parking lot and parking garage barriers to guide and direct traffic, as well as, prevent access to certain areas. Things like bollard posts, road markings, fences, barriers, and more can be strategically positioned in places that will provide enhanced security.

Building Access and Entrances

In addition to managing vehicular traffic on your property for the purpose of added safety and security, it is important to also apply the same security principles for foot traffic in and out of your commercial building. During your building security renovation planning, be sure to consider strategies to monitor or keep track of those who enter, exit, and access the building. Furthermore, strategies to prohibit building access, either for certain areas, certain individuals, or certain times, should also be considered. Things like turnstile areas, RFID key cards, badges, key fobs, and cameras have significant value. Cover all accessible and barred areas, such as roof access areas, maintenance rooms, utility rooms, stairwells, elevators, entry and exit doors, windows, break rooms, and outdoor gathering spaces like terraces, walkways, and courtyards.

Drywall Construction and Integrity

As mentioned, building security is more than just the strength of your building. However, the structural integrity of your property is still a vital part of your overall security plan. When considering renovations for improving your building’s safety and security, ask your commercial general contractor about the quality of your drywall and building materials. In the case of a natural disaster, fire, collision, or even gunfire, having strong walls can play a large role in resistance and recovery time. Building materials like brick and concrete make for the strongest of walls, while drywall is valuable in areas that do not require as much structural strength and endurance.

Reinforced Windows, Doors, and Glass

On the topic of quality building materials, another way to enhance your office building’s security is to ensure your doors and windows are secured. This is one of the simplest and straightforward methods of instantly improving your office’s security. By adding high-quality, innovative locking mechanisms on all accessible windows and doors is strongly recommended for all office buildings, regardless of size or occupancy. Furthermore, high-quality reinforced glass is another valuable upgrade to apply in your next commercial office building renovation.

Fire Protection and Safety

Protecting your building and its occupants against fires and hazardous smoke is a top priority, and even mandatory under local and state building codes. A state-of-the-art fire suppression and protection system should be in place, and fully-operational at all times. See our blog, “When a Commercial Renovation Should Include a Fire Suppression System Upgrade” to learn more about the importance of incorporating or enhancing a fire sprinkler and smoke alarm system.

Trusted Commercial Office Renovations in Indianapolis, Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted office and commercial-use construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Tips for Choosing Commercial and Industrial Paint Colors

Posted on May 18, 2020 by bafcorp20

As a proprietor of a commercial or industrial property, you are faced with the responsibility of choosing the proper paint colors and coding for certain areas and materials within your complex. Although you can apply your own personal preference or business’s culture to interior drywall and painting, some areas require more specific colors for the purpose of safety.

Continue reading to review some of the recommended commercial and industrial paint colors, what they signify, and how you can get started with a professional update or remodel.

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Safety Colors and Codes

There are several areas inside a commercial or industrial property that might pose certain dangers or risks. For this reason, they must be clearly marked to inform and warn everyone around. Everything from low ceilings and scaffolding, to first aid stations, dangerous machinery, emergency exits, and more, are just a few common areas that are generally painting in code. Common safety colors include yellow, blue, red, orange, purple, and green.

Here is a quick guide to some common examples of safety colors:

Yellow – Yellow can denote physical hazards like scaffolding, low beams, railings, and more. It can also be used to denote heavy machinery and material handling equipment, such as hoists and cranes.

Red – Red is often used to signify fire protection systems and materials, such as fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency exits. It is also commonly used for emergency stop buttons on heavy or dangerous machinery. Red is also the color of danger, and used to denote hazardous areas like safety barricades and dangerous materials.

Orange – Orange is commonly used to identify parts on machines that are dangerous, as well as, safety start and stop buttons, rollers, gears, and more.

Purple – Purple is a color mostly used to denote radiation dangers, such as burial storage rooms and contaminated cans or equipment.

Green – Green is used to signify first aid stations, safety kits, gas and oxygen masks, and similar medical care resources.

Blue – The color blue is mostly used to identify areas of electrical controls and systems, such as HVAC systems, compressors, high pressure pumps, ovens, and more. It is also used for special repair areas, like maintenance rooms and construction projects.

Pipe Colors and Codes

The ASA recommends using the colors yellow, red, blue, and green to mark certain pipes and piping systems. For instance:

Red – Fire suppression apparatuses and equipment, like extinguishers and sprinklers.

Yellow – Hazardous or toxic materials that are, or potentially, flammable, poisonous, corrosive, extremely high heat, or under extreme pressure.

Blue – Protective equipment and materials other than fire safety and suppression.

Green – Materials that are not poisonous nor hazardous, such as water, glycols, and similar moderately-tempered and pressured constituents.

Recommended Banding Colors and Codes

As a preferred industry standard, here are some suggested banding color codes for pipes in a commercial and industrial building:

Ammonia – Purple, Red, and Purple
Fuel/Oil – Yellow, Black, and Yellow
Gas – Yellow, Brown, and Yellow
Oxygen – Green Line and a Yellow Stripe
Compressed Air – Green, Aluminum, and Green
Steam/High-Pressure – White, Orange, and White
Steam/Low-Pressure – Orange, White, and Orange
Freon – Purple, Yellow, and Purple
Waste – Black Waste – Black

Commercial Painting and Drywall Contractors You Can Trust in Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial painting and drywall services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Whether you need new construction drywall installation, full-service interior painting, large-scale graffiti removal, or something in between, we are your solution to simple, effective, and affordable work you can trust. Our esteemed and experienced commercial general contractors serve corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, and throughout Central Indiana. Request free information or to schedule a consultation, anytime.

The Benefits of Natural Light in an Office Setting

Posted on May 14, 2020 by bafcorp20

Did you know that natural lighting can both increase productivity and enhance the overall well-being among employees and tenants in an office setting? Continue reading to learn all the proven benefits of incorporating natural light in your commercial office.

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Staff Fatigue and Contentment

According to a study performed by the esteemed HR advisory and research firm, Future Workplace, the number one office perk that employees really want is access to natural light and outdoor views. In fact, another study carried out by Northwestern University, “Impacts of Workplace Daylight Exposure on Sleep, Physical Activity and Quality of Life,” demonstrated that working in an environment without windows has a detrimental impact on staff, which happens to be a “universal phenomenon” among employees who work in such conditions.

The Future Workplace did a study and found that 47% of employees surveyed reported feeling fatigued as a result of an absence of natural light or without a window. Additionally, 43% of those surveyed reported feeling melancholy because the office setting did not have sufficient natural lighting or windows. You can argue that fatigue and gloominess can be higher in office settings in which staff are staring at a computer, tablet, or phone screen for 4 or more hours a day. Too much screen time causes staff to long for a visual break.

More Studies Support Natural Light Benefits:

A study done by Ergonomics International Journal showed that natural lighting has visual health benefits. 51% of those surveyed reported reduced eye strain, 63% reported reduced headaches, and 56% reported less drowsiness.

A study performed by the Space Place, “Daylighting and Productivity: A Study of the Effects of the Indoor Environment on Human Function,” suggests that staff is more likely to show up for work if they are siting near a window or have outdoor views in the office.

Another study done by The Center for Healthcare Design suggests that exposure to natural light and windows aids in recovery from surgery and illness.

A study performed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, “A Literature Review of the Effects of Natural Light on Building Occupants” suggests that natural lighting improves productivity, reduces workplace accidents, enhances mental performance, supports sleep quality, and even raises morale among third-shift workers.

Studies performed Human Spaces showed that being close to natural elements like foliage and sunlight increased well-being and creativity among staff by 15%, and overall productivity by 6%.

According to Carbon Trust, resource efficiency experts, their recent study showed that 40% of a property’s electricity consumption is artificial lighting. This means that business owners can also reduce their monthly utility expenses by incorporated more natural lighting.

Top Suggested Benefits:

☑ Better Mood
☑ Higher Attendance
☑ Improved Performance and Productivity
☑ Less Workplace Accidents
☑ Better Sleep at Night
☑ Improved Vision Health
☑ Reduced Electricity Usage

Too Much Light Can Have the Opposite Effect…

It is important to understand that, on the other end of the spectrum, lighting can have negative effects in the office. Too much, or uncontrolled, light, whether natural or artificial, can cause extreme heat, excessive glare, and similar environmental discomforts that can impact staff productivity and morale. It can even trigger medical conditions, like epilepsy.

Want More Natural Light in Your Commercial Office in Indiana?

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial general contractor services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors can help you add more natural lighting into your office or commercial building. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

5 Common Types of Commercial Contractors and What They Do

Posted on May 11, 2020 by bafcorp20

When you have a commercial design build or renovation project, your first priority is to hire the right contractor for the job. But with so many builders out there, from general and specialty contractors, to architects, designers, and more, how do you know which contractor is the right one for the job?

One way to help clear up the confusion is to simply learn the actual differences among them. Once you have this knowledge, you can better begin your search for a commercial contractor that can be trusted to meet your overall design build and construction needs. Continue below to get started.

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Commercial Construction Professionals

The 5 most common types of contractors you will come across in the commercial construction industry include general contractors, specialty contractors, design build contractors, architects, and engineers. Of course, there are various other building and construction professionals in the industry, but these five are the main experts you will work with to plan and implement your commercial construction project. You might only hire one, all, or a combination depending on your specific project needs.

👷 General Contractors – A professional general contractor manages and coordinates all aspects of a construction project, from space planning and permitting, to design, build, and even post-occupancy facility maintenance. They also hire and supervise all other laborers and subcontractors.

👷 Specialty Contractors – A specialty contractor is the same as a general contractor, but only in a specific industry or skill. For instance, there are contractors that specialize solely in patio and porch builds. There are pool contractors, landscaping contractors, plumbing contractors, and more.

👷 Design Build Contractors – A designer, or design build contractor, is a professional who basically has the role of designer and general contractor. They manage and coordinate all aspects of a commercial construction project, including the interior space planning, design, and function.

👷 Architects – An architect is a formally-trained, specialized builder who designs spaces, buildings, and complexes, whether from the ground up, or for major renovations, conversions, and remodels. Generally, they work alongside the project general contractor to meet all specifications.

👷 Engineers – An engineer is another formally-trained and certified professional who analyze, design, build, test, and often times, invent, machines, facility systems, buildings, and devices, for the purpose of meeting certain functional objectives.

Indianapolis Commercial Construction Management

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction management services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors deliver a streamlined construction process that meets all defined engineering and design specifications, procurement, schedules, and budgets. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

When a Commercial Renovation Should Include a Fire Suppression System Upgrade

Posted on May 8, 2020 by bafcorp20

As a commercial business owner, you know that at some point, your facility will face a need for a facelift. From appliance and technology upgrades, to interior design, energy efficient applications, organization, and function, there are various aspects to address and perhaps incorporate into your upcoming commercial renovation. However, many proprietors overlook the need to upgrade their automatic fire suppression sprinkler systems.

Today, commercial sprinklers are significantly more high-tech than they were a decade ago, and many laws regarding code requirements have changed over the years. So, if you have not upgraded your commercial fire suppression sprinkler system within the last 5 to 10 years, now might be a good time to do your research.

Continue reading to learn what to consider when deciding whether or not to add a fire suppression sprinkler system upgrade into your commercial renovation project.

Commercial Fire Suppression Systems

An automatic fire suppression system is installed in a commercial building for the purpose of slowing down flame development and dispersion, as well as, putting out flames. These systems detect smoke and fire, and then automatically activate in the presence of flames. You simply cannot verbally define the critical importance of maintaining a quality fire suppression sprinkler system, as they are proven to save lives and reduce structural damage.

Not only do they allow guests and employees more time to evacuate a burning building, it also makes the job easier and safer for fire fighters. Furthermore, by mitigating fire danger and damage, you can get your commercial building back on track faster, which reduces your loss of income. Overall, a commercial sprinkler system will save you a significant amount of money, protect your occupants, and safeguard your business from certain liability.

When to Consider an Upgrade:

🔥 Your commercial renovation increases your facility’s fire area to over 5,000 square feet.

🔥 A single-tenant expansion that requires a new Certificate of Occupancy extends a facility’s fire area over 12,000 square feet.

🔥 The area being renovated generates another code regulation update for your commercial sprinkler system.

Building Sprinkler Codes and Regulations

As mentioned, local, state, and federal guidelines and building codes for automatic fire suppression systems have undergone some changes within the past decade. These codes and requirements can be quite complex, and even challenging to meet without the proper experience, equipment, and acumen. For instance, they must they extend through an entire facility and offer maximum coverage. All water supply valves must be visible and easily accessible. If fire pumps are necessary, they must be stored in a separate facility, or in a room that is fire-rated with exterior access.

For these reasons and more, it is important to enlist the job to a licensed commercial general contracting company in order to ensure the upgrades are perfectly up to code. If the job were to be done incorrectly, as the business owner, you would face a load of costly delays and unanticipated budget increases. But how do you get started learning what it will take to upgrade your commercial fire sprinkler system? Simply contact a licensed commercial construction management company for professional bids and advice you can trust.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting You Can Trust

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

The Value of Hybrid Flooring Systems for Commercial Real Estate

Posted on May 5, 2020 by bafcorp20

Beautiful flooring is typically an important element for most business owners. But beautiful floors should also be functional, which is why so many modern commercial real estate renovations and builds now incorporate hybrid flooring systems. Hybrid flooring systems, including terrazzo floor vitrification, are popular flooring options that well-suited for virtually all commercial buildings, complexes, and industries. Hybrid floors offer more than just a desirable and infinitely customizable aesthetic, they also deliver a wide range of benefits that are useful in achieving certain business objectives.

Continue reading to learn more about the valuable benefits of hybrid floor systems, including where to request a professional bid for commercial flooring service near you.

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Hybrid Flooring Systems

Hybrid floors are an innovative flooring option made from nonporous materials like resin and porcelain tile, or laminate and vinyl. The process of installing hybrid floors involves the integration of such materials pressed together in layers to produce an extremely hard, monolithic surface. Not only are such floors customizable, coming in a wide array of colors, textures, and designs, they are also very low maintenance and last for many years. Floor vitrification is another type of hybrid flooring technology that uses a different installation process than resin and tile, and laminate and vinyl.

Floor Vitrification

Floor vitrification is the process in which a chemical conversion is applied to a highly polished terrazzo floor or surface. Terrazzo floors are a type of flooring that contains chips of marble, quartz, granite, glass, or other similar high-quality aggregate within a cement-based binder. The finished look is a bit groovy, with swirls and marble-like qualities that are simply stunning and 100% unique. Furthermore, the vitrification process creates a density upon the floor that protects it and maintains its aesthetic value. There are several benefits acquired using this type of process.

Whether inside or outside, hybrid flooring and floor vitrification can be a great option for almost any type of commercial property. Garages, plazas, lobbies, shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, museums, hospitals, medical buildings, and much more are great candidates for this innovative flooring.

Here a list of the primary benefits offered by hybrid flooring systems and floor vitrification for your commercial property:

🠚 Can Save Over 50% in Maintenance Costs!
🠚 Lighter Brighter Finish
🠚 Permanent Glossy Appearance
🠚 Chemical Resistant
🠚 Anti-Fungal & Anti-Bacterial
🠚 Slip-Resistant
🠚 Dirt-Free Grout Lines
🠚 Virtually Maintenance-Free
🠚 Minimal Absorption Rate
🠚 Lowest Cost of Ownership

Don’t Miss Out on Innovative Commercial Floor Options

Many business owners and commercial proprietors are not familiar with hybrid flooring systems when it comes time to choose materials for their floor renovation or new construction build. This causes them to miss out on all the wonderful and cost-effective benefits they have to offer. Talk to a local Indianapolis commercial construction contractor about your commercial flooring needs if you want to learn which options will best meet your overall business objectives.

Licensed Indianapolis Commercial Flooring Contractors

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial flooring services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Whether you are having commercial floors installed for a new business, or to revamp an existing one, we provide full-service, turnkey flooring installation for all commercial industries, including offices, retail stores, dance studios, medical facilities, apartments, warehouses, and all other varieties. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.