The lack of consolidation in the remodeling world -- which continues to consist of tens of thousands of small companies -- makes me believe that the market is ripe for it. In the next five to 10 years, I predict design/build companies will start to use more subcontractors and will open branch offices. More
People often remark on the fact that remodeling is an easy business to get into. But changes in the remodeling and home building market indicate that in the future it will be more difficult for individuals to start a remodeling company and stay in business. More
In the remodeling and home improvement universe, there's plenty of room for contractors doing as little as $100,000 per year in total volume, and going up from there. Here are some questions to ask yourself if you're thinking about starting your own remodeling business. More
In the past five years, many design/build contractors have been asked by past customers to handle their handyman projects. Many contractors feel to refuse to do handyman work is to risk losing future business or valuable referrals. More
Remodeling contractors need look no further than the new home builder to see their new model for growth.But in the past 20 years, you can add roofing, siding, windows, insulation, flooring, drywall, tile, appliance installation, and painting as areas within residential remodeling now dominated by the specialty contractor. More
In the past 10 to 15 years, use of immigrant labor in home building has skyrocketed. And as foreign craftsmen improve their skills and learn the building industry, many will start their own companies. More
The low-bidding contractor is usually awarded the project and the architect's pay -- 5% to 7% of the price of the job -- doesn't include job supervision.Lastly, many contractors -- or their most technologically astute employees -- design in-house, usually using a CAD program. More
If past trends in American industry are any indication, more and more building products manufacturers and retailers will be forced to install what they make or sell. How can contractors survive and prosper in a market where installed sales are going to get bigger and bigger? More
