The Real Build

In this episode of The Real Build, I covered my recent trip to the Top Contractor School summer retreat in Las Vegas, Nevada. This was another amazing TCS event packed with information about setting goals, creating systems and processes, marketing, construction technology, and leadership. I tried to cover as much as I could in a short episode. But if you want to learn more about Top Contractor Sch...

In this episode of The Real Build, I wanted to discuss the importance of maintaining client relationships before, during, and after a transaction. So many businesses only focus on the transaction rather than the relationship with the client. We should want to build long-lasting relationships or friendships with every client. Today I talked about how you and your business can do this and touched on...

In this episode of the Real Build, I sat down with Sue Dyer, a best-selling author of the book "The Trusted Leader" and owner of Sudyco, which trains construction leaders by focusing on the intersection of construction leadership and project results. Sue and I talked about one of the most important, if not the most important, topics in business, and that's leadership. We discussed ho...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Aaron Cash who is the president of Garage Living. Garage Living specializes in custom garage interiors. With a focus on design, form, and function, they create customized solutions to suit your home and lifestyle. They are the custom builder of garages. Aaron and I touched on many different topics, like customizing garages that are unique to clien...

In this episode of The Real Build, I talk about cutting edge trends and future innovations in homebuilding. Technology is moving fast, and more and more people are beginning to implement it in their homes. Technology can significantly enhance our homes' functionality, comfort, and sustainability through smart home devices or energy efficiency. I cover topics like: Smart Homes Sustainable Livin...

In this episode of The Real Build, we continue my detailed series into the home building process. I wanted to talk more in detail about what you need to look for during the home building process. This means after you actually break ground and your builder is building the home. I touch on topics like: Communication and Project Management Quality of Workmanship Site Visits Energy Efficiency and Sust...

In this episode of The Real Build, I break down the home building process with a lot of detail. If you are considering building a new home, I teach you exactly what questions you should ask a potential builder. This is a very detailed breakdown. Here are the topics I covered: Finding a property - Quick things to think about when purchasing a lot to build on Questions to ask the builder - Experienc...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Whitney Hill, who is part owner of Snap ADU. Snap Adu specializes in Accessory Dwelling Units in California. Accessory Dwelling Units are smaller homes ranging from 400 - 1200 square feet that are built on existing residential properties with a main home. They are very popular in California and spreading fast across the United States to provide mo...

In This Episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Austin Duchaine, who owns multiple companies AD&C Enterprises, 1-800 Water, and Manit Industries. AD&C is a drywall, framing, and Carpentry company specializing in commercial and residential construction. Austin also owns 1-800 Water Damage which specializes in restoration services. Austin also is the owner of Manit Industries, which is a...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Patrick Robertson, the owner of Momentous Building. Patrick and I hit on many great topics like family business, technology in construction, meeting timelines, communication, and running a business as a younger person in construction.   Patrick is a 3rd generation contractor out of Westchester, NY. After growing up working for his father's co...

In this episode of The Real Build I talk about what popular features and finishes we are adding to our luxury homes today.  Heres the highlights: High-end kitchens. Spacious, luxurious bathrooms with spa-like amenities. Open-concept floor plans with natural light and high ceilings. Jaw-dropping Ceiling details . Large Outdoor living spaces. Smart home technology. Energy efficiency. Entertainm...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Stefani Boyd, Owner of New Valley Home Services. Stefani is a Broker and Mortgage specialist out of Sacramento, California.   The mortgage industry is getting hit hard these days. With interest rates rising fast, people are slamming the brakes on purchasing new homes. Home prices have also gone through the roof. With high rates and prices, ho...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Matt Sutika of Obie, an Insurance company specializing in insurance for landlords and investors. Matt is the Chief Insurance Officer at Obie, the leading platform for real estate investors to get insurance. By leveraging data and advanced tech, Obie delivers a modern experience for today’s real estate investors in all 50 states and has bound more...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Kolby Baker, owner of Raising Solutions and Midwest Infrastructure coatings. Raising solutions specializes in raising sunken concrete slabs and addressing various issues like trip hazards, drainage problems, and cracked sidewalks through their high-density polyurethane concrete leveling process.  Kolby also owns Midwest Infrastructure, a comp...

I wanted to write something about the importance of contractors in America.  So after the recent state of the union, I figured I'd write my own for contractors.  Contractors play a critical role in the American economy. Contractors build America. We are one of the most significant parts of the economy. We build this country one brick, one road, one home, one building at a time. Without c...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with my good friend Nate Swink of Swink's Welding. Nate and I covered various topics about the welding industry, like building relationships, being present, opportunities in the industry, and focusing on the team.   Nate is a true entrepreneur. After dropping out of high school at a young age, Nate started a business. He eventually got interested...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Levi Lascsak, co-owner of Passive Prospecting. Levi and I talked about Youtube and its importance as a tool for contractors and real estate professionals. Levi has studied the ins and outs of Youtube for a long time. Youtube is the top source when people want to search for something. Levi has spent many hours researching the best strategies to mak...

In this episode of The Real Build, I recap the recent Top Contractor School winter retreat and all of my takeaways from the event. This year's winter event focused on leadership and how we, as contractors, must be the best leaders to build successful construction companies. I recap speakers Keith Callaway Jr., Brian Hess, Brad Lea, And John Maxwell. There was a lot to cover in a short period but t...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Matt Picheny. Matt and I discussed what goes on behind the scenes of a real estate deal. Matt talks about his journey from actor to full-time investor & operator of thousands of apartment units. He talks about how he always looks for strategies to enhance communities. Matt and I talked about passive real estate investing and helping you make i...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Sean Fitzgerald of Trublue Total House Care.  Trublue specializes in helping seniors stay in their homes longer to "age in place" with comfort, safety, and dignity.  They also help busy families regain their sanity, free time, and weekends to do the things they love with the people they love. Trublue is a game changer, and Sean saw the o...

In this episode of The Real Build, I talk about goal setting and the personal goals ive accomplished and am setting for 2023. I spoke about the importance of having someone who can keep you accountable for your goals. Most contractors need to set better goals. Some don't even think about it because of how busy they are. I am guilty of this. It is crucial to set goals. Not only yearly goals but als...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Steve Rozenberg.  Steve Rozenberg is an Entrepreneur, International airline pilot, Business Coach, Speaker, Author, Educator, and Real Estate Investor. After the tragedies of 9/11, Steven lost his “safe and secure" career as an airline pilot but went on to create a commercial empire. Losing $200,000 didn’t stop Steve from creating the fastest...

In this episode of The Real Build, I wanted to cover a topic that has been on my mind lately.  More contractors need to be open and honest with their clients.  We are in a different world, and things are not what they used to be in construction.  Now more than ever, we need to communicate and be transparent with our clients.  Some topics I cover in this episode are: Be open, ho...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Rob Mongillo, the owner of JMDG Architecture and design in Naples, Florida.  I have known Rob for the last five years because most of the homes you see that we build were designed by Rob and his team.  I partnered with Rob five years ago for a variety of reasons.  His creativity, experience, communication, and attention to detail to...

With the building and real estate markets starting to change and demand shrinking by the day, where will the opportunity be?  I recently had a discussion with some friends that are in real estate and construction and wanted to discuss some of the points we all made.  We talked about: How affordable rent for subcontractors is an issue in many cities throughout the US. Focusing on long ter...