July 1999

More content from July 1999

Editor's Notebook -- Who's Your Real Competitor?

Summer is in full swing, but many hammers aren’t. That’s not because there aren’t enough nails to pound, either. No, the nails are waiting; there just aren’t enough arms to swing...
July 1, 1999

Web Worksheet

The estimate has been approved and the contract signed, but before the project can begin, there’s one more piece of paper to go over with your clients -- the site preparation ...
July 1, 1999

Byte Into Computer Security

According to Mike Fast, CGR, president and CEO of MRF Construction, even remodelers who work on one or two computers still need to think critically about computer security. Fast...
July 1, 1999

Tough Customers

"Controlling the project is everything to some clients," says Dan Bawden, CGR, owner of Legal Eagle Contractors Co. "It’s how they manage their lives, and it won’t be any different...
July 1, 1999

In-House Help

Dennis Gehman, president of Gehman Custom Builder, Harleysville, Pa., faced these questions as his company experienced a period of planned growth last year. Despite a few setbacks...
July 1, 1999

Re: It's Time to Sell

Dear Professsional Remodeler: I’ve been in business since 1981, and I’m always second-guessing myself. When you read about how others are doing business, you can relate. It gives...
July 1, 1999

Is Your Software Made for You?

Estimating software can help boost profits and save time, but only if you choose the program that best fits your company. Mike Gorman, a building and remodeling consultant, and...
July 1, 1999

Benefits Attract Labor in a Tight Market

Gehman Custom Builder competes for employees not only with other remodeler, but also with several pharmaceutical companies and a large meat packing industry. In a tough labor ...
July 1, 1999

Top Skill-Building Sources

Dennis Gehman stresses education in maintaining a flexible work force. "Obviously, the more they know, the more valuable they are," he says. Gehman pays for employees to participate...
July 1, 1999

Commerce for Dummies

The technology and security are the least daunting hurdles to overcome when setting up online sales, according to Raymond McNealy. Most customers are fine with credit card transactions...
July 1, 1999

Securing Safety Professionals

Although the following tips from the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association are intended for homeowners, they apply to remodelers looking for security specialists, too. &...
July 1, 1999

Selling Safety

When installing a gas fireplace, gas stove or gas heating system, a carbon monoxide sensor could be a remodeler’s most valuable recommendation to a client. Carbon monoxide sensors...
July 1, 1999

How to Snag that Final Payment

Clients often want to hold out major portions of the project’s payment to ensure loyal attendance and attention by the remodeler until the job is done. Bawden suggests two contract...
July 1, 1999