general contractors

In this podcast episode, hosts Landon and Drew discuss the advantages of subcontracting in construction projects over in-house work. They highlight misconceptions about subcontracting and its benefits, emphasizing specialized expertise and improved quality from subcontractors' focused work. The hosts liken subcontractors to specialized tools, noting their role in achieving better results. Efficiency, professionalism, and enhanced quality, including appearance and time management, are emphasized. They explain how subcontracting fosters collaboration and customer-focused approaches, minimizing conflicts and enabling contractor-client advocacy. The hosts counter the belief that subcontracting raises costs, asserting its value outweighs slight expense increases. They delve into back-end processes, relationship management, pricing, and the critical role of general contractors. The value of general contractor-subcontractor relationships is highlighted, emphasizing teamwork and communication efficiency. Misconceptions about contractor motives are addressed, and complexities of accurate pricing and budgeting are clarified. Risks tied to inexperienced contractors are discussed, alongside subcontractor performance and scheduling challenges. The collaborative essence of construction is acknowledged. The hosts underline professionalism, transparency, and mutual respect for successful projects.

If you enjoyed this episode check us out on Instagram @firstchoicebuilders_ig
Facebook: @fcbwyo
YouTube: @firstchoiceplus
LinkedIn: @first-choice-builders
and our website: www.fcbwyo.com

Check out Buildots here: https://buildots.com/

Follow Aviv here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avivleibovici/

email Buildots: info@buildots.com

Summary:  Jennifer Todd – Jennifer Todd is President of LMS General Contractors, demolition, and abatement contractor, performing word across the Southeast. She is the Founder, A Greener of Tomorrow, a 501 c3 nonprofit committed to skilled trades opportunities for underserved people. Todd is a 2021 ENR Top 20 Under 40 Professional, 2020 ENR Top 25 Newsmaker, and 2020 CBO Outstanding Women in Construction finalist. Todd is an ASU Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law graduate.

In this episode we cover:

• Prioritizing yourself and saying NO!
• What to do if you want to move into a trade role.
• Self-advocacy at work to up-level your career.
• How COVID shifted her contracting business.
• A Greener Tomorrow - a non-profit focused on promoting trade opportunities for minorities.

Resources from this episode:       

• Workshop E-Book - It's Him, Not You
• Website:  http://agreenertomorrow.org/
• IG:  @constructionlawgal
• LI:  @Jennifer Todd LMS
• Caterpillar Boots:  click here

Special Thanks to Lucinda Dykens  of Coastal Virtual Solutions for editing this episode of Space to Build.

spacetobuild.co | IG @spacetobuild

Subscribe on: Apple Podcast, Spotify, Audible!

Do you really need a general contractor for your construction project? Why need one when you can save a lot of money by doing it yourself?

That’s what we’ll find out in this week’s episode of Women Creating Wealth.

Last week, we had Ann McNeill from MCO Construction, and we talked about the best way to work with real estate contractors. And today, we’re going to dive deep into it by weighing the pros and cons of working with general contractors (GC).

With DIY home improvement videos on the rise and, of course, HGTV (who doesn’t love this?), it’s pretty tempting to go out there and do it yourself instead of paying a GC. 

But let me tell you this. 

You got to consider a lot of things before deciding on doing it your own vs. hiring a GC. You have to ask yourself…

- Am I materially changing the space, or does it require permits?

- How long is the project going to take?

- Have I ever done something like this before?

- Do I have the right connections to work with?

So, tune in to today’s episode as we answer those questions above and uncover the advantages and disadvantages of working with general contractors.

If you’re taking on a house renovation project or sprucing up your old place as an Airbnb rental, this episode could be exactly what you need right now to help you weigh things.

Let’s get started!

--

Key Takeaways:

• Introduction (00:00)
• Create a project plan first (00:44)
• Essential questions to ask yourself (01:32)
• Do you have unlimited time? (08:50)
• General contractor vs. subcontractor (09:11)
• Advantages of acting as your own general contractor (11:43)
• Pros and cons of working with a general contractor (15:13)
• Final thoughts (22:21)

--

Additional Resources:

- Sign up for my FREE real estate mini-course here

- Grab a copy of my book Empower Your Inner Millionaire

- Visit my real estate blog here

--

Connect with Me:

- YouTube
- Facebook
- Instagram

--

Women Creating Wealth is a podcast empowering women to achieve financial freedom through real estate investing.

Be sure to follow it on your favorite podcast platform!

In an industry where everyone is constantly on a hunt for their next deal or for the money to even make their deal possible, sometimes we overlook the true source of value creation…

The execution of the business plan. 

For a deal to be as great in reality as it looks on paper, investors need to have a system for ensuring that value is added to the property, while staying within the confines of their budget and schedule. 

For this reason, I am thrilled to bring Van Sturgeon on the show today to discuss his processes for implementing a successful real estate business plan and what new investors should be aware of when working with general contractors!

Van Sturgeon has amassed over 1200 units over his 30-year journey in real estate and is passionate about sharing his experience with us so that we can bypass some of the costly mistakes that new investors tend to face. 

In today’s episode, we discuss…

• Which renovations results in the highest ROI on a value-add investment. 
• How to determine your unique abilities and how to create a power team around them.
• Why you should create a detailed “scope of work” for general contractors.
• Why new investors tend to over-renovate and how to save on some unnecessary costs.

If you are looking to make your first real estate investment or grow your real estate portfolio, the systems that Van has designed through his years of experience as a general contractor will undoubtedly help you add value to your investments!

Keep Making Milestones, 
Ben Malech

If you want to learn more about Van, you can find him at:
https://vansturgeon.com/
https://www.instagram.com/vansturgeon/
https://ca.linkedin.com/in/van-sturgeon-029018200
van@vansturgeon.com

To learn more about Ben, connect with him through:
Ben’s Website: https://benmalech.com/
Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-malech/
Ben’s email: benmalech@carswell.io

James Mauler was still early in his career when he decided to leave college and take a more hands-on approach with his education. Instead of completing a five-year degree in architecture, Jim realized that he could achieve his professional and financial goals by putting his drafting skills to work on the job. As an example, when computer-aided design (CAD) software was still in its infancy, he was the first person in his firm to volunteer to learn how to use it. This made him a go-to resource in the company, and it gave him the confidence he needed to know that he was on the right track.

In the early 1990s, Jim was terminated from the company that he was working for at the time. He describes this as a blessing in disguise because it gave him a compelling reason to start his own company the very next day. Jim has been at the helm of Cadnetics for nearly 30 years, and his business has undergone tremendous growth and transformation during that time. The firm, which is headquartered in Pittsburgh, also has a presence in four other major markets throughout the country. Jim is currently realizing his vision of expanding to 10 cities in 10 years, and you can tell from our conversation that he is having a lot of fun in the process.

If you have any questions or if you’d like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I’m doing. It means a ton!

YOU CAN REACH ME AT:

Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilano

Phone: 412-336-8247

YOU CAN REACH JAMES MAULER AT:

Website: https://www.cadnetics.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cadnetics-inc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cadnetics

Are you looking to take your contracting business to the next level? Then you won't want to miss part one of our series! We dive into the two qualities that set successful companies apart in this industry: money and reputation. Everyone knows that quality is key, but it's not enough to just have good workmanship. To truly thrive in this industry, you need to protect your financial stability and maintain a positive reputation.

In this episode of Contractor Cuts, we'll discuss why these two qualities are so essential and provide strategies for protecting them, even in difficult situations. With actionable insights and expert advice, you'll leave this episode feeling equipped to take your business to the next level. Don't miss out on this must-listen episode of Contractor Cuts - tune in now!

Looking to take your business to the next level? ProStruct360 has everything you need to succeed! From cutting-edge software and training, to expert coaching and guidance, we've got you covered. Visit our website to explore our offerings and see the full videos of our podcast series. At ProStruct360.com, you'll find the tools and resources you need to grow your business, improve your skills and achieve your goals. Don't wait, check us out now!

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/contractor-cuts/id1586640379

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4SE77KI88ITOlEU8FY8GPr?si=1f77d88d0d684975

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@contractorcuts

In this week's roundtable we talk all about the office, from culture and collaboration, to its importance in the age of remote work. We run off on a couple tangents re-capping the Super Bowl, Waste Management open and the future of the Site Trailer.

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

In this episode, we have Daniel Kravcak from Performance Builders talking about life in Slovakia, getting into construction before moving to Canada and the relationships between GCs and Subs. And Christian goes off about hockey.

Subscribe to stay updated with the latest content.

Follow theSiteVisit community:

YouTube |

Instagram |

LinkedIn |

Twitter |

Facebook |

Website

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

Subscribe to stay updated with the latest content.

Follow theSiteVisit community:

YouTube |

Instagram |

LinkedIn |

Twitter |

Facebook |

Website

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

With the new year upon us, it’s time to get back to it. In this episode, we dig into our respective businesses, growth and learnings through the pandemic, On-Site Magazine & SITE Partners' 40U40 in Canadian Construction initiative, personal COVID projects, producer John and our new Podcast format releasing episodes on Tuesday's and Thursday's.

Subscribe to stay updated with the latest content.

Follow theSiteVisit community:

YouTube |

Instagram |

LinkedIn |

Twitter |

Facebook |

Website

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

Learn about NCCER (what does that stand for?) and how the organization benefits commercial construction contractors.  AGC of Oklahoma sponsors numerous NCCER construction programs throughout the State.

On this episode, we discuss the exciting story of Adera Developments. From their early history to where they are today as a leader in development and construction. We discuss Adera’s 50th Year Anniversary and some of the recent projects the organization is involved in. Throughout the show, we learn from Rocky regarding Adera’s investment and focus on mass timber. We discuss the benefits and advantages of mass timber and comment on the recent provincial appointments and focus placed on this building model. We discuss how Adera is positioned to build value for the market and how they approach each project. With over 10,000 homes built, Rocky speaks to Adera’s commitment to quality and the customer This is a great conversation with a leader in both the construction and development markets. This episode shares valuable information on what makes a great company, a great project, and a great culture. 

About Adera: 

Adera is a diversified construction and development company servicing Western Canada. As one of BC’s leading multi-disciplinary real estate organizations and 50 years of experience, Adera has built a world-class portfolio that includes the development of more than 10,000 homes, townhomes, condos, and over 4 million square feet of commercial space. Adera celebrates five decades of success in providing innovative design and construction for homes ranging from distinguished residences at UBC to affordable, attractive condominiums, townhomes, and commercial buildings. Adera is a leader in building value in every project, every home, and every partnership.

https://adera.com/

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

On this episode, we discuss the innovative story of Krahn Engineering from a small family business to a diversified consulting firm providing service across Canada. We speak with Geoff about the history of the firm, to where they are today as a diversified and multi-discipline firm. We dig into the culture of Krahn and how the organization has adapted with COVID-19 with technology, communication, and remote work. We chat about how municipalities are adapting in light of recent events to keep projects and permits moving forward. This is a great episode to learn about a growing construction business and to learn about the other side of the drawings. 

About Krahn Group: 

Established in 1984, the Krahn Group is a full-service programming, design, and engineering firm dedicated to providing creative solutions to the most challenging structural, civil, and building design projects. Over the past 30+ years, we’ve established a reputation for providing the most innovative, comprehensive, and cost-effective solutions to our clients across Canada.

http://www.krahn.com/

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

On this special episode, James, Christian, and Andrew discuss what they have been hearing from connections in the construction industry regarding the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak. The hosts dig into their perspectives on the pandemic in relation to what they have experienced and read to provide some points of view. 

Notice:

All of the opinions and statements in this episode are strictly anecdotal and all the information the Site Visit hosts are providing are merely an opinion. The podcast was recorded on Wednesday April 8th in the early afternoon and all information discussed was relative to the data and information that was publicly available at that time.

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

Episode Description:   

Speaking with Kyle Ryan we discuss what makes Abstract Developments special.  We discuss the growth the organization has experienced and the way the team has adjusted and changed as the business has continued to grow and adapt. We discuss the focus on quality and customer care that Abstract brings to each new project and how the focus on craftsmanship drives their team. This episode unpacks one of the industry leaders that is changing the way real estate is both designed, built and developed. A great episode to learn how to build a team, design culture and pursue growth.

About Abstract Developments: 

Abstract Developments doesn’t just construct homes – we help build communities. Our meticulous, time-tested development process spans years – from the initial concept through to completion – and is driven by personal engagement with a variety of stakeholders to design meaningful residences that contribute to the local community. Designing and building innovative, community-minded spaces has always been the foundation of founder, Mike Miller’s work. Since establishing Abstract in 1999, Mike has been passionate about the process of design – how it benefits the local community, how it impacts residents, the overall look and function of the design, and solving the unique challenges of building in our city. This fascination and commitment to unparalleled quality is the foundation of Abstract Developments’s success.

http://www.abstractdevelopments.com/

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

Speaking with Nic Labelle and Landon Weigel we discuss the cycle of waste on the construction site. From initial planning, to handling, to recycling. We get a clear picture of some of the innovative ways WM is changing the industry. From robotics to AI, to IOT we learn that waste is not a simple industry. Front the “click” of a button WM is making it easy for superintendents to manage their waste needs on-site. Nic and Landon share their passion for the construction sector and the importance of relationships on the job site. This episode unpacks one of the industry leaders that is changing the market from concept to the construction site. 

CLARIFYING NOTES:

1. WM is now not the only COR certified hauler, but they were the first.
2. Cardboard/paper is not all sent overseas but also stays domestically for processing at WM’s and third party recyclers whenever possible. 

About Waste Management : 

Waste Management is North America's leading provider of integrated environmental solutions. We partner with our customers and communities to manage and reduce waste from collection to disposal while recovering valuable resources and creating clean, renewable energy. We are on a quest for environmental performance, a mission to maximize resource value, while minimizing – and even eliminating – environmental impact so that both our economy and our environment can thrive. Waste Management tailors its services to meet the needs of each customer group and to ensure consistent, superior service at the local level. Headquartered in Houston, the company serves nearly 20 million municipal, commercial, industrial, and residential customers through a network of 367 collection operations, 355 transfer stations, 273 active landfill disposal sites, 16 waste-to-energy plants, 104 recycling plants, and 111 beneficial-use landfill gas projects.

http://www.wm.com

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

Having  gained early, hands on experience at the job site, Ryan shares some great stories and practical teaching moments in this episode. From road building to bridge building and international project management experience, Ryan has learned that a focused career has powerful, compounding results. He is now running an entire Civil “district” within arguably one of the most recognizable construction companies in North America. While Ryan’s knowledge of the Civil sector makes him an authority in the space, he is continually striving to bring new ideas and innovative project procurement / delivery methods to the table. 

About PCL Construction: 

As a diversified general contractor, founded in 1906, PCL celebrates the past and builds for the future. Known for its founding principles, purpose-driven approach and employee ownership, PCL is a global leader in the construction marketplace with nearly $9.0B in annual construction volume throughout North America and Australia.

http://www.pcl.com

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

On this episode, we bring back Ben Garriott on the show to discuss the growth of BigRockBuilt over the past 12 months. Ben shares what his team has been up to from new processes and technology adaption, recent acquisitions, and organic growth and diversification. This is a great episode to learn the importance of culture and structure when growing a trades business. Ben is open and honest is this great conversation and the episode provides some great insight into how to build and operate a great company. 

About BigRockBuilt:

BigRockBuilt is a specialty contracting business that provides framing, forming, building envelope and BONE construction services for custom and complex projects across Canada.  Started in 2015, the company now has over 40+ staff and has become an industry leader built on safety, innovation, and craftsmanship. 

http://bigrockbuilt.ca/ 

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

We bring Andy Dhaliwal on the show to discuss the growth of Nationwide Fuel and his story in building the business. Andy shares his personal story from corporate life to entrepreneurship and everything in between. Andy shares his experience in building the business and what motivated him to start Nationwide Fuel. This is a great episode to learn the story of a growing and innovative business.   

About Nationwide Fuel

Nationwide Fuel offers a Fuel cost analysis for free to all of our potential partners. We do an in-depth analysis of the last three months of fuel bills and match up (city by city and date by date to ensure accuracy) your programs actual costs vs your fuel costs as a Nationwide Partner. This analysis is done for each of your suppliers in both Canada and the United States.

https://nationwidefuel.ca/

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit