Introducing Myself

STIFF

Hey guys (and gals),

Just introducing myself. I'm new to the forum. I've been lurking a litle bit lately and have found some very interesting topics on here, so I thought I'd join the fray and see what I can learn.

After serving a traditional apprenticeship as a carpenter with a medium sized general contracting firm (commercial), I set out on my own about three years ago. I quickly learned that I was in over my head on the business end of things, but with a patient and understanding wife, some good advice from contractor friends, and a few classes at Hard Knocks University, I finally feel like I'm starting to get a handle on that end of the business. We are incorporated, insured, licensed, and have recently upgraded our computers and purchased some estimating/book keeping software. We try to put money back into the business whenever possible, and have so far avoided borrowing any money, so we're debt free at this point.

The company is a residential general contracting firm. We do additions, rehabs, kitchens and baths, and are starting to get into some new construction homes. I love what I am doing, and have a couple of good employees to help me get the job done.

This summer we had our first job over $100,000. It's a residential remodel in the craftsman style. The construction itself has been a blast, and I've had no trouble managing the work and the subs, but I have found myself drowning in paper and needing help to manage it all. It is starting to look like the next step for this company will be hiring someone for administrative duties. My question to you guys is, how do you know when it's time to take that leap? I mean, it's hard enough to keep the guys busy, do the bids, manage the work/subs, get new jobs, and keep ahead of everything financially without the extra expense of another employee in the office. Is it maybe time to borrow some operating money to get to the next level? How did you do it? I'd love a discussion on the subject.

So anyway, thanks for reading this. Hi to all.

Christian Olson (STIFF)

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http://www.bellecityconstruction.com/

dougchips

Welcome to the forum.

You should not have to take out a loan for office staff. Either you have enough overhead money sitting around or you don't. If the money is not there ask yourself if you can make the company money if somebody handles the office work.

I use a part time person who handles my accounts receivables, accounts payable, insurance & WC from the subs. I theory I do not need to go to my office. She also carries the office line (cell) and answers it during business hours. If I don't have to handle paperwork and phone calls I can make my company money and spend time with my family.

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Cole

Welcome to the forum!

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