Mark Richardson is co-chairman of Case Design/Remodel and Case Handyman Services. His new book, “How Fit Is Your Business?” will be published in October, 2008. mrichardson@casedesign.com; www.casedesign.com.
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There is opportunity in today's tough economic climate if you proactively seek new ways of going to market.
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When numbers are down and anxiety is up, it's more important than ever for small-business owners to keep an even keel and stay positive.
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When the economy is shaky, customers are more reluctant to commit to remodeling projects. Mark Richardson discusses sales strategies to overcome this reluctance.
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The remodeling environment is tougher now than it has been at any time during the last 15 years. With home prices slipping, new-housing starts down, the war in Iraq, an uncertain political climate, a poor stock market, and sinking consumer confidence, your clients are comfortable in “do nothing”...
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There are many factors that help define success--but there is one common denominator: successful remodelers develop habits that breed success.
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These days, the buzz about "green" is evident everywhere. It is also appearing more frequently in the remodeling industry, but owners of remodeling businesses are still asking themselves how to embrace the subject and make it an integral part of their company culture.
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Several months ago I ran into an old friend who is a successful executive in the technology industry. When he asked me about how we were handling the soft housing market, I told him about some new products and services we were introducing and the new offices we were opening.
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By now, most of you recognize that the residential remodeling market is not what is was a few years ago. I also think you know why. The more important issue is what you are doing about it.
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Over the years I have become a bit of a remodeling evangelist, speaking every chance I get not only to the industry but also to consumers. This self-appointed role is good for my ego, but my primary motivation is to fill the information void and correct misconceptions, as well as a genuine desire...
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Every industry has its own pet beliefs about what constitutes a sign of good business health. Unfortunately, not all of these commonsense diagnostics are reliable. Here are some misconceptions that I encounter most often in the remodeling industry.