Remodeling Magazine

National and Regional Green Certification Programs

As consumer interest in sustainable building grows, so does the number of national and local green certification, training, and accreditation programs. Here's a guide to what's on offer.

Don't Wait for Economic Recovery to Come to You. Move Forward Now to Find It for Yourself.

Rather than waiting to see what trickle-down benefits there might be from the economic stimulus package, small-business owners should act now to create a stimulus package of their own.

LIRA Points to Continuing Slump in Remodeling Activity

The Leading Indicator of Remodeing Activity (January 2009 release) shows that homeowner improvement spending continues to stagnate.
Lack of Buyer Confidence in Tulsa

Though the Tulsa, Okla., economy has remained pretty robust in this economic downturn, remodelers there are seeing their sales volume decrease too.
Four Better Years of Construction Education?

Remodeling industry is hopeful that new administration and education secretary will reboot flagging efforts to revitalize vocational education programs.

In a Sink-or-Swim Remodeling Economy, Buoyant Leadership Inspires

Remodeling consultant Linda Case reveals how some business owners remain upbeat in difficult times, inspiring staff to follow them with confidence.

Managing Risk in a Tough Business Climate

Using the apt metaphor of stepping in quicksand, Mark Richardson discusses managing risk in a tough economy.

The Upsides of Downsizing Can Include Better Replacement Staff

Layoffs can be unavoidable in the remodeling recession, but they can also be a valuable impetus for rewriting job descriptions and coming out stronger.

These Practical Tips Will Help Remodelers Get More Bang from Their Home Show Bucks.

For remodelers, home show success begins with choosing the right producer and venue, creating a welcoming exhibit, and manning it with trained and enthusiastic staff who follow up with leads quickly.
A Better Way to Sell Remodeling Projects: Propose Value-Creating Ways to Trim Costs

N.C. remodeling company builds trust with budget-sensitive homeowners by helping them do more for less.
How to Win Prospects' Trust Even if You Don't Have References From Past Clients

Homeowners tend to want personal references for remodelers they are considering hiring. Michael Lee lays out strategies for one new business owner who has construction experience alone.
Greater Competition Makes These Remodelers More Committed Than Ever to Home Shows

NVS Kitchen & Bath and Crossroads Contracting are two remodeling companies that have succeeded where many remodelers fail: at home shows.

Small Changes Help a Remodeler Adjust to the Economic Downturn

As Tri-Lite Builders in Arizona has found, small changes to the way you run your company can make a difference when the ecnomy is slow.
One Way to Ensure Eployee Vehicle Upkeep and Maintenance

One remodeling company finds that providing an allowance for employee vehicles ensures upkeep and maintenance.

Man Spaces Make a Good Marketing Niche

Rooms for men to get away from it all can be a selling point for your company.

Pre-Construction Job-Staging Can Save Critical Time and Money

Former remodeling executive makes a case for proactive planning before kicking off a project.
A Production Manager's Tips on Adjusting to Downsized Staffs and Smaller Projects

A high-end remodeling company adjusts its practices and attitudes in an era of smaller jobs.

Online Lead Sheet

Hartman Baldwin Design/Build uses this online lead shet to help prequalify clients.

Freeware Do's and Don'ts

Software available for free can help business owners -- but mind the small print.
Web-Hosted Application Zapproved Clarifies Decision-Making Process

This Web-based software offers an easy-to-use approval system that boosts accountability.

Simple Solution for Editing Proposals

Varied colored pens for each staff member are an easy way to see who has read a document.
Finding Your Unique Selling Proposition Leads to Better Organization

Pinpointing your target client, job type, etc., will help you to organize and work on, not in, your business.
Minnesota Law Cracks Down on 'Misclassified' Workers

New Minnesota law scrutinizes construction industry employer-independent contractor relationships.
Collaborate to Increase Sales

Pairing with competitors can bring out the best in both of you and generate more leads..
Get Your Team Members Networking to Gather Leads

Networking by joining organizations and making connections will bring in more leads for your company.

Established Florida Remodeling Company Gears Up for Change

A name change, succession plan, and staff restructuring prepare John Kiernan's remodeling company to weather future economic storms.

Diversification Helps Atlanta Construction Company Ride Economic Roller Coaster

High-end residential remodeling company secures solid foothold in commercial handyman niche.

Kitchen Design Detail: Appliance Garage Hides Breakfast Accessories

A custom-made wide tambour door conceals an appliance garage in this remodeled kitchen.

Paint Manufacturers Offer Green Product Labels

Paint companies are going beyond low-VOC to make their products more eco-friendly.
Green-Themed Gift Bag for Clients Is Part of This Remodeler's Completion Process

In an effort to raise awareness and encourage clients to live green, Jackson Design/Build includes a green-themed gift bag as part of each project's completion procedure.