Heidi and Tom Powell operate their remodeling business out of Corvallis, Ore., which is home to Oregon State University. The institution’s several design programs provide a constant supply of designers the company can hire. The location also means a great supply of their favorite customers: professors.
“We find [professors and teachers] to be great clients,” Heidi says. “They’re fair and want to pay for a job well done. They’re good communicators and appreciate what we do.”
Powell Construction limits its work to kitchens, baths, additions, and whole-house remodels. According to Heidi, the narrowed scope, even in a small town, has made the company better rather than becoming “something for everybody.”
Working in a college town does have its disadvantages. Heidi says that after a few years, her designers might leave to go back to their hometowns or to move to a new city for their spouse’s job. To improve its retention, the company introduced a new bonus system. Based on job profitability, designers, lead carpenters, and carpenters are awarded bonuses once a job is completed.
The company also works hard at creating great relationships with its subcontractors. Heidi says one way Powell Construction does that is through paying its subs regularly, on the 10th of the month.
“It may seem like a small thing; however, we find that predictability in payment relieves much of their stress,” Heidi adds. “We are aware that some contractors don’t pay their subs until they receive payment from the client. Our contract is with our subcontractors, and as long as they have performed the work to our satisfaction, we want them to have their money on time.”
