Builders: How Not To Be "Just Another Builder"

How to be a good builder

You do a heap of work and get a really good building estimate together. But even though your renovation estimate is better, your client treats you as “just another building business.” There is no edge to your estimates!In this article I will show you four tips for setting your building estimate apart from the rest and quiting the “just another builder” syndrome.In short, your estimate documents should show your client that you are not just another builder, by being different!

1. List your areas of expertise or specialty.

No two builders are the same. Even though you may do similar work, there is always something about you that is unique. You are you! There are bound to be areas of the building trade that you do or enjoy better. So make a listof these areas of specialty. Maybe you know heaps about villas and are pretty good at guessing the state of the timber behind the walls and what will need to be done to bring them into the modern era. Or you really enjoy putting high quality kitchens together. Go on, make a list.

2. Choose one of these and turn it into a title.

By doing this you are no longer just a builder, but you are a “Villa Restorer,” or a “Homestead Kitchen Specialist,” or “The Traditional Bathroom Renovator.” Have some fun here. There really are few rules.

3. Re-brand yourself as a specialist…not just a builder.

Put your new title on your marketing and people will be drawn to you because you are the specialist they are looking for. E.g. Clients looking for building quotes for homestead style kitchens will be drawn to you if you advertise as the “Homestead Kitchen Specialist.” If you are more of a generalist, then develop two or three areas of specialty and advertise using separate marketing collateral, and in separate areas of your web site (or have multiple sites).

4. Use your specialist branding in your estimates.

When you collate your estimates include your specialist branding. Your client will treat your building estimate differently to others when it is obvious that you are different.

So how have you gone about differentiating yourself from other builders? Are you being lumped together with everyone else? Do your building estimates suck? I’d love to hear what you’re struggling with in your building business.

Graeme

P.S. Whenever you’re ready….here are 4 ways I can help you grow your building business:

1. Grab a copy of my free book

It’s a road map of a successful 15 minute sales call that’s guaranteed to increase your conversion rate. http://thesuccessfulbuilder.com/book-15-min-sales-call/

2. Join Trade Mates and connect with builders who are scaling too.

It's our new Facebook community where smart builders learn to get more income, time and freedom. View our free business resources for builders. Ask questions of like minded business owners and business coaches. Give your knowledge and expertise to help others. - https://www.facebook.com/groups/TradeMates/

3. Join My New  Group

I’m starting a new group called “OnRamp” to kick start sales and marketing in your business. If this sounds like you, message me with the words, “OnRamp”, and I’ll get you all the information.

4.  Join Loft Members

If you’d like help to get off the tools, make more money and get your life back...just  message me at graeme@thesuccessfulbuilder.com and put “LOFT MEMBERS” in the subject...tell me a little about your business and I’ll get you all the details.