How I Built My Business: Kradzinski Remodeling

 

National 2014 CotY Award, Residential Kitchen Under $40,000.

Dan Kradzinski

Dan Kradzinski

Q: How did you start your company? 

I had worked with my father in his remodeling business since I was a teenager along with my 4 younger brothers. When he started to scale back, I thought it was time to go out on my own.

I was fortunate to be a plumbing subcontractor for a very successful family-run business similar to ours. We were not only business associates, but we became friends. They taught me the business side of the industry.

While I was busy with them, I was still able to run small ads in local publications and eventually my remodeling business needed my attention full time.

Q: What processes, technology, and marketing have you used to “grow” your business?

As our remodeling business expanded, we established a set of guidelines that keeps everyone on the same page and moving forward.

Our website has almost eliminated the use of print advertising for us. Lawn signs and the signage on my truck draw a lot of attention. I’ve had people call the office for an estimate while they’re following my truck on the road.

Q: How has the remodeling profession changed since you’ve been involved?

It has become more organized and professional. Through the efforts of organizations like NARI, most consumers know to ask questions about licensing, certifications, referrals and know how to recognize a fly-by-night company from a true professional.

When we first started our business, advertising was done in local publications and the phone book. Now they’re taking a back seat to the internet. Smart phones give you the technical support right from the manufacturer while you’re on the job-site instead of getting it from a sales rep or a counter person at a supply house.

Q: What was your biggest misconception about remodeling industry?

I was hoping it might get easier— the long hours, the piles of paperwork and dealing with customers.

Q: What is the most unusual project your company has completed?

Putting a second gourmet kitchen in the basement of a townhouse in Philadelphia.

Q: What’s the best career advice you’ve heard- and what advice would your offer to those just starting out?

Learn how to delegate which I have difficulty doing and always have.

My advice for those just starting out: Be true to your craft. Learn as much as you can and use it every day. We are most proud of this comment:

“It always stood out for me with Dan – toilet parts or full bathroom replacement – it all seemed equally important to him. He has great customer service skills. Little job or big job he approached people like it was the most important job he had.”

Q: What’s your most favorite mistake?

Staying in the business. Some days you just want to stand naked in the middle of the street screaming “what am I doing?” But the next day, everything is fine.

Q: What does being part of NARI offer? 

Being involved in an organization that focuses on education and promotes the professionalism of our industry. It’s having people who are there to help from providing a referral for a subcontractor to lending their experience with a problem.

Q: What have you done to grow your business during the difficult economy?

As a small company, we have a great local reputation and a good customer base. We did see a drastic reduction in the amount of phone calls/emails we were getting, but the people contacting us were serious about getting the work done. During that time we redesigned our website and did more print advertising.

Q: What motivates you every day? 

Our family is the driving force behind what we do.

Q: What are your career accomplishments?

I always thought I was good at what I do, but you’re never really sure. A few years ago winning my first CotY Award was a feeling of accomplishment that I can’t explain. Then, we won a second one and it was at that point that my wife started to cry. This year, winning the Regional & National CotY Award was the icing on the cake.

 

logo[1]Kradzinski Remodeling is a full service design/build company that specializes in kitchens, bathrooms, remodeling and additions based in Warminster, PA. Visit them at www.kradzinskiremodeling.com.

| 11/11/2014 12:00:00 AM | 2 comments
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