APB Now

By Association of Professional BuildersBusiness

APB Now episodes

June 23, 202235. Transforming Our Building Company With Michael Bolduc and Vanessa Willett
In episode 35 of the Professional Builders Secrets podcast, we’re joined by Michael and Vanessa, Co-founders and owners of HC Habitation, based in the south of Montreal, Canada. Throughout this episode, we go over how Michael and Vanessa got started in the building industry and learn the mistakes they made along the way.

HC Habitation’s main goal is to give new home builders a truly personalised experience when making the biggest investment of their lives. They endeavour to streamline this process for both homeowners and builders. With the customer's satisfaction in creating their dream house design being their ultimate goal.

During this episode, Michael and Vanessa also explain how HC Habitation found their niche, the good and bad of running a building company, how APB has helped HC Habitation, and what success looks like to them moving forward.

Listen to the full episode to discover how Michael and Vanessa transformed HC Habitation into what it is today.

ABOUT MICHAEL BOLDUC

Michael Bolduc is one of the Co-founders of HC Habitation and is the definition of passionate. He sincerely loves what he does. So much so, that he considers himself retired because he doesn't ever feel like he's at "work".

Connect with Michael: linkedin.com/in/michael-bolduc-05a78797/

ABOUT VANESSA WILLETT

Vanessa is another Co-founder of HC Habitation and is in charge of branding and marketing. She loves everything that's creative. From the website, and videos, to blogs. Besides creativity, her other passion would be her two children, or three if we include Michael.

TIMELINE
1:09 About HC Habitation.

2:31 How Michael and Vanessa got started in the industry.

6:24 Mistakes Michael and Vanessa made when first starting out.

7:45 How HC Habitation found its niche.

9:43 What consumers must know about building a custom home.

11:31 How Michael and Vanessa have transformed their business.

13:19 How APB has helped HC Habitation.

16:13 Michael and Vanessa’s loves and loathes of running a building company.

17:54 What HC Habitation looks like now.

21:30 The future of HC Habitation.

23:00 The biggest challenges when running a building company.

25:15 Michael’s advice for other builders.

26:55 Where Michael and Vanessa see the industry evolving to.

29:00 What success looks like moving forward for Michael and Vanessa.

32:30 Michael and Vanessa advice for their younger selves.

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

HC Habitation Website: hchabitation.com/en

APB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

Join the Professional Builders Secrets Facebook group for builders & connect with professional builders world-wide: facebook.com/groups/builderssecrets
36 min
June 16, 202234. Creating An Exceptional Handover Experience With Russ, Sky and Andy
In episode 34 of the Professional Builders Secrets podcast, we’re joined by Co-founders of the Association of Professional Builders Russ Stephens and Sky Stephens, along with APB’s Head Coach, Andy Skarda. Throughout this episode, the trio tackle why a builders handover experience is so important to their clients.

During this episode, Russ, Sky and Andy discuss what you should, and shouldn’t do during a handover, and of course, give some examples of what an exceptional handover looks like.

The trio explain the framework you can use to create an exceptional handover experience, and even go over the ways in which your handover process can play a part in your authority, and professionalism.

Throughout episode 34, Russ, Sky and Andy also go over how you can authentically leverage your handover process, and divulge the right time for you to ask your clients for a referral.

Listen to the full episode to full understand how you can create an exceptional handover experience for each and every one of your clients.

ABOUT RUSS STEPHENS

Co-founder of the Association of Professional Builders, Russ is a data analysis expert who has introduced data-driven decision making to the residential construction industry. Russ is also a proud member of the Forbes Business Development Council.

Connect with Russ: linkedin.com/in/russstephens

ABOUT SKY STEPHENS

Co-founder of the Association of Professional Builders, Sky specialises in taking complex business strategies and converting them into actionable step-by-step guides for building company owners. Sky is also a proud member of The National Association of Women in Construction and the Top 100 Women in the broader construction sector.

Connect with Sky: linkedin.com/in/skycheristephens

ABOUT ANDY SKARDA

Head Coach at the Association of Professional Builders, Andy specialises in helping business owners in the building industry identify and implement the skills and systems they need to be successful, without needing to go back to school. Or more importantly, without going bust.

Connect with Andy: linkedin.com/in/andy-skarda-92a6875/

TIMELINE
1:12 Why your handover process is so important.

8:05 What an exceptional handover experience looks like.

15:01 The framework for creating an exceptional handover experience.

20:40 What you shouldn’t do during a handover.

27:26 How to authentically leverage your handover process.

32:16 Real life examples of great handovers.

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

APB Membership Demo: go.associationofprofessionalbuilders.com/getdemo

APB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

Join the Professional Builders Secrets Facebook group for builders & connect with professional builders world-w
38 min
June 09, 202233. How To Create A Case Study With Sky Stephens
In episode 33 of the Professional Builders Secrets podcast, we’re joined by Co-founder of the Association of Professional Builders Sky Stephens. Throughout this episode, we go over why although difficult at times, it is so important to collect case studies from your clients.

During this episode, Sky tackles why consumers are looking for reasons not to trust you, but how once you’ve gained that trust, the rewards are more than worth the effort you put in.

Through a trusting relationship with your clients, you can get some fantastic case studies that can not only bring in new clients, but also act as a fantastic way to keep you and your team accountable for success.

Sky also goes over the key differences between a Case Study and a Testimonial, as well as the important role storytelling plays in a case study, and some of the best examples of case studies she’s personally seen.

Listen to the full episode to learn how to create the perfect case study.

ABOUT SKY STEPHENS

Sky Stephens is a Co-founder of the Association of Professional Builders, a business coaching company dedicated to improving the residential construction industry for both builders and consumers. Sky is a proud member of The National Association of Women in Construction and she was also recognised as one of 2021’s Top 100 Women.

Connect with Sky: linkedin.com/in/skycheristephens

TIMELINE
1:06 What does success look like for a professional builder.

2:16 Why is it so important to collect case studies from your clients.

3:39 Why consumers are looking for reasons not to trust you.

6:52 How getting case studies from your clients is hard, but worth it.

8:53 How case studies help keep you and your team accountable for success.

10:27 Case study vs a testimonial.

15:10 How storytelling plays into your case studies.

16:19 How to manage the obstacles when creating a case study.

19:49 An example of the best case studies Sky has seen.

23:01 Where do you use a case study?

27:23 Content trends in residential construction.

29:31 Resources to get started.

33:12 Sky’s camera advice.

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

APB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

Join the Professional Builders Secrets Facebook group for builders & connect with professional builders world-wide: facebook.com/groups/builderssecrets
35 min
June 02, 202232. Selling A Building Company With Kevin Lovewell
In episode 32 of the Professional Builders Secrets podcast, we’re joined by Kevin Lovewell, Director of Negotia Group, based out of Brisbane, Queensland. Throughout this episode, we learn about Kevin, Negotia, and the blueprint of selling a business.

Kevin delves into exactly what you and your business need in order to be sold, as well as the absolute best time to sell your building company. He also discusses the sort of timeframe you should expect when you decide to sell your building company.

During the episode, we uncover the three questions you need to ask yourself if you’re thinking about selling your building company, as well as the all important question of what happens to your staff and assets after you’ve sold.

We also hear Kevins insights on how he see’s the future of the building industry shaping up, and he shares some fantastic advice for builders throughout.

Listen to the full episode to discover the ins and outs of selling a building company.

ABOUT KEVIN LOVEWELL

Kevin Lovewell is an entrepreneur, business builder and Director of Negotia Group. originally qualified as an accountant. Kevin has developed proprietary knowledge in start-up professional practices such as accounting and consulting, including having developed appropriate IP in training and development for firms such as family businesses, small and medium enterprises and large firm mergers.

Connect with Kevin: linkedin.com/in/kevin-lovewell

TIMELINE
1:02 About Kevin and Negotia.

2:57 What you and your business need in order to be sold.

3:59 The best time to sell your building company.

5:50 The three questions to ask yourself if you’re thinking of selling your building company.

8:59 The timeframe of selling a building company.

10:05 What happens to your staff and assets when selling a building company.

10:57 The blueprint of selling a business.

13:09 Who does the handover when selling a building company?

14:55 The challenges and blindspots when selling or buying a business.

16:35 Why Kevin chose construction business brokerage as his speciality.

18:30 Kevin’s view on the future of the industry.

23:34 Kevin’s advice for builders.

26:10 What Kevin’s day to do looks like and how he can help you sell your building company.

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

Negotia Group Website: negotia.com.au

APB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

Join the Professional Builders Secrets Facebook group for builders & connect with professional builders world-wide: facebook.com/groups/builderssecrets
31 min
May 26, 202231. How To Qualify Your Leads On The First Call With Russ, Sky and Andy
In episode 31 of the Professional Builders Secrets podcast, we’re joined by Co-founders of the Association of Professional Builders Russ Stephens and Sky Stephens, along with APB’s Head Coach, Andy Skarda. Throughout this episode, the trio go over how you can qualify your leads on the very first call.

The trio explain the tough process of letting down clients you don’t want to work for, and conversely, review the questions you need to be asking in order to identify the quality leads you really want to pursue.

During episode 31, Russ, Sky and Andy also bring to light what potential clients themselves may be looking for when deciding to build a home, and highlight exactly what NOT to do on any sales call.

Listen to the full episode to discover how to qualify your leads on the very first call.

ABOUT RUSS STEPHENS

Co-founder of the Association of Professional Builders, Russ is a data analysis expert who has introduced data-driven decision making to the residential construction industry. Russ is also a proud member of the Forbes Business Development Council.

Connect with Russ: linkedin.com/in/russstephens

ABOUT SKY STEPHENS

Co-founder of the Association of Professional Builders, Sky specialises in taking complex business strategies and converting them into actionable step-by-step guides for building company owners. Sky is also a proud member of The National Association of Women in Construction and the Top 100 Women in the broader construction sector.

Connect with Sky: linkedin.com/in/skycheristephens

ABOUT ANDY SKARDA

Head Coach at the Association of Professional Builders, Andy specialises in helping business owners in the building industry identify and implement the skills and systems they need to be successful, without needing to go back to school. Or more importantly, without going bust.

Connect with Andy: linkedin.com/in/andy-skarda-92a6875/

TIMELINE
1:28 Why qualifying your leads is so important.

9:32 Why you need a documented sales process.

11:47 How to get rid of clients you don’t want to work for.

16:11 The questions you need to be asking to qualify your leads.

28:52 What consumers are looking for when deciding to build a home.

32:12 What you must NOT do on any sales call.

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

FREE DOWNLOAD: Qualifying Checklist For Builders: go.associationofprofessionalbuilders.com/builders-qualifying-checklist

APB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

Join the Professional Builders Secrets Facebook group for builders & connect with professional builders world-wide: facebook.com/groups/builderssecrets
43 min
May 19, 202230. Hill & Harbor Design+Build’s Journey To Success With Paul Vespia
In episode 30 of the Professional Builders Secrets podcast, we’re joined by Paul Vespia, founder of Hill & Harbor Design+Build, based in East Greenwich, United States. Throughout this episode, we learn about Paul's story and how he created Hill & Harbor Design+Build.

Hill & Harbor Design+Build was founded on the idea that Homes on “the Hill” have a historical factor that make them unique and desirable, and that The “Harbor” is another quintessential trademark of their business, as Rhode Island boasts some of the most beautiful shorelines in the world that the team has expansive knowledge of, and can utilise to the fullest.

However, Hill & Harbor Design+Build wasn’t built in a day, and throughout this episode, Paul shares the mistakes he’s made along the way that have eventually shaped his building company into what it’s become today.

Listen to the full episode to discover Paul, and Hill & Harbor Design+Build’s Journey To Success.

ABOUT PAUL VESPIA

Paul Vespia is the founder and main person behind Hill & Harbor Design + Build. He is often jokingly referred to as “the man behind the curtain” due to his involvement in all areas of the business behind the scenes. He focuses his efforts on Project Development and is responsible for the vision and how to get there in a project and as a business. Hill & Harbor Design + Build’s model is driven by a trusted process that takes the stress out of any home project.

Connect with Paul: linkedin.com/in/paul-vespia-76036a14/

TIMELINE
1:06 About Paul and Hill & Harbor Design+Build

4:46 The beginning of Paul’s journey.

8:10 The mistakes that have shaped Paul’s success.

9:33 The difference between ‘design-build’ and ‘design-bid-build’.

11:51 Where Hill & Harbor started vs where it is today.

13:55 How Paul ended up joining APB.

16:02 The impact coaching has had on Paul’s building company.

20:25 What Paul loves about running a professional building company.

21:32 The future of Hill & Harbor.

23:55 Challenges that builders are overcoming right now.

25:38 Paul’s advice for other builders.

28:09 Why more people are investing in new homes.

31:19 What success looks like today for Paul.

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

Hill & Harbor Design+Build: hillharbordb.com/

APB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

Join the Professional Builders Secrets Facebook group for builders & connect with professional builders world-wide: facebook.com/groups/builderssecrets
35 min
May 12, 202229. Understanding Construction Financials With Andy Skarda
In episode 29 of the Professional Builders Secrets podcast, we’re joined by APB’s Head Coach, Andy Skarda. Throughout this episode, we get into the fundamentals of construction financials, and how much of a part financial awareness can play in a builder's success.

During this episode, Andy discusses the reason builders fail when it comes to their financials, and how they can start to take action, analyse their financials, and come out on top in the end.

Its evident builders need to set targets, exceed benchmarks, and closely monitor their KPIs. Within episode 29, Andy goes into detail about why these aspects are so important, and how you can better implement them.

Andy also delves into the five key things you need to focus in on as a professional builder. Revenue, cost of sales, gross profit, fixed expenses and net profit/margin.

Listen to the full episode to learn more about these key fundamentals and better understand your construction financials.

ABOUT ANDY SKARDA

Andy Skarda has owned and led businesses in South Africa, the United States, South-East Asia, and for the last decade, Australia. With 30+ years of business experience, Andy heads up the coaching team at the Association of Professional Builders (APB), helping business owners in the building industry identify and implement the skills and systems they need to be successful, without needing to go back to school or more importantly, without going bust..

Connect with Andy: linkedin.com/in/andy-skarda-92a6875/

TIMELINE
1:15 The fundamentals in construction financials.

4:37 How financial awareness plays part in a builder's success.

5:37 The financial framework for professional builders.

12:23 Setting targets and exceeding benchmarks.

25:48 KPIs builders must be monitoring.

31:10 How APB members efficiently monitor their numbers.

36:18 Why builders fail when it comes to financials.

38:36 How to take action after analysing your financials.

41:23 Financial trends affecting builders.

43:35 Where to start.

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

APB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

Join the Professional Builders Secrets Facebook group for builders & connect with professional builders world-wide: facebook.com/groups/builderssecrets
47 min
May 05, 202228. Successful Lead Generation With David Belman
In episode 28 of the Professional Builders Secrets podcast, we’re joined by David Belman, President of Belman Homes Inc. based in Wisconsin, United States. Throughout this episode, we dig into the background of Belman Homes, and how David’s shaped it into the building company it’s become today.

Belman Homes is Waukesha County’s premier custom home builder, and has served the Waukesha and surrounding Milwaukee communities as home builders, land developers, realtors, and green home building experts for the last 35 years.

David takes pride in the fact every Belman home is handcrafted on-site using only the best suppliers and finest contractors. Ensuring each custom home will be unique, comfortable, energy efficient and most of all, an investment to be proud of.

Throughout this episode, David discusses what you need for successful lead generation, key metrics to measure the success of your lead generation, how to find your unique selling proposition and so much more.

Listen to the full episode to learn David's story.

DAVID BELMAN - PRESIDENT OF BELMAN HOMES INC.

David Belman is the President of Belman Homes. With a passion for building homes, giving back to the community through Operation Finally Home and being an industry leader for housing. He introduced Belman Homes to the Parade of Homes and has since created 7 models with 3 Top People’s Choice Awards for best overall design. David has also won numerous awards over the years including the 2017 MBA Builder of the Year, Waukesha Freeman Citizen of the Year, and many more.

Connect with David: linkedin.com/in/davidbelman

TIMELINE
1:03 The background of Belman Homes.

2:55 Why you need a healthy pipeline of leads.

4:15 Why your documented sales process is just as important as your lead generation.

8:31 What’s shaped where Davids building company is at today.

10:39 The main elements that have driven Belman Homes growth.

13:09 How David got involved with APB.

14:10 What you need for successful lead generation.

18:18 Successful lead generation recipes.

20:34 Trending sales techniques that create high conversion rates.

23:48 Key metrics to measure the success of your lead generation.

26:55 Finding your unique selling proposition.

28:32 The challenges right now vs the future of the industry.

34:59 The future of Belman Homes.

36:06 David’s advice for other builders.

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

Belman Homes Website: belmanhomes.com

APB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

Join the Professional Builders Secrets Facebook group for builders & connect with professional builders world-wide: facebook.com/groups/builderssecrets
39 min
April 28, 202227. How To Remain 'Booked Out' For 12 Months With Russ, Sky & Andy
In episode 27 of the Professional Builders Secrets podcast, we’re joined by Co-founders of the Association of Professional Builders Russ Stephens and Sky Stephens, along with APB’s Head Coach, Andy Skarda. Throughout this episode, the trio discuss how builders can manage the ever-growing jobs they undertake.

During this episode, Russ, Sky and Andy delve into the reasons why builders struggle when juggling multiple jobs at once in the first place, and share the secret weapon builders can utilise to manage more than one project at a time, construction slots.

Listen to the full episode to discover the best ways to manage, optimise, and prioritise your construction slots year after year.

RUSS STEPHENS - CO-FOUNDER

Russ Stephens is a Co-founder of the Association of Professional Builders, a business coaching company dedicated to improving the residential construction industry for both builders and consumers. Russ is a data analysis expert who has introduced data-driven decision making to the residential construction industry. Russ is also a proud member of the Forbes Business Development Council.

Connect with Russ: linkedin.com/in/russstephens

SKY STEPHENS - CO-FOUNDER

Sky Stephens is a Co-founder of the Association of Professional Builders, a business coaching company dedicated to improving the residential construction industry for both builders and consumers. Sky is a proud member of The National Association of Women in Construction and she was also recognised as one of 2021’s Top 100 Women.

Connect with Sky: linkedin.com/in/skycheristephens

ANDY SKARDA - HEAD COACH

Andy Skarda has owned and led businesses in South Africa, the United States, South-East Asia, and for the last decade, Australia. With 30+ years of business experience, Andy heads up the coaching team at the Association of Professional Builders (APB), helping business owners in the building industry identify and implement the skills and systems they need to be successful, without needing to go back to school or more importantly, without going bust.

Connect with Andy: linkedin.com/in/andy-skarda-92a6875/

TIMELINE
1:30 Why builders struggle when juggling multiple jobs at once.

3:43 The secret weapon to managing more than one project at a time.

9:14 So what is the ‘construction slots’ concept?

14:55 A builder that uses construction slots vs one that doesn’t.

17:57 The process of using construction slots.

22:55 Where you’ll see the effect of using construction slots.

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

APB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

Join the Professional Builders Secrets Facebook group for builders & connect with professional builders world-wide: facebook.com/groups/builderssecrets
39 min
April 21, 202226. Successfully Working With Your Spouse With Toby And Elizabeth Searle
In episode 26 of the Professional Builders Secrets podcast, our host, Bosco Anthony is joined by Co-founders Toby and Elizabeth Searle from Highwater Homes, based in NSW, Australia. Throughout this episode, Toby and Elizabeth share how to successfully work with your spouse.

Toby Searle is the working Director and founder of Highwater Homes, Macarthur’s custom home building specialists. Partnered by his wife Elizabeth, they have established the foundations for a successful family run, highly motivated local business specialising in custom built homes of the highest quality within the Camden and Macarthur area and throughout the Southern Highlands.

In this episode Toby and Elizabeth dissect how together, they’ve built Highwater Homes over the past 10 years and solidified themselves as a building company known for providing outstanding customer service and uncompromised quality for those wishing to create their new home.

Listen to the full episode to understand what makes the dynamic duo work so well.

TOBY SEARLE - CO-FOUNDER OF HIGHWATER HOMES

Toby Searle is the Builder and Co-Owner of Highwater Homes. Toby is involved through each and every stage of every build Highwater Homes undertakes. With a passion for building beautiful homes for discerning homeowners, Toby is always enthusiastic about meeting potential clients for the first time and unlocking their ideas on what it is they would like to achieve when building their new home.

Connect with Toby: linkedin.com/in/toby-searle-1b3ba292/

ELIZABETH SEARLE - CO-FOUNDER OF HIGHWATER HOMES

As Co-Owner to Highwater Homes, Elizabeth Searle spearheads their business operations. Elizabeth was the recipient of The HIA Australian Business Partner of the Year Award 2021 for her work within the business and the pivotal role she plays in the day-to-day functioning of Highwater Homes along with her strong commitment to generating systems, developing strategic plans and actioning business goals.

Connect with Elizabeth: linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-searle-0b57a318b/

TIMELINE
1:05 About Highwater Homes.

5:33 How Toby and Elizabeth set Highwater Homes apart from other builders.

13:34 How Highwater Homes got involved with APB.

18:49 The challenges Toby and Elizabeth faced and overcame.

21:12 The construction industry challenges Toby and Elizabeth are seeing right now.

23:22 Toby’s advice to other builders.

25:56 Toby’s view on the future of the construction industry.

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

Highwater Homes Website: highwaterhomes.com.au/

APB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

Join the Professional Builders Secrets Facebook group for builders & connect with professional builders world-wide: facebook.com/groups/builderssecrets
30 min