We have seen more activity in the single-family market over the past year than the previous two years. You may ask, “Is this a trend?” or “Is this a sign that we have seen the bottom and are on our way out of the great recession?”
Frankly, I have no earthly idea. My confidence in my ability to judge the market has been drastically eroded over the last five years. I am simply appreciating it as it comes.
This year has certainly been better for us than 2009 or 2010. It isn’t saying much, though, to have a better year than 2009. Our revenue in 2009 was just slightly higher than our highest sales month in 2004!
With the increased housing activity builders are finally getting jobs to bid. However, they are finding that many of their Trades are no longer around. Or, their usual Trade is in shambles and cannot get the work done correctly or quickly. Builders are nervous about using or relying on them.
I am very thankful that our company is still here. Still able to handle a blitz of jobs - and then the inevitable slow periods that follow. We are continually picking up new clients that are building homes in this economy. And, we have established relationships with builders that are eager to tap into our expertise…as soon as they get a house to build.
I cannot overemphasize the impact that referrals from our clients have had on our business. We have a rabid client fan base that understands how we help them be better building companies. They go out of their way to recommend us to others.
| We have a rabid client fan base that understands how we help them be better building companies. They go out of their way to recommend us to others. |
Sometimes companies that provide exceptional products or services run the risk of becoming their customers’ “Best Kept Secret Weapon.” I am grateful that our clients have not taken this stance with our company – they spread the word. For that, we are extremely thankful.
We are also very thankful for all of our clients throughout 2011. Thank you. You’ve provided the turkey on our table and we appreciate your business tremendously.
One of those clients that have been a bright spot throughout the last five years is Cobalt Contracting – the subject of our Feature Interview on the next page. They are part of our core group of clients that have remained active by being nimble and flexible while sticking to their core building beliefs. I think you’ll enjoy reading about them.
So here we are, with Thanksgiving upon us. In spite of the uncertainty and turmoil of the last five years, we have so much to be thankful for. There are always bright spots in our lives – if we look for them. What are you thankful for?
Happy Thanksgiving,
P.S. Would your spouse thank You if you won a FREE Turkey? Then look on page 3 for your chance to bring home a free turkey to feast on this Thanksgiving.