Building Optimal Radio special guest Ed Earl reveals the Secrets to Happy Clients. Known in the industry as The Zen Builder—and with over thirty years of experience—Happy Clients—is Ed's specialty. Listen as Ed provides tangible, reasonable, cost effective strategies any construction professional can apply to their business. This episode is also extremely helpful for Homeowners, as it gives them insight to how a Project Manger/Owner's Rep can help to mitigate stress and project delays.
In this podcast, Ed shares how he became to be known as “The Zen Builder." He also discussed the reason why so many issues arise between clients and their builders and the strategies for successful relationships with them. Below are the show notes for the podcast. Show notes: [1:50] – How Ed became to be known as “The Zen Builder.” [4:00] – The reason why so many issues arise between clients and their builders [6:45] – The four types of most difficult clients and the strategies for successful relationships with them 16:10] – When and why you should turn down a potential client. [19:20] – Tricks to managing client expectations (the prototype explanation, the emotional home owner). [26:20] – The importance of weekly meetings with clients. [27:50] – The construction kickoff meeting and what is discussed. [29:43] – Setting expectations for text and email responses. [33:10] – Creating your homeowner’s manual. [34:35] – Using an up front questionnaire. [37:10] – The benefits of cloud-based project management software. [44:20] – The features of three different programs: Co-Construct, Builder Trend, and UDA. [46:22] – The biggest pitfall with the cloud-based systems and the best way to roll one out. [48:50] – Setting client expectations regarding the construction schedule. [51:22] – Why Ed favors cost-plus over fixed price contracts. [55:00] – Finding Ed online. Click here to listen to the podcast or click the player below.
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