21 Months to Stability Buying a $1.2m SDE Business
Apr 28, 2025
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Jan Roll, the owner of Victoria Renovations, transitioned from a banking career to acquire a $6M residential contracting business. He shares his challenging journey, discussing the steep learning curve of managing multiple trades and the importance of building trust in a low-trust industry. Jan highlights key lessons such as the significance of paying vendors promptly, the pitfalls of unclear legal agreements, and the impact of SEO on lead generation. His experience underscores the vital role of community support and adaptability in navigating business ownership.
Jan Roll faced significant challenges in transitioning from banking to owning a construction business, experiencing a 25% revenue drop initially and legal hurdles.
The strategic use of SEO and digital marketing allowed Jan to significantly enhance lead generation, doubling the business pipeline within 21 months.
Building trust through transparent communication with clients and employees proved essential for Jan in stabilizing his construction business amidst industry distrust.
Deep dives
Jan Roll's Journey into Ownership
Jan Roll transitioned from a corporate banking career to owning a residential construction business after being inspired by a successful real estate investment strategy. He discovered Victoria Renovations, which had a solid revenue base, and quickly became attracted to the potential for growth despite the cyclical nature of the construction industry. The acquisition process proved challenging, notably with a 25% dip in sales during an election year and legal issues costing him significant resources. Despite these initial hurdles, Jan remained motivated by the business's growth potential and the opportunities it presented.
Challenges Faced During Transition
After taking over the business, Jan encountered multiple challenges, including a lengthy license acquisition process that delayed his operational capabilities. Additionally, a lawsuit from a former partner added financial strain, costing approximately $120,000 in legal fees and settlements. Jan's intense dedication was evident, as he often worked weekends and early mornings to navigate these difficulties while managing a steep learning curve related to the construction business. Ultimately, he used these experiences to build resilience and adapt to the demanding nature of entrepreneurship.
Stabilizing and Growing the Business
After overcoming initial setbacks, Jan successfully stabilized Victoria Renovations and significantly increased its business pipeline, growing it from $1.5 million to nearly $3 million in booked projects over 21 months. His strategic focus on improving lead generation through enhanced SEO practices contributed significantly to this growth. By updating the company’s online presence, he managed to transform previously limited marketing outreach into widespread visibility, resulting in a 25% increase in new leads. Jan also emphasized the importance of nurturing relationships with subcontractors and employees, which proved essential for solidifying the operational framework.
Strategic Insights and Adaptations
Jan highlighted the importance of leveraging relationships and creating transparent communication within his company to build trust with clients and employees alike. He implemented bidirectional client communication and promptly addressed concerns, which fostered a more reliable reputation in a distrustful industry. Jan also emphasized his learning experiences, notably the challenges of managing a project-based business with fluctuating demand and varied cash conversion cycles. His proactive engagement and willingness to learn allowed him to create a culture of support, ultimately benefiting both employees and customers.
Future Aspirations and Opportunities
Looking forward, Jan expressed enthusiasm and confidence about the future of Victoria Renovations, indicating that he feels the company is well-positioned for continued growth. He aims to further expand his understanding of the construction industry while increasing the business's market outreach and improving operational efficiencies. Jan's experience with ROBS financing also led him to explore approaches to leverage tax advantages as he seeks growth through potential exit strategies down the line. He remains optimistic and energized, ready to tackle new challenges while sharing his insights with others interested in entrepreneurship.
