The Contractor Fight with Tom Reber

They strip away the fear of business math and show how to find real overhead and set bulletproof pricing. Simple formulas for daily cost-to-run and true job costing come up. Practical systems appear: receipt folders, laminated upsell menus, and an envelope cashflow method. The conversation covers market timing, cash vs accrual thinking, and making a business attractive to buyers.

A blunt take that your bank account reveals the truth about your leadership and decisions. Topics include pricing for real profit, tracking gross margins, and job costing every project. They dig into labor inefficiency, bloated overhead, and raising standards to protect cash. Practical steps cover weekly financial reviews and shifting from technician to business-owner thinking.

Grab "The Contractor's Code to Finally Cracking $1M": https://thecontractorfight.com/code Stop being a pussy and start looking at your numbers. Steve Shinholser joins Derek and Tim to reveal how he hit financial "escape velocity"—where his investments now pay him more than his lifestyle costs. If you're 44 and still don't have your shit together, you're running out of time to stop swinging the hammer. Learn the simple, gritty math of compound interest and why your addiction to new equipment is stealing from your 80-year-old self.============================================================Ready to stop stealing from your family?Grab "The Contractor's Code to Finally Cracking $1M" and start building a business that actually funds a life worth living: https://thecontractorfight.com/code============================================================== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

Are you working hard but finding your profits are stagnant? Discover the critical difference between markup and margin, and how misconceptions can cost you big. Learn the truth about margin measurement and the significant impact on your take-home pay. Tom explains why contractors need a 50% gross profit margin and dispels fears about raising prices. Plus, get practical tips on setting a minimum margin and creating a pricing strategy that values your work. It's time to stop guessing and start winning!

Tim and Derek dive into the challenges of losing a $50,000 deposit and the unexpected twists of client interactions. They discuss the complexities of permits and the hidden blessings that may come from lost jobs. A client turning the project upside down highlights negotiation strategies and the importance of strong contractor relationships. Emphasizing the value of networking, they share how collaboration can turn potential setbacks into future opportunities. Lessons learned stress the balance of effort and reward in the business.

Most contractors struggle with pricing, often guessing and losing profits. Learn the three essential pricing rules that can lead to sustainable success and stop the cycle of underpricing. Discover how to attract better clients by focusing on outcomes rather than price. Tom emphasizes that pricing is about discipline and understanding your business's needs. Knowing your numbers and embracing niche positioning are crucial for growth, while losing some jobs can be a strategic win. Build a disciplined, profitable contracting business with confidence!

Many contractors are stuck in a reactive cycle, managing crises instead of running a business. Discover how lack of systems can drain personal time and hamper growth. Learn the importance of implementing standard operating procedures and protective strategies to break free from daily chaos. Explore the benefits of role-playing and understanding customer personalities to enhance communication. Plus, find out how to turn your expertise into profitable consultations while safeguarding your valuable time.

Discover how many contractors mistakenly calculate labor costs based on wages, ignoring the hidden labor burden that truly affects profits. Learn what's included in that burden, from payroll taxes to unbillable hours. Tom shares a stark example of how a $25 wage can balloon to $36-$40 per hour in real costs. He emphasizes the importance of pricing accurately to avoid cash crises and offers three powerful strategies to reclaim profit. Finally, overcome the fear of price resistance by understanding that pricing realistically is crucial for survival.

Tim and Derek tackle the chaos in contracting businesses, revealing how poor organization drives away talent. They emphasize the power of an employee handbook as a leadership tool, setting clear standards and safety. The duo discusses building a positive company culture where kindness and happiness reign, alerting listeners to flag bad hires early. They highlight the importance of empathetic check-ins and protecting team members to foster trust. Ultimately, they encourage creating a workplace that feels like home for everyone.

Success in contracting isn't about laziness but tolerating chaos. Discover how to define your profit targets to steer clear of drifting. Learn the power of 90-day goals and prioritize leads and pricing for better execution. Uncover profit leaks from underpricing and lack of discipline. Review past projects to identify pitfalls and enforce non-negotiable standards to maintain order. Embrace accountability to enhance performance, and avoid repeating past mistakes as the year progresses.