#06: Ed Earl, Secrets to Happy Clients
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.
Selected Links:
Managing the Emotional Homeowner
Boomerang for Gmail
Co-Construct
Builder Trend
UDA Construction Online