About the Book

Here is the introduction of Contract-it-Yourself.  To download the entire E-Book, click here!

Introduction

Congratulations on making your first step in saving thousands of dollars on your construction project.  I know you will find this book extremely helpful and informative for all of your construction needs.  The tips and information can be used for the smallest of projects, remodeling a bathroom or kitchen to building an entire new home.  I will help you to understand the building process and what to expect.  The following chapters will explain how being your own general contractor will save you thousands of dollars and give you instant equity in your home.  That means instead of fattening some general contractors bank account, you will keep that money.  Let’s face it; it’s your money, so why not keep it!  We are not talking about a small amount either.  You could be saving between 20-40%.  On a $300,000 project that translates to $60,000-$120,000 in your pocket.   Well worth the few dollars you had to pay for this book, wouldn’t you agree? 

I have worked for a general contractor for over 16 years as a superintendent at first and later became the project manager.  During that period I was responsible for finding new clients, negotiating contracts, working with architects and building departments, personnel, purchasing, and daily project supervision. I also have owned a restoration and remodeling company.  The combination of these and other companies I worked for prior to 1987 give me over 23 years experience in the construction trade.  During this time I always noticed how clients complained about us charging 20% overhead and profit.  Did they think our service was free?  Do they not understand that we have to pay liability insurance, workman’s compensation, trucks, fuel, salaries, etc.?  Even charging the twenty percent, we were lucky to maintain a five percent profit margin.  Not to mention; with so many lawsuits against underhanded contractors, liability insurance has tripled on residential projects in the past few years.  So guess what?  These costs get passed on to you, the customer.  That is why I decided to write this book and pass on all the “tricks of the trade” to you. 

Let’s get real; in these days of the internet and home channels on cable television, the public is much better educated then twenty years ago.  After all, if you have this book you either found it on the internet or saw it advertised on cable.  The days of the residential general contractor making big profits are coming to an end.  I want to help educate the public on how to save thousands on their next building project.  You can do it!  I have many times, and so can you.  I just finished a custom home for myself in July 2005 using the same recipe I am giving you and saved about $60,000.00!  So I know it can work for you too. The best part is the feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction of doing something like this on your own.  Remember, you can “Contract-it-Yourself”.

Best Wishes and Good Luck