- Award category: Sales & Marketing
- Speciality: Full-service remodeling
- 7 years in business
- 2003 volume: $0.72 million
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Staff: 3 office, 0 field
Allyn Harth (center, between son Greg, right, and framing sub Guy Schmidt), an industrial engineer, worked in real estate, insurance restoration, and manufactured housing. But at age 66, he "pulled a Colonel Sanders," starting a company in his golden years. "If he could do it, I could, too," Harth says.
About a year ago, Greg, a civil engineer, joined the company, and the complementary perspectives of the partners are driving the business to the $1 million mark.
The company produces 30 jobs a year, averaging $39,000. Allyn is the salesman. Greg, the production manager, oversees a network of top subcontractors. Greg's arrival has meant closer examination of job costs and systematized lead tracking. Amazingly (for those who dismiss online referrals), 58% of their business comes from HomeNet Solutions, a Philadelphia-area contractor referral service.
The Harths are committed to technology, using e-mail and their Web site to communicate with clients and prospects. They want to maintain quality and increase profitability while growing at a 30% clip. They're also committed to the industry. Greg serves on his NARI chapter's marketing committee.