Hello everyone, I'm Evan and this is my debut post on the forum. I've been eager to share my story, so please take the time to read this. I know it's a lengthy read, but I genuinely appreciate any advice or feedback you can offer. I have a passion for construction that began when I was just a teenager. Despite some challenges with my parents at 16, I found myself working in the fencing industry and quickly became a valuable asset to the team. Over the years, I transitioned to agriculture, eventually becoming a farm manager for a family-owned business that also had ties to construction. After graduating and struggling with clinical depression and ADD, I found myself at a crossroads. I made the decision to leave college behind and focus on building my own business. Since then, I've been successfully running a skid steer business, offering services such as construction cleanup, landscaping, and more. With a strong network of contacts and access to various equipment, I've managed to secure multiple jobs and am looking towards the future. As I navigate this journey, I have a few questions that I would love input on: 1. Should I continue renting equipment or consider purchasing my own? 2. My long-term goal is to relocate to Georgia and possibly venture into the timber industry. Should I start preparing for this move now or focus on growing my current business first? 3. I am in search of a suitable workshop and guidance on what equipment to invest in next. Should I rent or buy, and how can I find the right space? 4. What are the best marketing strategies for my business? I currently rely on Craigslist but am considering other platforms like Houzz, HomeAdvisor, and social media. 5. How can I transition from landscaping towards contracting and development work in the future? Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I may be young and faced with uncertainties, but I am determined to make the most of this opportunity and appreciate any advice or wisdom you can offer. Let's build a successful future together.
It's clear that you have a lot on your plate, but your positive attitude and strong work ethic are setting you on the right path. Remember, you only live once and have the resilience to bounce back from any setbacks. Your questions cover a wide range of topics, from work to personal life. When it comes to your plans with your girlfriend, it's important to have open and honest communication. Consider what she wants and make sure you are both aligned in your future goals. It's worth considering how your girlfriend's career ambitions may impact your relationship. People change and evolve, especially at a young age, so it's essential to discuss your future together. As for your career, take the time to figure out where you can thrive and grow. Building a financial safety net through savings or investments will provide you with the freedom to navigate any challenging times. Remember, you are the master of your own destiny. Learn from any mistakes you make and keep moving forward with a positive mindset. Good luck on your journey, and stay focused on shaping a bright future for yourself.
When considering your career and future spouse's goals, it's important to think about the financial aspects. If your partner is pursuing a lucrative career, you may need to focus on growing your business to increase your income. Many successful companies choose to rent equipment instead of owning it outright, based on financial calculations that can be easily done using online calculators. Maintenance and the risk of costly breakdowns should also be weighed against the convenience of having equipment available whenever you need it. If you're planning to relocate, investing in advertising could be beneficial. However, when it comes time to sell your business, having a solid track record with paid invoices and rental receipts may not be enough. Offering a trained crew and manager to the new owner can add significant value to your business. Drawing on the experience of previous generations can guide you in making strategic decisions about structuring and marketing your business. Avoiding debt can make your business more adaptable to changes in the market and prevent fixed payments from hindering your flexibility.
Thank you both for your responses. I have already discussed this matter with my girlfriend. We are practically engaged, even though I had promised not to marry before the age of 30. Nevertheless, I wouldn't trade my situation for anything. During a dinner conversation, she expressed her disinterest in dating or marrying a doctor. Money does not motivate her. It was only after a few months of dating that I disclosed my family's financial situation to her. She seemed surprised but remained indifferent to our wealth. Our favorite dining spot is a humble establishment, despite having dined in high-end steak houses together. Financial matters related to the medical field do not capture her interest. While she envisions herself as a surgeon or running her own practice, she also dreams of operating a free clinic. I have full confidence in her, as she has supported me through various financial situations. She is content with a modest lifestyle and does not desire luxury. Currently, I am heavily invested in stocks and municipal bonds. If I were to sell my investments, I could afford a decent starter home and cover living expenses. I have been receiving more job opportunities recently, which I welcome as I had a slow week previously. I have ideas on how to sustain myself through the winter, but slow days make me anxious, leading me to scan job advertisements. My ambition is to grow my dirtwork business until I can secure a small development project and expand into full-time commercial and government development. I aspire to reach the level of success my former boss achieved. He ran two crews, one handling industrial/commercial projects and the other focused on residential work. His monthly earnings averaged around $80,000 from the residential crew alone. With a team of six men and various machinery, he managed large government contracts. I hope to emulate his success by starting small and gradually expanding into larger projects. Although I am starting in my current location, my ultimate goal is to establish a business that can be sold, allowing me to move to Georgia. I have always wanted to move to Georgia due to its abundant opportunities in farming, timber, construction, and trucking, industries that I aim to be a part of one day. If anyone knows where I can find affordable equipment, please let me know. I have had success finding low-hour equipment from farmers at great prices. I am currently in search of a small trackhoe and compact machine for my fabrication work, as I find the cost of attachments to be overly expensive. As for advertising, I plan to increase my efforts especially if I decide to move. Avoiding debt is my priority, and I intend to seek financing from family members rather than banks, as they are more lenient and do not charge interest.
davisdirt brought up the question of whether to invest heavily in advertising to attract more clients. Despite considering the option, the individual expressed concerns about potentially attracting price-conscious customers and time-wasting inquiries. As a one-man business that has thrived on word-of-mouth referrals, the decision to pursue advertising will ultimately depend on the nature of the business and its target market.
Here is my best advice for you so far. Equipment: If you are looking to continue your business, I suggest considering the purchase of used or surplus equipment and parts. Buying from a reputable seller or marketplace ensures that the equipment is in good working condition. Personally, I have had success purchasing from NRI Parts and Aucto, but Ritchie Bros is also a reliable option. By opting for used equipment, you can save significantly on costs. Relationship & Finances: Evaluate your financial situation closer to your partner's graduation date, which may be in three to four years. Education can lead to changes in perspectives and priorities, just like owning a business. Consider factors like your partner's potential job location and medical residency when making decisions about your business's location. While many studies indicate high rates of infidelity and relationship breakdowns, approach these statistics with caution and make financial decisions independently of your relationship dynamics. Marketing: Researching inbound marketing strategies can help attract customers to your business. Focus on methods that draw customers to you rather than traditional outbound marketing techniques. If your current marketing efforts are yielding positive results, continue with your existing strategies. Property: Consider investing in property only if it is financially feasible for you.
Answer: - It depends on your business needs, financial situation, and long-term goals. Renting may be cost-effective in the short term, while purchasing can offer more control and potential savings over time.
Answer: - It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each option. Consider factors such as market research, business expansion feasibility, and personal readiness before making a decision.
Answer: - Assess your current needs, budget, and growth projections to determine whether renting or buying equipment is more suitable. When looking for a workshop, consider location, size, amenities, and cost to find the right space for your business.
Answer: - Diversifying your marketing strategies can help reach a wider audience. Explore different platforms, analyze their effectiveness for your target market, and create a cohesive marketing plan that includes online platforms and social media.
Answer: - To transition successfully, consider
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