The Construction Machine from Udemy

If you've always wanted to...

Break into the construction industry
Build your very own construction business from the ground up
Escape the rat-race and blaze your own path
Develop a sustainable and predictable business
But unsure where to start?

...then this course is for you. In this 32 Module Program, I've included everything you need to know including:

Learn how to find your niche in this wide-open industry
Labor management: develop an understanding of how to manage in-house employees and subcontractors
Material management: how to connect with suppliers, perform take-offs, and get materials to the jobsite
How to accurately estimate projects
How to navigate paperwork (estimates, contracts, purchase orders, etc.)
How to effectively market your business - the piece that most contractors swing and miss on
Develop a deep understanding of customer service and retention - make 'em happy and keep 'em coming back.
How to execute a well-oiled machine that produces consistent income.

Apprenticeship

Pushing yourself

What employers want

10 things that require zero talent

Business planning

Business planning
Business Plan
Mission Statement
Company Values

Business Formation

Sole Proprietor
Limited Liability Company
Corporation
Articles of Incorporation
Employer Identification Number

Funding

Where are funds coming from?
Self-funded
Partners
Private investors
Business loans
1. SBA Loans
2. Equipment Loans
3. Bank financing
Business grants

Infrastructure

Office
Hardware
Phone
1. Vanity numbers (444-ROOF)
Fax
Email
Website
Cloud database
Software
1. Construction management software
File organization
Banking
Business Credit
Bookkeeping

Licensing

Requirements
Testing
Bonds
Classifications & Limitations
Reciprocity and exam waivers
Renewals
Continuing Education
Law

Human Resources

Employees
1. Employees
2. Recruitment
3. Interviewing
4. Picture ID / License
5. Background check
6. Drug testing
7. Payroll
8. Policies
9. Handbook
10. Termination
11. Paperwork
  1. IRS Form W-4
  2. IRS Form I-9
  3. Direct deposit information
  4. Signed handbook agreement
  5. Non-compete agreement
  6. Non-disclosure agreement
  7. Benefits
12. Paid time off (PTO)
  1. Vacation
  2. Holidays
13. Timesheets
14. Working hours
Subcontractors
1. Independent contractor
2. IRS Form W-9
3. Independent Contractor Agreement
4. 1099s
5. 1099 Process
Finding the right people
Substance abuse

Taxes

Payroll taxes
Sales tax
Estimated tax
Lump sum tax payments

Insurance

Worker’s Compensation
1. Employees
2. Uninsured warning
General Liability
1. Site coverage
2. Automobile coverage
3. Uninsured warning
Subcontractors
1. Requesting proof of insurance
2. Validating proof of insurance
WC & GL Audits
Unemployment
Disability
Tools & Equipment
Builder’s Risk Policy

Safety

OSHA
Safety & Health Program
PPE
First Aid
Drug testing
Emergency preparedness

Supplier Accounts

Credit cards
Suppliers & vendors
Credit applications
Payment Terms
Supplier & vendor pricing

Marketing

Branding
1. Picking a name
2. Logos
3. Colors
4. Taglines
5. Vehicles (magnets & wraps)
6. Apparel
7. Paperwork
8. Email
9. Business Cards
10. Free stuff
Digital Footprint
1. Social Media Pages
  1. Facebook
  2. Instagram
  3. Linkedin
2. Search engine listings
3. Better Business Bureau
4. Angie’s List & HomeAdvisor
Inbound Channels
1. Referrals
  1. Friends & family
  2. Clients
  3. Realtors
  4. Business affiliates
2. Facebooks Ads
3. Facebook groups
4. Pay per click
5. Website / SEO
6. Paid leads
7. Craigslist
8. Yard Signs
9. Office Phone
10. Radio
11. Television
Outbound Channels
1. Direct Mail
2. Door knocking
3. Email
4. Cold calling
Salespeople

Competition

What do they have to offer?
How do they position themselves?
Strength and weakness
Pricing
Lowball bids
Your competitive advantage

Appointments

What to bring
Dressing the part
Arrival
Intro
Building rapport
Mirroring the client
Pain points

Negotiation

Everything’s negotiable
1. Customers
2. Suppliers
3. Subcontractors
Emphasis
Negotiable Terms
Boxing the objection
Give and take
Negotiation lines
Listening lines
Presentation
Talking numbers

Pricing Jobs

Market rates
Cost calculation
1. Labor
2. Materials
3. Turnkey
4. Rental
5. Taxes
6. Overhead
7. Permitting
8. Contingency
9. Profit Margin
Pricing techniques
Attention to detail
Walkthroughs
Reading Plans
Accurate measurements
Accurate scope of work
Subcontractor estimates
Supplier estimates
Understanding demand
1. Material pricing fluctuation
2. Subcontractor price hikes
Software

Customer Service

Statistics
The Customer Experience
Answering the phone
Showing up on time
Good communication
1. Follow-ups
2. Providing updates
3. Don’t leave them hanging
Your product
1. The power of walkthroughs
2. Making it right
Freebies
Referrals & Repeat Business

Paperwork

Estimates
1. Content
  1. Scope of work
    1. What’s included
    2. What’s not included
  2. Time limits
  3. Contingencies for unknowns
Contracts
1. Contract types
  1. Cost Plus
  2. Lump Sum
2. Scope of work
  1. What’s included
  2. What’s not included
3. Change order procedure
Purchase Orders
Change Orders
Invoices
Certificate of Completion
1. Insurance companies

Winning the Bid

Communication
Being prepared
Pitch your bid
Objections
Decision-maker buy-in
Providing value
Apples to Apples
Timing
Getting contract signed

Scheduling

Schedule development
Your role
Customer inputs
Labor inputs
Materials inputs
Rental inputs
Inspection inputs
Delays
Improvement

Permitting

When is a permit required?
What do you need?
Plan reviews
Building to code
Inspections
1. Getting started
2. Requesting inspections
3. Being prepared
  1. Scheduling
  2. Handling inspectors
  3. Logistics
4. Results
5. Document submittals
6. Pass & fail rates

Execution: Labor Management

Leading by example
What do employees want?
Tools for success
Morale
1. Improvement
2. Correction
Communication
Doing the work
1. Planning
2. Scheduling
3. Oversight
4. Quality control
5. Errors & rework

Execution: Material Management

Supplier delivery
1. Inspecting upon receipt
Pickup from supplier
1. Inspecting upon receipt
Material drops
1. Drop zones
  1. Flagging drop area
  2. Meeting driver at site
  3. Property damage
2. Phased delivery
3. Property damage
Storage
Setting boundaries
Debris control

Execution: Site Management

Access
Start and stop times
Site Preparation
1. Exterior
2. Interior
Clean-up
Safety
Theft
1. Signage
2. Cameras
3. Job check in sheet
4. Take inventory
Rental
1. Porta Jon
2. Dumpsters
3. Equipment
Utilities

Managing Customers (post contract)

Managing expectations
Coordination
Communication
1. Updates
2. Answering questions
3. Client inspection
Handling bird-dogs
Payments
Monitoring budget
Monitoring schedule
Monitoring scope
Overruns
Walkthroughs
Handling errors
References & reviews

Craftsmanship

Quality
Quality assurance
Quality control
The Right People
The Right Materials
Cutting corners
Defect claims
Rework
Warranties
Meeting expectations

Learn to Stand Out

Answer the phone
Be on time
Learn to be likeable
Have the right attitude
Pay attention to detail
Do the little things
Keep your word
Do it right the first time
Keep up with the times

Money Management

Getting Paid
1. Customer payment
  1. Payment schedule
  2. Downpayment
  3. Draw schedule
2. Payment types
  1. Check
  2. Cash
  3. PayPal
  4. Stripe
  5. Venmo
  6. Quickbooks
  7. Financing
3. Financing
  1. Financing partners
  2. Construction Loans
Paying Others
1. Employees
2. Subcontractors
3. Payday
Bookkeeping
1. Taxes
2. Projections
Quickbooks
Key financial terms
1. Revenue
2. Expenses
3. Net Income
4. Assets
5. Liabilities
6. Cash flow
7. Profit & loss statement
8. Balance sheet
Reinvesting
Reserves
Are your accounts in good hands?

Business Management

Building your team
1. Call answering service
2. Admin
3. Sales
4. Estimators
5. Labor
6. Subcontractors
7. Construction attorney
8. Insurance agent
9. Material & Equipment suppliers
10. Bookkeeper
11. Accountant
12. Marketing consultants
13. Mentors
Office & Shop
Tools & equipment
Auto Fleet
Scaling
Systems
Delegation

Extra: Financial Literacy

Assets vs Liabilities
Cashflow Quadrant
Good & Bad Debt
Taxes
Credit
1. Top factors affecting your score
2. Top negative impacts to credit
3. General credit tips
Mentality
Freedom
Summary

What's inside

Learning objectives

Learn how to find your niche in this wide-open industry
Labor management: develop an understanding of how to manage in-house employees and subcontractors
Material management: how to connect with suppliers, perform take-offs, and get materials to the jobsite
How to accurately estimate projects

How to navigate paperwork (estimates, contracts, purchase orders, etc.)
How to effectively market your business - the piece that most contractors swing and miss on
Develop a deep understanding of customer service and retention
How to execute a well-oiled machine that produces consistent income! 💸💸💸

Learn how to find your niche in this wide-open industry
Labor management: develop an understanding of how to manage in-house employees and subcontractors
Material management: how to connect with suppliers, perform take-offs, and get materials to the jobsite
How to accurately estimate projects
How to navigate paperwork (estimates, contracts, purchase orders, etc.)
How to effectively market your business - the piece that most contractors swing and miss on
Develop a deep understanding of customer service and retention
How to execute a well-oiled machine that produces consistent income! 💸💸💸

Syllabus

Introduction

Course Syllabus

Learn how to identify what your passion is in the construction industry

Finding your Niche

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Provides a comprehensive overview of the steps required to establish and manage a construction business, from initial planning to execution and customer management

Covers essential aspects of construction business operations, such as licensing, insurance, safety, and supplier accounts, which are critical for compliance and risk management

Explores marketing strategies tailored for the construction industry, including branding, digital presence, and inbound/outbound channels, which are essential for lead generation

Discusses financial literacy and money management, including key financial terms, reinvesting, and building reserves, which are crucial for long-term sustainability

Requires learners to navigate legal and regulatory requirements, such as licensing, permitting, and OSHA compliance, which may vary significantly by location

Features modules on business formation, funding, and infrastructure, which are fundamental for establishing a solid foundation for a new construction venture

Reviews summary

Complete guide to starting a construction business

According to learners, this course provides a comprehensive roadmap for anyone looking to start and run a construction business. Students found the coverage of topics like business planning, marketing, finance, and site management to be particularly valuable. It's often described as a practical guide offering actionable steps, making it especially suitable for beginners in the industry. While many appreciate the breadth of topics, some reviewers suggest that certain areas could benefit from more in-depth coverage for those with existing experience.

Touches upon many topics, but may lack advanced depth in some areas.

"It covers a lot of ground, maybe too much, could go deeper on specific topics."

"Wished there was more advanced information on marketing strategies."

"Good overview, but more detail on financial modeling would be helpful."

Serves as a strong foundation for newcomers to the industry.

"Perfect course if you're just starting out and have no business background."

"Helped me understand the fundamentals of running a contracting business."

"A great starting point before diving into the real world of construction business."

Offers hands-on advice and strategies applicable immediately.

"The information on estimating and paperwork was incredibly practical."

"Learned actionable steps to improve marketing and win bids."

"Plenty of real-world tips that I could apply to my business right away."

Covers all essential aspects of starting a construction business.

"This course is truly a complete blueprint for building a construction machine."

"It covers everything you need to know, from business formation to managing money."

"Provides a full roadmap for navigating the complexities of the industry."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Construction Machine with these activities:

The E-Myth Contractor

Show steps

Learn how to systematize your construction business to work 'on' it, not just 'in' it.

View The E-Myth Contractor: Why Most Contractors'... on Amazon

Show steps

Read the book, focusing on the systems.
Identify three areas in your business that could be systematized.
Develop a plan to implement these systems.

Review Basic Accounting Principles

Show steps

Strengthen your understanding of financial statements and bookkeeping to better manage your construction business.

Show steps

Review basic accounting terms and concepts.
Practice creating a simple profit and loss statement.
Familiarize yourself with balance sheets.

Develop a Business Plan

Show steps

Create a comprehensive business plan to guide your construction business's growth and development.

Show steps

Define your business's mission and vision.
Conduct market research to identify opportunities.
Develop a financial plan, including projections.
Outline your marketing and sales strategies.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Create a Project Estimate Template

Show steps

Design a standardized template for estimating project costs, ensuring accuracy and consistency.

Show steps

Identify all cost components (labor, materials, etc.).
Create a spreadsheet or document template.
Include formulas for calculating total costs and profit margins.
Test the template with sample projects.

Build a Marketing Portfolio

Show steps

Showcase your construction business's capabilities and past projects to attract new clients.

Show steps

Gather photos and descriptions of completed projects.
Create a website or online portfolio.
Highlight your unique selling points and customer testimonials.

Construction Project Management

Show steps

Deepen your understanding of project management principles to improve project execution and profitability.

View Melania on Amazon

Show steps

Read the book, focusing on scheduling and cost control.
Identify areas where project management can be improved.
Implement project management techniques.

Attend Industry Trade Shows

Show steps

Connect with suppliers, subcontractors, and potential clients to expand your network and business opportunities.

Show steps

Research local and regional construction trade shows.
Register and attend the events.
Collect business cards and follow up with contacts.

Career center

Learners who complete The Construction Machine will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Construction Manager

A Construction Manager oversees construction projects from beginning to end. This involves planning, coordinating, budgeting, and supervising to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. The Construction Machine course helps build a foundation for this role. The modules on project estimation, labor management, material management, and paperwork navigation are particularly relevant. Additionally, the comprehensive overview of business management principles and the emphasis on customer service directly enhance a construction manager's ability to run successful projects and maintain client satisfaction.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Manager

Construction Business Owner

Being a Construction Business Owner involves overseeing all aspects of a construction company, from securing projects to managing finances and employees. The Construction Machine course is tailored for aspiring construction business owners. It provides a comprehensive roadmap, covering niche identification, business formation, funding, and infrastructure setup. The course's detailed modules on marketing, competition analysis, negotiation, and customer service are particularly valuable. By understanding these elements, one gains the tools to develop a sustainable and successful construction business.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Business Owner

Project Estimator

A Project Estimator analyzes project plans and specifications to prepare accurate cost estimates for construction projects. The estimators must consider labor, materials, equipment, and other expenses to provide competitive bids. The Construction Machine course's modules on project estimation and pricing jobs can be useful for one in this role. The course teaches how to calculate costs related to labor, materials, taxes, overhead, and permitting. It also covers pricing techniques, attention to detail, and understanding market demand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Estimator

Construction Supervisor

A Construction Supervisor oversees daily on-site activities, ensuring that work is performed safely, efficiently, and according to specifications. This role requires strong leadership and communication skills to manage workers and subcontractors. The Construction Machine course's modules on labor management, site management, and safety practices provide a solid base for success. Specifically, the course covers leading by example, providing tools for success, fostering morale, and implementing quality control measures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Supervisor

Construction Safety Officer

A Construction Safety Officer is responsible for implementing and enforcing safety regulations on construction sites to prevent accidents and injuries. This involves conducting site inspections, developing safety plans, and providing safety training to workers. The Construction Machine course's dedicated module on safety is directly relevant. The course covers Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines, safety and health program development, personal protective equipment, first aid, drug testing, and emergency preparedness.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Safety Officer

Construction Project Coordinator

A Construction Project Coordinator assists the project manager with administrative and logistical tasks to keep construction projects running smoothly. Responsibilities include scheduling meetings, tracking project progress, managing documentation, and coordinating communication between stakeholders. The Construction Machine course may be useful as it covers paperwork management, scheduling, and customer service. The ability to navigate estimates, contracts, purchase orders, as well as effectively schedule projects, materials, and labor would certainly assist coordinator in carrying out their duties.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Project Coordinator

Construction Consultant

A Construction Consultant provides expert advice and guidance to construction companies on various aspects of their business, such as project management, cost control, and risk management. This often requires extensive industry knowledge and analytical skills. The Construction Machine course can be useful because it covers a broad range of topics, including business planning, marketing, pricing jobs, and managing customers. The understanding of these topics would enable one to provide valuable insights and help construction companies improve their operations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Consultant

Subcontractor

A Subcontractor specializes in a particular trade, such as plumbing, electrical work, or carpentry, and is hired by a general contractor to perform specific tasks on a construction project. Success as a Subcontractor requires expertise in their trade as well as strong business acumen. The Construction Machine course may be useful because it covers topics such as pricing jobs, negotiating contracts, and managing paperwork. It may also help subcontractors with understanding the broader construction process and improving their interactions with general contractors.

See salaries and explore the career path for Subcontractor

Real Estate Developer

A Real Estate Developer oversees the planning, financing, and construction of new properties, such as residential homes, commercial buildings, or mixed-use developments. This role requires strong financial acumen, project management skills, and a deep understanding of the real estate market. The Construction Machine course may be useful because it provides insights into the construction process, cost estimation, and project scheduling. An understanding of these aspects can help a real estate developer make informed decisions and manage projects effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Developer

Building Inspector

A Building Inspector examines construction projects to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. This involves reviewing blueprints, conducting site inspections, and issuing permits and violation notices. The Construction Machine course may be useful because it includes a module on permitting. This module covers when permits are required, what documents are needed, how to navigate plan reviews, and how to work with inspectors. This knowledge can help a building inspector perform their job more effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Building Inspector

Property Manager

A Property Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of residential or commercial properties, including managing tenants, coordinating maintenance and repairs, and handling finances. While not directly related to construction, the Construction Machine course may be useful because it touches on topics such as customer service, managing expectations, and handling paperwork. Understanding these aspects can help a property manager effectively manage tenant relationships and maintain the property.

See salaries and explore the career path for Property Manager

Construction Sales

A Construction Sales professional works to secure new business opportunities for a construction company. This involves identifying potential clients, building relationships, and presenting proposals. The sales professional must have a good understanding of construction services and be able to effectively communicate this to clients. The Construction Machine course may be useful because it covers marketing, competition analysis, and negotiation. These skills can help construction salespeople attract new clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Sales

Facilities Manager

A Facilities Manager is responsible for maintaining and managing buildings and grounds. This includes overseeing building operations, maintenance, and repairs. While not directly related to construction, the Construction Machine course may be useful because it touches on topics such as site management and craftsmanship. Gaining knowledge in these areas would enable a facilities manager to communicate effectively with the construction team.

See salaries and explore the career path for Facilities Manager

Architect

An Architect designs buildings and other structures. This requires creativity, technical skills, and a thorough understanding of building codes and regulations. The Construction Machine course may be useful because it includes a module on permitting. This module covers when permits are required, what documents are needed, how to navigate plan reviews, and how to work with inspectors. Architects benefit from knowing the information that inspectors look for.

See salaries and explore the career path for Architect

Land Surveyor

A Land Surveyor measures and maps land to determine property boundaries, topography, and other features. This information is used for construction, land development, and other purposes. The Construction Machine course may be useful because it describes the importance of accurate measurements. One module discusses the importance of understanding demand, including fluctuations in material pricing. Land surveyors should also be able to identify these variations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Land Surveyor

The Construction Machine

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Complete guide to starting a construction business

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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