Part V: Finding A Coach

By Jerry R. Spumberg
The DIY Coach 

If you read the previous articles, you know  that it is important to define the scope of the project in as much detail possible. Investigate our web site thediycoachusa.com for a fundamental understanding of the subject, the process, and some of the reasons why you would proceed in constructing your project with a Coach’s assistance.  You will then be able to determine what you expect and need from a DIY Coach.  Put it all in writing and then you will be prepared to start your search.

The first thing you may learn is there are not many people that will meet the standards that I have set for my own company.  A person designated as a Do It Yourself Coach for a project that involves multiple trades or can have an impact on other aspects of the home, in my book, should be the complete builder with hands-on trade skills.  Simple one trade or two trade projects such as painting or tiling a foyer may be handled with an experienced specialist.  People with the knowledge and talent for being a Coach can make more money as a General Contractor, so you will be looking for a person where it’s not all about money.   Previous articles went over this in detail and there is no need to repeat this information.

I invite you to contribute to this article and tell us your ideas on this subject or any other article.

Ways to find a Coach:    

• Most of our clients came to us through referrals from past customers.  Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. 
• Our recent web site, which is dedicated to informing property owners about the How of doing it yourself, has brought us inquires and a few new customers.  Use the internet wisely.  Be careful of companies that don’t offer side-by-side working relationships and Coaches unwilling to supply most of their own tools.  Beware of offers to complete work that is unfinished where the contractual relationship can be changed from Coach to contractor.  We never change the relationship.  Our contractual relationship is always most similar to you being the boss and us being a trusted employee.
• Talk to family and friends, if they have the qualifications, and see if they have the time to help you with the project.  (They may be retired from the industry.)  Let them know that you will be glad to pay them for their help.
• If you know people in the construction industry, ask them who they know.
• Two of our recent referrals came from lumber yards when DIYers needed help.
• Call building departments in your town and the surrounding area.
• Things are slow.  You may be able to place an ad under part time employment.  This relationship is a little more difficult because of government regulations, unless they have an existing business.
• Talk to general contractors who will be willing to engage in a coaching relationship.

The housing market and the economy is creating the need for new business models in the construction industry.  People are living longer and want to supplement their income by working longer before or during retirement.  Highly experienced and capable individuals, who love what they do, provide a labor pool for my company.  All this taken together is generating a demand for “The Do It Yourself Coach” approach.  It’s on television, driving the big box stores, and just getting started for you, the homeowner.

Please tell us how you found your Remodeling or Building Coach by contributing to our Blog.  We want your input and questions!  They may become future articles.

Coming soon: How one family reconfigured and expanded their present house into their dream home and increased their wealth.

May The Coach Be With You,
Coach Jerry