Building a Multi-Million Dollar Construction Business | The Ultimate Guide for Contractors

Want to start your own trade business? Or do you already have a business and want to win more jobs? Learn how at Heavy Ape:
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How to Build a Multi-Million Dollar Construction Business:
0:00 Intro
2:47 Why do construction businesses fail?
3:40 Construction Products and Services
5:00 Business Type - Individual
5:00 Business Type - Partnership
5:00 Business Type - Franchise
8:40 Obtaining Customers
9:30 Some Obvious Tips
13:10 Lead Generation
13:55 Managing Your Multi-Million Dollar Construction Business
14:31 Specialization and Market Niches
15:58 Company’s Business Plan
16:58 Professional Help
19:09 Expansion
19:51 Learning From Competitors
21:21 Luck
22:19 Rainy Days
22:53 Hubris
23:40 Burn Out
24:17 Keep it Legal
25:03 Final Thoughts
Our videos are published for entertainment purposes only. They are not financial, legal, or safety advice. Although we interview and consult with various experts, we are not attorneys or safety experts ourselves. You should seek advice from a licensed professional before taking any action derived from our videos in any way.

[@RandyMarshUSA]

I’ve been listening to this every morning on my drive to work. It’s legit the best guide on YT. Well done 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@SweatVenture]

Thank you!

[@BrandonCockridge18]

So the guide doesnt work is what youre saying

[@RandyMarshUSA]

@@BrandonCockridge18 No that’s not what I’m saying. This guide has some much good info that I keep listening to it to instill it in my mind and make it second nature. I’ve dramatically increased my revenue since I started listening to this video and channel.

[@emmanuelawosusi2365]

​@@SweatVenture what the difference between a general contractor vs builder

[@joshuavalencia1]

I worked under a general contractor who built custom residential homes in Los Angeles, he was a master scheduler and negotiator. He always said to me “I don’t know how to hammer a nail, but I know how to use my brain ….stay level headed.”

[@SweatVenture]

Agreed. Well said.

[@huesenpaul1394]

Is it Patterson Homes in Newport Beach ?

[@joshuavalencia1]

@@huesenpaul1394 no a smaller firm in the Hancock park area

[@yodabomb2018]

How can I learn the business I’ve done construction since I was 12 now 28 but I want to learn the business side of things.

[@joshuavalencia1]

@@yodabomb2018 hey brother , we’re similar in age. I’ve actually gone back to school to earn a degree in construction management. That same boss encouraged me to get my education. He also studied building science and architecture. If schools not for you, no problem! You can get training or look for certification programs in project management, or take a course at community college. I highly recommend taking Economics as it’s the foundation in business. Build a strong foundation and you’ll be alright !

[@johns0npaving221]

I’m made $78,000 last year with sealcoating and I ain’t stopping now

[@RandyMarshUSA]

Get it!

[@michaelsmustang5.099]

How do you get clients

[@adrianallamani9842]

How’s u start?

[@loganStrydom]

Good on you brother. How is it coming a long 2 years later?

[@Aiva33aiva]

He’s off making big boy moves✌🏼😁😊

[@LordChii.]

My father has been a construction worker for years. Recently things have been bad, we can barely afford a 1 room apartment. The contractors he's been working for screw him over, by not paying him or avoiding him. It's gotten. So bad he almost got into fights with those people. As for me, I'm sick and tired working so hard at jobs that pay me so little. So I decided to stand up and start up my business soon. I know it won't grow right away but I want to make it work for the sake of my father, he's had 30+ years of experience, as long as I can negotiate then I can make this business grow. Hope u guys liked my story and if anyone is willing ti give tips or help me out, I would appreciate it, I would love a mentor hahahaha.

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for sharing your story and I'm sorry to hear about your father. We would recommend the Heavy Ape course for sure if you're starting a new construction business.

[@belkanandrade6563]

@@SweatVenture what’s the heavy ape ?

[@georgehalasah557]

I been doing construction work on and off since I was 14 years old and I am 42 years old now and I got back in it

[@SweatVenture]

Awesome, what type of work are you doing?

[@kulbmeister7785]

Construction isn’t my target business, pressure washing is. With that being said this video is easily applicable to ALL forms of service business. Great info

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Caleb

[@MenOfEthos]

Literally ME!

[@emmanuelawosusi2365]

​@@SweatVenture how can I start a construction business without experience in construction?

[@SaultDoza02]

@@emmanuelawosusi2365learn the fundamentals to a handful of trades and go from there. I’m a painting contractor on my first year. Started as a pressure washer but realized I can book more consistently and for higher margins as a painter. It will also allow me to expand and allow crews to work for me in the future.

[@TheGreyGhost_of43rd]

Lmao

[@angelvasquez5066]

I learned to always start from the bottom. From Knowing where to start digging, to close outs of a contract. Currently working in commercial landscape construction.

[@SweatVenture]

Well said Angel. Check out HeavyApe.com

[@robt8889]

PURE GOLD! this is sharing real valuable knowledge!!

[@albrown1812]

I really appreciate KZbin,great video,very detailed in a short amount of time,very transparent.greqtly appreciated!! Good vid

[@appleznpies5393]

Researching on How to start my own construction business. Since i was a kid i have loved the idea of starting my own business, I never wanted to work for someone else. I know that my business will thrive, through the grace of god.

[@SweatVenture]

You should check out the Heavy Ape course.

[@fightingirish8584]

Very Cool video. I'll never work for myself, too much stress. I really enjoy working for a good company. I make over 6 figures as a commercial superintendent, in San Diego, CA. With a 401k, 4 weeks of PTO, 25k bonuses, free education, company truck and gas card.etc. That's good enough for me. My hats off to all of you contractors hustling! Keep grinding and stay humble!

[@SweatVenture]

That's awesome. Keep it up!

[@joshuaglover493]

Beta

[@Noold]

You work for a 3 letter named GC ?

[@fightingirish8584]

@@Noold I do.

[@Noold]

@@fightingirish8584 Same. Atlanta office

[@barunger9392]

Thank you, I found this video very helpful 🙏🏻

[@esmeraldasoto6088]

Really love this video! Thank you ! I’m 22 years old been trying to run my painting business for 3 years now and just when it started taking off covi hit ! 2022 I had work enough to pay bills . It got hard but what keeps me going is my family ! This year I hope everything goes a lot better ! Thank you for this video ! It an eye opener !

[@SweatVenture]

Glad you liked it! Def check out the Heavy Ape course, which should help you a lot on your journey.

[@tricallyourmama]

My cuz does GC in Lynwood, WA. When ever he goes to buy materials he is ALWAYS talking to people to get new leads. When he does estimates he goes to the entire neighborhood and knocks on each door to ask for work. So many calls and referrals each day

[@SweatVenture]

Your cuz is a hustler for sure. Well done.

[@chintanpatel9481]

This is probably best thing to get around for any contractor or worker who wants to take their business to new level. Points and topics covered are niche to new market trend, helpful and technically sound. Thanks for awesome video

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Chintan. We appreciate your support.

[@vascodagama6310]

this is a informative video, but it has some funny clips in it, i couldn't ignore them hahaha! great video!!

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks, we like to have fun! Be sure to check out our Construction Quickie videos as well.

[@nickbyrd1027]

Really enjoyed the video! My friend and I are in the planning process for starting our own General Construction business and hearing sage advice from those with experience like this is invaluable. Thanks for sharing!

[@SweatVenture]

Good luck Nick!

[@Contractor4Life2000s]

Glad that finally, I found this video, it encourages me to take the next step toward my father's dream to continue his construction business. Thank you always!

[@SweatVenture]

Glad you could appreciate it!

[@jamesmcclure758]

alot of this information can be used for all construction business. i am a masonry restoration company that has been in bussiness for 20+years with my sons as employees and i will be taking alot of this information to heart. Thank you!

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks James! I agree.

[@TatsTalks]

Great fundamental advice. I like the actionable tip regarding asking for advice or mentorship.

[@WilsonExcavating]

I like how these guys mix humor and cold hard facts. Subscribed.

[@SweatVenture]

Thank you sir!

[@skid3339]

Great channel, keep it up, I see you growing up to a 1.000.000 subscribers soon!

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks, we appreciate the support. We really want to create legit content, especially with our Construction Quickie videos.

[@jacobnavosa8653]

Great Video, thanks for the information! 👍🏽

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks, Jacob!

[@kevinpatel7726]

Amazing Guide, I am an Engineer and mechanic working for A construction and scaffolding company at Fort McMurray, but coming down I want to start a new Company by next year. And this was a complete package of motivation and Guide for me !!

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Kevin! Check out the HeavyApe.com course!

[@timseifert9986]

Keep this videos comin!

[@SweatVenture]

We will! We will appreciate your support!

[@romansalvador6286]

This has got to be one of the best informational videos for people who want to start up a successful contracting business

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Roman!

[@BHhomeAdvisors]

Thank you for putting in the time and effort to create this video.

[@SweatVenture]

Our pleasure. Make sure you check out the Heavy Ape course

[@SaldosInc]

Very well detailed for contractors Thanks

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Saldos, glad you got something from it.

[@mdridwansiddiqueewadud8779]

This is gold!

[@SweatVenture]

💪🏻

[@user-bv7pk8qf4b]

THANK YOU FOR PUTTING THIS VIDEO TOGETHER

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for watching!

[@chrisa.9977]

I just subscribed. Thanks so much for the content.

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Chris. We appreciate the support. We've got a ton more content coming like this shortly so stay tuned. 2-3 videos in the next 7-10 days alone.

[@CharlesLouisRosario]

Thank you much. I’ll be binging on y’all’s video tonight.

[@SweatVenture]

Glad you like them Charles!

[@peterkanema5974]

Beautiful am encouraged. Best guide ever, not biased, legit, straightforward, inspiring, not to charm us and we have to make our choices as we Answer our WHY!....

[@SweatVenture]

Thank you sir!

[@MeetYourArchitect]

Great info helpful for all ages 👍🏼

[@SweatVenture]

Glad you liked it!

[@willmiller9981]

A lot of this advice is applicable to any service business

[@aidanlawlor2568]

Hey, I'm 18 now. I appreciate the video. I've been thinking about entrepreneurship for a long-time, and this video has given me some good guidance in that regard. It's not just applicable to construction management, but all businesses. I'll be sure to give you a shout when I'm a millionaire lol.

[@SweatVenture]

Give us a shout whenever that happens 💪🏼

[@chokeeartist]

Good luck just to let u know to start anything in entrepreneurship u better have money first and lots of it because u will lose way more than u gain in the first 5 years of business

[@SweatVenture]

@@chokeeartist Agreed, and the harder you work the less you lose in the first 3-5 years, but, yes, most of the time businesses struggle to make profits in the beginning.

[@htownlegend1331]

@@SweatVenture yes I’m on year 1 from my start up and I have LITERALLY worked everyday this year 2021 in Texas and I kept going, kept getting up, grinding it out especially when you said a project falls thru and you owe creditors 😵 BUT the good thing is if you put that work in and create a killer work ethic you’ll pay off your 1st couple years debt in no time! Love the video appreciate the insight I’m in my 1st year 4th Qtr and I want to say I grossed well above $130k and we’re still Oct/Nov 🔥

[@Aakashputtur]

@@htownlegend1331 best of luck pal... 👍👍👍🇮🇳

[@gabrielburgin5227]

THANKS 10000000 Very informative, helpful, an appreciated Salute. FAITH WITH WRKS IS ALIVE

[@randomacc8233]

thank you so much for this video!

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for watching!

[@closeencounterzz2298]

E&C spitting the facts once again. Get it boys!

[@RandyMarshUSA]

They sure did

[@iranildoalmeida6831]

Thank you my brother ! Mui bom informacione 🤝🤜🤛

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks bro!

[@648404]

Every month I watch this video again, again and again. You really put a lot of effort on this. Thank you. In one day I will open my own large construction company in USA and Europe, and will meet and thank you personally. Your videos are motivating..

[@SweatVenture]

Thank you for watching! It sounds like you have the right attitude and you are going to succeed.

[@648404]

@@SweatVenture Actually I have started business, so far small company but I know I will hit the target. I really apprechiate your hard work while you created this video. The new name I like most, as construction people put a lot of "sweat" what they do. For me creating and growing company is like rising a child, giving him/her what you have, your time, your money, your heart and when you get the result desired, I sit back and think "This is life, and you have done something in this life". There is a lot of to talk about, but dont want take your time much. My recommendation to those who start from scratch: Watch this video at least 3 times, memorize it.

[@pete0]

good video. this is extremely useful not just for construction, but for any type of business.

[@nevillesouth5606]

Yow this is the baddest video I've ever seen and watched bro nuff respect brotha I take every detail of this please to post some videos on asphalt paving and road construction

[@SweatVenture]

We have some videos already! Please check our playlists!

[@blakedino2885]

I’m not in construction nor plan to be but it’s good to learn and take this and put it into other forms of business. Or at-least learn and have more general knowledge. Thanks for the vid I’m just starting it rn !

[@SweatVenture]

Glad to hear that, thanks!

[@towersroofinginc422]

This is a great video! I have a roofing business that does well! I believe that showing your clients pictures of your work is truly another way to land that deal. Clients choose their contractors not only based on their reviews but also on knowing they can do the job! This is where my portfolios come in handy and I send at least 10 with every bid and land 98% of my bids! I built this software with my team and love it because I have everything nice and organize with the ability to share it in seconds! You have to love what you do and most importantly, take pride in your work and the word will spread. Return every call asap and make sure you always follow up, but never be too pushy.

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for the comment. Yes, photos from previous clients always helps.

[@xslayerizedx]

That's exactly how I run my home improvement business. I have a very high close rate about 95 percent with a 50-70 percent gross profits . I would never change the way I'm laser focused on customer relations and my sale process .

[@brentlittle8075]

I get up at 5;00 am every day. We do well over the mill mark. its purely hard work.

[@lopres]

Sharing this on LinkedIn. Great video. Thank you for taking the time for this. Been in civil industry 25 years. Just stepped out in my own a year ago! Will hit $750K this year!!!

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks! That's awesome. Keep us posted on your progress.

[@matthewevans7012]

What exactly do you do?? Congrats!

[@lopres]

@@matthewevans7012 water,sewer & storm piping and grading.

[@jonakui]

Ace video. Thanks for the insight. Some things I've missed here and there.

[@emmetstapleton6449]

Very good video, very informative 👍

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Emmet!

[@mattteekel8237]

Back again, i changed my entire lookout on business. Decided I'm the brain and to sit back and stop trying to take on every role. Ive had a hard year but things are looking up.

[@SweatVenture]

Welcome back! What type of business are you running? Have you checked out the Heavy Ape course yet?

[@zororaimtasa7688]

Thank you so much. This is so helpful guide. It's so powerful

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for watching!

[@tory7142]

Thanks a gtb. Awesome video!!

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Tory! Make sure you check out the Heavy Ape course, if you liked this video.

[@XYZ-Drafting_and_Designs]

Great video. Respect the face your helping other create their dreams.

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for watching!

[@mesayish]

Very helpful thank you.

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for watching!

[@isaiah1931]

I’m pursuing a degree in construction management at a public in state university so I don’t hound myself with debt and I plan on getting my start in residential construction. In my twenties I’d like to work for a company and get experience in commercial and residential work and eventually start my own business. Videos like this are crucial for those who are up and coming.

[@RandyMarshUSA]

Well said. Agreed.

[@SweatVenture]

Sounds like you're on the right track, and, yes, avoiding debt would be a good idea!

[@emmaabumere2870]

Want to study that course too. Would like to get some insights. Thanks

[@startingtech3900]

What do you think about people hiring people with exp no degrees?

[@Grggeorge]

You won’t learn a thing in school that’s for sure and a waste you start by working in it not listening to some class that has no experience

[@heathermccollum7834]

This is a great video. Definitely will be breaking these steps down. Thank you!!!!

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for watching! Be sure to check out the Heavy Ape course.

[@heathermccollum7834]

@@SweatVenture do you happen to have anything that is specific to licensing construction business

[@heathermccollum7834]

@@SweatVenture do you happen to have anything that is specific to licensing construction business

[@constructionmpa]

Excellent video! The construction industry needs more quality advice like this, small business owners know their trade inside out, but running a business is also a trade, and it's a trade most aren't trained for. Content like this will hopefully help to strengthen businesses, and blue collar families! Keep it up.

[@SweatVenture]

Thank you, glad you could appreciate it.

[@TheGreyGhost_of43rd]

It's far easier than learning the trade so why are you having problems?

[@WilsonExcavating]

Subscribed.

[@user-ly3my6bq4j]

Thanking you 🔥

[@georgekrax]

Great video!

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks!

[@rodneyharper2275]

Thanks for sharing this with me

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for watching!

[@mongstyt9946]

This guide also fits other service business plans.

[@dstewart7132]

Well done vid was fab

[@SweatVenture]

Thank you, D Stewart!

[@gomolemomakopo6114]

Great video.

[@SweatVenture]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ReallyItsUnimportant]

The task of building a business is daunting especially if you don't really know where to start. Thank you for this.

[@SweatVenture]

For sure. Thanks Brian!

[@youngrevival9715]

I’m a truck and equipment mechanic independent business owner. It’s hard to get work with some of these companies even though the dealer is a week or 2 out I can get to the job within a few days but they still only want to use the dealer I get it on complicated jobs but simple jobs I could save money and time

[@TechFlux928]

Well done guys

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Andre

[@Greybuiltracing]

100 x thank you !

[@isaaclopez-cordell243]

Me high as fuck: Man I should sleep KZbin: But don't you want to know how to build a multi-million dollar construction business Me: Well shit, let's see

[@jovanguerra4817]

I’m here for that same exact reason

[@SweatVenture]

@@jovanguerra4817 Glad you are here!

[@htownlegend1331]

That’s exactly what happened!

[@jaquantorian8938]

Bro this is literally me right now Lmaoo

[@jeremyjohnson3613]

Thank you

[@giovannimolina6433]

Well now I’m motivated to get into this

[@SweatVenture]

Get it!

[@josephvillalta8297]

Really knowledgeable video. Only 20 years old but I have strong ambition to get to the top.

[@SweatVenture]

Add hard work to that ambition and you'll do just fine!

[@ControlsEngineerOne]

Just started my LLC, and still in the orientation phases of the business. I’m a jack of all trades type, carpenter in flooring for many years, prior military with an electrical and mechanical engineering background. I think I will fair well. You have really motivated me to leave my 9-5 and get this party started within the next few months. The bidding and financial part is the intimidating part for me. Though, I’ll get through it. Thanks!

[@SweatVenture]

Right on! Sounds like you're definitely on the right track with the experience, skills, and attitude you have. If you want some tips and knowledge for bidding, give the Heavy Ape courses a look.

[@seamusmckenna9307]

Right location Hard work Good moves

[@SweatVenture]

Well said

[@chaitanyasakre3910]

Love this video, it provides great information for a young guy trying to start a paving business in India to solve the water flooding problems.

[@SweatVenture]

Glad you appreciated it! You should check out the Heavy Ape course too.

[@henrynicholls9947]

Another solid video. Well done.

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Henry

[@Armenhanmer]

That was the realest

[@salehs5048]

Very nice, this is my first comment in year 2021, although i am not in this business, just am architect from Saudi Arabia, but very helpful 👍

[@SweatVenture]

Thank you!

[@theyfollowme5606]

Great video a lot of great insight thanks kindly for this.I am a construction company owner and know someone who uses those bid sites for large contracts.They work.

[@pittssteeler4life12]

Yes - lead generation is crucial and most owners are too lazy (or afraid) to put elbow grease into it. Well said.

[@SweatVenture]

Exactly.

[@htownlegend1331]

This was a great video.. Better Mans Construction LLC Based outta Houston, TX. Every thing he said in this video I literally incorporated and typed in my business plan months before I got started with my company! Love the info & insight thanks!

[@RandyMarshUSA]

💪🏼

[@SweatVenture]

Glad to hear that, thanks!

[@marcoaldana8925]

It looks like this photo did pretty well, do you have plans to make more videos like this? How long did it take you to edit this video and what did you use to edit?

[@henrynicholls9947]

Nice!

[@SweatVenture]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@jackl135]

Any tips or suggestions on generating leads for a pressure washing company? Maybe call up tons of realtors?

[@SweatVenture]

That's not a bad idea. Although digital marketing is usually the way to go these day, you might benefit from literally going door-to-door and simply ask homeowners if they need their driveway pressure washed. You could, at least, leave a business card.

[@bondankai13]

Just found out your vid after so much meme vids, solid one, straight up facts, thumbs up, so much info for newbies like me. Also nothing beats the american accent in this kind of vids. Cheers

[@betterboss]

good stuff!

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for watching!

[@anthonyesparsen7776]

I love you guys bringing in Scripture ,very good job here

[@SweatVenture]

Glad you liked the video!

[@S1cx2o]

Was thinking about starting an asphalt/ paving company because I have the years of experience in it

[@SweatVenture]

Go for it, just prepare yourself mentally for a bumpy road ahead!

[@truxxlifer9603]

I’ve had too many nightmare biz partners go into it again with someone else. I’m all solo these days and keeping it that way.

[@RandyMarshUSA]

Can’t say that i disagree

[@rustyshackleford8670]

In addition to this video, you can contact government agencies via their government websites and sign up for their procurement opportunities.

[@pittssteeler4life12]

IMHO 75% is hard work and the other 25% is knowledge

[@SweatVenture]

💪🏻

[@Outlawthis]

I find it more to be "its not what you know, but who you know"

[@DavidPerez-uj5ui]

Ewww I like that! "Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity."

[@SweatVenture]

100%

[@jasonroy2956]

Good job boys

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks Jason.

[@emmaabumere2870]

Safety precautions and guidelines.

[@southsidepr6573]

Thanks

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for watching. Make sure you check out the Heavy Ape course.

[@ehveniserhudayinabit5331]

fantastic

[@SweatVenture]

Thanks for watching!

[@mikejoshua8133]

Concerning Specialisation and Market Niches, the full quote on jack of all trade does it has a meaning to creation a multimillionaire construction project? How can you apply jack of all trade quote to your construction project if you just specify on one problem at some point when there is no problem to solve it runs the company down

[@kyerrman]

Great video. I'm just about starting a concrete supply business using a Volumetric Concrete Mixer. I hope to turn it into a multimillion dollar business in the next few years. In my opinion hardwork, being consistent, going a little above and beyond for the client will bring you more referrals. Keeping your operators happy and your equipment maintained well at all times is also key.

[@SweatVenture]

Agreed! Thanks for your input.

[@mannyledezma9338]

Bring that to Az there’s a huge demand for concrete

[@bryanthomas544]

How has it been setting up a yard and a silo? It's been so hard getting any information from material suppliers around the midwest.

[@EvTChiwanza]

this was cool and very educative, i feel i need to work harder than this, i started land clearing and quarry business at a small scale, any tips. The partnership is not coming so far

[@SweatVenture]

That's awesome. I wouldn't worry about a partner just yet. You may never need one. Just focus on getting one job after another, doing each job right, and eventually expanding the size of your business, e.g. equipment and projects.

[@robertogonzalez7444]

Just subscribed,

[@SweatVenture]

Thank you sir!