Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyle Wagner.
Hi Kyle, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve worked with quite a few different contractors in varying trades. A lot of them were either really mean or absolutely crazy. The thought occurred to me that if they could make money doing this, than so could I. I started off as just a handyman in 2017. I had a main job during the day and would do side work at night and on the weekends. The jobs quickly became bigger and bigger and I became more interested in doing remodels. When I got the R101 license, allowing me to do up to $50,000 worth of work, I changed the business name to Custom Concepts Remodeling, since I wanted that to be my focus. I figured that would be the only license I would need. However, as I continued to grow, I decided to try my hand at having employees. That was a whole new can of worms that has been difficult to manage, but we’re making it work. After a bit, I maxed out the R101 license, so I got the B100, which is the standard General Contractor license. And we’re humming along with 5 employees.
I’ve never really liked listening to people’s stories of how they started, because there is so much that is left out, and the story seems like it was a breeze that they got to where they are. This road has been 8 years of nothing but challenges. From ER visits to working for crazy people who don’t pay you, it’s been nothing short of an absolute grind. But you’ll never know what you’re made of if you don’t try something difficult.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I worked by myself for years and years. That was probably the easiest time, because when things were lean and I didn’t have a lot of jobs, we could make do and get through it. With employees, there’s none of that. They need to get paid every payday whether or not you have money. That’s been a pretty big challenge.
Injuries are pretty common in this line of work. I have a piece of wood in my hand that is still there after years and years because the doc said he couldn’t get it out. I shot a nail through my finger. Chipped off a piece of bone in my ankle. Threw my back out a dozen times. I always have cuts or gouges on my hands.
As I’ve grown, I’m understanding the need for contracts. I’ve sent bills to people that just don’t pay them. I had one guy send me a bill back of what he though the job should cost and only paid part of the money. Working with people is frustrating, especially when they are big watchers of HGTV. They see a whole house get remodeled in a 40 minute episode and wonder what’s taking us so long!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I was a fine arts major in college, which always throws people off since I’m in construction now. But having an artistic eye when doing remodels is something that has benefitted me greatly! From matching texture on drywall, to color schemes and creative ideas with tile, to be a really good remodeler, you almost have to be artistic/creative.
We specialize in bathrooms and kitchens. Kitchens are more of a show stopper, but I think bathrooms are more fun. We use a waterproofing method in showers that carries a lifetime warranty. I’m most proud of our quality of work. We don’t cut corners and we do things the right way. I never look for the cheapest option, because I wouldn’t want the cheapest option in my home. We all take great pride in our work, and doing something cheap doesn’t evoke that pride.
What sets me apart, I believe, are a few things. 1. If I have an appointment with you, I will be at that appointment at that time. That is a big problem for a lot of contractors and I do everything in my power to not be late. 2. I’m very easy going. Which helps a lot on remodels, because they are never straight forward. There are always problems, and changes, and add-ons. 3. I’m very adept at problem solving, which is another skill that is almost imperative to have for remodels. When you start opening up walls in a finished house, you never know what you’ll find. And being able to problem solve quickly and effectively is an invaluable skill.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I’m sure I left a lot out. If you have any follow up questions, feel free to reach out! I’m not much of a writer.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://customconceptsremodel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/custom_concepts_remodel/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/customconceptsremodeling
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CustomConceptsRemodeling
