What does “pre-qualified preferred industry vendor” mean?
Simply put, we have long-term relationships we have created over decades with all our subcontractors and distributors. Since we began our business, we’ve been seeking out the best in the business and pre-qualifying them before they ever work on a client’s project.
Most companies will go looking for the cheapest plumber, electrician, or whatever trade is needed on the project. Partnering with companies that do the right job, stick to scheduling, have the same business morals, and are there when a problem occurs is what is important.
We partner with companies for the quality of work they perform, their business processes, and how they work as a team with Golden-Eye Construction. Each sub-contractor company must sign our sub-contractor agreement, hold harmless agreement, and supply us with the proper general liability, workers’ comp, and disability insurance policies, listing us as additionally insured. All of this helps protect our clients.
Did you know the average commodity contractor price goes up 50-100% from the estimate they give customers or prospects? We have yet to find a company that will give a fixed price proposal like we do at Golden-Eye Construction. There are many reasons for this. Some contractors just have no clue how to estimate to begin with, while others do a WAG, (Wacky Ass Guess) on the good old yellow pad of paper. They give prices that sound too good to be true … because they are. And as soon as these contractors realize they are in too deep, here comes the change orders for things that should have been included in their “estimate.”
Yes, it’s true that a fixed-price proposal will appear to be a higher cost up front. That’s because everything is included. We call it Project Development. We develop the project for Golden-Eye Construction to build for you. Doing everything from the architectural plans, to picking out all the homeowner-selected products, to the interior design and soft finishes. You don’t know what the labor cost is to install a product if you don’t know what the product is, right? This and our computer based in-house estimating system get the numbers spot on every time.
I was once asked by Shawn McCadden when discussing estimating, “would you rather go to bed at night knowing you’re screwed or wake up in the morning hoping you’re not screwed?” What he meant is, if you go to bed knowing you’re screwed, you can get up in the morning and work on fixing the problem. I equate this statement to hiring the commodity contractor that gives you an “estimate.” Every morning you will wake up hoping you’re not screwed.
That’s why, at Golden-Eye, we use fixed-price proposals. It protects you, the client, from any unforeseen change orders or surprises that often come with contractor estimates.
It’s always been amazing to me that most contractors don’t have legal contracts in place. A contract protects both parties; they hold each party accountable for their end of the deal. Let’s face it, when doing a large renovation, you are probably spending the most amount of money you have ever spent on something. If you feel comfortable spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on a handshake, you are a better person than me. I hear horror stories all the time about contractors doing large scale work with handwritten notes on a loose-leaf pad and sending out text messages when they need a payment. Do you feel it would be smart to spend so much of your hard-earned money without a contract in place?
Certifications are also important and are key to progression. The remodeling industry rapidly changes with new products, best practices, and new techniques. We feel education through certifications set a great company apart from the pack. Golden-Eye Construction employees hold more certifications from the National Association of the Remolding Industry (NARI) than any other remodeling company in New York State. Certifications our employees hold include:
CR (Certified Remodeler)
CKBR (Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler)
CLC (Certified Lead Carpenter)
CRPM (Certified Remodeling Project Manager)
UDCP (Universal Design Certified Professional)
Some of our employees hold multiple certifications. These certifications are 16-week courses and require an intense 4–5-hour test to earn. The certificate holders are required to do additional hours of training every year to renew their certifications. Make sure you ask the prospective contracting company what certifications they hold.
And always remember, “It’s the business process that is most important to get a project from design to finish!”
There are so many contracting companies out there, but would you agree on the following:
They are all great
They all offer the same services
They are all continuously improving their skills and earning certifications to show for it
The answer to all three questions is a hard “no.” Although there are more good companies in the industry than bad ones, it’s important to weed out the bad from the good. Here are some important things to look at when deciding who to partner with.
How you heard about the company. Was it the internet, a TV commercial, a friend or family member? Did you see their trucks or jobsite signs? Or maybe you found the company through social media. However you found the contractor, make sure you check to see that the company has a real presence in their marketing material and that it is consistent in the company’s culture. Finding the company’s website and ensuring that it lays out their business process is the first place to look. Then, make sure that their social media, customer reviews, and Better Business Bureau standing all show that the company is not only legit, but has a solid reputation in the community and favorable business processes in place. The business process is the key to any good company in any industry.
Licenses: When asking a contractor if they are licensed, make sure they answer “yes” and it’s not because he has a driver’s license. There are many different types of home improvement licenses one can earn. Make sure the company you partner with has one that is for the work that they do and for the work you need done.
Insurance: 89% of contracting companies do not carry the proper insurance to cover themselves or their clients. “We have known of contractors doing large scale projects with an interior painting liability policy. Obviously, we will not write such policies that the chuck in the truck or fly-by nights look for. Golden-Eye Construction is one of the few companies on Long Island that is properly insured. Owner Mike Emmert sees the value in making sure his company is insured properly,” says Ed O’Toole from Edwin J. O’Toole Insurance Agency.
W2 employees: Did you know many trade companies pay their employees off the books? This means their employees are not covered under workers comp if they get injured. In that case, the homeowner and contractor will likely both be sued. Our employees are not only fully on the books, but they receive paid time off and a 401k. Offering benefits attracts and retains the best in the business. We believe that if your employees are happy, they will enjoy coming to work in your home every day. Paying our employees proper wages on the books also protects them if they were to get hurt on or off the job.
At the end of the day, look to partner with a company that does the right thing. Do your homework. Do not just trust that the company is fully legit. Ask for documentation and proof.
As a father, husband, son, brother, coach, and business owner, I have taken time to reflect on all the good things I have in my life and how I have gotten to this point. Reflection is a great tool that allows me to put into perspective the life lessons I have learned. Whether good or bad, we can learn so much from our experiences if we just take the time to.
As a wrestler, I was taught at a young age to “always be the hardest worker in the room.” This mantra — and the foundation that my loving parents instilled in me — allowed me never to let fear keep me from reaching for the stars, and since a young age, I have set goals and worked hard to achieve them.
As a father, I have instilled in my three young children the same loving foundations that my parents instilled in me and the philosophy to “always be the hardest worker in the room.” Being the hardest worker in the room may not make you the best at something, but it will make you your best at whatever you do.
In business, I have been fortunate enough to surround myself with people who share the same philosophy. The mentoring that we do to keep us all on the same page is a testament to how our company works from within. Through many hours of education, certifications, and mentorship, we have been able to build an award-winning company that has essential processes in place, advanced skill sets, and an incomparable work ethic.
Winning the “Contractor of the Year” awards was a goal I set early in my career. Without the partnership with our wonderful clients and the hard work of our team, we could not have achieved such an honor. I want to say THANK YOU to everyone who helped to make this happen!
If you are looking for an award-winning, trusted advisor to partner with you on your upcoming project, contact us to see how we can help. We’ll always be the hardest workers in the room.
Glen Head, New York – NARI NYC/Long Island Chapter is pleased to announce that Michael Emmert has recently achieved the prestigious Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler status.
A Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler (CKBR) designation proves the remodeling contractor’s superior knowledge, technical comprehension and skill in remodeling.
NARI’s CKBR program measures skill and expertise valued not only by other professional remodelers, but by consumers as well. Highly respected by those who have achieved the designation, the CKBR program identifies professional remodelers who have undergone comprehensive review and testing in areas of business management, ethical conduct, and technical skills. In addition, they must also adhere to NARI’s strict Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. The NARI certification program assess the knowledge and skills of the remodeler in over 20 remodeling task areas including business methods and practices, building codes and construction law, Kitchen and Bath planning, and building site layout, and all trades skills required in remodeling your home. Attaining this certification requires the candidate to have been working full time in the remodeling field for at least 5 years and passing a comprehensive assessment exam. Preparation for this exam takes up to 16 weeks of intensive study and self-examination. In addition, Certified Remodelers are bound to abide by the NARI Code of Ethics and the NARI Standards of Practice.
“Being able to install a kitchen or bathroom is easy, understanding design and flow is something that adds to the finish product. What good is a kitchen or bathroom reno if it doesn’t solve existing problems? The CKBR give me an insight that most do not have. Education is the key.” (Michael Emmert)
To prepare for the Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler certification, remodelers are asked to complete a qualification form, which outlines the background of their experience and education in remodeling and are given a study guide. NARI also offers study groups to prepare them for the written examination, which tests for knowledge in Computer Aided Design (CAD), materials selection, layout standards, installations processes, and trade guidelines. It enriches the professional’s understanding and maximizes performance during any remodeling project.
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About Golden-Eye Construction: Golden-Eye Construction has become a leader in its marketplace. The company now has more certified employees than any other company on Long Island. Michael Emmert also is a Certified Remodeler CR, Universal design professional UDCP, as well as Kitchen and bath Certified remodeler CKBR
About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the premier association of remodeling professionals and industry experts dedicated to advancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry and educating the public on the benefits of using a qualified professional. NARI has 6,000 member contractors, suppliers and service providers and 47 chapters across the U.S. NARI members adhere to a Code of Ethics and together as an industry promote “Remodeling Done Right™. Learn more about NARI and how to find a qualified prof
Glen Head, New York – Robert Aquilina from Golden-Eye Construction in New York recently earned the designation of Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, (NARI).
A Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) designation proves the remodeling contractor’s superior knowledge, technical comprehension and skill in principles attractive not only to those who wish to age-in-place but also families with special needs and families that are forward thinking. A UDCP proves thorough knowledge in the seven principles of Universal Design, how to interview clients with an understanding and consideration of their special needs, and finally the how-to of building these projects.
“I love to be educated on anything that can help me to become a better contractor. The schooling and certification we do with NARI really do separate us from the pack.” (Robert Aquilina)
NARI’s UDCP program measures skill and expertise valued not only by other professional remodelers, but by consumers as well. Highly respected by those who have achieved the designation, the UDCP program identifies professional remodelers who have undergone comprehensive review and testing in areas of universal design/remodeling. In addition, they must also adhere to NARI’s strict Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
NARI is a professional association whose members voluntarily subscribe to a strict code of ethics. Consumers may wish to search www.RemodelToday.com to find a qualified professional who is a member of NARI.
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About Golden-Eye Construction: Golden-Eye Construction has become a leader in its marketplace. The company now has more certified employees then any other company on long Island. “I love the fact that we pride our selves on education and that we have a company that is built on relationships” (Robert Aquilina). Robert also holds a Certified Lead Carpenter CLC and hopes to achieve several other certifications in the near future!
About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the premier association of remodeling professionals and industry experts dedicated to advancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry and educating the public on the benefits of using a qualified professional. NARI has 6,000 member contractors, suppliers and service providers and 47 chapters across the U.S. NARI members adhere to a Code of Ethics and together as an industry promote “Remodeling Done Right™. Learn more about NARI and how to find a qualified professional remodeler at NARI.org.
Glen Head, New York – Michael Emmert from Golden-Eye Construction in New York recently earned the designation of Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, (NARI).
A Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) designation proves the remodeling contractor’s superior knowledge, technical comprehension and skill in principles attractive not only to those who wish to age-in-place but also families with special needs and families that are forward thinking. A UDCP proves knowledge in the seven principles of Universal Design, how to interview clients with an understanding and consideration of their special needs, and finally the how-to of building these projects.
“As a third-generation master carpenter, it became very apparent that when I started to grow my business, that I would make continuing education a top priority. I love the fact that our employees feel the same way and understand we’re only as good as the information we learn. NARI gives us the ability to continue our growth. I would recommend, to anyone that wants to better themselves, to take the time to go to class and earn certifications. It will not only benefit you, but it will benefit your clients.” (Michael Emmert)
NARI’s UDCP program measures skill and expertise valued not only by other professional remodelers, but by consumers as well. Highly respected by those who have achieved the designation, the UDCP program identifies professional remodelers who have undergone comprehensive review and testing in areas of universal design/remodeling. In addition, they must also adhere to NARI’s strict Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
NARI is a professional association whose members voluntarily subscribe to a strict code of ethics. Consumers may wish to search www.RemodelToday.com to find a qualified professional who is a member of NARI.
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About Golden-Eye Construction: Golden-Eye Construction has become a leader in its marketplace. The company now has more certified employees then any other company on long Island. Michael Emmert also is a certified Remodeler CR, Kitchen and bath Certified remodeler CKBR as well as Universal design professional UDCP.
About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the premier association of remodeling professionals and industry experts dedicated to advancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry and educating the public on the benefits of using a qualified professional. NARI has 6,000 member contractors, suppliers and service providers and 47 chapters across the U.S. NARI members adhere to a Code of Ethics and together as an industry promote “Remodeling Done Right™. Learn more about NARI and how to find a qualified professional remodeler at NARI.org.
Glen Head, New York – NARI NYC/Long Island Chapter is pleased to announce that Michael Emmert has recently achieved the prestigious Certified Remodeler status.
A Certified Remodeler (CR) designation proves the remodeling contractor’s superior knowledge, technical comprehension and skill in remodeling.
NARI’s CR program measures skill and expertise valued not only by other professional remodelers, but by consumers as well. Highly respected by those who have achieved the designation, the CR program identifies professional remodelers who have undergone comprehensive review and testing in areas of business management, ethical conduct, and technical skills. In addition, they must also adhere to NARI’s strict Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. The NARI certification program assess the knowledge and skills of the remodeler in over 20 remodeling task areas including business methods and practices, building codes and construction law, planning and building site layout, and all trades skills required in remodeling your home. Attaining this certification requires the candidate to have been working full time in the remodeling field for at least 5 years and passing a comprehensive assessment exam. Preparation for this exam takes up to 16 weeks of intensive study and self-examination. In addition, Certified Remodelers are bound to abide by the NARI Code of Ethics and the NARI Standards of Practice.
“This accomplishment marks another feather in my cap to becoming Long Islands premier contracting company” (Michael Emmert)
To prepare for the Certified Remodeler certification, remodelers are asked to complete a qualification form, which outlines the background of their experience and education in remodeling and are given a study guide. NARI also offers study groups to prepare them for the written examination. It enriches the professional’s understanding and maximizes performance during any remodeling project.
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About Golden-Eye Construction: Golden-Eye Construction has become a leader in its marketplace. The company now has more certified employees than any other company on Long Island. Michael Emmert also is a Kitchen and bath Certified remodeler CKBR, Universal Design Professional UDCP, as well as Certified Remodeler CR.
About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the premier association of remodeling professionals and industry experts dedicated to advancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry and educating the public on the benefits of using a qualified professional. NARI has 6,000 member contractors, suppliers and service providers and 47 chapters across the U.S. NARI members adhere to a Code of Ethics and together as an industry promote “Remodeling Done Right™. Learn more about NARI and how to find a qualified professional remodeler at NARI.org.
How did you get started in your remodeling career?
I started at age 13 on jobsites with my father. He had retired early from owning retail stores and started a remodeling business with a truck and circular saw. I’m a 3rd generation master carpenter and shipwright. The skills | have learned in wooden boat building have provided me with an in-depth knowledge of carpentry. | also used to build models, which really gives you an eye for the details, and that’s especially useful in this industry.
Do you have any formal training?
Not really. I started my first business, a painting company, at age 17 and then branched off into construction. It’s basically been ‘earn as you learn,’ although I have continually sought out classes on ‘best practice’ business skills. Building things was easy, learning how to runa company and understanding that I’m a business owner, not a carpenter any- more, was a huge milestone.
What are the top 3 skills every remodeler should have?
Sales
Estimating
An eye for detail. As the saying goes, ‘the devil is in the details.
What is your biggest success, or a defining moment in your career?
I brought Shawn McCadden in as a consultant and have seen great growth. He has validated some of our business practices and has suggested systems that have enabled us to be more profitable. It was the best money I ever spent! (Short of my wife’s engagement ring).
What is your biggest failure, and what did you learn from it?
Not having proper contracts and working with less than ideal customers. We now have contracts that protect our company and carefully select customers to work with that fit our business model.
Looking back, what advice would you give your future self about a career in remodeling?
My advice would be to take business and sales courses as soon as possible when you’re starting your own business. Understanding the difference from being a carpenter with a business and being a business owner that does carpentry or contracting. If you’re really great at being on the site working, then you better hire the right people to run your company; or if you’re like me, you may see running your company and having great employees that run projects more beneficial. As Shawn MaCadden says ” mentor your employees, don’t just teach them”.
Glen Head New York from Golden-Eye Construction in New York is pleased to announce that Robert Aquilina has achieved the prestigious Certified Lead Carpenter status.
A Certified Lead Carpenter (CLC) designation proves the remodeling contractor’s superior knowledge, technical comprehension and skill in remodeling.
NARI’s CLC program measures skill and expertise valued not only by other professional remodelers, but by consumers as well. Highly respected by those who have achieved the designation, the CLC program identifies professional remodelers who have undergone comprehensive review and testing in areas of business, technical, communication, and quality assurance. In addition, they must also adhere to NARI’s strict Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. The NARI Certification program assesses the knowledge and skills of the remodeler in over 21 remodeling task areas including business basics, building codes and construction law, building site layout and all trade skills required in remodeling your home. Attaining this certification requires the candidate to have been working full time in the remodeling field for at least 5 years— two as a lead carpenter—and passing a comprehensive assessment exam. Preparation for this exam takes up to 16 weeks of intensive study and self-examination.
“I love working at Golden-Eye Construction, the company really treats everyone like family and is the reason why they give all their employees the opportunity to better themselves. After completing the 16-week study course, and numerous hours studying, I’m so proud of achieving my CLC. It is only going to better myself and the company.” (Robert Aquilina)
To prepare for the Certified Lead Carpenter certification, remodelers are asked to complete a qualification form, which outlines the background of their experience and education in remodeling and are given a study guide. NARI also offers study groups to prepare them for the written examination, which test for knowledge in business basics, building trades, job site safety, tools, building codes and construction law. It enriches the professional’s understanding and maximizes performance during any remodeling project.
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About Golden-Eye Construction: Golden-Eye Construction has become a leader in its marketplace. The company now has more certified employees then any other company on long Island. “I love the fact that we pride our selves on education and that we have a company that is built on relationships” (Robert Aquilina). Robert also holds a Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) and hopes to achieve several other certifications in the near future!
About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the premier association of remodeling professionals and industry experts dedicated to advancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry and educating the public on the benefits of using a qualified professional. NARI has 6,000 member contractors, suppliers and service providers and 47 chapters across the U.S. NARI members adhere to a Code of Ethics and together as an industry promote “Remodeling Done Right™. Learn more about NARI and how to find a qualified professional remodeler at NARI.org.
Glen Head New York on 1/4/18 from Golden-Eye Construction in New York is pleased to announce that Matthew Grefe has achieved the prestigious Certified Lead Carpenter status.
A Certified Lead Carpenter (CLC) designation proves the remodeling contractor’s superior knowledge, technical comprehension and skill in remodeling.
NARI’s CLC program measures skill and expertise valued not only by other professional remodelers, but by consumers as well. Highly respected by those who have achieved the designation, the CLC program identifies professional remodelers who have undergone comprehensive review and testing in areas of business, technical, communication, and quality assurance. In addition, they must also adhere to NARI’s strict Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. The NARI Certification program assesses the knowledge and skills of the remodeler in over 21 remodeling task areas including business basics, building codes and construction law, building site layout and all trade skills required in remodeling your home. Attaining this certification requires the candidate to have been working full time in the remodeling field for at least 5 years— two as a lead carpenter—and passing a comprehensive assessment exam. Preparation for this exam takes up to 16 weeks of intensive study and self-examination.
“This was not an easy certification to earn and I feel that’s what I’m so proud of. I have learned in life that the things you must work hard for usually have more value than the things that just come easy. I’m looking forward to working toward more certifications soon, as I know it only can help myself and our clients!” (Matthew Grefe)
To prepare for the Certified Lead Carpenter certification, remodelers are asked to complete a qualification form, which outlines the background of their experience and education in remodeling and are given a study guide. NARI also offers study groups to prepare them for the written examination, which test for knowledge in business basics, building trades, job site safety, tools, building codes and construction law. It enriches the professional’s understanding and maximizes performance during any remodeling project.
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About Golden-Eye Construction: Golden-Eye Construction has become a leader in its marketplace. The company now has more certified employees then any other company on long Island. “I love the fact that we pride our selves on education and that we have a company that is built on relationships” (Robert Aquilina). Robert also holds a Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) and hopes to achieve several other certifications in the near future!
About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the premier association of remodeling professionals and industry experts dedicated to advancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry and educating the public on the benefits of using a qualified professional. NARI has 6,000 member contractors, suppliers and service providers and 47 chapters across the U.S. NARI members adhere to a Code of Ethics and together as an industry promote “Remodeling Done Right™. Learn more about NARI and how to find a qualified professional remodeler at NARI.org.
