Issue link: http://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/685944
When he traded his band gigs for the ones mentioned above in the residential homebuilding industry arena, he admittedly carried with him a fair amount of naivety. Helped in part by a strong sense of getting things done right and a natural ability to connect with people on a personal level, he eventually found success playing a new tune. Of course, a steady backbeat in the form of the MBA helped keep the groove going strong. In the 90s, Jeff found mentorship and friendship as part of the Remodelers Council and proudly acknowledges his winning entries in the Remodeling Excellence (REX) Awards over the years. He continues his partnership with the Association today, frequently participating in volunteer efforts like Rampathon® and Painting a Better Tomorrow™. In fact, his wife Teresa worked on the very first Rampathon in 1993. Not to put him on the spot, but Jeff seems like the ideal mentor for someone up and coming in the industry; someone who is where he once was. You're Only Boss Once For all his accomplishments — Prestige just celebrated 35 years in business — Jeff isn't ready to give it all up tomorrow. He's energetic, obviously loves his clients and his job, and is very good at taking care of both. When asked about retirement, he brushes off the question. It's obviously not something he has put a lot of thought in. For now, Jeff and crew are happy to continue the journey begun 35 years ago – a journey, Jeff says, that is shared by "great clients" and what sounds like a lot of great moments. When done right, like Bookhouse, a project becomes a "piece of art that's priceless," says Alex Steele, director of marketing and business development at Prestige. She has the "Prestige way" down. Doing things right also means avoiding projects that are treated simply as "transactions." There's no build and bail; these homes are as much a home for Prestige as they are for the owners, only the team doesn't get to live there. You get the feeling, however, that most clients-turned-family would welcome any member of Prestige into their home. Don't believe me? Take it from a real-life client, who, in the cadence of casual conversation, warmly stated, "I would do anything for Jeff!" To a general contractor, that's like winning an Oscar. Somewhere not far away, the Prestige team is at work building or remodeling another dream home for someone. The first time this someone experiences the transformative environment that has been created for them, it will be amazing. When they realize this transformation is theirs, it will be defining. After that, who knows? The steel-made windows, personalized wall art and other unique intricacies that make the home home will take its owners wherever they please. Doesn't that excite you? It should. 35 06.16 master builder