We're Back! Apostle Joyce Tasby/ Kisha Lee

WELCOME

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the revitalized Seven magazine! After a brief hiatus, we’re thrilled to announce our return in 2024, ready to once again take the lead in delivering compelling content and captivating stories to our community. As we step back onto the stage, we are committed to reinvigorating the local media landscape and reclaiming our position as the go-to source for insightful features, thought-provoking interviews, and engaging perspectives.

Our renewed focus is delving into the heart of our vibrant city, exploring the latest trends, or uncovering the hidden gems within our neighborhoods, Seven magazine is dedicated to serving as your trusted companion in discovery and enlightenment.

We invite you to join us as we rekindle our passion for storytelling and embark on a journey to reignite the spirit of Seven magazine.

Together, let’s embrace the year ahead and rediscover the essence of our shared community.

Thomas Corbin Magazine Editor

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ur homes give us a place to relax and escape the elements of nature, but they are not immune to the elements themselves. As homeowners, it is crucial to be vigilant and recognize early signs of structural damage to avoid escalating repair costs, and with the change in seasons, some of these signs may start to present themselves in your own home. To help you spot a potential issue as soon as possible, the experts at Baker’s Waterproofing compiled a list of subtle indicators that your home needs attention.

Foundation Issues The foundation is the backbone of your home. If it is damaged, everything else is put at risk. Even the most minor foundation issues can spell impending disaster, and they will escalate if not addressed promptly.

Minor problem signs can include small wall cracks, doors or windows that stick and uneven flooring. If you notice these signs, call an expert team immediately so they can inspect your home and prescribe the best solution for the problem. Ignoring these subtle indicators could lead to major structural damage in the future.

Basement Moisture and Dampness Basement issues are easy to miss, but staying aware of them means you can better protect your home and family. The biggest threat to your basement is moisture. Excess moisture or dampness causes mold growth and a host of other issues that are hard to address once they’ve developed. Moisture can enter your basement many ways, even through the smallest of cracks. The first signs of intrusive moisture can include mold growth, musty odors or damp spots on walls or flooring.

These problem signs indicate a waterproofing issue. None of these issues are normal for

a basement, and they will only get worse over time. Addressing these signs early will help prevent costly repairs and health hazards down the road.

Crawl Space Damage If your home sits upon a crawl space, it’s important to keep an eye on it. This part of a home is often out of sight and out of mind, so most people brush off crawl space issues. However, the crawl space plays a vital role in any home’s overall health. In fact, 50% of the breathable air in your home comes from your crawl space: if there’s mold down there, there’s likely mold everywhere. Subtle signs that it might need attention include a damp or musty smell throughout your home, increased indoor humidity, and bouncy floors. Crawl space problems that are left untreated may cost you more money through high utility bills or structural issues. It’s important to address quickly to help prevent the issues from worsening.

Concrete Surfaces Showing Age While concrete is an incredibly strong material, it ages just like any other part of your home. Because the smallest signs of concrete damage don’t always look menacing, many people write them off until it’s too late. Small cracks across the surface of driveways, patios or sidewalks are the first indicators that something is causing the concrete to shift. Eventually, the concrete could sink or become uneven, causing tripping hazards. No matter how small, if your concrete surfaces show signs of sinking or cracking, it’s time to consider concrete lifting. Your home is an investment, and catching subtle signs of damage will save you from expensive repairs in the future. When in doubt, always seek professional advice from experts, like those at Baker’s Waterproofing, to ensure that your home remains safe and sound.

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rends in real estate and home buying go far beyond mortgage rates and home prices. Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate has identified several more trends that provide insight into today’s homebuyer and what they are looking for in a home.

Who are the buyers?

There is a big difference between a firsttime buyer and someone who already owns a home. In fact, the 2023 Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reports a 23-year age gap between a typical first-time buyer (35 years old) and a repeat buyer (58 years old).

There are also more unmarried people buying homes today. While 59% of all buyers were married couples, single females purchased 19% of homes, followed by single men (10%) and unmarried couples (9%). It’s also noteworthy that 70% of recent home buyers did not have a child under 18 living in the home, a drastic increase from 42% back in 1985.

“First-time buyers remain active and continue to account for about 30% of all home purchases,” said Ginger Wilcox, president of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate.

“While saving for a down payment remains

a challenge, the overwhelming majority of first-time homebuyers are not putting down 20% and many are getting financial help from parents, families and friends. The repeat buyer has a significant advantage as they can utilize equity from their previous home to either pay cash or reduce their mortgage as they move up or down in home size.”

Staying close ... again “The pandemic-fueled, work-from-anywhere trend that allowed so many to purchase a home in more affordable areas seems to be subsiding,” Wilcox said. “Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate affiliated agents are reporting more and more buyers who left a market are starting to return due to work or because they miss family and friends.”

This trend is shown in NAR data, according to Wilcox.

“For years before the pandemic, it was normal for repeat buyers to move within 15 miles of their previous home,” she said. “It jumped to 50 miles a year ago as so many opted to move to more affordable locations and take advantage of the remote work boom. We are back to a 20-mile radius today.”

What do buyers want?

NAR reported that 39% of repeat buyers traded up, while 33% purchased a smaller

home. But home size is not the only consideration, according to Wilcox.

“It was interesting to see that 60% of all buyers said the quality of the neighborhood was the most important factor in determining where to live,” she said. “We are returning to a real estate market where life events trigger buying decisions. Being close to family and friends is the biggest driver of where people want to be, even more than affordability.

“We are also seeing a trend in longevity in a home. While most live in their home for 10 years, today’s buyer believes they will stay in their recently purchased home for at least 15 years. Therefore, it is important for potential buyers to look as far into the future as possible when choosing their next home and thinking about job locations, marriage, children, and other factors.”

What about older Americans?

Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate is tracking the home buying and selling patterns of baby boomers. This generation, those now 59-77, have redefined societal norms since they were born and are now doing the same in housing as they age. The U.S. Census reports the homeownership rate is more than 75% for baby boomers and AARP reports an overwhelming majority of this group wants to age in place.

“One of the big questions hanging over the housing market is how long baby boomers will stay in their existing homes,” Wilcox said. “As those in this demographic move on to the next phase in their lives, they will be looking for more manageable homes, nearby medical facilities, accessible community amenities and proximity to friends and loved ones. A good real estate professional will be able to assist and understand how to maximize the equity they have built.”

NAR shared that those over 60 almost tripled the number of home purchases in senior-related housing compared to the previous year (19% vs. 7%, respectively). Retirement,

health of a loved one and the desire to downsize are the driving factors for a move for those 65 and older. Only 3% in this age group say they want a larger home.

The process The fast-paced housing market continues.

It’s important that buyers select an agent with whom they are comfortable, with a like-minded communication style and experience working in the price points and communities the buyer is interested in. It is also important to choose an agent who can help identify reputable loan officers with various financing options.

“More than half of all buyers use an agent who was referred to them or someone they worked with previously,” Wilcox said. “I always encourage buyers to ask around and interview more than one agent. Don’t be afraid to spend time with your potential agent to ensure they are right for you.”

If you’re thinking about making a move, connect with Thomas Corbin, a ONYX Realty Professional Agent today.

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he new year brings an air of excitement and inspiration that many people channel into new projects.

This year, use that energy to refresh your home! Your home should be a space that you can’t wait to return to after work, school and errands.

With a few updates, you can easily transform your living room, kitchen and bathrooms, infusing these spaces with both style and function. So, get ready to start 2024 with a home update using these five inspiring trends.

1. Embracing organic and natural tones and materials In 2024, consider integrating soothing neutrals and rich earth tones in your home for a beautiful and clean aesthetic. Also, embrace organic and natural materials. They’re timeless and long-lasting, bringing airiness and texture to any room. You can achieve this by incorporating natural stone, wood and rattan materials in furniture, flooring and decor.

Together, these natural elements and colors will create an inviting space that brings a touch of nature indoors.

2. Indulging in a spa-like bathroom You don’t have to leave your home to have a spa experience. In 2024, transform your bathroom into a serene oasis with spa-inspired features.

For example, consider switching your

current showerhead with a newer model like the Delta® ProClean™ 6-Setting Hand Shower. This powerful and practical addition to your shower features two massage spray settings so you can relax to the fullest. You can easily restart the water with the same temperature as when you left it off, providing a seamless showering experience while helping conserve water and, most importantly, your hot water supply!

Once you’re done with your shower, use the ProClean™ spray setting to clean shower surfaces at least two times faster than standard sprays, powering off soap scum and shower messes. Delta® bath products make it easy to maintain a clean bathroom.

3. Making statements with accent walls An accent wall can completely shift the design of a room. For example, a floral wall in the bathroom or a tropical print behind the sink can bring personality to the space. So, this year, embrace your creativity and choose a color or pattern that makes a statement.

4. Investing in functional spaces Function should be at the forefront of your mind when upgrading your home.

Whether you rearrange furniture to improve flow or add technology to simplify tasks, you’ll enhance your daily life at home.

For example, opt for a faucet in the kitchen that has features that make cleaning up easier, like Delta®’s Touch2O® Technology.

A simple touch anywhere on the spout or handle with your wrist or forearm activates the water flow at the temperature where your faucet handle is set. The Delta® TempSense® LED light changes color to alert you to the water’s temperature and eliminate any possible surprises or discomfort. Perfect for little ones who might

not realize the water is too hot to touch!

5. Mixing styles

In your bathroom, add a practical and visually appealing sink faucet that enhances aesthetic appeal but also improves functionality. Opt for a model like the Stryke® Single Handle Pull-Down Bathroom Faucet, which quickly cleans toothpaste, dirt and small debris from your sink with a nimble pull-down spray wand.

Why settle for one style? Mixing styles is a popular design trend, allowing you to choose styles that resonate with your multifaceted aesthetics. Combine traditional and modern elements or vintage and contemporary pieces. Experience a journey with your home renovation, find intentional inconsistencies between rooms and spaces and add more colors, textures and finishes.

The Lumicoat® Finish marries function and fashion, offering several options, including Champagne Bronze, Chrome and Matte Black. Best of all, the finish resists water spots and mineral buildup.

It easily wipes clean without needing cleaners or chemicals, helping to keep your bathroom spotless.

This year, resolve to update your home to suit your style and everyday needs. Let these five trends inspire you in your home renovation and decoration endeavors in 2024!

For more information contact Thomas Corbin wih Onyx Real Estate Professionas at 757-348-6636

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nterior design trends are always in motion, as the industry pulls inspiration from various styles and environments. There are a multitude of ways to elevate and personalize your design, and the new year is the perfect time to refresh your perspective and approach to the home. Try returning to the basic principles of form and functionality to curate a room that showcases modern sensibilities, or incorporating unique details to add character and depth to a space.

Modern Functionality The simplicity of modern style is a draw to many who love clean lines and functionality. Recently, there has been an uptick in “soft modern” design, which brings a sense of warmth to a contemporary space through details, colors and accents. The Jason Wu for Brizo™ Kitchen Collection embodies this sophisticated style with its fresh, streamlined aesthetic and unparalleled customization options and finishes. The collection’s Matte White signature finish is timeless, and the ability to select Polished Nickel or Wood faucet levers adds a touch of personality.

Choose these warm, neutral tones to bring in elements from nature, transforming a modern room from cold and sterile to functional, yet fashionable.

At-Home Spa Oasis Spas are sanctuaries that ease both the body and mind. When designing your own space, opt for features and fixtures that bring heightened luxury to your bathroom. One way to create a sense of serenity is to incorporate the calming benefits of steam found in the Mystix™ Steam System by Brizo®. The system offers enhancements, such as chromatherapy, audiotherapy and aromatherapy, to stimulate and soothe the senses in a well-rounded wellness experience. With these features, there is no need to wander further than your own home to indulge in the advantages of a spa.

Texture & Saturation To amplify visual interest in the home, bring in dimension through layered fabrics and textured wallpapers. Consider adding a limewash to add a notable, but soft approach to texture and to create a sense of depth in a space. A similar outcome can be achieved through a subtle tile accent on the walls or ceiling as an innovative way to bring more character to the design without overwhelming a room. Handpicking unique accents and color choices can redefine the living space. Replace small pops of color with bold, vivid hues or look for distinctive split finishes that enhance your fixtures and catch the eye. The Brilliance® Black Onyx/ Matte Black, Brilliance® Luxe Gold®/Clear, Polished Chrome/Clear split finishes from Brizo are striking options and add a touch of the unexpected to the kitchen and bath.

that I encounter only prepares me for a successful outcome moving forward.”

K

isha Lee is the successful business owner of Melanin Excellence Medical Transportation, The Blaque Room Event Hall and Presidential Towing Company. These are just a few of her founded businesses.

Seven Magazine received the opportunity to ask Kisha Lee a few questions about her success and her journey. When I inquired about challenges and obstacles, her statement was so motivating that I’ll forever carry it with me. Kisha Lee stated, “Any obstacles

7Mag: Tell us a little about your event hall and how this business was established?

Kisha Lee: The name of the event hall is The Blaque Room, the business was established in 2021. I opened the venue hall because I do an annual Christmas party for my medical transportation company. November 2021, I still hadn’t been able to secure an event hall for our annual Christmas party. So, I said f@#% it! I’m going to buy my own event hall. I had my close friend Jackie Scott, who’s my realtor, check on some places as well. She wasn’t able to find a building that was big enough with ample parking, so she started looking at rentals. She found a spot in the same shopping center that my medical transportation company is in and that’s the story behind The Blaque Room. So, I have 2 successful businesses in a major shopping center in Churchland.

7Mag: What keeps you inspired to continue with the event hall?

Kisha Lee: What inspires me to continue The Blaque Room business is that my employees look forward to our annual Christmas Party at The Blaque Room.

Also, I love to see elegant events at my event hall and families and friends making memories.

7Mag: What was one of the most memorable events held at your event hall?

Kisha Lee: I can’t just pick one. I gave my

mom her 65th birthday party and my dad’s 75th birthday party there this year. Also our Christmas Parties are always amazing.

My party Planner is Maria Foster-Simmons and she always goes above and beyond with everything that she does for me.

7Mag: What social media outreach campaigns do you explore to introduce the hall?

Kisha Lee: I only advertise on Facebook for my event hall (The Blaque Room LLC). I would love to do other outlets however; I just don’t really have time. A lot of My business is word of mouth. Also, anytime a person is interested in an event hall I can promise you Devette Lea Copeland is always going to tag me. Devette is the owner of Self Made Rentals & Décor and she does an awesome job!

7Mag: How should a potential client reach your establishment to get more information on holding an event at The Blaque Room?

Kisha Lee: A potential client can reach out to my property manager by calling or texting 757-377-6315 for more information on rental of The Blaque Room.

7Mag: I understand you have several businesses. It’s amazing, how you manage it all?

Kisha Lee: Let’s be clear, I have a lot of businesses. I have AIRBNB’s, rental properties, tractor trailers, home healthcare, and a charter boat. My Baby is Melanin Excellence Medical Transportation, and 95% of my time is spent with that business. We are one of the largest medical transportation companies in Virginia. I have been in the transportation field for almost 18 years, and I love it. What makes my business so successful is that I don’t mind getting out and working side by side with my employees. If they need help, I’m going to hop in a vehicle and drive. And I don’t mind, I love people and I love people from all walks of life. You never know a person’s story until

you ask. And best believe when they get in my vehicle I’m going to ask. I started my first business when I was 18 years old.

I opened a sewing and alteration shop at the time because I was going to NSU to become a fashion designer. And then I added a kid’s clothing store. I have always been business-minded and I have always known that I would be very successful.

7Mag: When was Presidential Towing established and how did it come about what made you decided to start a towing company?

Kisha Lee: I started My towing company this year. Most businesses I kind of just fall into and work my way through them.

My mechanic had a tow truck for sale. He asked me did I want to buy it. I said sure I can tow my own vehicles when they break down. I purchased that roll back tow truck and then about a month later I purchased 2 flat beds. I know that Presidential Towing can be just as big as my medical transportation company. I can see having 63 tow trucks just like my medical transportation vehicles.

7Mag: Wow, get it Ms. Lee! What would you say is the most challenging part of owning a towing company?

Kisha Lee: As of yet I haven’t had any issues… However, I’m sure that it’s going to be hard finding good help. That’s with any business now a days. It’s so hard to find good help.

7Mag: What is the most gratifying part of your starting Presidential Towing Co. and all of the others?

Kisha Lee: The most gratifying part of all my businesses is that I get to help others without public acknowledgement. Also, I get pure gratification when I’m out and about and I see the fruits of My labor.

Sometimes I just stop and look around and pat myself on the shoulder. I make a mental

teaching me morals and respect for myself and others. My dad Paul for having my 7Mag: What would you like people to know back in all that I do. My Granny Shirley for always having my back and for all the about your integrity of how you run your Prayers. My Grand-Da Zeno for teaching businesses? me how to count big money on Thursday nights while doing payroll for his conKisha Lee: I would like people to know struction company. My brother because that I run my businesses with honesty and no matter how much he plucks my nerves consistency, and I hold myself accountable he has my back. My cousin Miraka. If I even when no one is watching. If I make a promise, I keep it and I stand on business at call, she’s coming, and she has my back 1,000,000 percent. She understands busiall times. ness and understands that a lot of people Kisha Lee’s acknowledgments: eat off these businesses. And last but not I would like to give all praises to the mostleast my significant other Antonio. He high GOD. I would like to acknowledge all made it so easy for me to build my medical my employees, family, friends and loved ones for making Melanin Excellence Medical transportation company. All I had to say was how many vehicles I wanted, and I Transportation such a successful company. had them. Within the first 10 months of I would like to acknowledge my 3 amazing opening, I had 35 vehicles. Now that pretty children Zackery, Malik, and Dominique much sums up My success. Much love to because they are the reasons why I have always worked and hustled so hard. I like to everyone who has been a part of My journey! GO HARD OR GO HOME!!!! acknowledge my mom Quintella for always having my back in everything that I do and note of a job well done.

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ater conserva- Install a new showerhead tion is a topic The average family could save 2,700 gallons oftentimes disregarded. If per year by installing WaterSense® labeled not prioritized showerheads. These types of showerheads by contractors can also help alleviate water heater demands and save on energy consumption. Luckily, and tenants equally, the ramifications can be costly. As many of Peerless Faucet’s bath fixtures are the U.S. population grows so does the need proudly WaterSense labeled which denotes the fixtures use at least 20% less water than for water, and according to UNICEF, half the industry standard without compromising of the world’s population could be living in areas facing water scarcity by as early as performance. A great option is the brand’s 5-Function Showerhead with POWERush 2025. technology. This showerhead uses larger water drops in a unique wave pattern for Whether you’re a self-made developer, working contractor, or simply interested in a more drenching sensation. With this technology, contractors can promise tenants getting into the business, the suggestions below can help counsel and ensure multi- a rejuvenating experience without increasing family units are suitable for adequate living. overall water usage.

Water-saving tips

Monitor for potential leaks

The average American family spends more than $1,000 per year on water costs. That translates to about an $83 monthly water bill, according to the EPA. Fortunately, there are simple tweaks one can implement to help cut down on consumption and reduce that monthly spend.

Whenever faucets drip, it could be more than just water going down the drain. Faucet leaks waste environmental resources and cost tenants money, which in turn could be requested as a credit from property management. Experts estimate that even a small drip, once every 10 - 15 seconds, can

waste almost 15 gallons a month, or nearly half a gallon in a day. You can easily check for leaks by observing the plumbing. It’s important to keep eyes peeled and physically feel exposed pipes to check for any running water.

Condensation around pipes can also be a sign of leakage. For toilets, a simple dye test can even verify if the flapper is sealing properly and help prevent silent leaks.

For contractors specifically, ensure all fixtures are installed properly - from the back-of-the-wall pipes to the product itself, each step should be followed with care to avoid future leaks.

Most brands will provide an install guide within the packaging, but if that gets lost or misplaced, the brand’s website can also be a handy resource to find these materials.

Change your bathroom habits Daily routines that are often overlooked can also have a significant impact on your water bill. For example, many may not realize that each time one leaves the water running while they brush their teeth, four gallons of water goes down the drain. Simply turning off the water while brushing is a simple way to save. Other easy solutions for conserving water are turning off the shower while lathering or the kitchen faucet while scrubbing dishes.

Both contractors and tenants should prioritize water conservation best practices. Water is universal, and an element shared by all, so making sure it’s preserved and filtered adequately can ensure a better quality of life and monthly savings.

Rest in Peace

m e lvi n "M e l" Woolard

Apostle Joyce

TASBY

D

r.

Joyce Tasby, also respectfully known as Apostle Joyce Tasby, became one of the earliest female African American pioneers to establish a school for the performing arts in March 1977 in Portsmouth, Virginia.

This journey began as a home-based business and has since evolved into the magnificent Annual Black History Trailblazer Sidewalk Parade, which will be celebrated for the 5th time on February 10, 2024, as reported by Seven Magazine. The primary aim of the event is to raise awareness for the Portsmouth Community Colored Museum on Elm Avenue in Portsmouth, Virginia. What initially began as a platform to promote knowledge and history stemmed from a profound desire to educate in the arts and empower the deaf and hearing impaired.

Dr. Tasby›s early life was driven by her faith, as she started as an assistant musician at the age of 14, playing for the youth in her church. Her goal to address the community›s needs led her to realize the growing demand for her teachings, prompting her to expand her services and nurture the talents of her students.

Over the years, Dr. Tasby has garnered respect for her own talents and those of her students, establishing numerous connections within churches, the entertainment industry, and corporate spheres.

During her college years, Dr. Tasby pursued a major in music education and received multiple scholarships from various colleges and universities.

Following college, she relocated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she continued her musical and spiritual dedication as an assistant musician at Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church, the first A.M.E. church in the country. Her time in Philadelphia provided her with valuable experience in music and its economic aspects, strengthening her understanding of her calling.

resumed playing at major Baptist churches while also teaching piano and voice from her home. Concurrently, she worked as an assistant buyer at The Famous department store, where she managed record-keeping for the sportswear department across three Virginia-based stores.

As her home-based business flourished, Dr. Tasby attributed her success to a divine directive, stating that the Lord spoke to her, urging her to move her business out of her home. Subsequently, she heeded this call. Her workshops initially focused on piano and voice instruction, expanding to encompass theatrical abilities, dance, modeling, social grace, and etiquette classes. Notably, Dr. Tasby organized the first junior debutante ball in princess, drawing attendees from various locations.

Dr. Tasby›s contributions extended further as her dance company and students became the first to perform in the Minister’s Conference Choir Guild in Hampton. Additionally, she coordinated a handbell choir for the deaf and hearing impaired at Third Baptist Church in 1989, drawing widespread acclaim and attendance.

After five years in Philadelphia and subsequent life changes, Dr. Tasby returned to her hometown of Portsmouth, Dr. Tasby›s legacy is one of empowerment Virginia in 1976 with her two children. and education, leaving an indelible mark Word of her return spread quickly, and she on her community and beyond.

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o matter the size of your business, growth is typically a top goal.

Your success depends on increasing customers, jobs and revenue year-overyear. However, it’s all too easy to lose sight of your big-picture goals when you’re busy with the daily operation of your company.

Here are some tactics for improving growth in your business.

1. Improve your marketing with co-branding.

While marketing may not be your best skill, it’s critical to let people know about your business - and make it easier for new customers to find you. Many vendors you currently work with may offer co-branded marketing opportunities that can help increase your brand visibility and credibility.

By partnering with a well-known brand, you can tap into their existing network of customers and reach a wider audience than on your own. Being associated with a high-quality brand will also enhance your image and reputation.

2. Invest in digital marketing for lead gen.

Today, you need a digital presence: an easy-to-navigate website, presence on social media and ideally, enrollment in a paid search campaign. * Be sure your website is mobile friendly, allows potential customers to request information or even better, allows them to schedule an appointment on the spot with your company. * Using social media platforms like Face-

book, Instagram and Pinterest allows you to visually share about your business using project photos and testimonials from satisfied clients. You can also share informative posts about design trends or maintenance tips to help position yourself as a trusted expert. * Update your Google My Business profile to include project photos, services you offer, and reviews from past clients. Don’t forget to ask for a review when a job is done! Doing this will help boost local SEO and establish credibility and trust when potential clients are researching your business. Plus, it’s free!

3. Support your team.

While your business changes and grows, the industry itself is constantly evolving.

Ensure your entire team is updated on the latest developments in construction by providing regular training sessions through vendors you work with or local industry organizations, so they have the tools they need to succeed.

4. Provide excellent products and service.

This may seem like a no-brainer, but top-notch products, like those certified by ENERGY STAR - backed by product warranties - result in happier clients. Making smart choices when it comes to products and services you offer will lead to positive word-of-mouth, which every business needs to grow.

Providing clear information and consistent communication also improves customers’ trust in you and your company. Ask what makes the project more viable from their point of view. Offer financing options so

your business becomes accessible to a wider range of homeowners who may prefer to pay overtime versus using cash all at once.

Financing can also lead to increased sales, bigger projects and improved customer satisfaction.

and pre-qualified homeowner leads. As an added perk, windows installed by an Andersen Certified Contractor qualify for an exclusive 2-year limited installation warranty, giving customers added peace of mind.

5. Join a program to help grow your business.

Here’s how the program has helped contractors around the country grow their businesses:

If these tips sound challenging, there’s help available. Joining programs that offer dedicated support plus the tools and resources needed to best serve your customers and tackle any window or door installation project can help you grow your business.

The Andersen Certified Contractor Program offers exactly that. Participating contractors experience increased sales, access to in-home quoting tools, co-branded marketing opportunities, product and installation training,

Marketing support: Andersen offers business development funds to use on turnkey marketing programs and co-branded marketing opportunities. “We doubled our appointments last year, and we’ve seen a 40% growth in sales on the window side,” said A.J. Ballantine at Cornerstone Remodeling, Maryland.

Pre-qualified homeowner leads: “We’ve done windows through the leads program that have turned into kitchens and bathrooms; that’s every contractor’s dream. I wouldn’t have been in that home for any reason other than my affiliation with Andersen,” said Justin Britton, Jay Bee Contracting, New York. Training and support: Andersen provides in-home selling and quoting tools, product and installation training and a dedicated support team. “The number one thing to me is the support. If we need something special, if we need training or support as a team, they’re there for us,” said Jeremy Owens, 3 Generations Improvements, California.

Access to products, warranty and financing: The program also offers contactors access to the full portfolio of Andersen products, a 2-year installation warranty plus consumer financing options. “I have tools at my fingertips. I’m not waiting for quotes to be done by a vendor or supplier. I’m able to get those done and turned around quick,” said Paul Unferth at Big Fish Contracting, Wisconsin.

Ready to grow your business? Learn about becoming an Andersen Certified Contractor at AndersenCertifiedContractor.com.