Harnessing Resilience: The Inspiring Journey of Bel Cruz in the Home Building Industry

Did you catch Episode 54 with Bel Cruz? If you missed it, you can check it out here! We’re going to dive deeper into the conversation and share some of the highlights that we don’t want you to miss.

From Immigrant Challenges to Entrepreneurial Triumph

In the latest episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, host Mark Williams shares a compelling conversation with Bel Cruz of LBR Partners, a custom homes business in Minnesota. Cruz's journey encapsulates resilience, adaptability, and the entrepreneurial spirit that flourished in the face of significant adversity. Moving from Nicaragua to the United States, Bel navigated the challenges of immigration, single parenthood, and business ownership, ultimately establishing a successful enterprise against the odds.

Bel and her family immigrated to the U.S. from Nicaragua, seeking safety and better opportunities amidst political turmoil. Initially settling in New Jersey, Cruz contributed to her father’s hardwood flooring business while overcoming language barriers and cultural adjustments. When her father left, she had to manage being a single mother and running the family business. Despite these overwhelming responsibilities, she exhibited unwavering determination and ingenuity, finding ways to diversify and grow the business without succumbing to the pressures of her circumstances.

Navigating Change Orders

A significant highlight in the conversation was how Bel manages change orders—something many builders find challenging. Mark brought up the topic, noting how other builders charge additional fees for change orders. However, Cruz’s approach is distinct and client-focused. Instead of imposing extra charges, she treats any changes as new projects, discussing costs transparently with clients and avoiding unnecessary financial burdens.

By incorporating any potential changes into the existing contract and adding the necessary profit or margin, Cruz effectively minimizes client friction. This method not only embodies fairness but also fortifies client relationships through trust and open communication. Her innovative take on handling change orders can serve as a blueprint for other builders striving to enhance client satisfaction and streamline project management.

Empowering Women in Construction & Business

Bel’s story is a powerful testament to the role of women in construction and business management. She actively participates in associations dedicated to women in construction and government contracting, finding both inspiration and support from these communities. As a Latino business owner, she navigates dual minority statuses, leveraging her unique position while also addressing the challenges associated with it.

She articulated how being a woman can provide advantages in government contracting and residential projects, despite a lesser impact of being Latino-owned in the construction field. Her perspective provides valuable insights into the diverse experiences of women and minority business owners, highlighting the importance of community support and advocacy for breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Harnessing Technology for Business Growth

A crucial element driving LBR Partners' success is Bel’s strategic use of technology. She elaborates on using AI-driven software like Honeybook to streamline processes—including automating draws, budgets, and bookkeeping. This integration has substantially improved efficiency and minimized administrative tasks, allowing Cruz to focus on business growth and client relations.

Additionally, Cruz emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong digital presence. By leveraging social media platforms like Instagram and employing targeted advertising methods, she has successfully captured leads and expanded her business reach. This modern approach to marketing has proven effective in a visually-driven industry where aesthetic appeal plays a pivotal role in client decisions.

An Inspirational Path Forward

The journey of Bel Cruz, as shared on The Curious Builder Podcast, illustrates the confluence of resilience, innovation, and the human spirit's indomitable will to succeed. From navigating the treacherous path of immigration to establishing and growing a successful construction business, her story serves as an inspiration to builders, entrepreneurs, and dreamers everywhere.

By striving to improve client relations through fair change order practices, championing the empowerment of women in construction, harnessing technology for efficiency, and maintaining a robust digital presence, Cruz exemplifies the keys to thriving in a competitive industry. As The Curious Builder continues to spotlight such enlightening narratives, it not only informs but also galvanizes the builder community to pursue excellence relentlessly.