Loading...
Loading...
Scaling past $1M requires systems, not hustle. This operations guide covers estimating, scheduling, subcontractor management, and profit optimization.
# Running a $1M+ General Contracting Business
Most contractors plateau at $500K-$750K because they're still the bottleneck in every estimate, every schedule, and every punchlist.
Stop spending 4-6 hours per estimate. Use parametric estimating with historical cost data:
A shared calendar isn't a scheduling system. You need:
Track these metrics weekly:
| Metric | Healthy Range |
|---|---|
| Gross margin | 25-35% |
| Net profit | 8-15% |
| Overhead ratio | < 30% |
| Backlog months | 3-6 months |
| AR days | < 45 days |
The feast-famine cycle kills contractors. Maintain a steady pipeline:
At 35% gross margin and $150K average job size, you need 19 jobs per year — less than 2 per month.
The contractors who break $1M aren't working harder — they have systems that work without them.
Join 500+ contractors getting actionable growth strategies every Thursday.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Book a free 15-min strategy call with our team.