Joining a group purchasing organization like CBUSA can be a game-changer for home builders looking to enhance their business operations, reduce material costs and build a strong network of like-minded professionals. If you’re considering or have recently joined CBUSA, you may be curious about what you can expect in the first 90 days.
Adam Shaeffer, co-founder of Cardinal Crest Homes, had a front-row seat to the opening of one of CBUSA’s newest chapters in Kansas City – and he’s sharing his experience.
Here’s a look at what you can expect from the first few months and how you can make the most of your experience as a member.
Building relationships with like-minded builders
One of the most significant advantages of joining CBUSA is the opportunity to connect with other home builders who share your goals and challenges. In the initial phase of your membership, you’ll have multiple opportunities to meet and engage with fellow builders through chapter meetings, brand partner meetups and other networking events.
“It’s extremely intimidating when you’re sitting in the room, and you’re talking about what you’re paying for framing material and drywall,” Adam said. “But it’s only intimidating for the first couple of meetings. Once you start opening up, and all the builders start to open up and participate, it’s an exceptional experience. It’s great.”
Tips for success:
- Be proactive: Attend as many events as possible and actively participate in discussions.
- Share your story: Be open about your business, challenges and goals. This transparency helps in building trust and finding common ground with other builders.
Collaborating with the CBUSA team
The CBUSA team is dedicated to helping you leverage the full potential of your membership. From establishing new partnerships to negotiating deals, their support will be crucial in your early days. You’ll have one-on-one consultations with CBUSA reps to discuss your specific needs, existing supplier relationships and areas where CBUSA can provide the most value. Together, you’ll develop a strategic plan tailored to your business.
“The regional manager assigned to our chapter has been incredible,” Adam said. “I feel like he’s the one that’s having to have all the difficult conversations with suppliers or subcontractors and then he comes back and reports, which is awesome.”
Tips for success:
- Be clear about your needs: The more specific you are about your requirements, the better the CBUSA team can assist you.
- Leverage their expertise: Utilize the knowledge and experience of the CBUSA team to explore new opportunities and innovative solutions.
Establishing agreements with subcontractors
A significant aspect of CBUSA membership is the access to a network of vetted subcontractors and the ability to negotiate better deals and terms of service. With the support of the CBUSA team, you’ll be able to challenge the status quo and make changes that will benefit your business and market.
“CBUSA has come in and helped us challenge our market,” Adam said. “They’ve been able to facilitate conversations with turnkey subcontractors to separate materials and labor on their invoicing, so we have full transparency.”
Tips for success:
- Maintain relationships: Treat your subcontractors as partners and work toward creating mutually beneficial agreements.
- Stay organized: Keep track of all agreements, pricing and terms to ensure smooth implementation and avoid any misunderstandings.
Maximizing your CBUSA membership
By the end of your first 90 days, you’ll have laid a strong foundation for long-term success with CBUSA. Now, it’s all about keeping that momentum to ensure continued success.
“The most important thing you can do as a CBUSA member is participate, participate, participate,” Adam said. “You should feel an obligation to attend the meetings and to respond to questions about what you’re paying for materials. You’ve got to work as a group.”
Tips for continued success:
- Stay engaged: Regularly attend CBUSA events, webinars and training sessions to stay updated on new partnerships and updated benefits.
- Give feedback: Share your experiences and feedback with the CBUSA team to help them improve their services and better support your business needs.
Are you interested in joining a current CBUSA chapter or bringing a chapter to your local market?
As a member of CBUSA, you’ll save on material costs, have access to our network of preferred local vendors and feel supported by other professional builders in your local chapter.
“I think every builder in the nation should join a CBUSA chapter because it’s a very good avenue with backend support to improve your business,” Adam said.
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