All Forum Posts by: Ryan Lott

Hi BP,

I've got an 80 unit gut rehab on the north side of Chicago and need a couple blinds experts to measure and quote the project. We prefer using vertical blinds where possible but we have a lot of floor to ceiling windows and need some smarter (yet cost-effective) solutions. If any of you are able to give me some leads it would be greatly appreciated!

Ryan

Granted, my situation is a little different than most of the REI's on this board but I've been able to leverage manufacturer direct pricing in order to have Home Depot get more competitive when it comes to bidding on rehab projects...

I know there a lot of times that contractors are able to get better pricing than lay-people (or even large management companies) - Perhaps it'd be possible to partner with your contractor and have Home Depot meet & beat similar products to what your contractor would be able to get? I can understand why they may not want to help with this but the way I see it - more money in your pocket means more work for them, right?

Hi BP,

Has anyone here had experience dealing with an independent purchasing agent when it comes to buying materials (construction materials, “fit & finish”, cleaning and office supplies)?

If so, would you mind sharing pros and cons from your experience?

If not, would it be something you’d consider? Why or why not?

Thanks!

Welcome to BP @Valerie Dye! There's a monthly meetup every 3rd Tuesday at Dino's Pizza in Norwood Park that's a great place to begin networking. On a side note, I'd love to talk to you sometime about the private equity fund you work for as I'm looking to add a "financial partners" component to the buying group I'm launching.

Welcome to BP, Sarah! I recently stumbled across this website too but it's been a great place to network and learn. Make sure you get involved in the free meetups around the area to start making connections! Hope to see you around.

Welcome to BP, Mike! Make sure to check out some of the areas meetups if you get a chance and let me know if I can put you in touch with any material suppliers. 

I would think you'd want to start with plumbing (septic) & electrical, then move on to flooring, drywall, cabinets, trim (moulding?). I believe you'd want to save siding for last along with the appliances.

I buy a lot of my door handles and closers through Cal Royal. Decent pricing and lead time on all my standard equipment.

Just saw your second post after I replied. If it's a one-time deal then typically, your Home Depot ProDesk will sell at 15% above their cost (Or at least that's what they say). Failing that, see if they'll "meet & beat" a competitor by 10%. They don't always do it but cash is king - margin is queen.

http://www.homedepot.com/c/SF_MS_In-Store_Low_Pric...

Depending on how many units you're buying for every year you may be able to open an account with companies like Wilmar and HD Supply. In addition to typically offering better pricing on appliances than the retail stores, they also have access to tons of other materials we use in the multifamily industry.