Tell me about the history of Bruce Heys Builders...
I started this company in 1992.  Our first project was a spec home that we entered in the Spring Parade of Homes in 1993.  That home sold before debuting in the Parade, giving us a great jump-start for our new company.  Since that time, we have worked on numerous custom homes, condominiums and other specialty projects.  We started on smaller projects to make sure we were providing the product for a competitive price.  Our goal has always been to provide the best value while offering a premier finished product in a fun and enjoyable environment.  With our continued growth, our name has become synonymous with first class service, high end finished millwork, expert craftsmen, and a level of quality second to none.

What is Bruce Heys Builders' typical scope of work?
Our primary focus is two-fold.  While we have established our reputation for building high quality custom homes, most people don't realize that we also do custom renovations.  Our renovation business has increased every year and has involved everything from a kitchen and bathroom redo to a complete teardown and rebuild.  Our company also provides interior design services for those clients who absolutely want to keep their lives simple while investing in the improvements to their new or remodeled home.  As we build relationships with our clients, they continually refer us to their friends and that is the best compliment we could ask for. 

What is your typical workload and what staff do you have in place to handle the work?
We typically have two to four projects in the works at any given time.  We have a staff of people who build, manage and design our projects from the ground up.  Our own expert craftsmen perform all of our finish work and most of our framing. Our clients can always be heard talking about how nice it is to work with all of our people.  Whether it is during a renovation project or working through their dream home, our staff is conscientious and courteous throughout the project.  One of the things I learned early in my career is that you are "only as good as the people you surround yourself with".  At our company we have done our very best to surround ourselves with incredibly talented people both in the field and in the office - just ask our past clients!

Who is your typical client?
The main thing our clients have in common is a demand for the best quality product provided through an enjoyable process.  Some clients have been looking to build for several years and have a detailed plan.  Other clients will come to us knowing they want to build but are unsure how to get the ball rolling.  Most of our clients' projects fall within a seventy-five mile radius of the Grand Rapids area.  However, as our clients and referrals build summer homes, we are beginning to do more work in Northern Michigan.  Our clients know the benefits of working with a builder with whom they are familiar and know they can trust.

What is your company's approach to working with a new client?
Our first meeting is typically a get acquainted meeting with us trying to learn as much as we can about the client, i.e... how long have you been "researching" your project?, what is the main reason you are making this improvement or building new?, how long will you be staying here?...all questions which will help us in providing the right fit for their new investment.  We then work to provide our clients with the services they might need to make their project a reality; architects, bankers, designers, etc.  It is our goal to make the construction process an enjoyable experience.

What can clients do to help make the project most successful?
During our initial meetings, we provide our clients with a Selection Timeline and a Subcontractor/Supplier List.  This lets the client know what selections need to be made (i.e. siding, flooring, cabinetry, hardware, etc.), where to go to make those selections, and the "select by" date.  If they are working with our designer or just on their own, we have them work through the selections as early as possible.  Having a client who makes selections early in the construction process is helpful for a number of reasons: the client gets a very good understanding of how many details are involved and how they interrelate; it allows ample time to revisit earlier selections if budgets or desires change; the selection process is much more enjoyable for everyone if the "time factor" is reduced or eliminated; and budgets can be much more clearly defined or confirmed at the begining of the project.  It is our job to make sure our client's time is utilized in the most efficient manner possible.