Starting and growing a business is never easy—but for those in construction, restoration, and home improvement, it can feel especially daunting. In a special solo episode of The Restoration Report, host and Core Contractors owner Levi Stearns shared candid lessons learned over the company’s first 20 months in business, with questions posed by producer Brian Harmon of Snohomish Film Company.
The conversation offers valuable takeaways for contractors, remodelers, and entrepreneurs navigating insurance restoration, project management, and business leadership.
From Construction Worker to General Contractor
Levi describes Core Contractors’ growth as “surreal.” What began as a leap of faith after years of layoffs and industry challenges quickly transformed into a thriving restoration company with 14 employees and $7 million in projected revenue—all within less than two years.
The secret? Preparation and vision. Levi explains that he didn’t start a business in an unfamiliar field—he built on decades of hands-on construction and insurance claim experience. For contractors, this highlights a critical point: use the skills you already have, then surround yourself with professionals to fill in the gaps.
Building a Business vs. Building a House
One of the most striking comparisons Levi makes is between construction and entrepreneurship. Building a house requires blueprints, concrete, and framing. Building a business, however, requires clarity of vision, flexibility, and the discipline to stick to your mission even when challenges arise.
Instead of chasing someone else’s version of success, Levi encourages business owners to define what success means to them. Whether that’s running a lean operation with a handful of employees or becoming the top general contractor in Washington State, both paths are valid—as long as the vision is clear.
Leadership, Growth, and “Brown Bag Moments”
Leading a restoration company is about more than managing projects. It’s about building a team and culture that reflects your values. Levi emphasizes leading by example, staying grounded in client service, and keeping the door open for staff input.
At the same time, growth requires risk. Levi calls the stressful moments of hiring or taking on new financial responsibilities “brown bag moments”—the kind of nights where an owner feels overwhelmed but chooses to push forward anyway. These moments are part of scaling any construction or restoration business.
Staying Focused on Growth
Core Contractors’ long-term mission is clear: to become the most trusted restoration and remodeling provider in Washington State. To achieve this, Levi stresses the importance of sustainable growth, strategic hiring, and constant learning. The team uses tools like EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) and draws on books like Traction and Good to Great to stay sharp and aligned.
Future plans include design centers to streamline the remodeling process for homeowners, reducing decision fatigue and helping projects move forward faster.
Key Takeaway for Contractors
Levi’s biggest piece of advice for anyone starting or growing a construction or restoration business is simple:
👉 Decide what you want your business to be, and then build it intentionally.
That clarity will not only guide day-to-day decisions but also prepare you to take advantage of opportunities when they come—whether that’s expanding your services, hiring your first employee, or landing a major insurance restoration project.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re a homeowner in need of home remodeling, restoration, or insurance claim project management, trust Core Contractors to deliver faster, better solutions.
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Ready to restore your home with confidence? Reach out to Core Contractors for a consultation today! Let us guide you through every step of the restoration process with care and expertise.
