When disaster strikes—whether through fire, water, or wind—homeowners face a daunting journey of restoration. In the debut episode of The Restoration Report, Levi Stearns, owner of Core Contractors, is joined by Gordy Holmquist to share about their mission to demystify the complexities of the insurance restoration process while empowering homeowners to make informed decisions.
A Mission Born from Experience
Core Contractors was founded on the principles of transparency, trust, and doing the right thing. Levi and his CEO, Gordy, discussed how past challenges—both personal and professional—shaped their vision for a company that prioritizes people over profit. Their firsthand experience with poor management and profit-driven practices in previous jobs fueled their passion for creating a solutions-driven general contracting company that values customer care.
From humble beginnings, the Core team worked tirelessly, starting with just two men in a truck, swinging hammers, and painting walls. Today, they’ve built a thriving operation with over ten employees and a reputation for excellence in insurance restoration, project management, and home remodeling.
Navigating the Insurance Process
The insurance industry can often feel overwhelming. Levi pointed out that insurance companies benefit from the complexity, leaving homeowners unsure of their rights and options. One of Core’s goals is to educate clients about the process, emphasizing that homeowners have more control than they may realize.
Key advice from the podcast includes:
- Trust the right contractor: Don’t fall into the trap of solely chasing the lowest bid. Insurance companies often push for multiple quotes to delay decisions or to force contractors into a race to the bottom.
- Prioritize trust and transparency: Homeowners should feel confident in their contractor’s ability to handle both intake and fulfillment processes with care and professionalism.
- Empathy matters: Home restoration is often an emotional experience. Whether it’s a flood, fire, or other catastrophe, Core Contractors stands out by addressing not just the physical damage but also the emotional toll on homeowners.
Lessons from the Field
The team shared heartfelt stories from their journey, including a full-circle moment with a skeptical client. Levi and Gordy’s unwavering commitment to integrity led them back to help this homeowner in need, turning doubt into respect and reinforcing Core’s ethos of always doing the right thing.
Both Levi and Gordy reflected on how their past struggles—whether in construction, sales, or other industries—helped build the resilience and empathy they bring to their work today. Levi summarized it perfectly: “Failure isn’t failure; it’s education.”
Educating Homeowners, One Episode at a Time
The Restoration Report aims to bridge the gap between homeowners and the often-confusing world of insurance restoration. By providing clear insights and actionable advice, Core Contractors hopes to help families regain a sense of normalcy after a crisis.
If you’re navigating home repairs or facing an insurance claim, trust a company that puts your needs first. Contact Core Contractors today to experience expert project management, compassionate service, and results you can rely on.
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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.