Terrance Bradford of Tampa, FL is an entrepreneur and the brains behind Pro-Fit Development Inc, a Florida based Construction & Roofing Company. Terrance started the company 15 years ago and has managed to make it a force to reckon with in the Tampa Florida Real Estate scene. His success in running this company is the result of years of experience in the construction industry. Terrance first entered the construction world in 2001. He then went ahead to acquire several certifications that have given him an edge in the industry. Some of the certifications he holds include the State of Florida Certified General Contractor, State of Florida Certified MBE Business, and the State of Florida Certified Roofing Contractor. Terrance also has a strong academic background in business management. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business & Professional Management from Nova Southeastern University in Florida. Before pursuing a business degree, Terrance had completed an associate degree in Electronic Engineering from ITT Technical Institute, a degree that strengthened his analytical skill. Even while running a successful construction business, Terrance always creates time for his family. He has been married for 12 years and has a daughter named Ella Grace Bradford. He enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, exploring Tampa, and never misses an opportunity to take his daughter for horse-back riding among other fun activities.
How did you get started in the construction business?
I am always very aware of my surroundings. Just before I started Pro-Fit development, I noticed that most construction were very transactional. They rarely focused on customer serviced. I felt like this was an opportunity for entrepreneurs, and I dived in. The rest, as they say, is history.
How long did it take for you to become profitable? When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
Like any other startup, I struggled in the first months of business and went a whole year without profits. Even when the business finally turned profitable, its returns weren’t consistent. It was not until Q4 of year 3 that the business stabilized and profits became more predictable. In the first 6 months, I had doubts about whether it would work. Sometimes we could go for weeks without clients calling, and it was demotivating. Nonetheless, I soldiered on and it turned out well.
What was your experience closing your first deal?
It was fun. It motivated me to keep going, in the knowledge that I was doing something right. After that deal, I became more aggressive in marketing my business.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
I use Google Ads a lot. It gives me valuable leads that often convert. It is also cost-effective because I can limit the amount that I spend on adverts per month.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
I had to lay off some staff that had become redundant due to changes in the business environment. It was a sad day considering that they were very good and dedicated employees.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
That would be my persistence. No matter the circumstances, I always soldier on. This character has helped me overcome some of the most difficult times in business.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
I always feel great whenever a client calls back thanking me for the good services we offer. I always feel encouraged to keep pushing and take the service quality to an even higher level.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
The future is bright. I am always investing in my business, and I believe this has given it a solid basis for growth going into the future. On trends, I am very excited about Augmented Reality. I believe it will transform real estate for the better.
What business books have inspired you?
I always feel inspired whenever I read the magic of thinking big by David J. Schwartz. It reminds me to always have big dreams for my business. Thoughts shape reality.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell a young Terrance Bradford to avoid a know-it-all attitude. Listen to people who have been in business for longer. Even Warren Buffet was mentored by Benjamin Graham to become the man he is today.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?
Absolutely. I am always ready to share my knowledge with others and uplift them. Anyone seeking a mentor should come to my office and I will gladly help them out.