Veteran custom home builder Greg Sawyer (Vision Builders Group & Development, Inc.) was ready to shut down his company. Instead—after spotting margin red flags, tightening controls, and rethinking value—he sold the business and secured a multi-year consulting agreement. Host David Rummell (DR Law Center & Apex Brokerage) walks through the exact playbook: turning “it’s just my reputation” into a marketable asset, fixing profit leaks, and navigating Florida contractor licensing and “qualifying” a business.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• How to recognize when 10% margins should be closer to 20–30%—and what that gap usually means.

• Simple internal controls for owner-operators (who signs checks, reconciles, and watches cash).

• Why your reputation, systems, and pipeline have real sale value—even without hard assets.

• How license holders can “qualify” a business in Florida (and the risk of operating without one).

• Practical succession vs. sale options for small contractors and specialty trades.

• Life after exit: consulting, code/permit remediation work, and designing a flexible “semi-retired” role.

Guest Greg Sawyer — Owner/Founder, Vision Builders Group & Development, Inc.

Host David Rummell — Owner/Founder, DR Law Center; Co-Founder/Co-Owner, Apex Brokerage

If you’re an owner thinking about succession, valuation, or selling your business, email us: david@theapexbrokerage.com

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Disclaimer: This conversation is for informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Consult your own advisors.