Our Story
It all started way back in 1989 when a young and naïve man was offered an opportunity to partake in the purchase of a Mr. Build franchise in the Dunbar area of Vancouver, B.C. I was convinced this was a great business sector to be involved in and as a kid, my mindset was simply “I will make lots of money!” So with much hesitation and uncertainty, I quit my full time job at the Vancouver airport and started learning about owning a small renovation company.
It was overwhelming to say the least, and as I soon found out, I was way over my head. Unfortunately, my ignorance was taken advantage of by my so-called “partners” and others involved in the company that knew much more than I did. I purchased what was sold to me as a turnkey franchise, but it turned out I had merely inherited a debt-inflated business with a number of challenges and deep-rooted existing problems. The first years were brutal to say the least. At one point I considered “running away” as I was broke and selling off personal items simply to make payroll and rent. My saving grace was my close friends and family and I learned about the word perseverance that was instituted not only in my life but throughout our company’s philosophy over the next many years.
Eventually I began to trust myself in my business decisions and operating the company became a little smoother. Our entire staff turned over and eventually I was fortunate enough to find some exceptional people who were highly skilled and enjoyed building the business with me. We now had new faces throughout the company except for one…Norm was telemarketing for me on a night-shift while going to BCIT taking business courses and he convinced me that we (just him and I), could run the operations of Mr. Build without all the unnecessary extra staff and personnel.
For example, in the early 1990’s, we had an overbearing payroll overhead. We were operating with a general manger in the office, an assistant general manager, two sales managers and three supervisors of handimen – each in charge of five handimen each… we had an I.T. department, an accounting department with an accounting manager and a couple of bookkeepers, and we had a large 20 person telemarketing crew generating leads on night shift.
2024 Overview
Mr. Build Metro Vancouver is centrally located in the Marpole area of Vancouver, B.C. We have been independently owned, operated and established since 1989. This year, 2023, we are celebrating our 35th year in business!
Mr. Build specializes in small/medium renovations/repairs. We service both residential and commercial clients. We can provide you with a “one-stop” service for all your repairs and renovation needs. The staff has been with Mr. Build since the beginning and know what customer service means. Because of our business-like approach, skilled trades people, and excellent communication skills, we can provide you with a solid value for your financial investment in your home, revenue property, or commercial/leasehold improvement.
Mr. Build has won many accolades for their service(s) over the years. We were selected by the readers of The Vancouver Courier in print and on line as the Best Home Repair Service several years in a row.
We also finished second as the 2nd best renovation company in Vancouver, B.C. by the readers of The Province newspaper. We have had several articles written about our company in the Home Section of the The Vancouver Sun. We have won badges over the years for the most positive reviews for a renovation company in Houzz, Homestars and Google. Mr. Build also has maintained an A+ rating at the BBB – Better Business Bureau – for 30 years. We can be found usually around the top of any google searches e.g. bathroom renovations and our website is www.mrbuild.com. Please feel free to check out our numerous customer satisfied reviews all over the internet.
We look forward to working with you.
Best regards,
Kurt Gust – owner/operator
p.s. Mr. Build Vancouver is centrally located in the neighbourhood we work in and we are open Mon – Fri, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. We can provide a complimentary estimate for any project and repair required, usually within 48 hours. This full service approach has allowed us to serve over 30,000 clients to date. Our referral and repeat business is over 50%. In a very competitive market, this speaks volumes about our business, but more importantly about our people.
A One-Stop Shop Service for All Your Renovation Needs
The staff have been employed with Mr. Build since the beginning and know how important customer service is. Because of our business approach, skilled trades, and excellent communication, we can provide you with a solid value for your financial investment in your home, revenue property, or commercial/lease improvement.
36 years in Business
We are celebrating 36 years in business and we look forward to helping you improve your home, office, or revenue property.
Our Donations
Coats for Kids
Mr. Build Vancouver is proudly participating in the Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association (GVHBA) annual Coats for Kids campaign to help make a difference in our community.
Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver
Why Choose Mr. Build Vancouver?
- Local, family-run business since 1989 – 34 years!
- Real office/shop location
- Open and staffed all day, every weekday
- Member of HomeStars and HOUZZ
- 4.7 of 5 star rating at HOUZZ.com
- Multi-skilled trades-people able to handle all aspects of any renovation you may need
- Full WorkSafe BC and Liability Insurance coverage
- All quotes provided to you within 24 – 48 hours
