Total Landscape Care Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/251533
run like that. But, if you save $1,000 10 times during a year, you can achieve the same thing – and it's much more realistic." He negotiates everything with vendors, from delivery to dumpster-rental fees. "I've also worked out deals where we don't pay restocking fees for returned materials, which often run anywhere from 5 to 20 per- cent (of the purchase price)," he says. "That way, we can order a bit of extra materials without in- curring any additional costs, plus we minimize trips to vendors in the middle of work days if we run short on materials. Time is money." Hanauer also strives to maintain positive cash flow, requiring a 40-percent down payment with his projects. "I don't negotiate prices, but I will negotiate terms of payment," he notes. "But down payments are essential…you need to make sure you have enough (revenue) coming in to cover what's going out (expenses)." In addition, Hanauer shrewdly times purchases to make the most of credit terms from ven- dors. For example, from a timing standpoint, it's better to buy, $6,000 worth of paver bricks during the first few days of the month instead of on the last few days of a month, he says. With the former, the bill won't come due as soon as the latter, so the company makes the most of the credit terms offered. "We would never hold up a job to do this, but if we have the option, we will do it," he says. "Again, it's all about hitting singles." Hanauer also invests in new technology to save money. For instance, he bought Vec- torworks, a software program with customizable spreadsheets that integrates with an existing 2 6 To t a l L a n d s c a p e C a r e . c o m F E B R U A R Y 2 014 landscaper of the year finalist s 1/2" thick polyethylene s Supports 120 ton vehicles s Leaves turf smooth in soft conditions s Withstands record heat & cold s Never get stuck again s 1/2" thick polyethylene s Features the bold diamond plate tread on one side and a finer, slip-resistant tread on the other side s Ideal for 120 ton vehicles as well as pedestrian traffic sales@alturnamats.com Call for the name of your nearby dealer: 888-544-6287 www.alturnamats.com We've Got You Covered SAFETY TECH OUTRIGGER PADS Rugged, one piece pads with rope handle. Available in wide variety of sizes to suit every or any application. Turn-A-Links - Lock mats together to form a continuous roadway Handi-Hooks - Steel rod makes moving mats easier MAT-PAK - The complete package. Call for details. Whatever you need in ground protection mats, is your ORIGINAL source Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLC request.com The design of this space grows from perfect circles. The materials are natural stone, Unilock Il Campo pavers and Belgard retaining walls.