for success,” says Raymond, giving a particular shout-out to Director of Community and Client Relations, Bernida Reagan. “They have answered questions and helped me to improve my business practices,” he adds, citing as examples the assistance he’s received in getting his financial record-keeping in order and creating profit/loss statements. Raymond also expresses deep gratitude that his wife - who is a professional in her own right - and his family have been consistently supportive in helping him power through challenges. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, proving oneself trustworthy, being reliable and consistent, building and maintaining good credit, and lining up financial support in advance. He mentions that another key component to his business success has been taking on incrementally larger projects to build his business acumen and hands-on experience.
One of Bridgetown’s early large projects was one working with Oakland Housing Authority, an opportunity that Raymond learned about through a friend. Since the project required a C-9 (drywall specialty) license, he studied for and earned that license, submitted a bid, and was awarded the contract to complete a 12-unit drywall project for the largest landowner in Oakland, the Oakland Housing Authority. “It was an amazing experience. I learned a lot because I had to hire sub-contractors, which meant doing certified payroll and paying prevailing wage,” he recalls, “Thankfully, I had lined up some financial support, because I had to be able to meet my expenses while waiting to be paid myself.” Since then, Raymond has continued building his business, doing about an equal amount of private and public sector work.
Before (left) and after (right) a Bridgetown Construction housing renovation project
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