Croom Construction Company from start to finish
From the day
we opened Croom Construction Company, we had a goal in mind:
to be the best. We achieved that early, and have worked to maintain our emphasis on quality during our 30-year history. We knew back then that the quality of the people we hired would have a direct effect on our performance. From the beginning, we’ve sought out the most qualified professionals in every sphere of our operations. And because of it, we brought a level of professionalism to this marketplace that had never been seen here before. I had a mentor when I was younger. He was a general contractor whose career was with Turner Construction Company in New York. He was a very accomplished individual and contributor to American Concrete Institute publications. His mantra was all about quality: both seen and unseen. It’s very easy to take shortcuts in this business, and I am proud to say we never work that way. I guess there is something in my makeup that has to do with my growing up in Virginia, where I was surrounded by and educated in historic buildings built in the 17th and 18th century. It was later in life after I entered the building business that Llwyd Ecclestone Sr., the founder of John’s Island, invited me to join him building homes and oceanfront apartments. I knew instantly that I finally had an opportunity to execute the architectural details and achieve the level of quality that had been so familiar to me all my life. Today, the homes we build and restore are often custom, one-of-a-kind designs. They actually exceed the complexity of most commercial buildings. When you are dealing with complicated roof structures and artistic details, you need to have remarkably skilled people to do these jobs well. To me, it’s the difference between good and the absolute best. Our staff is a reflection of my need to surround myself with only the best. We are a team of specialists. Everyone has a specific job to do, and they are the top in every respect. I would put Croom Construction professionals up against any other professionals in their field. When building a home, there is never one person who could possibly be adept at doing it all. By virtue of our size and structure, when you hire Croom you get the most specialized professionals at the most reasonable cost. We have a self-test we use on every home we build. Every one of us asks, “Would I be happy to live in that home.” There is only one right answer: yes! Take a journey with us now to understand the process of custom home building and maintenance. Please enjoy this book — from start to finish.
David Croom, President
let’s begin
For more than
30 years, homeowners have depended on Croom Construction for world-class homes, and award winning construction. We are a company founded on the belief that if you put your energy into consistently doing the right thing, you will be successful and strong. Many people have never built a home or undertaken a major renovation. We prepared this book as an overview and introduction to the process. Because every custom home is unique, every homeowner’s process will be unique. But one thing never changes: our commitment to getting it right no matter the challenges. In these pages you’ll meet some of the key players who make us click, skilled tradesmen who uphold our high standards, and some of the design professionals we have worked closely with over the years. We also introduce you to the stellar team at Whitehall Professional Property Management and the importance of maintaining your coastal home on a regular basis. After reading this book, if we leave you with one truth — Croom Construction is the go-to firm in Vero Beach — we will have accomplished our goal. Enjoy!
Dav i d lyo n s , v i c e p r e s i d e n t
our first meeting A Cornell graduate with a degree in mechanical engineering, David Lyons has over 25 years working at Croom. David makes sure your first meeting is the beginning of a happy, successful relationship. What is it that you want to get across at the first meeting? That we’re very empathetic. It’s a big decision to build or renovate a home, and there are many decisions along the way. They need to know that I am always thinking, “how is the client doing?” How do you make sure that quality is carried into every detail? We have a Ten Foot Rule. The supervisor asks the subcontractors on site to do 10 feet of work, and then stop. The work is inspected. If the level of excellence is there, he can continue working. It’s a very strict system of checks and balances. What is the best part of working with the Croom staff? Everyone has so much pride in what we do. It is not just about building a beautiful home, but it’s also about making sure the client is really happy. We have an excellent team who strive to execute the perfect fit and finish. We never compromise. How about a signature moment after 25 years? It has to be when I take my family through the projects that we have built and share with them these incredibly beautiful homes. It makes me proud.
it all starts with a solid foundation Our foundation for a great relationship is based on truly listening to our clients. Some clients know exactly what they want in a home. Others need a gentle push to help them articulate their lifestyle and define their style. Either way, we are adept at interpreting what our clients want to achieve. Our goal is to have a plan and strategy from the beginning, so that we execute each task on time and on budget.
Barrett Residence Palmetto Point John’s Island Bob and Sandy Barrett first connected with Croom Construction when they were considering a major home renovation. Instead, they switched gears, sold that home and decided to build a new home. A very upbeat interview with Croom clinched the deal. Sandy was impressed with how seamlessly Croom spearheaded the planning stage and worked so easily with their architect. Soon, exterior materials decisions had to be made. Pulling all that together was materials selection coordinator, Marilyn Kolar. Sandy said, “Marilyn should be anointed a saint! She is so patient and thorough, the coordinator extraordinaire.” Croom has always endeavored to make the homebuilding process a pleasant experience, but Sandy and Bob believe it goes beyond that. “We are actually having a ball doing this,” said Sandy. “You spend an awful lot of time meeting with your builder during the process. You really get to know each other. Charles and David have a way of taking the burden out of decision-making. I’ve learned to trust their advice implicitly and really enjoy the process.” Sandy summed it up, “Croom is simply the best. No, they are the very best.”
expert craftsmanship When it comes to craftsmanship, we set the bar very high. None of our people would be happy building cookie-cutter homes. The reward comes in executing a home’s finer details impeccably. And that takes craftsmanship acquired over years of experience. That’s where our team really shines.
J o e & M a r y A l i c e Sm i t h
Island Creek Drive on John’s Island Croom built Joe and Mary Alice Smith’s home in one of the most prestigious Vero Beach communities in 2007. “Croom’s team of building experts made our home-building experience so much easier than we expected,” the Smiths said. On completion, both saw the merit in working with Whitehall Professional Property Management to maintain their home. Joe, a savvy businessman, compared maintaining your home to investing and re-energizing a business. “Healthy businesses restore their capital investments, and homes are the same. Put back in what depreciates each year, and it will continue to grow in value,” he said. The Smiths appreciate Whitehall’s proactive approach. It allows them to have a “hassle-free lifestyle” which is exactly what they wanted out of living here. Mary Alice remarked, “Others spend 4-6 weeks in the fall getting their homes back in shape. When we return, our home is in perfect condition and ready for us to enjoy.” Joe summed up their confidence in Whitehall, “We no longer review Whitehall’s checklists. We trust them implicitly to cover every inch of our home and maintain it well.”
Vero Beach is our home, too Our company has been building homes in Vero Beach for over 30 years, and we’re still going strong. Founded in 1978, Croom Construction Company built many of the first homes in John’s Island, Windsor, and Orchid. In fact, we’ve built over 600 homes throughout our seaside community. We’re proud to have been so much a part of the thoughtful development of Vero Beach. David (center) and Charles Croom (left) and family.
a dedication to detail Step into any Croom home and you will be inspired by its beauty, impeccable architectural details, and signature craftsmanship. Most of our craftsmen have been with us for over a decade, and they continue to build houses that people are proud to call home.
experience counts At Croom Construction, we have an abiding respect for exceptional craftsmanship and the very talented individuals who render it. We trust to their skilled and experienced hands the handcrafted details our clients expect from us. Because of that respect, they’ve found a home at Croom and stayed on. We are privileged that the combined years of service of our superintendents is unmatched by any local company.
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Senior Field Superintendent
Phil Campbell, 32 years of service
“Croom’s high standards and my perfectionist personality are a perfect fit. There’s no greater satisfaction than knowing that my clients’ expectations have been met, even exceeded.”
j o e K i r b y , VP, E s t i m a t i n g & P u r c h a s i n g
by the numbers Joe Kirby joined Croom after graduating cum laude Senior Field Superintendent
from the School of Building Construction at the University of Florida where he was a member of the honorary construction fraternity, Sigma Lambda Chi. In his 21 years with the company, Joe has estimated over $350 million worth of projects. Why is accurate estimating of a project’s cost so
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Frank Gerstner, 28 years of service
“The camaraderie and team spirit at Croom are unsurpassed by any place I’ve worked. It’s so rewarding to see a beautiful finished home; it makes me proud of what our team can accomplish.”
important? Accurate estimating means the estimated cost equals the actual cost of a project. We put a lot of stock in getting it right, so the client knows where they stand and gets the best value. Is estimating both an art and science? I suppose the number crunching is obviously a science. A good estimate is a project road map and should include site
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general Superintendent
Ray Laster, 27 years of service
“Looking back on 27 years at Croom, there is no doubt in my mind that the dedication of the team and the quality of the work are the reasons I’ve been here so long.”
and field management costs and all labor, material and equipment requirements. But a good estimator also needs the ability to visualize a project in his mind in 3D and assemble the cost accordingly; that’s where the art comes in. How does accurate estimating benefit your clients? Our estimators utilize a state-of-the-art computerized estimating system to deliver estimates that are so detailed, they guard against cost overruns. With a full report, our clients can make more informed decisions. No surprises, a benefit Croom customers appreciate.
Field Superintendent
Jay Alexander, 12 years of service
“Working with Croom is like working with family. With all our skills, there’s no situation or problem that we cannot overcome. We teach each other, we learn from each other, and we build together. That’s why working here is so rewarding.
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c h a r l e s c r o o m , V i c e P r e s i d e n t, o p e r a t i o n s
relationships matter Charles earned a bachelor’s degree in Building Science at Auburn University where he was a member of Sigma Lambda Chi, the honorary construction fraternity. Before joining the family business in 2005, he worked for 10 years in Orlando in estimating and project management for Brasfield & Gorrie, a nationally ranked commercial contractor. You watched your father start and grow this company. What did you learn? Always do the right thing by your client. My father set high standards and then gave everyone the support they needed to meet those standards. He put a high priority on upgrading the skills of our field personnel via training. In that, he was ahead of his time. With a background in commercial construction, what have you brought to the company? I’m accustomed to the discipline of project management, where you adhere strictly to a contract. While the fundamentals of project management can be applied to residential construction, I learned quickly that our business is much more about being a good listener and building relationships with clients. What’s your business philosophy? I’m not happy unless the client is 100% satisfied. That’s on every job, every day. Everyone at Croom works to this standard.
M a r i ly n Ko l a r , M at e r i a l s S e l ec t i o n C o o r d i n ato r
materials maven Before joining Croom Construction, Marilyn worked in design management for MacKenzie-Childs. Charles Croom readily admits that Marilyn is their “secret weapon.” Every client raves about what it’s like to work with her. What does your job involve? I help clients choose carpets, countertops, tile — any of the hardscapes in a home. It’s all about the details. What I bring to the process are my organizational skills and interiors experience. I take clients to the showrooms. I introduce them to the whole process and assist them with all of these decisions. We are the only local contractor that supplies such a service. What about the new, sustainable materials? Absolutely! This isn’t just a passing fad. Eco-friendly materials include man-made solid surface countertops, reclaimed wood flooring, MDF and LDF doors made from wood fibers in lieu of old growth trees, and Icynene® spray foam insulation. Green system choices include high efficiency pumps and salt-based purifier systems for pools and energy efficient everything — windows, doors, lighting, appliances, and mechanical systems. What makes Croom Construction a special place to work? Croom hires the best specialists. When everyone does their job, then all of these pieces fit together like a perfect puzzle. Croom is a master at putting it all together.
competitive advantage The volume of high quality building materials and fine finishes that we buy is a factor in the most competitive pricing for our clients. Working with a long established company like Croom Construction has its advantages, both in terms of costs and because of our strong supplier relationships. Everything we do is to enhance your property’s value and your enjoyment in living there.
challenges accepted If you have a grand vision for your new home, you’ll choose your architect carefully. You’ll want to work with an architect who understands your vision and can bring that vision to life. The same thinking should be applied to choosing a general contractor. Not all builders rise to the occasion or are even interested in taking on new challenges. Croom Construction, however, built its reputation on “challenges accepted.” From the beginning, we’ve enjoyed close collaboration with architects. All the skills that come together to build a home have to work as a team, from the architect to the project manager to field carpenters. We help that happen by conducting a detailed study of every home before any construction begins. No home is the same, so no plan is the same. Radius, planing, square, level, true, tolerances: we admit we speak our own language. But accept it as a mark of our real commitment to get challenging architectural details exactly right every time.
measure twice, cut once When building a home, it’s the little things that matter. What happens behind the scenes in the early stages ensures superior quality at the end. The consequences of not getting everything to fit precisely can be huge. At Croom, we employ experienced craftsmen who have been measuring and cutting for a long time. Sometimes it comes down to an eighth of an inch. Calculations start on paper, so when we do the actual construction everything fits together right – the first time.
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ARCHITECT
“We have no reservations in recommending Croom Construction. Our clients have always been satisfied beyond their expectations.”
“My relationship with Croom is long standing and rewarding. Because they understand classical architecture, they understand my designs and how to execute them.”
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ARCHITECT
Warren McCormick Warren McCormick & Associates “During our 30-year relationship, we’ve learned to appreciate Crooms’ professionalism, knowledge and experience. From project management to execution, they respond to the unforeseen with sound guidance and timely service.”
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ENGINEER
Clem Schaub Clemens Bruns Schaub Architect & Associates P.A.
Mike Lue Michael Lue A.P.E. – M.I. Engineering Incorporated
“The best projects occur when the architect and the builder have their goals aligned; passion and diligence prevail. Croom has proven to be a great teammate.”
“Croom Construction is a team of highly skilled professionals who do outstanding work, and it’s always our pleasure to be part of their design team.”
ARCHITECT
ENGINEER
David Moulton Moulton Layne, P.L. ARCHITECT
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Scott Layne Moulton Layne, P.L.
“Croom Construction always respects my contribution on a project. They couldn’t be more professional to work with.”
“We try to capture the essence of what our clients want in a home. Croom works with us to find creative construction solutions to unique ideas.”
ARCHITECT
Jim Gibson Gibson & Associate Architects Inc. “I’ve worked with Croom Construction on all kinds of buildings, including my own home. I’ve enjoyed working with them; their professionalism is a given.”
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Frank Farley Farley & Associates Consulting
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INTERIOR DESIGNER
Ashley Waddell Olivia O’Bryan, Inc. INTERIOR DESIGNER
Courtney Whatley Olivia O’Bryan, Inc. “It has been a pleasure working with Croom throughout the years. Their professional staff, in the office and out in the field, always make our job easier.”
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LANDSCAPE DESIGNER
I N T E R I O R D E S I G N E R
Susan Schuyler Smith Spectrum
Harry Howle Harry Gandy Howle Architects & P.A.
INTERIOR DESIGNER
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ARCHITECT
Rod Mickley Rod Mickley Interiors
Peter Moor Moor & Associates P.A.
“It is always a pleasure to work with Croom Construction. Their staff and support people are some of the finest professionals in the business.”
“Some perceive building as a science, while others as an art. Croom Construction knows that it is both. With great technical expertise, they create exceptional beauty.”
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< A RCHITECT Rob Atkins Rob Atkins Architecture Inc.
Leah Muller Leah Muller Interiors, Inc. “With over 25 years of experience, I have found Croom consistently delivers the finest quality homes in the custom luxury home market. It is a designer’s “dream team” to be paired with a builder so focused on quality.”
“In my experience, Croom Construction has demonstrated their understanding of both the complexity and subtlety of fine home building. It is evident in every project we’ve completed.”
ARCHITECT
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ENGINEER
George Bollis George F. Bollis, Jr., Architect
Bill Stoddard Schulke, Bittle & Stoddard, LLC.
“My experience with Croom Construction began in 1978, and has continued unblemished to this day. I can always count on their team’s dedication to achieving our client’s goals and expectations.”
“Over the past 10 years, I have had the pleasure of working with Croom on a variety of projects. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality is unsurpassed in the building industry.”
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INTERIOR DESIGNER
I N T E R I O R D E S I G N E R
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working as partners While Croom Construction is always your main contact in building your custom home, many highly skilled design professionals work with you and our team. We nurture these relationships, because mutual respect and good communication are key to a successful project. It all starts with the architect who listens well and interprets your vision. After the plans are finalized, the architect leads the discussion on appropriate building materials and finishes. This helps us estimate your construction project more accurately.
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ARCHITECT
Lisa DeFrances, L.K. DeFrances & Associates, Inc.
Lynn Silkworth L.M. Silkworth Architect P.A
“Collaborating with Croom Construction guarantees the best possible results for our clients.”
“For over 30 years, our clients have received exceptional workmanship and competitive pricing from Croom. They conduct their business honestly, professionally and with integrity on a daily basis.”
Next, comes engineering. Attention to site and structural challenges is the domain of the engineer. Accurate engineering plans can save time and money, and help us get important aspects of the design right the first time. Finally, the interior designer is responsible for all the finishing touches that make a house a home. Selecting an interior designer is your decision, and one that is based on both personal style and personality. We’ve worked with the best design professionals in the business, and their creativity never ceases to amaze us. You’ll find that these relationships run long and strong. The cream rises to the top!
renovations There are so many reasons to reinvent what you own instead of starting anew. But that doesn’t necessarily make renovating the easier choice. In fact, it’s often more complicated than starting from scratch. A renovation project is about creative problem solving and the potential to innovate. It’s about pure potential and making space serve its residents better than it did in the past. One of our strengths is helping owners determine where the value lies. Our deep understanding of available alternatives in materials, construction methods and finishes helps our clients invest in what matters and delivers the greatest impact. Why is Croom Construction the best at renovations? That’s simple: we’ve completed so many. At the end of 2010, we will have completed over 200 renovations in 14 years. Projects have run the gamut from a small historic coastal cottage to a multi-home estate and everything in between. Experience gives us a distinct advantage. And it’s one of the reasons we are nationally ranked among the top 100 companies by Qualified Remodeler Magazine.
With more than 15 years of renovation and remodeling experience, Croom has won its share of industry accolades. However, the best reward is always a satisfied client.
before
a a r o n b e n s o n , r e n ovat i o n s d i v i s i o n m a n ag e r
change artist Aaron earned a degree in Building Construction Management from the University of North Florida. Since 2003, he has more than $65 million worth of renovations to his credit. What distinguishes renovations from new construction? First, our responsibility is to protect existing structures. Also, when renovating older homes, we must anticipate structural issues and deal with them in a timely manner. Finally, schedules can change weekly, so keeping our client informed is key. What’s unique about renovations here in Vero Beach? Our work is largely seasonal. We often renovate during the summer months when the owners are not in residence. No matter what happens along the way, we deal with very firm deadlines. How do you keep clients informed while they’re away? Clients receive a weekly report accompanied by photos that record progress. Keeping in touch with clients via email has made our job more effective with instant communication. What do you like best about renovations? I enjoy working with everyone from architects to our amazing tradesmen. Each day presents unique challenges. Most of all, I love turning the finished project over to a very satisfied client.
Croom Construction built the Dayton residence in 1997. In 2006, the owners asked us to add a second floor guest wing, which required removing the roof during the rainy summer season. Working with the original architect, the new space flowed well with the existing design. The Dayton home is an excellent example of how a well-planned renovation can adapt a home to the owner’s current needs.
j A M ES C H O Q U ET, Su p e r v i s o r , P r e c i s i o n F i n i s h i n g a n d Pa i n t i n g
James did technical coursework at IRSC, earning OSHA and EPA certifications. He also has specialist training in scaffolding erection and high lift equipment. Already a Licensed Painting Contractor when he joined Precision Finishing and Painting back in 1997, he has worked his way up to managing a team of 20 painters. Why an in-house painting division? David Croom understood how important a quality paint job is to a finished project, and believed that having his own painting staff was the way to guarantee that quality. I was lucky enough to be hired at the beginning. How can you judge a good paint job? It’s all in the preparation of the surfaces before paint or stain is ever applied. We have the most skilled prep people in the business. The quality of our work really comes through because we prep and paint properly. What does “finishing” in your name refer to? We are known for the furniture-quality finishes we deliver for woodwork and other wood surfaces. This is the kind of work that separates run-of-the-mill painters from our experienced pros. What about new products on the market? I personally spend a lot of time researching new paints, stains and primers. Any new product has to meet a very high quality standard to merit inclusion.
quintessential Croom Croom understands Vero Beach living. What makes our homes so inspiring and unique? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our understanding that the outdoors and beautiful weather define the local lifestyle. Our signature outdoor living spaces are a Croom trademark. So are interior living spaces flooded with light and open to ocean breezes and commanding views. Our affinity for coastal living is what helps make our homes your dream home.
Croom Construction is proud to have been selected to build the first home in the New Urbanism community of Windsor. Windsor One set a standard of excellence that has remained mandatory throughout the village.
cover story The first time a major magazine featured a Croom-built home, naturally we were thrilled. After more than 40 features in 20 magazines over the years, we take this publicity a little more in our stride these days. But weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never lost the sense of shared pride we have with our clients. Those glossy pages tell a tale of real accomplishment for both our clients and Croom Construction Company. Croom Construction has been featured in: Architectural Digest 1992 Beautiful Homes 2009 Better Homes and Gardens 2007, 2008, 2009 Business Miami 2000 Coastal Living 2004, 2005 Contractor 1991, 2001 Construction Today 2007 Custom Builder 1993 Florida Architecture 1992 Florida Design 2002, 2006 Florida Estates 2006 House Beautiful 2003, 2005, 2009 LUXE Interiors + Design 2010 Luxury Florida Homes 1997, 2003 Metropolitan Home 1993 Palm Beach Illustrated 2004 Qualified Remodeler 1998, 2006, 2007, 2009 Remodeling 2004 Southern Accents 2007 Town and Country 1992 Veranda Vero Beach Magazine 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010 Vero Home & Design 2002, 2003 Vero Life 2006
giving back Vero Beach has been good to us, so we’ve always endeavored to give back to our community, both as a company and individually. Croom also believes in preserving our unique environment. That’s why, over the years, we have relocated over 100 live oak trees. These trees are natural treasures on our barrier island and they can never be replaced. Croom and Whitehall support many local organizations: the Boys and Girls Club, United Way, Senior Resource Center, American Cancer Society, Mental Health Association, Riverside Theatre, Habitat for Humanity, Humane Society, McKee Botanical Gardens, and the Environmental Learning Center.
habitat fo r huma n it y; march 2 0 0 8
awards and national ranking Both Croom Construction and Whitehall Professional Property Management have won their share of awards over the years. These honors have ranged from industry accolades for residential development to home construction and remodeling, but perhaps the greatest honor is being recognized as one of the best places to work within the community we call home. Croom Construction Company #1 Remodeler in the State of Florida and ranked 79th in the nation by Qualified Remodeler Magazine, a move up eight places since 2009. Aurora Grand Award, Residential Development, Best Overall Project, Oceanside Village Phase I, John’s Island Aurora Award, Best Detached Single Family Home, Bermuda Bay/Whitehall Courtyard
Our employees don’t have to be pushed to volunteer their time and resources to community organizations; they are real go-getters. They are involved in local schools, church and community groups. They follow their personal passions with commitments to everything from Making Strides Against Breast Cancer to the Education Foundation, from the Indian River Soccer Association to St. Edwards School and Vero Beach Little League. Where good work is being done to benefit residents of Vero Beach, chances are that a Croom or Whitehall employee is involved.
Lending our construction skills to Habitat for Humanity home building projects is a natural for us, but our involvement goes even further. We donate reclaimed lumber and other materials from renovation projects, which Habitat for Humanity sells in their retail store or uses in home construction.
The Croom Dodgers vs. the SRA Codgers isn’t your typical baseball game. It pits the Little League Dodgers, ages 8 to 11, against local businessmen all in the name of charity. Sponsored and organized by Croom Construction, proceeds from ticket sales of this fun event benefit Senior Resource Association programs.
Business Savvy Big 50 as Recognized by Remodeling magazine Indian River County Chamber of Commerce, Company of the Year, Industry Appreciation Award Best Places to Work, given by Workforce Solutions in conjunction with Indian River Chamber of Commerce Whitehall Professional Property Management Best Places to Work, given by Workforce Solutions in conjunction with Indian River Chamber of Commerce
The United Way Center has a new Community Room for the use of local non-profits thanks to an effort led by David Croom to refurbish and dedicate the space to Patrick J. Loftus, former owner of Gator Lumber. David Croom initiated the dedication idea as a gesture of respect to Pat Loftus while Pat was recovering from cancer.
introducing Whitehall
Whitehall offers one
point of contact for all your home’s property management needs. Whether it’s being on call 24/7 for repair emergencies and storm responses, monitoring your unoccupied home, managing bill paying and services such as lawn maintenance, housekeeping, airport transportation and pool maintenance, Whitehall is committed to being there for you — whether you are in residence or away. In conjunction with Croom Construction, Whitehall literally wrote the book on how to protect and maintain your coastal home. More than a decade ago, David Croom noticed that people who built beautiful island homes often failed to realize that these homes are like cars: They need constant care and maintenance. Thanks to high salt content in the air, high humidity, heavy winds and rain, owning a coastal home is a totally different experience from owning a home elsewhere. Whitehall believes in regular home inspections and preventive maintenance to avoid more expensive repairs down the line. Over the years, Whitehall’s proven method has saved many homeowners costly repairs. Numerous other companies have tried to emulate the Whitehall model, yet our systematic maintenance procedures are now considered the industry standard.
B o b T u tto n , p r e s i d e n t a n d G e n e r a l M a n ag e r W h i t e h a l l P r o f e s s i o n a l P r o p e r t y M a n ag e m e n t
high maintenance For over 12 years, Bob has brought a unique approach to everything having to do with the repair, maintenance, and managing of your property. What is it about your background that makes you unique in the property management business? As a Master Sergeant with 23 years experience in aviation maintenance in the U.S. Marine Corps, I was in charge of preventive maintenance on tactical fighter aircraft. A home is just like an aircraft; each has systems, electrical, mechanical and structural. The only difference is that a home doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fly. What makes Whitehall different from the other property management companies? When we go into your home, we make sure we have the right people, at the right time, for the right job. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do anything haphazardly. Our systematic approach is the best in the industry. Do you have a work motto? You manage things, but you lead people. Clients say our people are the best. Can you relate a signature Whitehall moment? A new client was having a problem with moisture in their hardwood floors causing them to buckle. After intensive troubleshooting, our technicians found a leak in the pipes behind the wall. This early detection of a potentially major problem saved the client thousands of dollars.
long history in Vero Beach Whitehall is the oldest home renovation, maintenance and property management company in the area, and is backed by over 30 years of experience in the Vero Beach community. When you hire Whitehall, you can feel secure knowing that our team is comprised of the most qualified, professional workers in our area. You wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want anything less on your property.
property management preventive maintenance repairs
nothing overlooked To the untrained eye, many homes appear in great condition. However, the beauty may only be on the outside. When it comes to knowing how to maintain your home, Whitehall is the team you want on your side. Our systematic approach to preventive maintenance is designed to find potential problems and prevent them before they happen. Utilizing over 150 maintenance and detection procedures specifically developed to maintain coastal houses, we perform complete inspections of your entire home on a regularly scheduled basis. Over the past 12 years, Whitehallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s method of disciplined preventive maintenance has been instrumental in protecting the property values of our 100+ clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; homes and keeping them trouble free.
a personalized approach Property management can be both straightforward and subtle. Our systems for dealing with everything that needs to be done around a home are straightforward, but understanding that homeowners want some things done in a certain way is decidedly more nuanced. We excel at both. Since we are good listeners and observers, we can anticipate in every situation how that owner would want us to handle things on their behalf. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s definitely a personal touch in the way we manage property.
property management Under the leadership of Michael Atwood, a maintenance professional with over 36 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience, our comprehensive property management service revolves around our clients having one point of contact for all their homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs. From being on call 24/7 for repair emergencies, to monitoring your unoccupied home, managing bill paying, lawn maintenance, housekeeping, airport transportation, and pool maintenance, we are the guardians of your property so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to worry about a thing. One-stop property management is a new idea in Vero Beach, and we believe we are the best company to provide this service. Not only do we have the in-house experience to handle any property issue, we are known for excellent customer service and client communication skills.
Michael Atwood (left) and the Baggett family.
M i c h a e l At w o o d , V i c e P r e s i d e n t, W h i t e h a l l P r o f e s s i o n a l P r o p e r t y M a n ag e m e n t
love what you do For over 36 years, Michael Atwood has been in the business of homes: residential building, remodeling, maintenance and renovations. His motto is straightforward: “Love what you do.” What makes your approach to property management different from other companies? This is not a side job for Whitehall. Our staff is highly professional with a wealth of experience. We seldom sub-contract because we have all resources in house. We are a large company with the ability to focus on small details. What do you tell your clients when they first sign up? Relax and enjoy paradise; you are in good hands! Our job is to manage, maintain or repair their property whether they are in residence or out of town. We want to be our clients’ first and only contact for anything having to do with managing their property. What are your clients’ major concerns? Damage from hurricanes and security issues are the most common concerns. We tackle weather head on with a written preparedness plan dictating pre-storm procedures. Post-storm, our team immediately repairs any damage and maintains client communication. Security of our clients’ homes is a priority. All staff is subject to background checks before hiring, plus we have 100% oversight of who enters any home under our management.
what you don’t see can hurt you Much of what we do in preventive maintenance is anticipate scenarios that can lead to unseen potential problems in your home. How do we do that? It starts with a thorough grounding in construction principles, an understanding of our coastal climate and the experience of having seen these problems before. What you as a layperson can’t see is often so obvious to us. It’s helpful to have our professional team on your side.
preventive maintenance Many clients of Whitehall have said that Whitehall technicians have prevented serious home repairs. As one client put it, “I can’t afford to not have Whitehall.” Catching problems before they become expensive, bigger problems is our stock in trade. Our staff is highly knowledgeable, with years of experience. President and General Manager, Bob Tutton, helped launch Whitehall in 1998, and he continues to manage the company.
first impressions count There’s nothing more welcoming than a well-maintained entrance. In our punishing coastal climate, Whitehall follows a strict protocol to maintain all your exterior doors.
tools of the trade It is amazing how the tools of our trade just keep getting better. We have a keen eye for new, more technologically advanced tools that come to market and help us do our job more efficiently: electronic moisture detector meters, thermal imaging cameras and electronic bore scopes to see behind walls.
repairs Whether your repair job is large or small, start by calling Whitehall. We handle most repair work in-house with our experienced technicians and a project manager supervises each project. Plus, of course, everything we do is backed by the Croom Construction name. The same goes for painting projects. Look to our affiliate company, Precision Finishing and Painting. Our crews are talented and experienced, and our prices are competitive.
Whitehall Professional Property Management team
at the ready You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop a hurricane, but you can be ready. Your storm shutters will have already been oiled, cleaned and checked as part of our regular maintenance. When a storm is threatening, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll close your shutters, move in outdoor furniture and generally prepare your property. Post-storm, we kick into action by inspecting and photographing damage, arranging for insurance adjusters and managing all repair work. Many of our clients are away during this time of year and are, understandably, anxious about storms. Our pre- and post-storm follow through and good communication with our clients not in residence take the edge off the worry.
time to enjoy life Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be surprised how many homeowners learn the lesson of vigilance in home maintenance the hard way. They think they can either do it themselves or contract out the work on an as-needed basis. Very quickly they realize that maintenance in a coastal climate takes special expertise and a huge time commitment. Take a lesson from those who have already learned: let Whitehall handle it and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll not only have peace of mind, but more time to enjoy your Vero Beach lifestyle.
let us handle it Whatever needs doing, Whitehall can handle it for you. Our list of services is extensive. Property Management
On call 24/7 for emergencies Pre/post storm preparedness and response Seasonal closing and opening of home House monitoring, weekly Landscape maintenance Pool/spa/fountain maintenance Bill paying and mail forwarding Housekeeping and access for service providers Airport or other transportation Boat/car care and car transport Maintenance and Detection
Doors and windows, including caulking and weather stripping Hardware corrosion prevention Hot water heater flushing and replacement AC ductwork maintenance Smoke detectors and air quality inspections Security systems battery check Attic inspection for mold, leaks and structural issues Roof maintenance and lightning protection Mold and mildew Storm shutter maintenance Exterior finish conditioning and cleaning Repair Services
Carpentry Roof leaks and water damage Painting, interior and exterior Mahogany door maintenance Electrical and plumbing Mold remediation
CHARLES & DAV ID c r o o m
like father like son As the founder of Croom Construction, David Croom brings a natural-born, winning attitude to the process of building or renovating a home. Listening to him talk about his client relationships and his strategy for creating beautiful homes immediately demonstrates his deep commitment to getting it right. “Building a home can be a daunting task. My entire approach remains: What can I do to make the process smoother and more enjoyable for our clients? I want to make sure that when the job is done each client is 100% satisfied. It’s never a one-time project. You’re a Croom client for life.” That commitment to client satisfaction is shared by a second generation Croom, Charles, VP, Operations. Before joining Croom Construction in 2005, Charles worked for 10 years for a general contractor in Orlando on high-end commercial projects. Charles shares his father’s mantra, “Every client becomes a life-long friend. This is a journey we experience together.” Charles explained, “I put a lot of effort into relationship building. I think that really getting to know clients helps us deliver a project that truly reflects their individual personality. They’re building a custom home so I want that home to be all about them. I love getting to know my clients and making that happen.”
thank you
We hope you’ve enjoyed our overview of the home construction, renovation and property management process. And an introduction to Croom Construction as a company; our heritage, ethics and committed staff. We couldn’t do what we do without the active participation and support of our clients. David Croom said it best, “I want to get the conversation started in the beginning and keep the lines of communication open throughout the building process. With over 30 years of experience, Croom Construction has vast creative ideas to offer. Nine times out of 10, the road map changes, and clients often realize ‘what a great idea’ it is to do something they hadn’t thought of before. That’s when the magic happens.” David continues, “My goal is for people to enjoy this whole process. Building a home should be fun. ‘This was a great experience. Let’s do it again.’ That’s what I want people to say.” We hope you’ll let us do just that for you soon. Thank you to our clients, past, present and future. It’s because of you we love what we do.
Croom Construction Company
Vero Beach, Florida
www.solidcroomconstruction.com
www.simplywhitehall.com