“ We got to let people know who we are, and started talking to folks and we had some success doing, you know, like, we had some, we started talking to people and we just started to make connections. “ -Mathew Roth Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Mathew Roth from Hawthorn Builders. Mathew Roth's journey into the world of real estate began soon after college. With a background in investment development from NYU, he initially ventured into the realm of real estate analysis in New York City. However, it was his move to Boston that paved the way for something truly remarkable. Teaming up with his neighbor and business partner, Mathew embarked on a journey fueled by ambition and a desire to carve their path in the industry. Their initial foray into flipping properties was met with challenges, yet they persisted, honing their focus on the suburban landscape outside Boston. Listen now and get the whole story! “We've had a pretty successful business now, for a long time it took a while to get it up. But we've been doing, you know, we've been grinding.” -Mathew Roth From Flips to Flourishing Design-Build Firm Their breakthrough came when they identified a niche in their local market, focusing on the school districts in Needham. By controlling properties and building homes tailored to the needs of the community, Hawthorn Builders found their stride. This marked the beginning of their transition from property flipping to a full-fledged design-build firm. With strategic partnerships and a dedicated team, including the invaluable contributions of individuals like Jessica, who spearheaded their design endeavors, Hawthorn Builders flourished. They evolved from catering solely to their immediate market to collaborating with architects and designers, expanding their horizons while maintaining a commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Embracing Evolution and Emphasizing People Throughout our conversation, it became evident that Hawthorn Builders' success is not solely attributed to their business acumen but also to their unwavering focus on people. Mathew emphasizes the importance of cultivating a team and fostering an environment where individuals feel valued and supported. Their journey underscores the significance of adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges. As Mathew reflects on the past 19 years, he acknowledges the unexpected twists and turns that have shaped their trajectory. From navigating market fluctuations to embracing sustainable building practices, Hawthorn Builders continues to evolve, guided by a steadfast commitment to excellence. Looking Ahead: A Balanced Perspective In an industry often characterized by relentless pursuit of growth and profit, Mathew's perspective offers a refreshing insight. He highlights the importance of finding fulfillment beyond monetary success, emphasizing the value of appreciating the journey and maintaining a sense of purpose. As Hawthorn Builders charts its course forward, Mathew remains grounded, acknowledging the inherent complexities and uncertainties of the business. Yet, amidst the challenges, there's an unmistakable sense of optimism and determination—a testament to the resilience that defines their ethos. Conclusion The story of Hawthorn Builders serves as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance, innovation, and, above all, a commitment to people. “I've found that what I've learned through therapy was, like, I don't have to, I can ask for help, like, and I don't have to shoulder everything, like I don't that's, and it's actually kind of dumb to shoulder everything. “ -Steve Larosiliere Want to get in touch with Mathew Roth? Contact him through: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hawthornbuilders/