Design Build Pros recently interviewed Avi Ribakovski is a co-owner of ProSkill Construction. ProSkill is DBP Preferred Remodeler that has won two national design build remodeling awards this past year.

Q: What is your favorite home improvement show?
A: I enjoy Million Dollar Contractor on DIYNetwork. I like the focus on the details and the materials; he encounters many of the same on-site issues and problems that occur for contractors every day. I have also watched Holmes on Homes, I like to see the products he uses and ways he goes above and beyond standard.

Q: What impact do you think these shows have on homeowners?
A: I think most of the home improvement shows actually hurt contractors. Viewers get the impression that there are never any problems on jobs, because most issue resolution gets edited out of the shows. They never show all the time it takes to make decisions or manage orders, deliveries or other trade partners

Q: If you weren’t a remodeler, what could you see yourself doing?
A: I would go into business for myself, doing something else I’m passionate about. I would not be caught in an office!

Q: When someone asks “how much per square foot?” how do you reply?
A: I usually tell them that’s not how we work; I need a lot more information about their goals, desired materials, time frame (any rush items) before I can give an accurate estimate. For historical averages or typical budgets per room, I refer them to our website: Estimated Investment Amounts

Q: What advice would you offer someone just starting out in the remodeling industry?
A: First I would say you need a good team around to be successful and always need to be ready to learn about new products, new systems and ways to work. I would also tell them that without being organized and working within a set system for pricing, it’s easy to improperly price projects which can be detrimental to the company.

BONUS QUESTION: How long before the Bears win another Super Bowl?
A: The bears will win the super bowl within the next 3 years as long Jay Cutler is there.

Avi Ribakovski, originally from New York, had an early exposure to remodeling from his family’s hardware store and the building they managed. Avi’s passion for remodeling has grown into a successful, full-service remodeling company that now serves all of New Jersey.

Personal accreditations and accolades for Avi and ProSkill:

• NARI Certified Remodeling Project Manager
• Named Top 40 Remodeler Under 40 years old.
• 2013 Professional Remodeling Design Award
• 2014 Contractor of the Year