From Community Managers to Subcontracting Pioneers
In the heart of Tampa Bay, Maurice and Elissa have turned their shared passion for real estate and community management into a thriving family-owned business, Known Project Management. This residential and commercial real estate project consulting company has quickly become a one-stop shop for renovation excellence, offering a wide array of services from kitchen and bathroom remodeling to HVAC and electrical engineering. Their story is one of dedication, innovation, and a relentless commitment to quality and community.
A Humble Beginning
Before diving into the world of project management, Maurice was a radio and digital marketing consultant, balancing his career with his role as a community manager and a father of four. Elissa’s journey took her through the automotive industry and insurance sector, where she honed her skills in sales, manufacturing, and customer service. Their paths eventually converged in the realm of community management, where they discovered a common problem: a lack of affordable yet high-quality property maintenance services.
Recognizing this gap, Maurice and Elissa decided to take action. They combined their expertise and resources to form Known Project Management, a company dedicated to improving the real estate landscape of Tampa Bay. Their mission was clear: to provide reliable, affordable, and top-notch renovation services that would transform properties and enhance communities.
Overcoming Challenges
Starting a business is never easy, and Maurice and Elissa faced their share of challenges. One of the most significant hurdles was finding reliable vendors. To address this, they developed an extensive vetting process that ensured only the most trustworthy and skilled vendors became part of their network. This commitment to quality and reliability has become a cornerstone of their business.
Balancing their new venture with their full-time jobs as community managers and responsibilities as parents added another layer of complexity. However, their passion for real estate and their drive to make a difference kept them going. Through meticulous planning and unwavering dedication, they managed to navigate these challenges and build a successful business.
A Day in the Life
A typical day at Known Project Management is a whirlwind of activity. The day begins with a team meeting to outline tasks and priorities. Maurice and Elissa then dive into a flood of emails, handling new work orders and estimate requests. Their schedule is packed with meetings with clients and potential vendors, followed by site visits to ensure projects are progressing smoothly. Their hands-on approach and commitment to exceptional customer service set them apart from competitors.
Excellence in Service
Known Project Management prides itself on being a one-stop shop for all renovation needs. Their slogan, “Your One Stop Shop For Renovation Excellence,” reflects their comprehensive service offering. From roofing and painting to tree removal and pre-construction cleaning, they cover it all. Their extensive vetting process ensures that clients receive the highest quality service from experienced and honest vendors.
Since its inception, Known Project Management has experienced rapid growth. The booming real estate market in Tampa Bay has provided ample opportunities, and Maurice and Elissa have capitalized on this by delivering outstanding results. Their portfolio includes notable projects for prestigious clients such as Amalie Arena, Hillsborough County Public School District, and the Florida Aquarium.
Innovation and Community Impact
Innovation is at the heart of Known Project Management. Maurice and Elissa continually brainstorm new ways to attract clients and enhance their services. They stay current with industry trends by attending expos and conventions, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the industry.
One particularly rewarding experience involved an emergency electrical issue in a high-rise condominium. Despite receiving the call after hours on a Saturday, they promptly arranged for a vendor to assess and fix the problem, preventing the displacement of residents. This quick response and commitment to client satisfaction underscore their dedication to excellence.
Looking ahead, Maurice and Elissa have ambitious plans for their business. They aim to launch a mentorship program for underprivileged youth, providing them with valuable skills in various trades. This initiative reflects their desire to give back to the community and inspire the next generation.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those considering a similar path, Maurice and Elissa offer this advice: “You need a passion for this business, so that when the times arise when you feel like quitting, your passion keeps you going.” Their journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to making a positive impact.
Known Project Management is more than a business; it’s a beacon of excellence and community spirit in Tampa Bay. Maurice and Elissa’s story inspires others to pursue their dreams, overcome challenges, and contribute to the betterment of their communities.
