But the more I think about our industry and where this magazine can best serve its needs, the more I believe the time has come for someone to step up and challenge the industry's best to raise the level of professionalism for the good of reputable contractors everywhere.

Let's face it, folks. Despite the efforts of NAHBR, NARI and countless other organizations to educate remodelers to become more professional, the landscape is littered with poorly run, often disreputable companies that do a lot of harm to this industry and your business. These bottom-feeders must be driven out once and for all, or 10, 15 or 20 years from now, remodeling will still be considered a safe haven for scumbags and scoundrels to make a quick buck and get out when the going gets tough. You do realize that most consumers — your prospects — still bristle at the thought of having to hire a remodeling contractor for fear they will get ripped off, treated unprofessionally or just be forced to settle for low quality workmanship.

It's not enough for you — the professional remodeler — to simply lead by example, be a team player and let things work out naturally anymore. You have to force your will — your desire to be the best in a well-respected industry — down your lesser competition's throats. Make them choke on it. Drive them out of business. Motivate other professional contractors in your market to do the same. This will benefit you all, because every time that low-bid shyster down the street gets another job, he's literally pumping life into the decades-old myth that all remodeling contractors can't be trusted. That taints your reputation no matter how good you are.

Our mission at Professional Remodeler (see below) is to challenge you, inspire you and engage you, the owners and top executives of professionally run remodeling firms, with information that helps you set the standard in your market for how a remodeling firm is supposed to operate.

As a leader in this industry, it's our responsibility to seek out the best companies and let their stories set an example of business excellence, high ethical standards and professionalism for all to follow.

Won't you join us in this mission?

Contact me at michael.morris@reedbusiness.com or 630/288-8057

Read my blog at www.ProRemodeler.com/blogs.