Meet Greg Crowther of Great Haven Builders in Barrington

Today we’d like to introduce you to Greg Crowther.

Greg, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have always loved construction and have had an entrepreneurial drive. It started in high school when I worked as a carpenter for a local home builder. I gained many hands-on skills and learned a lot about the industry. I learned the basics beginning with a clean job site and pushing a broom. I progressed into a framing and trim carpenter which I became quite proficient at and still am today. I was hooked. I wanted to learn more. I pursued a construction technology degree in college and on my time off I started a deck building business. It was a great way to earn money for school all while working for myself.

After college, I continued to gain knowledge and experience by working for several large builders in the Chicago area. Working my way up from assistant superintendent, assistant construction manager, construction manager, project manager, operations manager, to director of construction for these firms. I enjoyed advancing from field operations to the corporate office to include business planning on large subdivision developments including responsibilities for managing sales, construction, and warranty staffs on the various projects under my direction.

My entrepreneurial drive and passion for continued person growth lead me to take a risk and form my own company. This was in 1997. Great Haven has grown ever since and I am very proud to have so many wonderful customers and projects we call our own.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
With the great recession of 2008, the construction and development business all but disappeared. Many builders did not weather the downturn and are no longer in the business. It took years for the market to start turning. This was a difficult time for sure. The takeaway is my business always is evolving and change is the only constant. It is important as a small business owner to keep your eye on the big picture. Be flexible, embrace new technologies, current housing trends, be nimble and able to operationally change to take advantage of the ever-changing landscape to create new building opportunities.

Great Haven Builders – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We are a diverse building company that enjoys both residential and commercial construction opportunities. Our team prides itself on achieving our client’s goals by reaching each milestone on schedule, on budget, and with exceptional attention to detail. We add value to our customers projects with our detailed management process and approach. Our roles vary depending on the project and owner requirements. We serve our customers as general contractors, construction managers and developers.

Great Haven Builders is best known for the beautiful custom homes we have been fortunate to build for some great customers. Great Haven Builders always strives to give the best we have to all our customers. We aim to provide the highest level of service in a timely and competitive manner. Combining this with our knowledge, experience and enthusiasm creates a product beyond compare.

We are especially excited about our newest endeavor – a boutique 12 unit luxury condominium building in the heart of the Village of Barrington. It’s an incredible walk-able location coupled with the amenities and customization you would find in our custom homes. Something different and new in luxury condominium living. The project is 407EastMain.com

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is happiness with who you are and how you positively affect those around you. Success personally and in business go hand in hand. I strive to be a person people know they can can count on.

Contact Info:

• Address: P.O. Box 3076, Barrington, IL 60011
• Website: http://greathaven.com/
• Phone: 847-401-3825
• Email: greg@greathaven.com
• Instagram: greathavenbuilders
• Facebook: Great Haven Builders
• Other: http://407eastmain.com/

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