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David Vinje, CR, CKBR - Member Feature

David Vinje, CR, CKBR - Member Feature

 

David Vinje has served the Twin Cities and surrounding suburbs for eleven years with his company, Attics to Basements Building and Renovations, Inc. Specializing in addition, kitchen, and bathroom remodels, David was named one of the Top 40 Under 40 by Professional Remodeling Magazine in 2011. David takes pride in his strong work ethic (something he learned young!) and finishing each project with happy clients. Read more about his business’s story and the secrets of his success below.
 
Name: David Vinje
Company Name: Attics to Basements Building and Renovations, Inc
City: St. Louis Park, MN
Area(s) of Service: Twin Cities and Surrounding Suburbs
Years in Business: 11 years – 12 in April
Specialties: Kitchen, bathrooms, and additions
 
Awards:
  • Top 40 under 40 by Professional Remodeling Magazine 2011
  • Volunteer of the Year by ERACC 2015
  • Certifications NARI CR, NARI CKBR, CAPS
 
What was your first job growing up? What did you learn from it?
When I was thirteen, I mowed the lawn every week for a neighbor down the road. He was very picky about how I mowed it, and more than once I had to go touch up areas if I was in a hurry and missed them. It was a great learning experience, and I credit him for starting to instill my work ethic.
 
Tell us the story of how you started your business? And why?
I started my business because I had worked for many contractors that didn’t care about anything but money. I felt I could do a better job than some of my past employers. So, one evening, I started studying for my test online and within a month passed my State License exam to start Attics to Basements Building and Renovations, Inc.
 
What three things have contributed the most to your success?
I work hard and never give up. I care about ensuring the customer is happy when their project is complete. I learn from my mistakes to prevent repeating them.
 
What aspect of being a business owner do you like the best?
The people I get to work with, whether it’s customers or our team.
 
What is a personal strength of yours that's helped get your company where it is today?
Hard work - always working to stay ahead, talent can be beaten by someone willing to work harder.
 
Do you see any big changes coming for the remodeling industry in the next ten years?
Yes, I think we’ll be removing lots of barn wood siding from people’s homes.
 
Why are you a NARI member?
They allow me to stay on top of current trends, best practices, and to have a voice on what happens within my field.
 
How have you been involved in NARI over the years?
I have taken two of the certification classes, participated in NARI roundtables, monthly meetings, and promoted NARI at our home show booth.
 
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the industry?
Find someone to emulate. Have a plan. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if you feel dumb asking them; that’s how you learn. Get comfortable with not knowing everything, but choose a good team that understands their trade to help you.
 
Quick Facts:
Favorite vacation spot?
On a lake fishing.
 
Where can you be found on the weekend?
Working, practicing Jiu Jitsu, fishing, or at kids’ sports.
 
What age would you like to retire at?
100 years old.
 
Favorite holiday and why?
Christmas with family and friends, seeing people give to others is always great. 



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