Flipping homes has become a booming venture for many real estate investors. The idea is simple: buy a home in need of upgrades, renovate it, and sell it for a profit. But as any experienced flipper knows, costs can easily spiral out of control, cutting into those anticipated profits. That’s where smart, budget-friendly choices like decorative concrete resurfacing come into play.

Decorative concrete resurfacing is one of the most effective ways to elevate a property’s aesthetic appeal while keeping costs manageable. Here’s how incorporating this technique into your next flip can help you maximize returns.

1. Curb Appeal Sells Homes

First impressions are everything. The exterior of a home is the first thing potential buyers see, and decorative concrete resurfacing can transform old, cracked, or plain-looking driveways, patios, and walkways into stunning features.

With a wide array of design options, concrete resurfacing allows you to mimic high-end materials such as stone, slate, or brick without the hefty price tag. The result? A modern, polished look that enhances curb appeal, making the property stand out in a competitive market. When the exterior shines, buyers are willing to pay more, boosting your return on investment.

2. Cost-Effective Flooring Solutions

Flipping homes often requires replacing outdated or damaged flooring—a costly endeavor. Instead of spending big on new hardwood, tile, or carpet, consider decorative concrete resurfacing as an alternative for interior spaces like basements, living rooms, or even kitchens.

Resurfacing can mimic upscale materials such as marble or tile at a fraction of the cost. Plus, concrete floors are low-maintenance, durable, and versatile in design, which adds both immediate visual appeal and long-term value. A stylish, resilient floor can make the home more attractive to buyers, especially those with pets or children.

3. Quick Turnaround on Projects

Time is money in the world of home flipping. Every extra day spent on renovations can eat into your profits. Decorative concrete resurfacing is a fast process compared to laying traditional flooring or replacing large exterior features like patios or walkways.

With the right products or contractor, resurfacing can be completed in a matter of days, allowing you to keep the renovation timeline on track. The quicker you can get the home listed and sold, the faster you can realize your profit.

4. Increases Property Value

One of the key benefits of decorative concrete is its ability to mimic luxury materials. From custom textures to intricate color designs, resurfaced concrete can elevate a space to look high-end and designer-inspired. This gives the perception of a more expensive renovation, helping to justify a higher asking price.

For instance, a decoratively resurfaced concrete driveway that looks like cobblestone can drastically increase the perceived value of a home, especially when compared to properties with standard asphalt or bare concrete. A high-quality, modern finish can easily push the value of the home up, ensuring you get top dollar at the time of sale.

5. Durability Equals Long-Term Appeal

Unlike other materials that may show wear and tear or require frequent maintenance, resurfaced concrete is highly durable and long-lasting. This is a huge selling point for potential buyers, who are likely looking for a home that will require minimal upkeep after purchase.

Whether it’s a driveway, pool deck, or interior flooring, knowing that these features will stand the test of time adds value and appeal to the property. Buyers will appreciate the durability, and you’ll benefit from not having to replace these surfaces during the flipping process.

6. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Today’s homebuyers are increasingly interested in sustainability and eco-friendly options. Decorative concrete resurfacing offers a green solution, as it typically involves using fewer raw materials compared to ripping out and replacing entire surfaces. By resurfacing existing concrete, you’re reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of the renovation.

Highlighting these eco-conscious choices can appeal to environmentally minded buyers, adding another selling point that can give your property the edge in a competitive market.

Conclusion: An Investment That Pays Off

Decorative concrete resurfacing is a win-win for home flippers. It offers a cost-effective, fast, and versatile way to enhance both the exterior and interior of a home, driving up its value without breaking the bank. Whether you’re giving new life to an old driveway or transforming a drab basement floor, resurfaced concrete delivers high-end results at a budget-friendly price point.

For your next home flip, consider decorative concrete resurfacing as a powerful tool to boost curb appeal, enhance property value, and maximize your profits. It’s an investment that pays off—not just in aesthetics but in real returns.

CTi was featured on the show “Flip Man with Mike Baird” regarding this subject, watch the clip below:

https://youtu.be/JImKY1j4Bu4

Running a small business comes with its challenges, but it also provides unique opportunities to boost your overall financial health. One lesser-known advantage for business owners is the potential to generate secondary income by saving on taxes when certain personal expenses are run through the business, where legally allowed.

Let’s explore how this works and the various ways small business owners can use this strategy to reduce their tax burden, effectively increasing their bottom line.

1. Home Office Deduction: Use Your Home for Business

If you use a portion of your home exclusively for business purposes, you may be able to deduct home office expenses. These expenses include:

• Rent or mortgage interest
• Utilities (electricity, internet, etc.)
• Property taxes
• Maintenance costs

For example, if your home office takes up 10% of your home’s square footage, you could potentially deduct 10% of these expenses from your business income. This strategy not only lowers your tax burden but also allows you to benefit from costs you’re already incurring.

2. Vehicle Expenses: Write Off Part of Your Car Usage

If you use your personal vehicle for business purposes, you can deduct either a portion of the actual expenses (fuel, maintenance, insurance, depreciation) or use the IRS standard mileage rate, which is often more straightforward.

Let’s say 30% of your driving is for business purposes; you can then deduct 30% of your vehicle-related expenses. This approach converts personal car expenses into business deductions, leading to tax savings and boosting your disposable income.

3. Meals and Entertainment: Business-Related Dining

Meals with clients or prospective clients that are business-related can be deducted at 50%. Whether it’s closing a deal or discussing strategies, these meals count as legitimate business expenses.

However, make sure to keep a record of the purpose of the meal and who attended. While this deduction doesn’t apply to purely personal meals, there are opportunities to blur the line when business is conducted in tandem with social activities.

4. Travel Expenses: Deductible Business Trips

If you’re traveling for business purposes, you can deduct many associated expenses, such as:

• Airfare and lodging
• Meals (again, 50% deductible)
• Ground transportation
• Internet and phone charges while traveling

It’s important that the primary purpose of the trip is business-related, though personal days can be added on. For example, if you attend a business conference in another city and stay a few extra days for personal reasons, you can still deduct the business portion of the trip.

5. Cell Phone and Internet: Shared Business and Personal Use

If you use your personal phone or internet for business purposes, a portion of these expenses can be deducted as business costs. Similar to vehicle expenses, if 40% of your phone usage is for business, you can deduct 40% of your phone bill. Keep in mind to track these percentages carefully.

6. Health Insurance and Medical Expenses: Use a HRA

If you’re self-employed or own a small business, setting up a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) or using the self-employed health insurance deduction can allow you to pay for personal medical expenses and health insurance through your business. This strategy allows you to lower your taxable income while covering significant personal costs.

7. Depreciation of Equipment: Write Off Purchases

Business owners can write off the depreciation of business-related equipment, like computers, printers, and other office necessities. If you purchase new equipment for your business, you can either deduct it in full or spread the deduction over several years.

For small business owners using equipment that doubles as personal use, like a laptop or tablet, a percentage of the expense can be deducted.

8. Retirement Savings: Business Contributions to a SEP IRA

A great way to boost your secondary income is through tax-deferred retirement savings. Self-employed business owners can set up a SEP IRA or Solo 401(k), allowing them to contribute significantly more than standard personal retirement accounts. These contributions lower your taxable income for the year, offering immediate tax savings while securing your future.

The Key: Stay Legal and Keep Detailed Records

While this strategy offers many advantages, it’s essential to remain within legal bounds. The IRS is strict about classifying personal and business expenses, so it’s crucial to:

• Keep detailed records: Document the business purpose of each expense.
• Only deduct legitimate business expenses: Avoid mixing personal and business expenses indiscriminately.
• Consult a tax professional: Work with a qualified CPA or tax attorney to ensure you’re adhering to tax laws.

Conclusion: Building Secondary Income by Reducing Taxes

Running personal expenses through your small business, where appropriate and legal, can significantly reduce your tax burden. These savings act as a form of secondary income, allowing you to re-invest the money back into your business or use it for personal financial growth.

Always ensure you’re staying compliant with tax laws, but by leveraging these tax-saving strategies, you can maximize the financial benefits of running a small business.

In the competitive world of sales, understanding human behavior is crucial for success. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a scientific approach traditionally used in fields like education and therapy, can also be a powerful tool in sales. By analyzing and influencing customer behavior, salespeople can better motivate customers to make purchasing decisions. Here’s how you can apply ABA principles to boost your sales.

1. Understand the ABCs of ABA

ABA focuses on understanding behavior in the context of three components: Antecedents, Behaviors, and Consequences (often referred to as the ABCs of ABA).

• Antecedents are what happen before a behavior occurs. These could be environmental cues, emotional states, or specific triggers that lead to a customer’s response.
• Behaviors are the actions taken by the customer, such as asking questions, showing interest in a product, or hesitating to make a purchase.
• Consequences are what happen after the behavior, which can either reinforce or discourage the behavior.

For a salesperson, recognizing and manipulating these elements can guide customer behavior toward a purchase.

2. Setting the Stage: Manipulate Antecedents

The environment or context can significantly influence a customer’s decision-making process. By carefully setting up the right antecedents, you can increase the likelihood of a positive buying behavior.

• Create a Positive Environment: Ensure that your sales environment is welcoming, well-organized, and conducive to making decisions. This could be as simple as a clean, well-lit showroom or a user-friendly online interface.
• Present Clear Information: Confusion or lack of information can lead to hesitation. Provide clear, concise information about the product, its benefits, and how it meets the customer’s needs.
• Use Social Proof: Display testimonials, reviews, or examples of other customers making the same purchase. This creates a psychological cue that encourages customers to follow suit.

3. Reinforce Desired Behaviors

Once a customer exhibits a behavior that indicates interest, such as asking about a product or expressing a need, it’s important to reinforce this behavior to guide them towards a purchase.

• Positive Reinforcement: This involves providing something favorable to encourage the desired behavior. For example, if a customer expresses interest in a product, offer a discount or additional information that reinforces their interest.
• Non-Verbal Cues: Nodding, smiling, and maintaining eye contact are subtle ways to positively reinforce a customer’s engagement, making them feel understood and valued.
• Immediate Response: Promptly responding to inquiries or concerns shows attentiveness, reinforcing the customer’s interest and making them feel prioritized.

4. Use Consequences to Shape Behavior

The consequences of a customer’s behavior will determine whether they continue towards a purchase or pull back. Managing these consequences effectively is key.

• Provide Incentives: Offering time-sensitive discounts or bonuses (like free shipping) can act as a powerful consequence that encourages immediate action.
• Address Objections: If a customer hesitates or raises objections, address them calmly and provide solutions. This not only neutralizes negative consequences but also builds trust and rapport.
• Follow Up: After an interaction, follow up with a thank-you email, additional information, or a special offer. This serves as a positive consequence that keeps the customer engaged.

5. Data-Driven Adjustments: Analyzing and Refining Techniques

ABA emphasizes the importance of data collection and analysis. After interacting with customers, review the outcomes and adjust your strategies accordingly.

• Track Customer Behavior: Monitor which techniques are most effective in guiding customers towards a purchase. This could include analyzing sales data, customer feedback, or the success rates of different approaches.
• Adjust Antecedents and Consequences: Based on your observations, tweak the antecedents (e.g., changing how you present a product) and consequences (e.g., offering different types of incentives) to optimize sales strategies.

6. Ethical Considerations

While ABA can be a powerful tool in sales, it’s important to use it ethically. The goal is to meet customer needs and build long-term relationships, not to manipulate or coerce them into purchases they don’t want or need. Always ensure that your sales tactics are transparent, honest, and focused on providing real value to the customer.

Conclusion

By applying the principles of ABA in your sales strategy, you can better understand and influence customer behavior, ultimately motivating them to buy. Whether it’s through setting up the right environment, reinforcing positive behaviors, or providing well-timed incentives, ABA offers a structured approach to enhancing your sales techniques. Remember, the key to success lies in understanding your customers’ needs and behavior, and then using that knowledge to guide them towards a purchase that benefits both parties.

Starting a decorative concrete business can sometimes seem overwhelming. Staying focused on the key elements to your business’ success can lead to a long term, successful venture. Here are the top three areas we recommend you focus on:

1. Master the Craft of Decorative Concrete

The foundation of a successful decorative concrete business is expertise in the craft itself. This involves not only understanding the technical aspects of working with concrete but also mastering the various decorative techniques that can set your business apart.

Key Areas to Focus On:

• Training and Certification: Seek out formal training and certifications from recognized industry organizations. This not only boosts your credibility but also ensures that you’re up to date with the latest techniques and industry standards.
• Practice and Perfection: Before taking on clients, invest time in perfecting your craft. Create sample pieces, experiment with different styles, and refine your skills to deliver top-quality results consistently.
• Stay Updated on Trends: The decorative concrete industry is constantly evolving. Stay ahead of the curve by keeping up with the latest design trends, materials, and technologies. Attend industry trade shows, workshops, and seminars to keep your skills sharp and your offerings competitive.

2. Build a Strong Brand and Marketing Strategy

Once you’ve mastered the craft, the next priority is to establish a strong brand that resonates with your target audience. In a competitive market, your brand identity, online presence, and marketing efforts will play a crucial role in attracting and retaining customers.

Key Areas to Focus On:

• Brand Identity: Develop a clear and memorable brand identity that reflects your business’s values and the quality of your work. This includes a professional logo, business cards, and a cohesive color scheme that can be used across all marketing materials.
• Website and Online Presence: Your website is often the first point of contact for potential customers. Ensure it’s well-designed, easy to navigate, and showcases your best work through high-quality images and client testimonials. Additionally, leverage social media platforms to showcase your projects, engage with potential customers, and establish yourself as an authority in the decorative concrete industry.
• Targeted Marketing Campaigns: Develop marketing campaigns tailored to your target audience. Use a mix of digital marketing strategies, such as SEO, pay-per-click advertising, and email marketing, along with traditional methods like print ads and direct mail, to reach potential clients effectively.

3. Focus on Customer Service and Building Relationships

The final key to success is prioritizing customer service and relationship-building. In the decorative concrete industry, word-of-mouth and repeat business are invaluable. By delivering exceptional service and building strong relationships with your clients, you can create a loyal customer base that will help your business thrive.

Key Areas to Focus On:

• Clear Communication: From the initial consultation to project completion, maintain clear and transparent communication with your clients. Set realistic expectations, provide detailed quotes, and keep clients informed throughout the process.
• Exceed Expectations: Always strive to exceed your clients’ expectations. This could mean going the extra mile to ensure the quality of your work, offering design suggestions, or completing projects

In today’s competitive real estate market, homeowners are looking for every edge to make their properties stand out. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or just want to increase its value for the future, one investment that’s gaining popularity is decorative concrete. Not only does it elevate the aesthetic appeal of your home, but it can also lead to a faster sale and a higher selling price. Here’s how decorative concrete can make a significant difference in today’s real estate market.

1. Curb Appeal that Captivates

First impressions are everything in real estate. The moment potential buyers pull up to your home, they start forming opinions. Decorative concrete can transform ordinary driveways, walkways, and patios into stunning, custom-designed features that make your home stand out. Whether it’s a stamped concrete driveway that mimics the look of natural stone or a colored walkway that complements your landscaping, these features add an undeniable wow factor that can draw in more buyers.

2. Customizable and Unique Designs

One of the main advantages of decorative concrete is its versatility. With a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns available, you can create a look that is entirely unique to your home. This customization allows you to match the style of your home, whether it’s modern, traditional, or somewhere in between. Buyers are often willing to pay more for a home that has unique, high-quality features that they won’t find elsewhere.

3. Low Maintenance, High Durability

Today’s homebuyers are not just looking for beauty; they want longevity and low maintenance. Decorative concrete delivers on both fronts. Unlike other materials that may require frequent upkeep, decorative concrete is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. This longevity means that buyers won’t have to worry about costly repairs or replacements down the line, making your home even more attractive to potential buyers.

4. Increased Home Value

Investing in decorative concrete can significantly increase your home’s market value. Real estate experts agree that outdoor living spaces are in high demand, and beautifully designed concrete patios, driveways, and pool decks can add considerable value to a property. When buyers see these high-end features, they often associate them with a more luxurious and well-maintained home, which can lead to higher offers.

5. Faster Sales

Homes with enhanced curb appeal and upgraded outdoor spaces tend to spend less time on the market. In fact, homes that feature decorative concrete are often snatched up quickly because they appeal to a broad range of buyers. From young families looking for a safe, durable outdoor play area to retirees seeking a low-maintenance property, decorative concrete meets the needs of many demographics, making your home more desirable.

6. Eco-Friendly Option

As more buyers become environmentally conscious, the demand for eco-friendly home features is rising. Decorative concrete is a sustainable option because it can be made from local materials, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, its durability means that it won’t need to be replaced as often as other materials, resulting in less waste over time.

Conclusion

In a real estate market where every detail counts, decorative concrete is a smart investment that can help your home stand out. By enhancing curb appeal, offering customizable designs, and providing low-maintenance durability, decorative concrete can increase your home’s value and help it sell faster. If you’re considering making upgrades before listing your home, decorative concrete should be at the top of your list. Not only will it give your home a competitive edge, but it’s an investment that can pay off in both the short and long term.

When it comes to revitalizing your concrete surfaces, you might think tearing out the old and replacing it with new concrete is the only option. However, there’s a more cost-effective, efficient, and visually appealing alternative: decorative concrete coatings. Here are the top three reasons why opting for decorative concrete coatings is a smarter choice than a complete concrete replacement.

1. Cost-Effective and Budget-Friendly

Replacing old concrete is an expensive and labor-intensive process. It involves demolishing the existing concrete, hauling away the debris, and pouring new concrete, all of which can quickly add up in terms of time and money. In contrast, decorative concrete coatings allow you to transform your existing surface without the need for removal. These coatings are applied directly to the old concrete, which saves on labor and material costs.

Decorative coatings can mimic the look of more expensive materials, such as stone or tile, at a fraction of the cost. Homeowners and businesses can achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank, making decorative concrete coatings a budget-friendly alternative.

2. Quick and Convenient Installation

One of the major downsides of tearing out old concrete is the time it takes to complete the project. From demolition to curing, the process can take weeks, during which your space is unusable. On the other hand, decorative concrete coatings are typically installed in just a few days, minimizing downtime and disruption.

Most coatings are designed to be applied quickly and can cure in a matter of hours, allowing you to use the space sooner. Whether it’s a driveway, patio, or interior floor, you can enjoy your revamped concrete surface in no time.

3. Versatile Design Options and Improved Aesthetics

Decorative concrete coatings offer a wide array of design possibilities that can enhance the appearance of your space. With options like stamped concrete overlays, acid stains, and epoxy coatings, you can achieve a custom look that reflects your style and complements your property’s existing architecture.

These coatings can mimic the appearance of natural stone, brick, wood, or even intricate tile patterns. You can also choose from a variety of colors, textures, and finishes, giving you the freedom to create a unique and personalized look. Plus, decorative coatings can cover up minor imperfections and aging in the existing concrete, providing a smooth and attractive finish.

Conclusion

When it comes to updating your concrete surfaces, decorative concrete coatings are a superior option to tearing out and replacing old concrete. They offer significant cost savings, quicker installation times, and a versatile range of design options that can transform any space. Before you consider the hassle and expense of replacing your concrete, explore the benefits of decorative coatings and see how they can enhance your home or business.

When it comes to choosing the best flooring option for your home, the decision can be challenging given the myriad of choices available. Among the most popular are tile and decorative concrete coatings. While both have their merits, decorative concrete coatings offer several compelling advantages over traditional tile. Let’s explore the top three benefits that make decorative concrete coatings a superior choice for homeowners.

1. Durability and Longevity

Decorative concrete coatings are renowned for their durability and longevity. Here’s why they outshine tiles in this aspect:

• Resistance to Wear and Tear: Unlike tiles that can crack, chip, or break under heavy impact or frequent use, decorative concrete coatings are incredibly robust. They are designed to withstand heavy traffic, making them an excellent choice for high-use areas such as kitchens, living rooms, and outdoor patios.
• Seamless Surface: One of the inherent issues with tile flooring is the presence of grout lines. Over time, these grout lines can wear down, crack, and collect dirt, making the floor look unsightly and potentially harboring bacteria. Decorative concrete coatings, on the other hand, create a seamless surface that not only looks sleek but is also easy to clean and maintain.
• Weather Resistance: Decorative concrete coatings are highly resistant to extreme weather conditions, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications. They do not succumb to water damage, frost, or heat, unlike tiles which can expand, contract, and even crack under severe temperature fluctuations.

2. Design Versatility

Decorative concrete coatings offer unparalleled design versatility, giving homeowners the freedom to achieve their desired aesthetic without compromise:

• Customization Options: With decorative concrete coatings, you can choose from a wide array of colors, patterns, textures, and finishes. Whether you prefer the look of natural stone, polished marble, or intricate designs, decorative concrete can be tailored to match your vision perfectly.
• Seamless Integration: Because the coatings are applied in a fluid state, they can easily adapt to any shape or size of the space. This allows for a cohesive, uninterrupted design flow, unlike tiles that might require cutting and fitting, leading to potential gaps and an inconsistent appearance.
• Artistic Embellishments: Decorative concrete coatings can be enhanced with artistic techniques such as staining, stamping, and engraving. This level of customization allows you to create unique, personalized flooring that stands out and complements the overall decor of your home.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

When it comes to cost, decorative concrete coatings offer significant advantages over tile, both in terms of initial investment and long-term maintenance:

• Lower Installation Costs: The installation of decorative concrete coatings is generally more straightforward and quicker compared to tile flooring. Tiles require precise placement, cutting, and grouting, all of which add to the labor costs. In contrast, concrete coatings can be applied more efficiently, reducing both time and labor expenses.
• Reduced Maintenance Expenses: Maintaining tile floors often involves regular cleaning and re-sealing of grout lines, as well as the potential for replacing broken or chipped tiles. Decorative concrete coatings, however, are easy to clean and maintain, typically requiring just a simple sweep and occasional mopping. Their resistance to stains and spills further reduces the need for intensive upkeep.
• Long-Term Savings: Thanks to their durability, decorative concrete coatings have a longer lifespan than tile, meaning you won’t have to worry about frequent repairs or replacements. This longevity translates into substantial long-term savings, making decorative concrete an economical choice for homeowners looking to invest wisely in their flooring.

Conclusion

While tile flooring has been a staple in many homes for years, decorative concrete coatings present a modern, versatile, and cost-effective alternative. Their superior durability, endless design possibilities, and overall affordability make them an excellent choice for any homeowner looking to enhance the beauty and functionality of their living spaces. When considering your next flooring project, keep these advantages in mind and explore the transformative potential of decorative concrete coatings.

“Looking to elevate your home’s exterior? See why our decorative concrete stands out!”

Versus New Concrete

• Durability – Coatings are stronger, easier to maintain and more flexible than concrete.
• Aesthetic Appeal – Decorative concrete is better looking and can increase the value of your home.
• Customization – Concrete Coatings can provide a multitude of different looks from clean and classic to something jazzy to spice up an area.

Versus Pavers

• Coatings provide a seamless finish that is easier to maintain and won’t allow expansion and contraction of water intrusion to happen.
• Coatings are lower cost than pavers and can provide a beautiful finish.
• Decorative concrete is easier to maintain than pavers.

Stamped concrete

• Coatings look better and last longer than stamped concrete.
• Concrete Coatings hold their color better and remain vibrant over longer periods of time.
• Decorative concrete provides a textured coating that realistically mimics brick, tile, slate and a number of other industry standard products.

CTi Dealers can transform existing concrete into a new wood floor. The finish is more durable and the colors can be more flexible then going through countless samples of wood flooring looking for that perfect color combination. Look at how our application is done in the video below:

Scott Schultz, owner of SS Concrete Solutions in Lehigh, KS is celebrating his 10th anniversary as a CTi Dealer. Hear what Scott has to say about running his CTi Dealership.