Keystone Custom Homes
Founder and president: Jeff Rutt
Focus: Builds move-up homes in the Lancaster County, Pa., region.
Employees: 75
Founded: 1992
Web site:www.keystonecustomhome.com
Notable: Supports Hope International, an international micro-loan program that provides low-interest, small loans to business owners and entrepreneurs in four countries; three-time winner of America's Best Builder.

Keeping The Trades Happy

Like most successful residential builders, Keystone realizes it couldn't do what it does if it didn't have a good relationship with its trade contractors. To that end, it goes the extra mile to make its contractors feel part of the team. “Our trade partners are our success, our keystone, they make it happen,” says company president Jeff Rutt. “In the long run, they improve our quality and schedules and help us bring our product in at a value that's affordable.” To keep its trades happy, Keystone follows these trade tips:

  • Use the right name. At Keystone, says Rutt, “the word ‘subcontractor' is taboo.” Instead, tradespeople are called “trade contractors.”
  • Involve them in the business. Keystone formed a trade partner council three years ago. It meets every other month to discuss upcoming plans, new communities, challenges, and long-term projections. “We want to push the decision-making out as far as possible to the people who should be making the decisions,” says Rutt.
  • Share the news. Keystone publishes a weekly newsletter about and for their trade contractors. Called “The Buzz,” it covers everything from who is having a baby to who has begun working with Keystone. It also includes news about Keystone and Keystone events.
    •