From Community Managers to Subcontracting Innovators
In the vibrant heart of Tampa Bay, Maurice and Elissa have transformed their shared passion for real estate and community management into Known Project Management, a thriving family-owned business. Specializing in both residential and commercial real estate project consulting, their company has become a beacon of renovation excellence, offering services ranging from kitchen and bathroom remodeling to HVAC and electrical engineering. Their story is one of dedication, innovation, and a relentless commitment to quality and community enhancement.
Humble Beginnings
Maurice began his career as a radio and digital marketing consultant, balancing his professional life with his role as a community manager and father of four. Elissa’s career path took her through the automotive industry and insurance sector, where she developed skills in sales, manufacturing, and customer service. Their paths converged in community management, where they identified a common issue: the lack of affordable, high-quality property maintenance services.
Seeing this gap, Maurice and Elissa decided to act. They combined their expertise and resources to establish Known Project Management, aiming to improve Tampa Bay’s real estate landscape by providing reliable, affordable, and top-notch renovation services. Their mission was clear: to transform properties and enhance communities.
Overcoming Challenges
Starting a business is fraught with challenges, and Maurice and Elissa faced their share. One significant hurdle was finding reliable vendors. To overcome this, they developed a rigorous vetting process to ensure only the most trustworthy and skilled vendors joined their network, cementing their commitment to quality and reliability.
Balancing their new venture with full-time community management roles and parenting responsibilities added complexity. However, their passion for real estate and drive to make a difference fueled their perseverance. Through meticulous planning and unwavering dedication, they navigated these challenges to build a successful business.
A Day in the Life
A typical day at Known Project Management is bustling with activity. It starts with a team meeting to outline tasks and priorities. Maurice and Elissa then tackle a flood of emails, handling new work orders and estimate requests. Their schedule is filled with meetings with clients and potential vendors, followed by site visits to ensure projects progress smoothly. Their hands-on approach and exceptional customer service set them apart from competitors.
Excellence in Service
Known Project Management prides itself on being a comprehensive renovation service provider. Their slogan, “Your One Stop Shop For Renovation Excellence,” reflects their wide range of offerings, from roofing and painting to tree removal and pre-construction cleaning. Their extensive vetting process guarantees clients receive top-quality service from experienced and honest vendors.
Since its inception, Known Project Management has experienced rapid growth. The booming Tampa Bay real estate market has provided ample opportunities, which Maurice and Elissa have capitalized on by delivering outstanding results. Their portfolio includes notable projects for prestigious clients such as Amalie Arena, Hillsborough County Public School District, and the Florida Aquarium.
Innovation and Community Impact
Innovation drives Known Project Management. Maurice and Elissa continually brainstorm new ways to attract clients and enhance their services. They stay current with industry trends by attending expos and conventions, ensuring they remain at the industry’s forefront.
One particularly rewarding experience involved addressing an emergency electrical issue in a high-rise condominium. Despite receiving the call after hours on a Saturday, they promptly arranged for a vendor to assess and fix the problem, preventing resident displacement. This quick response and commitment to client satisfaction highlight their dedication to excellence.
Looking ahead, Maurice and Elissa have ambitious plans for their business. They aim to launch a mentorship program for underprivileged youth, providing valuable skills in various trades. This initiative reflects their desire to give back to the community and inspire the next generation.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Maurice and Elissa offer this advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: “You need a passion for this business, so that when the times arise when you feel like quitting, your passion keeps you going.” Their journey exemplifies the power of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to making a positive impact.
Known Project Management is more than a business; it’s a beacon of excellence and community spirit in Tampa Bay. Maurice and Elissa’s story inspires others to pursue their dreams, overcome challenges, and contribute to the betterment of their communities.
