Today we’d like to introduce you to Maggie Brown.
Maggie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am one of the first female builders that have endured throughout the years. I started with a major residential company as a Project Secretary in the 80’s, then quickly moved into warranty as a Customer Service Rep, then moved on to a builder. I became recognized as an excellent builder in 1994 with another large building company and won awards and trips. I was then asked to start up a new area in Tulsa as a City Manager and moved there for two years. Unfortunately, Tulsa was not accepting of a large track home builder and quickly pushed us out after 2 years. After returning back to Dallas, I took a building position with a custom builder in Downtown Dallas building shared wall condo’s and lofts. In 2008 when the market fell out, I created my own remodeling company. GIRL POWER! I have been doing my own remodels and new build’s since. My husband and I came up with Micro Living (small houses) in 2009 and have a model in our back yard that serves as my office and a guest house for folks to see how this can function. We came up with this idea after our Son was injured in Iraq. These little homes can allow privacy for recovering vets or a home that can allow aging parent to still have their own spot while still being monitored by a family member. They are also good for college kids to get them out of the main house and give Mom and Dad a break while giving the child space. I offer military discounts and also discount to teachers. My husband works for another building company but will step in for engineering questions as needed. Primarily, my company is my company.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Females in construction when I started was not well welcomed. I had to be perfect. It started with co-workers, trades (mostly Hispanic and did not want to take direction from a girl) inspectors and homeowners that thought I was in over my head.
I cried driving home from work every day since the cards were stacked against me, but never let anyone see my tears. It was something that I took on and was going to see it through. I was not going to let anyone take me down unless I decided. That’s how I live my life – make a decision and then see it through.
By the way – the same crews that did not like me at first, have been with me through the years of 28 years. We are a family.
Please tell us about Brown Remodeling.
I can build new homes but primarily I remodel old homes, homes that need updated, turning attic spaces into rooms, room additions and baths and kitchens.
Since tiny homes are my heart – I like to make all extra space into usable space. I don’t want to let any space be wasted. My cabinetry is custom which allows me to make anything work. I listen to my homeowners and get a feel for what they want while at the same time letting them know if their ideas can work or not. No one likes surprises so I like to be honest.
I am proud of my company because I started when the economy collapsed and still have a business today. My business is all referral. I do not advertise. At times, I am overwhelmed with too much business but that’s a good problem to have.
What set’s me apart from others is that I am a woman contractor, have had the same trade base for 28 years and I pull up in a 1955 Chevy Pick up truck. I want people to know that being “Old School” is a good thing! A blast from the past!
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Nothing.
How I started worked. I take pride in my business and work it very hard. My trades are loyal, I pay my bills and I treat everyone with respect.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1617 Oak Creek Drive
- Website: brownremodelingdesign.com
- Phone: 9723756505
- Email: BROWNREMODELING@YAHOO.COM
- Facebook: Brown Remodeling
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
