Master Builders Elevate: Building a Better Business

In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Ryan Castle talks with John Bolton (JB), founder of Squirrel and official Master Builders partner, about one of the biggest handbrakes on growth for building businesses: access to capital. JB shares how he left ANZ to start Squirrel in the middle of the GFC, breaks down the difference between house and land, spec and turnkey builds, and introduces 100% Turnkey Funding, a new product developed exclusively with Master Builders. For eligible Registered Master Builders with a pre-sold turnkey project, Squirrel funds 100% of the land and the construction cost, less a 20% implied builder margin, backed by Master Build completion cover.

JB also explains what builders need to set up to get started, why a 15% mezzanine loan can still be cheaper than giving away half your profit, and where the product is heading next. To finish, he shares what Squirrel’s research reveals about the $1.4 trillion downsizer market (think single level living, a garage and stylish duplexes) and his outlook on interest rates and house prices heading into 2027.

Useful links:
squirrel.co.nz
Turnkey Funding for builders
Squirrel’s downsizer research blog
Full findings report is available to download: https://squirrel.co.nz/modals/pfu-research-report

Where else you can find us
Website: https://www.masterbuilder.org.nz/
Elevate Platform: http://elevate.masterbuilder.org.nz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterbuildernz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/registeredmasterbuilders
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmh_9vl0pFf0zSB6N7RrVeg

What is Master Builders Elevate: Building a Better Business?

Welcome to the Master Builders Elevate podcast, hosted by Ryan Castle, where we discuss topics and talk with experts, advocates and business owners in the New Zealand construction industry. We share knowledge, insights and experiences to help you build a better business and enjoy a better life. The podcast explores ideas and practices that help builders get the best from their businesses, teams and themselves. Every second week a new episode will be released. You can listen online or find and subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast platform, such as Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

In addition to a podcast, Registered Master Builders Elevate is the online learning portal exclusively for Master Builders. Here you’ll find courses, microcourses and other learning resources – all free to you as part of your membership. Elevate offers the flexibility to learn what you need when you need it and at your own pace. The learning platform can be accessed anywhere, anytime and on any device and is available to all your staff. When members complete an Elevate course, they also earn LBP points.