James Thornton Interview – Built to Perfection’s Remodeling Journey
James Thornton is the owner of Built to Perfection, a remodeling company based in Tampa, Florida. The business started in April 2017 with small projects like light fixture changes, paint jobs, and drywall repairs. Over time, James and his team grew by working with general contractors, realtors, and builders. Now, Built to Perfection mostly focuses on remodeling homes, especially bathrooms and kitchens, but also does some new construction.
James enjoys the challenge of remodeling more than new builds. He likes bringing old homes back to life and matching historic details, even when it means hunting for rare moldings. The company is known for its quality work and customer focus. Their motto is to make the customer happy. James thinks new construction is easier, but remodeling is more rewarding because it requires skill and patience to match existing features.
“Each one, teach one, then we can all reach one.” ~ James Thornton
The team at Built to Perfection is small but mighty. James works with two full-time employees and partners with local subcontractors. He prefers working with other small businesses because they are reliable and have their own insurance. This makes it easier to manage projects without micromanaging everyone. James values teamwork and believes in sharing knowledge and supporting each other.
When a new customer contacts Built to Perfection, James responds quickly. He asks about the project and sets up a time for a free estimate. He visits the site, takes measurements, and notes all the details. He usually turns around an estimate within two days, no matter the project size. James is happy to match other quotes as long as the work and materials are the same.
Most of the company’s business comes from word of mouth and repeat customers. About 70% of their work is from referrals. James started by using Home Advisor and Nextdoor but now relies on quality and reputation. He believes quality work speaks for itself and leads to more business. For new customers, James makes sure all paperwork, insurance, and references are in order. He shares photos and references if asked.
James has a big family—seven kids and a wife he has been married to for 21 years. He grew up with his wife in the same neighborhood. Balancing work and family is not easy, but James is strict about his schedule. He plans his work around his kids’ activities and always makes time for family. His kids sometimes help out with small projects, but mostly, they just enjoy the support he provides.
James has a strong belief in teaching and mentoring. His motto is “each one, teach one, then we can all reach one.” He learned this from his football coach and applies it in business and life. James teaches his kids and his team valuable skills, like reading a tape measure and doing basic home repairs. He wants everyone to learn and grow, not just work for him forever.
James has a young apprentice who started working with him at 16 and is now 18. James teaches him different trades and business skills. His goal is for the apprentice to start his own business someday. James believes in passing on knowledge and helping others succeed. He dreams of starting a trades training school to teach more young people valuable skills.
Built to Perfection is still growing. James attends seminars and networking events to meet other business owners and learn new things. He is always looking for ways to improve and expand the company. James is open to new ideas and partnerships, especially for his future trade school project.
James Thornton, Built to Perfection Contact Info:
JT9383@iCloud.com
(813) 784-1676
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Small Business Growth:
James Thornton built Built to Perfection from small repairs to a thriving remodeling business in Tampa. -
Remodeling vs. New Construction:
The company specializes in remodeling, especially historic homes, and enjoys the challenge of matching old details. -
Team and Subcontractor Approach:
James works with a small team and reliable subcontractors, valuing teamwork and shared responsibility. -
Customer Acquisition and Satisfaction:
Most business comes from word of mouth and repeat customers, with a focus on quality and customer happiness. -
Balancing Work and Family:
James manages a busy business and a large family by sticking to a strict schedule and making time for both. -
Mentorship and Teaching:
James believes in teaching skills to his kids, team, and apprentices, aiming to help them succeed on their own. -
Future Goals:
James wants to start a trades training school to teach more young people valuable skills and give back to the community.
