"While the implications of this acquisition on restoration contractors is not yet fully known, RIA members and constituents have concerns about how their data is being used and how it will impact the future of their business," the statement reads. 

CoreLogic acquired Next Gear Solutions on Sept. 15, 2021. Here, Garret Gray, founder and CEO of Next Gear Solutions dives into what this means for restoration contractors.

The deal, called "a very major event" by RIA President Mark Springer, combines Next Gear and CoreLogic’s Claims Connect platforms, property data and analytics, and tools for restoration contractors and insurance carriers.

Almost every day, I see restoration companies posting openings on industry Facebook pages like the Rebels, NORRP, RIA Young Professional Restorers, and others.

With our first full fiscal year of operations with in-house management complete, we have much to celebrate.

Years ago, while preparing a project management seminar for the Restoration Industry Association (RIA), I was asked to include a section on upselling strategies. At first I was reluctant, feeling the topic was inappropriate for the subject matter of the course. However, upon presenting the material and seeing the reaction of the audience, I recognized the need.

In Part I of this article, we explored the concept of positioning, the strategy option of serving the deeper needs of a narrower set of customer markets, and clearly understanding what sets our companies apart from the competition in terms of the order winners that give us an advantage.