Today we’d like to introduce you to Sean Kurtz.
Hi Sean, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I had an opportunity to work for myself and control what was happening with my clients, and I took it. I had already spent time in the construction world and saw firsthand how often projects went sideways not because the work was difficult but because of poor communication, unclear expectations, and a lack of ownership.
When I started Michigan Rose Construction, the goal was simple. I wanted to run projects the way I would want them run if I were the homeowner. Clear timelines. Honest conversations. Accountability when things did not go perfectly.
In the beginning, it was just me handling everything from sales and estimating to project management and problem solving in real time. Growth came organically through word of mouth as clients appreciated knowing exactly what was happening on their projects and trusting that someone was actually paying attention.
As the company grew, my role shifted from doing the work to building systems and a team that could deliver the same level of care consistently. Today, Michigan Rose Construction focuses on residential and light commercial projects with an emphasis on quality execution and communication.
The path has not been easy, but taking control of the client experience from day one is what allowed the business to grow into what it is today.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all. It has been anything but smooth.
In the early days, the biggest struggle was cash flow and time. When you are responsible for everything sales, estimating, project management, subcontractors, and client communication there is very little margin for error. One delayed payment or one project running long could create a lot of pressure very quickly.
As the company grew, the challenges changed. Scaling exposed weaknesses in systems that were fine when it was just me but broke once multiple projects were running at the same time. Hiring the right people, training them properly, and trusting others with client relationships was a difficult but necessary transition.
Another major challenge was learning that good work alone does not guarantee smooth projects. Clear contracts, firm boundaries, and consistent communication are just as important as craftsmanship. I learned some of those lessons the hard way.
There were also personal struggles. Running a growing construction company comes with stress, responsibility, and a constant sense that you are carrying the weight of your team and clients at the same time. There were moments where it would have been easier to slow down or walk away, but pushing through those uncomfortable periods is what forced growth.
Looking back, none of the struggles were wasted. Each one shaped how the company operates today and how I lead
As you know, we’re big fans of Michigan Rose Construction. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Michigan Rose Construction is a general contracting company focused on residential and commercial projects, with a strong emphasis on outdoor living spaces, remodeling, and complex renovations that require careful coordination. We handle everything from decks and exterior improvements to full interior remodels, and we are known for stepping into projects that need structure, clarity, and accountability.
What sets us apart is how we run projects. We prioritize communication, planning, and transparency just as much as the physical work itself. Clients know what is happening, what comes next, and where decisions stand. We are very intentional about setting expectations up front and following through, even when things change or challenges arise.
We also put a lot of focus on systems and process. Construction can be unpredictable, but how you manage that unpredictability matters. We invest heavily in project management, scheduling, and documentation so our clients feel informed and supported throughout the entire build. That approach has helped us earn long term trust and repeat business.
Brand wise, what I am most proud of is that Michigan Rose has become known as a company that actually cares. We do not cut corners. We do not disappear once a contract is signed. We take ownership of the outcome and treat each project like it reflects directly on us, because it does.
I want readers to know that our brand is built on responsibility, communication, and quality execution. We are not trying to be the biggest contractor. We are focused on being a dependable one that clients feel confident recommending when someone asks who they trust with their home or property.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Yes. Start simpler than you think you need to and get your fundamentals right early.
When you are first starting out, it is tempting to say yes to everything. I wish I had understood sooner that not every project is a good project and not every client is the right client. Learning how to say no, or how to walk away before a job starts, can save you more stress than almost anything else.
I also wish I had put stronger systems in place earlier. Clear contracts, written change orders, defined payment schedules, and documented communication are not bureaucracy. They protect you, your clients, and your business. Do not rely on verbal agreements or good intentions. Clarity prevents conflict.
Another big lesson is cash flow matters more than revenue. You can be busy and still be in trouble if you are not collecting on time or pricing work correctly. Know your numbers early and build payment terms that allow you to operate without constant pressure.
Finally, understand that growth is uncomfortable by nature. You will make mistakes. You will have hard conversations. You will doubt yourself at times. That does not mean you are doing it wrong. It usually means you are learning. If you stay honest, take ownership, and keep improving how you operate, the business will grow alongside you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://michrose.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michiganroseco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michiganroseconstruction/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/michigan-rose-construction/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDJWcR0YjVfRAE3N9XiuqdQ
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/michigan-rose-construction-ann-arbor
