Bulk Buys, Busy Crews, Big Margins

What’s up,

To buy in bulk or not to buy in bulk…that’s a question you’ve probably faced (or will in the future).

There’s a lot to consider, both pros and cons. While the ultimate choice is yours—based on the opportunity in front of you—you must look at it from every angle.

Below, I share my story of a recent bulk purchase at a deep discount. ⬇️

PS: Have you checked out our most recent podcast episode? It details one entrepreneur’s journey from plumber to owning a successful plumbing company.

Special Thanks To Hatch

Hatch takes the guesswork out of follow-up by automating multi-touch outreach across the entire customer journey—everything from speed-to-lead responses to reactivating old estimates.

If you’re not looking deeper into your pipeline, you’re seriously missing out on major growth opportunities.

Why It Works

1. Faster response times: Hatch’s AI-powered CSRs handle inquiries instantly, answering questions, booking appointments, and qualifying leads without skipping a beat.

2. Higher conversion rates: Prompt, proactive follow-ups ensure every lead gets the attention it deserves, boosting close rates and customer retention.

3. Streamlined lead management: With centralized tracking and automation, you can standardize outreach, save time, and scale efficiently.

4. More revenue, less burnout: By automating repetitive tasks, your team can focus on high-value interactions while reducing CSR turnover.

Inventory Isn’t the Enemy (When You Use It Right)

Stockpiling equipment isn’t usually our play. It ties up capital and adds complexity.
But sometimes, the opportunity is just too good.

Bulk Buys Keep Crews Moving

HVAC slows in March and April, so we got ahead of it.
We bought 350+ pieces of 410A HVAC equipment at a steep discount, and now we’re using that momentum to stay busy and maintain margins.

• Bought in bulk for a steep discount

• Locked in enough inventory to keep crews booked for six months

• Created price flexibility without sacrificing profit

Low Equipment Cost, Strong Gross Margin

Just because we paid less doesn’t mean we’re charging less.
We’re still pricing installs to protect margin, which means every job stays profitable—even at a lower ticket price.

• Deep discounts on equipment = more pricing control

• Margin stays strong thanks to consistent install pricing

• Affordable options attract more price-sensitive homeowners

Inventory as a Strategic Weapon

Having gear on hand gives us speed, flexibility, and a sales edge.
While competitors are waiting on suppliers, we’re already booked and building trust with faster turnarounds.

• Faster installs win more jobs

• Inventory helps us quote quicker and close sooner

• Gives us a value advantage in landlord and rental markets

Next Up: Generators

We’re already applying the same playbook to generators. If it works half as well as HVAC, we’ll call it a win.

• Exploring bulk buys on generators

• Aiming for the same install-volume boost

• Extending our shoulder-season strategy into other categories

The Bottom Line: Smart Inventory Beats Idle Crews

We don’t always buy in bulk—but when we do, we make it count.

If the deal’s strong and the install volume’s there, buying in bulk gives you the edge to outpace your competitors without cutting into profits.

News, Resources, and More

🎙️ Podcast: Earlier this week we sat down with trades legend Roger Wakefield.

📈 OAO Pro just launched yesterday, and it’s already an incredible peer group where home service owners connect, troubleshoot, and scale together.

✉️ Homepros is an email newsletter covering the HVAC industry's biggest news and trends in just a three-minute read, for free.

⚡Shout Out to FieldPulse⚡

Unfamiliar with FieldPulse? Here’s the TL;DR…

Businesses using FieldPulse see an average of 78% annual growth and are saving 5-10 hours a week on administrative tasks—that’s HUGE!

If you're looking to streamline your ops before you can dive deeper into training, FieldPulse’s CRM platform is a game-changer.

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That’s All For Today

Did you enjoy today’s newsletter? Let me know—it only takes a second ⏱️ 

See ya next time,

John

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