Christopher Mickey is a revered entrepreneur from New Port Richey, Florida, recognized for his capability to show challenges into profitable ventures.
He started his entrepreneurial journey by remodeling a struggling pizza franchise right into a high performer, which sparked his ardour for enterprise. Transitioning into actual property, Christopher and his spouse have flipped over 545 houses, gaining hands-on expertise in development, residence methods, and the significance of power effectivity. Recognizing the necessity for a dependable, customer-focused HVAC firm, he launched Airheads HVAC, specializing in energy-efficient options. Past his skilled success, Christopher is deeply dedicated to group service, stepping up in instances of want, like after Hurricane Helene, to supply sources and assist. His story is one in every of resilience, innovation, and a deep-seated dedication to his group.
How has your expertise in actual property flipping influenced the best way you run Airheads HVAC?
Flipping houses gave me a real-world crash course in how crucial HVAC methods are to a home’s general performance and worth. Within the early days, I discovered the onerous means {that a} malfunctioning or outdated HVAC system might derail a complete renovation undertaking. It was a worthwhile lesson in understanding simply how a lot influence an environment friendly, dependable system has on each a house’s livability and its long-term worth.
After I began Airheads HVAC, I introduced that perspective with me. I knew that householders wanted an organization they might belief to supply not solely high-quality service but additionally energy-efficient options that will save them cash over time. Actual property flipping taught me to have a look at HVAC methods as an funding, not simply an expense. That’s why our strategy at Airheads HVAC emphasizes transparency and long-term financial savings. We deal with each set up or restore as if we’re engaged on one in every of our personal funding properties, specializing in high quality and effectivity.
What do you assume is the most important false impression individuals have about beginning a enterprise within the trades?
The largest false impression is you can succeed simply by realizing the technical aspect of issues. Don’t get me mistaken—being expert at your craft is essential. However in the event you don’t perceive customer support, advertising, or run the enterprise aspect of issues, you’re not going to make it very far. Within the trades, popularity is every thing, and that comes all the way down to the way you deal with your prospects and the way effectively you run your online business.
One other false impression is that the trades are in some way much less progressive or thrilling in comparison with different industries. The reality is, the trades are evolving quickly, particularly with developments in power effectivity and good residence know-how. Operating an HVAC firm requires you to remain forward of the curve and constantly be taught. It’s much more dynamic than individuals assume, and that’s what makes it so rewarding.
How did Hurricane Helene change your perspective on management and enterprise?
Hurricane Helene was a life-altering expertise, not only for me personally however for our total group. It made me notice that as a enterprise proprietor, you will have a accountability that goes past making a revenue. Folks have been in disaster—with out energy, with broken houses, and a few even with out primary requirements. It wasn’t a time to consider income; it was a time to consider how we might assist.
Management in that second meant mobilizing rapidly and utilizing our sources to make a distinction. We donated gear, offered free or discounted HVAC companies, and labored continuous to get individuals again to some degree of normalcy. It bolstered my perception {that a} sturdy enterprise isn’t nearly numbers on a stability sheet; it’s about being there for the group when it issues most. Hurricane Helene modified how I take into consideration enterprise and deepened my dedication to group service.
What function does know-how play in the way forward for the HVAC business?
Expertise is remodeling the HVAC business in ways in which would have been unimaginable even a decade in the past. From good thermostats that be taught your habits to energy-efficient methods that use much less energy however present higher local weather management, the developments are unbelievable. At Airheads HVAC, we’ve made it a precedence to combine the most recent know-how into our companies.
For instance, good residence integration is one thing increasingly more prospects are asking for. Folks need to have the ability to management their HVAC methods from their telephones and even have methods that routinely alter primarily based on the climate forecast. We’re additionally seeing a whole lot of curiosity in sustainable options, like warmth pumps which might be extra eco-friendly. The function of know-how is barely going to develop, and I’m excited to see the way it continues to enhance effectivity and scale back environmental influence. Staying up-to-date with these developments is essential, not only for our enterprise however for the planet.
What’s one piece of recommendation you’d give to somebody who needs to start out their very own enterprise however is hesitant?
Begin earlier than you’re feeling prepared. If I had waited for the “perfect” second to start out my first enterprise or launch Airheads HVAC, I’d most likely nonetheless be ready. The reality is, you’re by no means going to really feel 100% ready. There’s all the time going to be some degree of threat and uncertainty, however in the event you consider in your concept and are keen to place within the work, it’s price taking the plunge.
One other necessary piece of recommendation is to encompass your self with people who find themselves smarter than you in sure areas. I’ve discovered a lot from my group, from contractors to workplace employees, who’ve abilities that complement my very own. Nobody succeeds in enterprise alone, and having a robust assist system could make all of the distinction. Additionally, don’t be afraid to fail. A few of my largest classes have come from my failures, they usually’ve made me a greater enterprise proprietor.
How do you keep motivated and impressed, particularly when issues get powerful?
I’m a agency believer in staying centered in your “why.” For me, that’s my household, my group, and the influence I need to have on the group. When issues get powerful—they usually undoubtedly do—I remind myself why I began within the first place. It’s not nearly creating wealth; it’s about making a enterprise that gives actual worth to individuals and helps make their lives higher.
I additionally discover motivation in seeing the progress we make, whether or not it’s a buyer who’s thrilled with a brand new energy-efficient system or a group undertaking we’ve been capable of assist. These small wins preserve me going. And once I have to recharge, I step away for a bit. Typically meaning spending time at our seaside home or getting concerned in group service tasks that remind me of the larger image. It’s all about discovering stability.
What’s subsequent for Airheads HVAC and your different ventures?
We’re actually enthusiastic about increasing our energy-efficient and good residence choices. The demand for eco-friendly options is rising, and we need to be on the forefront of that motion. We’re additionally trying to launch new group outreach initiatives, like instructional workshops to show individuals about residence upkeep and power financial savings.
On the true property aspect, I’m all the time looking out for brand new alternatives. Flipping houses is one thing I’m nonetheless captivated with, particularly after we can combine the energy-efficient options we promote at Airheads HVAC. The objective is to continue to grow however by no means lose sight of the core values that bought us right here: high quality, reliability, and a dedication to our group.
