The Born Podcast Interview with Brent Roland
Key Business Strategies Behind Roland Builder’s Success Story
When Brent Roland took full ownership of Roland Builder Custom Homes on January 1, 2020, a global pandemic wasn’t part of his business plan. The timing tested every principle he’d absorbed during his gradual transition into leadership. Instead of buckling under pressure, this second-generation owner strengthened operations and clarified his vision for Central Pennsylvania’s premier custom home builder.
During his recent appearance on the BORN Podcast, Brent discussed the decisions, leadership principles, and family business insights that have enabled Roland Builder to thrive for nearly five decades.
Why Non-Traditional Backgrounds Create Stronger Construction Leaders
Most construction company owners follow predictable paths, including trade school, apprenticeships, or degrees in construction management. Brent Roland broke that mold. Armed with a psychology degree from Eastern Mennonite University and five years in information technology, he seemed an unlikely candidate to lead a custom home building operation.
That unconventional background became Brent’s secret weapon. Psychology taught him to decode client motivations and family dynamics. His IT experience positioned Roland Builder ahead of competitors in adopting design and project management technologies.
The lesson? When hiring key personnel or evaluating succession candidates, look beyond industry-specific credentials. Fresh perspectives often drive the innovations that set your company apart from competitors.
The Diversification Strategy That Saved This Family Construction Business
The 2008 recession impacted Roland Builder’s business model. Between 2003 and 2007, new construction demand was so robust that the company eliminated all remodeling work. When the housing market collapsed, that narrow focus left the company vulnerable.
Brent learned from that mistake. “I was specific and intentional when I took over as president in 2016 to begin to develop the remodeling side of the business. That way, when new construction’s down, I have something else to focus on.”
That foresight paid dividends during COVID-19. While competitors struggled with reduced new construction demand, Roland Builder’s remodeling teams stayed busy with kitchen renovations, bathroom updates, and basement finishing projects.
The company’s remodeling approach focuses on project-based work: kitchens, bathrooms, additions, basements, and outdoor living spaces. Today, Roland Builder completes 20-25 remodeling projects annually, alongside 10 custom homes, creating a balanced revenue stream that cushions market downturns.
Mastering Family Business Succession in Construction
Most family business transitions fail because they’re rushed. Roland Builder took the opposite approach, beginning succession discussions in 2012 and completing ownership transfer in 2020. The eight-year timeline allowed for proper business valuation, legal optimization, and gradual shifts in responsibility.
Building Market Differentiation in Saturated Industries
Central Pennsylvania hosts hundreds of builders competing for the same clients. Instead of competing on price or speed, Brent chose to focus on architectural diversity and quality positioning.
“My goal is that if anyone goes to the website or looks at our work, they can find a home there that they like,” he explained. Roland Builder deliberately showcases various styles: French Country, Modern Farmhouse, Craftsman, and Traditional. Brent’s creating broad market appeal while proving design flexibility.
The company appeals to clients who “can see the difference” in craftsmanship and materials. That premium positioning attracts homeowners who value quality over the lowest cost.
Leadership Lessons from Navigating Crisis
Becoming a business owner in January 2020 meant Brent faced COVID-19 with complete responsibility for employees, clients, and company survival. The stress was intense.
The crisis demanded tough decisions: a six-week shutdown, new safety protocols, managing employee fears, and maintaining client relationships during uncertainty.
Yet Roland Builder continued to sign contracts throughout the period, proving the strength of systematic operations. Brent’s faith provided stability during chaos. “God is still in control… in that desperation, it drives us to our knees and to that source of strength.”
Building Your Construction Business Legacy
Brent Roland’s evolution from reluctant family business successor to construction industry thought leader offers a blueprint for entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. His approach to succession planning, crisis management, and market differentiation shows how traditional construction companies can modernize while preserving founding values.
Roland Builder’s 50-year track record provides tested strategies for building sustainable, transferable business value in competitive industries. For construction professionals wondering how industry leaders navigate a growth strategy and succession planning, Brent’s insights reveal the strategic thinking required to build lasting business legacies.
Reach out to learn more about our approach to custom home construction and business operations that have sustained success through multiple economic cycles.