From Software Engineer & Auto Industry Veteran to DreamMaker Franchise Owner
Discover Lee Willwerth’s path from software engineer and auto industry veteran to owner of DreamMaker Bath & Ktichen of Ann Arbor, MI
Software Engineer to Remodeler
Having the Skills, But Seeking the System
Lee Willwerth, owner of DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen of Ann Arbor was a software engineer before he became an entrepreneur. Willwerth has found the DreamMaker systems to be an advantage to his success.
As a software engineer he focused on the design and development of software systems. As a DreamMaker franchise owner he focuses on the design and development of a remodel.
Engineers have learned to develop and work a plan, strategize and look at performance indicators. Engineering requires a meticulous focus on detail and quality, all while juggling a lot of moving parts.
That’s what makes engineers such a great fit for DreamMaker – quality is the key to our consumer value proposition. The DreamMaker systems and processes are designed to use these same skills.
Lee Willwerth – DreamMaker, Ann Arbor, MI – 21 years
What were you doing before DreamMaker?
In 2004, a trip to a Chicago trade show changed everything. I wasn’t looking for a franchise; I was looking for tools. But after meeting the DreamMaker team, it became clear that I didn’t just need better equipment—I needed a better approach. I realized that succeeding in remodeling is nearly impossible unless you have a professional roadmap right out of the gate.
"We were there looking for cool tools, not a franchise! After a few weeks of conversations, it became clear that this was something we should seriously consider. The rest is history."
The DreamMaker Difference
A "Countercultural" Approach to Construction
In an industry often criticized for poor communication and shifting ethics, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen found a model built on Christian principles and a strict Code of Values. It wasn't just a mission statement — it was a professional standard for how every client and employee is treated.
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Code of Values
A business built on faith-based principles and a strict Code of Values.
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Systems Over Sawdust
Prioritizing management ability and IT systems to scale effectively.
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Collaborative Network
Access to a national family of owners who share financials and ideas.
What attracted you to DreamMaker and what do you like about it?
I knew that remodeling was a difficult industry to succeed in unless you really know what you are doing. The thought of having someone with a better approach right out of the gate was appealing.
The way they do things is pretty countercultural for the construction industry. The way customers are treated, and the interactions with clients, I think this is largely due to the fact that DreamMaker is run based on Christian principles.
The Code of Values states those values and tells people what we believe we should do. A company that believes those things and does its best to live by them was something we wanted to be a part of.
How does DreamMaker help you stand out?
When I started, I had nothing for advertising and marketing. They provided every ad template, and every recommendation about where to start advertising. DreamMaker taught us to put together a marketing plan, and that was big.
The whole philosophy of how to market your business was something they stressed. As we have been in business, the tools we use have evolved. When we started, the Yellow Pages were a big deal. Now we just make sure our phone number is listed there, and we invest in our website.
Would you recommend a DreamMaker franchise to someone else? Why?
Yes. DreamMaker has a great culture and great values. It’s like a family. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen helps franchisees stand out by offering savvy, proven marketing plans and tools, excellent systems for operating your business, and a wealth of support to help you grow.