Fruit Inspection

1. to trade by exchange of commodities rather than by the use of money.
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I didn’t think bartering was used much these days, but as it turns out, it can be an effective way to settle a debt. As in, “Oh hi, Mr. Plumber, I know we owe you several thousand dollars for the houses you helped us build, but hey, how about some nice playground equipment instead? No? Could I interest you in a lovely dining room set? Or maybe some expenseive golf clubs?”

We’ve tried to keep our building company alive for almost 2 years now in an economy that’s been slowly spiralling downward. Most of the builders we know have already shut their doors. Some by choice, others had no choice.

Jeremy has done a great job of cutting costs and being creative in ways to save money. But it hasn’t been an easy road by any means. Most of the time, in order for us to save, it has meant someone else had to loose. Their job, their bonus, their commission, etc.

It’s the cut throat decisions like those that have been so hard to swallow for the past 18 months. Building homes used to be so much fun. Our employees and subcontractors had job security. If we knew of a family in need, we were able to provide. Sometimes it meant giving them shelter. Sometimes it meant finding them a temporary job. But no matter what, it felt like we had a purpose. And we were all in it together.

Now we’ve resorted to bartering. Our subs need things they can’t buy. We can’t afford to pay them, but guess what? We have some of the things they need. Sofas, bedroom furniture, kids clothes, tables and chairs. The list goes on and on. Our model homes are now up for grabs. All that’s missing is a large neon sign that reads: “FINAL LIQUIDATION!!! EVERYTHING MUST GO!!!”

Two weeks ago Jeremy called me and said he couldn’t take the stress anymore. We are in too much debt and there is no end in sight. We would have to layoff the remainder of our staff and move our office into the basement. He wanted to do everything possible to keep from filing bankruptcy, but that was going to depend on the banks. Would they come after us personally for the more than $25 million worth of property that we cannot sell?

We had no idea what to expect and in the past 10 days we have been extended more mercy and grace than we would have ever anticipated. We decided to keep a few employees, and the ones that we have to let go, are sticking with us until we get moved. Praise God!!! Each and every bank is allowing us to defer our loans for 12 months with no interest due unless and until the house is sold. Thank you Jesus!!!

And our subcontractors seem to be okay with this bartering system we have worked out with them. I guess maybe we are still in this together afterall.