In a field dominated by men, Rebekah Yanase stands out as a pioneering force in foundation repair. As the owner of Sage FX Foundation and Construction, Rebekah’s story is not just one of professional success but also of personal resilience and determination. Her journey into the world of foundation repair began under challenging circumstances following the passing of her husband, Seijiro (Sage), who originally founded the company. With five children to care for, Rebekah chose to step into a role that was unfamiliar yet driven by a desire to provide stability and security for her family and to honor her husband’s legacy.
Overcoming Industry Challenges
Rebekah’s entry into the foundation repair industry was marked by a steep learning curve. “I wanted to show my kids that I could be a businesswoman and be independent,” she says, reflecting on her initial motivation. The challenges were numerous, not least of which was the industry’s perception of women. “As soon as somebody looks at me, they assume I don’t know anything about foundation work,” she explains. Despite these hurdles, Rebekah has worked tirelessly to gain credibility and respect within the industry.
Transitioning from her primary career as a medical coder to managing a foundation repair business was no small feat. Rebekah faced skepticism and a steep learning curve, yet she embraced the challenge. “I wanted to prove to myself and my children that I could handle this,” she says. The company’s offerings include diagnosing and repairing foundation issues, which can manifest as sticking doors, cracks in walls, or uneven floors. These problems, if left untreated, can lead to severe structural damage, including plumbing and gas line issues.
“I wanted to show my kids that I could be a businesswoman and be independent. It’s about proving that I can handle this and provide a stable future for my family.” -Rebekah Yanase, Sage FX Foundation and Construction
Sage FX Foundation and Construction
One of the key differentiators for Sage FX Foundation and Construction is its lifetime transferable warranty. This warranty underscores the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. “We don’t want to go back out on a warranty call because it means we didn’t do the job right the first time,” Rebekah emphasizes. This focus on doing the job right the first time has been crucial in building a strong reputation in the San Antonio area.
Marketing Strategies and Growth
Marketing has been a significant focus as Rebekah continues to grow the business. While platforms like Thumbtack and Google Ads have brought in some leads, not all have been fruitful. “We’ve had to filter through a lot of inquiries that weren’t relevant to our services,” she notes. Rebekah is exploring additional marketing strategies, including local service ads and direct mail campaigns, to expand their reach.
Navigating gender bias has been another ongoing challenge. Rebekah recounts experiences where potential clients would direct their questions and concerns to male employees, assuming they were the owners. “It’s a constant battle to assert my role and expertise,” she says. However, she remains undeterred, using these experiences to further establish her authority and knowledge in the field.
Building Relationships and Customer Service
Building and nurturing relationships has been instrumental in Sage FX’s growth. The true value lies in the connections made during these interactions. Sage FX understands that relationships are essential for a growing business, and by delivering quality work and exceptional customer service, they not only build trust but also foster long-term partnerships. This focus on doing a good job for people is seen as the cornerstone of their business strategy, with quality and customer service always being the top priorities.
Vision for the Future
Rebekah’s vision for Sage FX Foundation and Construction is clear. She aims to increase the number of jobs handled by the company, with a target of one to two projects per week. This growth plan is grounded in a commitment to maintaining high-quality standards and ensuring customer satisfaction. The company’s services are particularly crucial in areas prone to foundation issues, where regular maintenance and repairs are essential to prevent major structural problems.
Despite the challenges, Rebekah’s dedication to her business and family remains unwavering. “My biggest motivator is my children,” she shares. This personal connection to her work drives her to continue expanding the business, ensuring a stable and prosperous future for her family. Moreover, Rebekah is deeply committed to honoring her late husband’s legacy. “Building this company is not just about providing for my children but also about leaving a legacy for Sage,” she reflects. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity and a tribute to the lasting impact of her husband’s vision.