Case Study:
DockedLiving
The Challenge
DockedLiving, a fast-growing real estate investment firm run by two first-time founders, had reached a breaking point.
- The leadership team had hit a skills ceiling.
- The entire company was experiencing burnout.
- Operations relied on inefficient manual processes.
- Despite growth, the business remained cash-flow negative with limited runway.
They recognized the need for outside leadership to stabilize operations, drive revenue, and build a foundation for long-term growth.
Objective
Solution
Return to Profitability
Stop financial losses and establish a path to positive cash flow. This meant identifying immediate revenue opportunities and setting financial guardrails to stabilize the business.
Revenue Optimization
- Engaged directly with existing investors.
- Designed a transparent fee restructuring plan aligned with enhanced returns.
Reduce Burnout
Streamline manual processes and eliminate inefficiencies weighing down the team. By cutting repetitive work and improving workflows, we aimed to restore energy and focus.
Operational Efficiency
- Implemented a real-estate specific CRM.
- Established milestones, roles, responsibilities, and risk management.
Build Sustainable Operations
Introduce systems and culture designed for long-term scalability and resilience. The goal was to ensure that DockedLiving could grow without slipping back into old patterns.
Cultural Sustainability
- Introduced an operating system with quarterly/annual goals and weekly accountability.
- Instituted structured team meetings and one-on-ones.
RESULT
Revenue Growth
40% increase from restructured client agreements.
Improved Efficiency
Reduced manual workload, freeing capacity and reducing stress.
Sustainable Culture
Clear goals, accountability, and stronger team cohesion.
Conclusion
Through fractional COO leadership, DockedLiving shifted from financial instability and team burnout to a position of strength. By restructuring revenue models, streamlining operations, and implementing a sustainable operating system, the company not only reversed its cash flow challenges but also built the foundation for long-term success.
What began as a business under strain is now a high-functioning organization with renewed clarity, accountability, and confidence in its future. DockedLiving’s transformation highlights the power of experienced operational leadership—unlocking hidden potential, creating lasting systems, and positioning the company for sustainable growth in a competitive market.
