Q: Tell us about how “Rico to the Rescue” came to be. How has your expert background in construction and real estate helped you save homeowners from renovation nightmares? What is your inspiration behind making the series?
A: Pretty funny, I was actually interviewed to do a real estate show, but the producer heard my story and what I do for homeowners. We decided to make Rico to the Rescue instead!
Unfortunately, the reason why I know how to help renovation nightmares is because I was in a nightmare myself two different times. My parents got taken advantage of by a bad contractor, and, when I started my own business, I had a general contractor steal from me as well.
The inspiration behind the show is to teach homeowners and contractors alike so they can learn how to do things better without putting families in such financial turmoil.
Q:The second season of “Rico to the Rescue” is slated to air in early 2024. How are you feeling after the success of season one? What can viewers expect ahead of season two? How has your life changed since the show’s premiere?
A: The success from season one was overwhelming. I didn’t realize how many people are dealing with nightmare contractor situations.
In season two, the stakes are a lot higher. Even things I’ve never witnessed before. For example, one episode is about a family of seven with five kids, all living out of the basement and cleaning dishes from a bathroom sink. They are cooking using a propane camping stove. These are situations that contractors put homeowners in. And the things we did to get them back in their home even impressed me!
My life definitely changed dramatically, in a good way. I’ve had a lot of people reach out to me wanting to support all the things we’re doing on HGTV to help these families.
Q: We are seeing an increase in talk surrounding new housing trends such as prefab and 3D printed homes. Do you see these as viable solutions for proper and decent housing in the near future? What are some pros and cons for homeowners that you foresee with trends like these?
A: I have been very involved with different variations of prefabrication homes. I have spoken to many different companies on processes and systems. I truly feel like these can be cost-effective and put a lot more people into homeownership.
Pros would definitely be cost-effectiveness and helping build good communities.
The cons are the majority of 3-D and prefabricated homes will still need to have contractors put together all the mechanical, electrical and plumbing, including finishes up to code. People will still have to find a trusted contractor most of the time.
These homes also offer fewer options for finishes, and they are less customizable. Land development also must be done first.
Q: Back to “Rico to the Rescue”. In the series, we see that apart from securing fantastic contracts, you personally get involved in the renovations, too. What is your secret to working wonders with properties, keeping prices fair and clients happy?
A: That’s actually a phenomenal question. I personally do a lot of the work which saves some money. I also ask for support from the community, including asking businesses to donate materials. The renovations aren’t free, but we meet in the middle with the homeowners and get them back home which is what they wanted to begin with!
Q: We’re in the middle of Hispanic Heritage Month. Tell us about your background and growing up Puerto Rican in the United States. What are your plans to celebrate this month and why do you think it’s important to do so?
A: I was very blessed with great parents–strict parents–but great parentsl. Even though they were first generation out in Pittsburgh, my parents made sure I spoke, danced, and cooked Spanish. I 100% believe it’s important to celebrate this month and focus on showing others the culture that made us who we are.
Q: Obviously, you have been successful in business thanks to hard work. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, builders and realtors?
A: My advice is to be hyper creative with marketing. You need to show people you care versus coming off as trying to get a paycheck. You want to educate versus sell, and focus on building a good reputation over a quick buck. Do the right thing even if it’s the harder route! And find a good mentor with a good reputation. Work for them for free. Their advice will save you years of hardships.