Smart Accounting Moves: Devin Nordgran’s Financial Strategies for Contractors

Know your numbers and make them work for you. In this must-hear episode, Jennifer Bagley sits down with Devin Nordgran, Tax Associate at Squire, to unpack real-world financial strategies every home service business owner needs. Learn why smart accounting is more than just end-of-year cleanup, and how proactive planning puts money back in your pocket. Devin shares top tax-saving tactics, breaks down what the new “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBA) means for contractors, and offers powerful insights into leveraging R&D credits for AI investments. Discover the practice of cost segregation studies, the truth about bonus depreciation, and why your accountant should be your most trusted advisor, not just a tax filer.Perfect for HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and construction business owners who want clarity, peace of mind, and bigger profits.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction & Meet Devin Nordgran02:37 – Why Early Accounting Matters for Contractors03:28 – Top Qualities in an Accountant: Peace of Mind, Clarity, Time06:52 – The Mindset Shift: Accountant as Business Asset10:20 – R&D Credits for AI and Tech Investments16:19 – Tips for Tracking R&D Expenses Early17:21 – The New Tax Bill (OBBA): Key Changes for Contractors18:16 – Bonus Depreciation & Cost Segregation Explained19:49 – QBI Deduction, No Federal Tax on Overtime, Credit Sunsets22:46 – Homeowner Rebates and Credits: Last Call Before They Expire25:51 – How Construction, Solar & Other Trades Companies Are Impacted27:51 – Q4 Priorities: Budgeting, Tax Planning, and Forward Strategy34:44 – Pass-Through Entity Tax Update36:47 – Budgeting Best Practices & Building a Winning Financial Team39:43 – Squire’s Full-Service Approach & Strategic Partnerships41:54 – Navigating Multi-State Sales Tax, Compliance & Lessons Learned44:18 – Final Takeaways & How to Contact SquireGuest Details:Devin NordgranTitle: Tax Associate, SquireBackground: Devin Nordgran is part of Squire’s full accounting and fractional CFO team, serving home service businesses across the U.S. With deep expertise in tax planning, R&D credits, cost segregation studies, and strategic financial advisory, Devin helps business owners unlock clarity, reduce tax burden, and drive long-term growth. Squire is recognized for transforming accounting from an “expense” to a true business asset—providing comprehensive support, real-time advice, and trusted partnerships.Relevant Links:SquireSquire Construction ServicesConnect with Devin on LinkedInEnergy Star Product EligibilityCatalyst for the Trades PodcastCI Web GroupThe Opus & Golds GroupEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.