Hardwood is a product of nature and therefore imperfect. But in her grand scheme, Mother Nature created perhaps the ultimate building material. Consider hardwood’s beauty, variety of species, structural integrity, and overall versatility, especially as it pertains to hardwood flooring.

Fans of HGTV recently got their first look at the Urban Oasis Tour 2012, feasting their eyes on the fully furnished 1,700-square-foot luxury condominium that is the centerpiece of this year’s $900,000 grand-prize giveaway.

You’re a successful floor-covering retailer or flooring contractor who has spent many years primarily working the residential home building and remodeling markets. But have you ever found yourself walking through a shopping mall where a new store was being built, seeing the hardwood floors being installed, and wishing that you got kind of work?

Lee Lacocca’s famous quote, “Lead, follow or get out of the way!” From the early 1980s has a much more profound meaning today when you apply it to the new model of retail selling affecting the way you will be, or already are, doing business.

Let’s face it: Everyone claims they have the best quality, service, delivery, and price. But the fact is, that’s just not possible. So when it comes to marketing and producing your brand of hardwood flooring, it’s imperative that every employee on your team is totally committed to being a market niche leader and improving profitability each year.

On Wednesday, Aug. 1, fans of HGTV got their first glimpse of the network’s third annual Urban Oasis Giveaway at hgtv.com/urbanoasis, getting a sneak peek of the newest residence and availing themselves of a full virtual tour.

When I previously wrote about wood flooring in “passing the test of time,” I did not take antique heart pine flooring into the equation. This unique and rare historical product takes the adage to an entirely different level.