The Nugget Newspaper's Partners in Construction 2020 // 2020-04-22

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Construction

REAL ESTATE • AT THE TABLE

2020

Partners P

OUT L L PU CE N E R REFE ION SECT

in Construction

The Skilled Craftsmen & Industry Experts Who Serve Central Oregon

pg. 9

pg. 4

The ethic of genuine craftsmanship is alive and well in Central Oregon — and it’s not just for those with a big budget to work with. No matter what the scale of your project, you’re getting quality work from people who are invested in Sisters and truly care about a job well done.

pg. 12

Sisters is a place where people seek to create their dream home, either building from scratch or through extensive remodeling. Now, the craftsman’s commitment to quality and value for every dollar spent is more important than ever. Fortunately, Sisters is home to some of the finest craftsmen and builders to be found in the Pacific Northwest.

These are outfits that could build anything anywhere. They choose to be in Sisters. One reason, obviously, is that there is a market for their skills and expertise. But there are deeper reasons. These partners in construction value the connection that can be found in working on behalf of their friends and neighbors and their community. And now more than ever, that really matters.

pg. 2 Hayden Homes committed to affordability.....pg. 2 You’re probably ready for a new roof ................................pg. 4 Riding to the rescue in plumbing emergencies.......pg. 4

Engineering for value in the home ....................... pg. 5 Safety, reliability key to tree care in Sisters Country ...pg. 6 Robinson & Owen is a Sisters powerhouse ...................pg. 8

Jim Cornelius, Editor in Chief The Nugget Newspaper

Striving for excellence in construction, renovation.......................................pg. 9 Helping residents thrive ........pg. 10

Craftsman loves working in stone and brick ..................... pg. 11 Sisters Fence Company builds a strong reputation ................. pg. 12

A Special Section presented by The Nugget Newspaper

2

Partners in Construction // The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

Hayden Homes committed to affordability

By Jim Cornelius editor in chief

Affordability is at the core of Hayden Homes’ mission.

Hayden Homes’ Regional Director Chris Davis notes that the goal of each community is to build at “the highest quality at the lowest possible cost” in order to serve underserved rural markets.

Starting home prices are based on the area median income threshold in a community rather than being driven by market rate of the homes. In turn, Hayden Homes’ homes are virtually always “the most competitivelypriced homes in all of the communities we build in.”

The commitment to affordability is especially apparent in Hayden Homes’ McKenzie Meadows Village project, which is now underway in Sisters. The 195-plus-unit development combines 116 single-family detached homes, 18 single-family attached/ townhomes, and 61-65 multi-family units plus 3.32 acres of open space, and recreational amenities and supporting infrastructure.

Among the homes built in the three-phase development will be 10 homes dedicated to affordable housing for families qualifying at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) threshold of 80 percent or below of Adjusted Median Income (AMI). The homes are being made available through the First Story program, Hayden Homes’ nonprofit charitable arm.

“What we’re doing in Sisters is the largest, most impactful project the nonprofit has done,” said First Story Executive Director Claire Duncan.

Three families have been selected for First Story homes in the initial phase of the project, which is expected to take three years to complete.

“All three families are the first in their families to own their own home,” Duncan said.

Two of the three families currently live and work in Sisters.

The nonprofit First Story reached out into the Sisters community to seek applicants and to

photo provided

help prospective homeowners prepare for the responsibilities and burdens of home ownership.

“Those families then participate in a homeownership class through NeighborImpact,” Duncan said. “That’s where we feel the magic really starts to happen.”

First Story’s affordable loan program provides zero-down, zero-interest, 30-year loans to qualified individuals purchasing their first home.

The First Story homes are triplex units — but they are only attached at the garage and do not share a living-space wall, giving them the feel of a single-family detached home.

They are 1,058 square feet with three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

“This is a brand-new home plan designed specifically for McKenzie Meadows,” Duncan noted.

They come with appliances, air conditioning, fencing and landscaping in place.

“We sell all of our homes move-in-ready,” Duncan said.

Since 1989, Hayden Homes has built over 16,000 homes in

photo provided

underserved, secondary markets throughout Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, making them the largest privately owned new homebuilder in the Pacific Northwest.

Economies of scale help to keep land and materials costs down so that Hayden Homes can be affordable to working families and first-time homebuyers.

Homes in McKenzie Meadows Phase I will run from 1,058 to 2,042 square feet with prices start in the upper $200,000 range.

Davis said they’re planning for a July grand opening for the development’s model home.

While COVID-19 impacts have led to the sales and office staff working from home, it has not had significant impact on construction. Crews are out on the site daily, and the supply chain for materials has not been interrupted, Davis reported.

While the initial First Story homes in the development are spoken for, there are still opportunities for families to qualify for the next phases.

“We’ll be accepting applications for the next homes we will be building at the end of this year,” Duncan said.

Those interested may monitor the application process by visiting FirstStory.org and clicking on the “own a home” tab. There is a special section on McKenzie Meadows, which includes the floorplan for the units.

The wait to apply can be beneficial.

“It can take a year for a family to be ready,” Duncan noted.

A prospective homebuyer can spend that time working on debtto-income ratio and saving money to be prepared to become a homeowner.

Every time a Hayden Homes home is sold, one-eighth of one

percent of the sale price goes to First Story. The funds collected are distributed into the local community, where First Story makes chari­ table grants in support of community programs.

For the sale of a new home, Hayden Homes pays the percentage. When that first buyer sells the home, they pay the same percentage and so on, each time the house sells.

“Deschutes County is one of our largest recipients of this grant funding, so hundreds of organizations have received this grant funding,” Duncan noted.

Hayden Homes and First Story have made considerable contributions to Sisters High School, the Sisters Kiwanis Food Bank, the veterans outreach programs, Central Oregon Council on Aging and many more projects and programs. Nearly 700 charities providing shelter, food, emergency relief and services to families in crisis, homeless teens and veterans have received a grant from First Story.

While Sisters may be one of the smaller communities Hayden Homes builds in, their footprint has been large. Their Village at Cold Springs development is now complete, and McKenzie Meadows Village — which Davis notes “is a pretty big project for us” — will add to the inventory of housing for the community.

Davis notes that the location of the development — right next to Sisters Middle School and Sisters High School, and close to the National Forest — make it a perfect spot for families.

Through their approach to building and the First Story program, Hayden Homes is offering an affordable opportunity to many families to call Sisters home.

The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

// Partners in Construction

3

4

Partners in Construction // The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

You’re probably ready for a new roof

Riding to the rescue in plumbing emergencies

By Jim Cornelius editor in chief

By Jim Cornelius editor in chief

There are a lot of roofs in Sisters Country that are ready for replacement — whether the homeowners realize it or not. A roof in this country realistically lasts from about 21 to 25 years. Old concrete tile roofs or shake roofs are almost certainly at the end of their life, and there are telltale signs that your composite asphalt shingles are giving out.

If you’re seeing “sand” in your gutters or downspouts (a sign that shingles are breaking down) or shiny or white spots or curling ridges… it’s time.

Getting your roof replaced at a reasonable cost with quality materials and workmanship means seeking out a reliable company — like Elite Roofing. They work with virtually every kind of product and application, and they have the experience to get the job done quickly, efficiently — and to the highest standard.

“Most of our employees have been with us for a really long time,” said owner Jon Corbett.

That means each member of a roofing crew knows his job. And that makes a difference both in the quality and consistency of the work and the timeframe needed to complete it.

“I think you end up with a better quality product in the long run,”

Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for good times — they happen when they happen, and homeowners need someone they can rely on to help.

For more than a quarter-century, that’s been Sweeney Plumbing.

“We try to come in and kind of save the day when people are in dire straits with plumbing and they don’t know what to do,” said Zach Sweeney, who is now the second generation running the family business. “If you need a plumber, usually you need a quick response.”

Sweeney Plumbing has always prided itself on treating everyone from its nine employees to its customers like family.

Sweeney Plumbing handles everything from service calls to complete plumbing on new homes and commercial buildings. The crew is very thorough in its work plumbing a house, knowing that it’s more than a job — they are often at work on a family’s Sisters dream home.

The Sweeney Plumbing showroom features fixtures from toilets to tubs and sinks; kitchen and bathroom faucets from all of the major manufacturers like Delta, Kohler, Moen and Grohe. Customers are invited to peruse the showroom and handle the merchandise to see what

photo provided

Corbett said. “It doesn’t take quite as long to get the job done.”

There’s no getting around the fact that a tear-off is messy, but Elite Roofing makes a point of being as clean as possible through the job, and a cleanup crew comes in at the end with magnets to make sure there are no stray nails laying around your driveway.

Estimates are also efficient, using computer modeling for measuring, and a consultation will present options for materials and warranty coverage so the client can make an informed decision.

Replacing a roof is a significant and important project for a homeowner; it pays to seek out experience and expertise so that you can get the work done and not have to worry about it for another couple of decades.

they like. If what’s on display in the showroom isn’t enough of a selection, Sweeney has access to local distributors’ showrooms and can arrange a tour.

But it’s not the fixtures that make Sweeney Plumbing what it is — it’s an ethic of service and respect, hard work and professionalism.

They make a point of respecting the homes and properties where they do their work. Each crew totes a shop vac on their van for thorough cleanup and they wear booties to make sure they don’t track in. Under current conditions, they are careful to follow guidelines and maintain all health protocols.

We try to be as clean and efficient at possible.

— Zach Sweeney “We try to be as clean and efficient as possible,” Zach said.

Reliable, responsible, professional: That’s the way Sweeney Plumbing has worked for going on three decades in their hometown.

• Re-Roof & New Construction • Composite, Metal, Flat & Cedar Shake Products • Residential & Custom Home Framing • Gutter Installation • Free Estimates • Financing Available • Transferable Warranties • 10-Year Workmanship Guarantee

FAMILY OWNED SISTERS PROUD LOCAL. RELIABLE. PROFESSIONAL. Residential/Commercial New Construction Emergency Service Repairs & Remodels Experienced, Reliable Team

Family Owned & Operated for 20 Years • CCB#203769

541-526-5143

541-549-4349 260 N. Pine St., Sisters Licensed Bonded / Insured CCB#87587

The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

// Partners in Construction

Where construction investments become reality

photo provided

Engineering for value in the home

By Jim Cornelius editor in chief

“The most expensive handmade product that people buy… is a house,” Chuck Koon of DCK Construction says.

In a long career in the construction industry, Chuck and his son Don have found many ways to provide solid value while keeping costs down. DCK offers standardized plans and the ability for the customer to customize those plans in strategic, cost-effective ways.

“We’re not a total custom home builder,” Chuck explained. “We have economy of scale and keep the prices down by having standardized plans.”

But those plans can be adapted to specific customer needs and desires. Chuck loves working with clients to meet the needs of both their lifestyle and their budget.

“That’s always been part of the business that I enjoy,” he said.

Don notes that customer input shapes their business, from homebuilding to remodeling.

“We’ve changed our homes based on what homebuyers have told us that I didn’t even think of,” he said. “We always listen to our homeowners.”

DCK has built homes from Klamath Falls to Prineville, Broken Top and many homes in Eagle Crest, just east of Sisters.

They were named “Preferred Builder Partner” by Eagle Crest and Running Y Ranch Resorts and have won numerous honors in Central Oregon, including 2003 Central Oregon Tour of Homes Best Design and Best of Show; Top 100 Best Master-Planned Communities named by Where to Retire Magazine; Redmond Chamber of Commerce Award for Most Innovative Product & Service; and the Summit Award for Excellence.

Chuck followed his father

into the plumbing business in California, then branched out into designing coin-operated laundries for Maytag and Whirlpool corporations. He’s always enjoyed the engineering aspect of the business as well.

Chuck and his wife were working in San Diego when they started looking at places to retire. Like so many, they decided on Central Oregon and bought a condominium at Eagle Crest, then moved to a home of their own favorite design.

Rather than retiring outright, he started building in Central Oregon.

Don worked for several firms doing commercial construction work before partnering up with his father in DCK Construction.

He’s applied steel framing construction he employed in commercial work to home construction — and DCK is looking to move back into commercial construction to take advantage of Don’s expertise.

Currently, they do all kinds of work, including new home construction, remodels, tenant improvements and multi-family buildings, and they offer a variety of interior design services.

“We can build just about anything,” Don said.

Their work is readily seen at Eagle Crest.

Much of their work is based around presenting options for multiple copyrighted plans and the ability for buyers to choose the right options and modify plans as needed to meet their needs, all while keeping costs under control.

The ultimate goal is creating a happy home for a happy client.

Chuck and Don want their homebuyers to end up “having a home they can stay in, entertain in, and enjoy for many years to come.”

DCK Construction

Family-Owned. Hands-On.

75 Years Combined Experience 700+ Custom Homes • Multi-Family Developments Commercial & Tenant Improvements

Each custom home includes FREE design assistance to truly reflect your personal tastes and budget, and a 10-year home warranty.

Preferred Builder Partners: • Yarrow & Bitterbrush Estates, Madras • Running Y Ranch, Klamath Falls CCB#204139

• Eagle Crest, Redmond

541-480-1199 • 541-279-8192

5

6

Partners in Construction // The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

Safety, reliability key to tree care in Sisters Country

By Jim Cornelius editor in chief

A lot has changed in Sisters and the world in recent weeks — but the need to care for our trees remains.

Doing that job right requires a wide range of knowledge and experience; the right equipment for the job; and a commitment to safety and reliability.

James Hatley and 4 Brothers Tree Service has quickly built a reputation in Sisters Country for responsiveness, reliability and high-quality work. That reputation allowed Hatley to run two crews last summer to keep up with demand for his services.

Tree work is something of a calling for Hatley. He’s been in the trade since he was 18 in Yakima, Washington, and he launched 4 Brothers Tree Service in Central Oregon in May, 2017. Since then, the business has been thriving.

The company is named in honor of his four young sons and the logo is a silhouette of the boys.

Family is a key aspect of the way Hatley operates.

“I’ve always been in family business,” he said. “My dad and my grandpa had a wrecking yard in Washington for 33 years and all the companies I’ve worked for have been family owned and run.”

The family aspect puts “a little bit more integrity into the work, I

believe. A little more caring in the work. It puts it a little more on the personal level than the business level to me.”

4 Brothers Tree Service provides a full range of services — tree removal, pruning, stumpgrinding, fire-fuel reduction, lotclearing and commercial thinning.

In winter, they provide snowremoval services.

He’s well-equipped to handle any tree service job, from a planned project to an emergency such as a tree limb falling on your house or vehicle. That helps ensure that work is done in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible.

“The equipment I’ve acquired has made the job faster and therefore less expensive for the customer,” Hatley said.

Over the past year, he’s added a larger, more efficient stump grinder and a new four-wheeldrive bucket truck.

Their grinders are able to fit through 36-inch wide gates to access hard-to-reach backyard stumps.

“For a surface grind we will grind the stump below grade so you may grow grass where the stump was or if you choose to replant another tree or shrub, we’ll grind the stump completely out,” Hatley said.

When finished, the wood chips

are raked into a mound over the concerns about high mortality hole and the lawn is left looking events have not come to pass so better than before. Hatley notes far. that many homeowners enjoy “There was supposed to be using the remaining wood chips as a wave of beetle kill coming mulch for flowerbeds. through,” he said. “I haven’t really “As an option, we can remove seen a lot of it.” the wood chips, fill the hole with While it might seem that topsoil, apply seed/straw or sod, they’re in the straightforward or leave a hole so you can plant business of cutting down trees, your next valuable tree,” he said.

4 Brothers Tree Service is really 4 Brothers also provides lot about the health of the landscape. clearing services — not just trees They’ll save trees wherever they and shrubs, but also removal of can. stumps, logs, rocks, dirt, gravel, Often 4 Brothers Tree Service demolition, grass, weeds, etc. can save a vulnerable co-dom“Don’t be afraid to ask,” Hatley inant tree (one that forks into said. “We’ll come take a look and more than one trunk) by tying it help any way we can.” off so that the trunks grow closer A couple of days’ lead-time together and are less likely to split is usually all that is necessary to away. Or, if one trunk is less domobtain an estimate for work. inant, sometimes that one can be The 4 Brothers Tree Service limbed off. crew is working through the “No two trees are alike,” Hatley current coronavirus crisis. said. “It’s all job-specific — treeDiscussions about the work are specific, you could say.” done by phone or at a distance, A dead or dying tree can pose a and crews mainbig hazard to life tain social disand property, and There are still things tance and are property owners just working and that need to be done should regularly going home to assess the condias far as fire fuel their families. tion of their trees. reduction. Necessary “There are still “Look up!” things that need Hatley urges. things as opposed to be done as far Sometimes to aesthetics. as fire fuel reducbranches are bro— James Hatley tion,” Hatley notken and go unnoed. “Necessary ticed until wind things as opposed or snow brings to aesthetics.” them down. Junipers — as many Customers usually know what folks in Sisters discovered last they want him to do, but Hatley month — are brittle and subject to will assess conditions and risk. breaking under load.

Sometimes he is able to allay a Look for discolored needles — homeowner’s concern about a tree that’s a sign of ill health. A tree and let them know it’s fine. that has been girdled by having When it’s evident that trees the bark chewed off by animals have to come down, Hatley will is in bad shape, too. It’s best to provide a variety of options as to be proactive rather than risking a disposition of the wood — leave catastrophic event. it down, haul it out, cut firewood Hatley enjoys climbing.

— that give customers a range of “I don’t mind being 100 feet in prices to choose from. the air,” he said with a smile.

Many homeowners strongly But he also acknowledges that desire to save a tree, and Hatley his is one of the most dangerwill do everything he can to make ous jobs around, and safety for that happen. He notes that, “we all concerned is always the top don’t like topping trees, because priority. it’s not right — it’s not good for Another important priority is the tree.” Under certain circum- making sure you have whatevstances they’ll do so because er permits and paperwork are “sometimes it’s the safest way required before starting to remove while still keeping the tree.” trees. Check with your homeownHatley is glad that Sisters ers association or with the City of escaped the heavy snowfall that Sisters about requirements and damaged so many trees a couple make sure all is in order before of winters ago. starting work, as fines for illegal “I’d rather not go out taking tree removal can be steep. down broken trees — because the And if you have any questions, customer didn’t want that tree James Hatley and 4 Brothers Tree removed,” he said.

Service are ready to come to your He’s also pleased to see that property to make an assessment.

The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

// Partners in Construction

IN AN EMERGENCY, YOU AREN’T UP A TREE...

!

E R WE A

• 15 YEARS TREE/ARBOR EXPERIENCE • Family Owned & Operated • FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING • 24-Hr. Emergency & Storm-Related Service • INSURANCE CLAIMS • Free, Accurate Estimates • SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNTS Our Services: Tree removal, tree trimming and pruning, deadwood removal, crown maintenance: thinning, cleaning and elevating, brush removal and chipping, cabling and bracing, lot clearing, fire prevention defensible space clearing, crane services, stump grinding, snow removal (roofing and snowblowing).

CALL US TODAY

541-815-2342 CCB#215057

7

8

Partners in Construction // The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

Robinson & Owen is a Sisters powerhouse

By Jim Cornelius editor in chief

Robinson & Owen Heavy Construction is a full-service excavation, grading and rock production company based in Sisters.

The company was started in 1996 by Rod Robinson and Michael Owen and has a 25-year history of completing private and public projects throughout Oregon.

Rod and Mike started working together in logging operations in 1986. As the logging industry declined, they decided to turn their experience and expertise in operating heavy equipment into their own business. And they took their ethic with them. As Mike puts it: “If we’re honest, fair and follow through with everything we say we’re going to do, everything will be good.”

With the experience of longterm employees, company-owned material sources, and a wide range of equipment, Robinson & Owen has a history of finishing projects, large and small, on time and on budget.

Robinson & Owen has been involved in the construction of more than 75 subdivision

infrastructures in the Central Oregon area and has earned an excellent reputation working in environments that involve a multitude of restoration projects, where the protection of the surrounding ecosystems is of utmost importance. Robinson and Owen has also successfully completed countless government contracts for the BLM and U.S. Forest Service, performing road reconstruction, material processing, instream fish habitat construction, culvert removal and construction, water tank construction and dam removals.

Robinson & Owen’s heavy construction fleet includes 10 highway trucks, three off-road rock trucks, five wheel loaders, eight excavators, full-scale rock production equipment, and grading equipment for small and large projects.

The company has also given back to the community, grading and trenching Sisters’ Little League fields, providing work and materials for the Sisters Park & Recreation District’s bike park, excavating SPRD’s skate park and sponsoring Sisters’ OHSET team and Sisters Rodeo.

Top Notch Pole Buildings, LLC A Notch Above The Rest Any Size, Anywhere

FULL-SERVICE EXCAVATION, GRADING AND ROCK PRODUCTION FROM SMALL PROJECTS...

Little league fields, trailheads, bike & skate parks, and rock & landscape products.

TO LARGE PROJECTS... Stream fish habitat construction, water & septic installation, excavating subdivisions, and building roadways & runways using our own aggregate.

Partner with us on your next project!

Mike Owen & Rod Robinson | 541-549-1848 750 Buckaroo Trail, Sisters | CCB#124327

Jeff Meadors CCB #218429 541-410-7983 jwmeadors63@gmail.com 69240 Enewetak Ln., Sisters

The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

// Partners in Construction

9

Striving for excellence in construction, renovation

By Jim Cornelius editor in chief

A family connection to Black Butte Ranch led Mike Dyer into the construction business in Sisters, where he has built a reputation for creativity and expert craftsmanship.

While Mike was growing up on the beach in Corpus Cristi, Texas, his future wife, Jill, was growing up vacationing at Black Butte Ranch. The couple met in college in Lubbock, Texas. Mike’s education and early work experience was in a field unrelated to construction — and he found he did not enjoy it. On a visit with Jill’s parents at the Ranch, he was introduced to a local builder, and in 1998, he went to work for the well-regarded contractor. “I was green as all get-out. I didn’t have a clue what I was doing,” Dyer recalled. But it turned out he had a knack for construction — and he fell in love with the work. He learned to work successfully in high-end construction by adhering to a high standard of excellence.

By 2001, when Mike and Jill’s first child was born, he was ready to venture out on his own with Dyer Construction and Renovation. For Dyer and his crew of craftsmen, “good enough” just isn’t. Every

photo provided

person on the crew is expected to always give their best — and that’s the way they want it.

“Building a house is not rocket science, but it requires structural integrity from dirt to roof. ” Mike said. “Every nail, every 2 by 4, every cut builds on the one before.

We are not perfect but we’re always striving for excellence.”

With that commitment, Dyer has developed a reputation that has made them a go-to firm for crafting homes in Black Butte Ranch, Sage Meadow, Coyote Springs, Deer Ridge, Sisters, Bend, and Redmond.

In addition to new construction, Dyer specializes in cohesive remodels, bringing a new project to sync with an existing home.

Many of their clients invest in sustainable homes and are passionate

about “green” projects, as is Dyer himself, who is professionally certified in Earth Advantage Sustainable Homes. Dyer also offers “universal design” principles that allow for a home to continue to be suitable as the Sisters population ages in place. Dyer points to a home in Pine Meadow Village where they installed an elevator, and to a home on Jordan Road that featured wider hallways and doorways that allowed the home to remain functional for an aging client.

“It’s our job to provide ideas to improve on the design, and it’s your job to say yes or no,” Dyer said. Dyer recognizes that residential construction can be a very emotional process — after all, home truly is where the heart is. For many people, a home is

a family legacy. Mike is good at helping people work through the anxieties and pressures of the building or renovation process.

And he loves it when clients give him and his crew the freedom to be creative. He cites a home at Black Butte Ranch where “they really allowed us to be artistic.”

With freedom to innovate, the house became Dyer’s biggest-budget home and one of his favorite projects. “That house is beautiful and the design stands out,” he said.

Clients looking for the highest level of quality in realizing vision for their home have learned to turn to Dyer Construction and Renovation. And a commitment to the craft keep Mike Dyer and his crew turning out to the job site each day loving what they do.

We craft custom homes that reflect the lives of our clients and the values of Dyer…

Our experience was enhanced because of the flexibility, vision, and dependability of Mike Dyer.

It was also good to work with a contractor who takes pride and delight in his work.

— Kevin & Shannon M.

From our first deck in 2001, to the custom homes we now build from excavation to roof,

we love what we do.

Whether new construction or renovation, we build with innovative and energy-saving materials. Our founder, Mike Dyer, is professionally certified in Earth Advantage Sustainable Homes, using cutting edge materials and technology.

For a free initial consultation, call

541-420-8448

dyerconstructionrenovation.com CCB#148365

10

Partners in Construction // The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

Helping residents thrive

By Jim Cornelius editor in chief

For Jenalee Piercey, work is very personal. As a loan originator with Northwest Mortgage Advisors, she helps all types of borrowers find the best and smoothest path to home ownership—a goal that resonates deeply with the Sisters native.

“I started out as a single mom,” she reflected. “And I saw that it was hard to attain home ownership.”

Many people just don’t know the steps to take — and that’s where Piercey’s background, experience and temperament shine.

“I started out in education,” she said. “So I really like to inform people and make things easy to understand.”

Piercey recognizes that every client is different; they have different stories, different goals, different needs. She listens to them and helps them determine the path they seek.

“Jenalee is about solutions,” said Sisters resident Debbie Bucher. “She listens; she asks questions; she makes sure she understands your needs and objectives.

She does not take a cookie-cutter approach in this business, but searches out the best solution for your needs.”

With Northwest Mortgage Advisors, Piercey has a multitude of tools to meet individual needs.

“We fund our own loans, so basically, we’re a mortgage bank,” she said.

There are 31 investors and “each person fits a different investor better.”

Jenalee is patient, understanding that it can take time and work to develop a plan that gets a client over the finish line.

Successful qualification for a mortgage comes down to a relatively simple calculation of income, debts, assets, and credit.

“Each product has different qualifications,” Piercey said.

“Once they have a plan in place, it’s pretty simple from there,” she said. “I show them what debt to pay down first; what’s going to have the biggest impact to improve their credit score… A lot of people are six months to a year out — and that’s OK.” The current economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic are sure to have an impact on clients.

“You can’t be laid off and be approved,” she said. “So that’s affecting people.”

But Piercey remains committed to her service. She educates herself on the state of the market every day, in order to provide the best information possible to her clients.

“That’s my main goal — to be that person,” she said. “They know I’ve got their best interests at heart. There’s something about someone who wants the best for you.”

Piercey is with her clients for the long haul — and that doesn’t stop with a successful completion of a mortgage.

“I am very relationship-oriented and stay connected with people I’ve worked with in a lot of different ways,” she said.

That sense of connection is vital to her. She moved away from Sisters to Southern Oregon for her teaching career — but she came back because she craved the powerful sense of community she finds here, and she wanted that for her children.

In addition to her work with Northwest Mortgage Advisors, Piercey is developing a nonprofit to assist single mothers with access to resources. She’s paying forward help she got in her earlier days.

“I got some help from some really neat ladies from Black Butte Ranch when I was a single mom,” she recalled.

A commitment to education and to service is the hallmark of all that Jenalee Piercey does. She simply wants to help the people of her community thrive.

FINANCE WITH

CONFIDENCE

“As a mortgage loan originator with Northwest Mortgage Advisors, our relationship is my top priority. I look forward to helping you find the best loan product and rates.”

— Jenalee

Mortgage Calculators at www.nwmortgageadvisors.com Apply online with SAME-DAY PRE-APPROVAL...

Northwest Mortgage Advisors is an affiliate of Golden Empire Mortgage, one of the most respected lenders in the industry for 30 years. We offer competitive loan programs and interest rates.

FHA • Conventional Fixed • Refinance Adjustable Rate • Jumbo • VA • USDA Manufactured Homes • Reverse Construction • Home Equity

Jenalee Piercey

Mortgage Loan Officer | NMLS#1778674

541-591-5405

jpiercey@gemcorp.com 411 SW 9th St., Ste. 204, Redmond

NW Mortgage Advisors is a direct lender with their own underwriting authority and a broad investor pool. NMLS# OR ML-#2891

The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

// Partners in Construction

11

Craftsman loves working in stone and brick move here and join him in the construction industry. Cesar and his wife Ruth talked about it — but there was a concern: Cesar had no construction experience.

As Ruth put it, he knew “absolutely nothing” about construction.

They decided to take the plunge anyway, and they moved to Oregon in 2005, where Cesar went to work and Ruth worked in residential cleaning. And it turned out that it was the right move.

Almost immediately, Cesar discovered that he had a knack for masonry — and he loved the craft.

There is a certain satisfaction in laboring in such an elemental medium, and there is an almost endless variety to the work.

“There’s nothing the same, there’s always something different,” Ruth said.

Over the years, Cesar gained a wide range of experience and a mastery of the craft he loves. A couple of years ago, they decided to start their own company, and Lara’s Construction & Cleaning was born. Part of the motivation was a desire to work directly with clients to realize their visions for their home.

Cesar remains the hands and the passion behind the work, even

By Jim Cornelius editor in chief

If a project involves masonry work — fireplaces, interior and exterior stone or brick work, perhaps a barbecue or a paved walk — Cesar Alvarez will not only get the job done, he’ll revel in it.

The lead craftsman for Lara’s Construction & Cleaning absolutely loves stonework. And he loves pleasing his clients.

“When you’re done and the house looks different and they’re happy, that makes me happy,” Cesar said.

Jonathan Hicks, a Sisters resident and real estate professional, is one of the happy ones. He had Lara’s Construction & Cleaning build a fireplace in his home and lay pavers outside.

“Ruth and Cesar have been a pleasure to work with through multiple projects,” Hicks reported. “They offer the highest quality craftsmanship with reasonable price points. I regularly recommend their services to friends and clients.”

Cesar came to his passion for masonry on a winding path.

Fifteen years ago, he was working in the restaurant business in Chino, California. A friend who lived in Oregon urged him to

photo provided

when he has others working with him on the job.

“Cesar is always there,” Ruth said. “He’s always making sure the job is good.”

Reliability, craftsmanship and

a fair price are the hallmarks of Lara’s Construction & Cleaning’s work. That commitment, along with a pure love for the work, leaves everybody happy and satisfied.

OUR WORK IS SET IN STONE,

TO BE ENJOYED FOR YEARS TO COME. Artistry comes in many forms and we are proud to create home accents, fireplaces, patios, walkways and more that give your home a personality all its own.

Stonework adds one-of-a-kind texture, richness and color to any project.

Masonry is energy saving, mold and fire resistant and affordable.

struction & n o

aning Cle

Lara’s C

What can we design for you?

Call today for your free estimate!

541-350-3218 Bonded & Insured | CCB#223701

12

Partners in Construction // The Nugget Newspaper // April 22, 2020

Sisters Fence Company builds a strong reputation

By Jim Cornelius editor in chief

If the old saying that “good fences make good neighbors” is true, Pat Burke and his crew at Sisters Fence Company are doing more than their share to make Sisters Country neighborly.

For the past five years, Sisters Fence Company has been serving the Sisters community with an ethic of reliability, fair pricing and customer satisfaction. They take on a wide variety of projects, from backyard fences to ranch work.

“When I needed a permanent round pen for starting colts I called Sisters Fence Company,” recalled Sisters resident and horse trainer Craig Rullman. “I did that because it is important to me — and recent events show us all how important it is — to support local businesses wherever I can, and also because I was confident that Pat and his crew would build me a professional round pen that would be perfect for my needs. I wasn’t disappointed. Pat came in with a great bid, and his crew got after it. They were fast, efficient, and professional, and most of all it was fun to work with them.

“In the end, ahead of schedule, Sisters Fence Company built me a highly professional pen for

starting fine young colts, and added a thoughtful touch with a hand carved sign over the gate.”

That kind of customer satisfaction is Sisters Fence Company’s goal — every time.

“I try to instill that in the employees — ‘Hey, we have to go the extra mile; one, because that’s just what we do. Our customers need to be happy and feel like they’ve been taken care of in the project.”

Sisters Fence Company was founded as organically as it’s possible for a small business to start.

“When I built my fence behind my house … my neighbors asked me, ‘can you build my fence?’”

Burke notes that he always strives to maximize the value the customer gets out of their investment.

Clear communication with clients on costs, scope of work, materials and the desired end product is key to a successful project.

Burke says his crew, “really try to figure out what they want and how they can do it, so when the project is complete, they say, ‘This is what I envisioned, and thank you.’”

Sisters Fence Company prides itself on being “locally-owned and craftsman-built.”

While Sisters Fence Company can build virtually any type of fence, they also do snow removal in winter and they build decks and install brick pavers. In fact, one of Burke’s favorite projects is a 1,500-square-foot brick paver project that involved a complete concrete tear-out.

“There were a lot of moving parts, and it came out really well,” Burke said.

Learning, adapting, finding new niches, and developing their capabilities are among the great satisfactions of the work for the Sisters Fence Company crew.

Client Bill Willitts noted that he asked Sisters Fence Company to build a Priefert fence, an unusual all-steel ranch fence, for the first time. “It’s tricky to put in and get

photo provided

it right,” Willitts said. “And (they) got it right. The gates are right, everything’s right.”

Burke also emphasizes supporting the local economy. Sisters Fence Company strives at every opportunity to buy materials and supplies in Sisters and Central Oregon. Burke grew up here and he wants his company to be integrated into the life of the community.

“This is our community. We’ve been here since ’94 — we’re here for the long haul,” he said.

Burke has always carried an ethic of service, and that’s ultimately how he sees his company’s work. “Looking back, seeing what we’ve done — it’s fun,” he said. “We enjoy it. We’re helping people.”

Exceeding Expectations CRAFTSMANSHIP and SUPERIOR CUSTOMER SERVICE

through

Locally Owned. Craftsman Built.

Residential & Commercial Fencing, Decks, Pavers, Gates Snow Removal Stain & Paint, Repair Top-Notch Installation Using Local Materials Whenever Possible Competitive Pricing, Best Value

www.SistersFenceCompany.com FREE ESTIMATES... 541-588-2062 CCB#288388 • Licensed • Bonded • Insured