Business Details
30 Years
experience
Custom Home Builders in Johnston, IA
Select Builders is a custom home construction company founded in 1996 by Rick Laffoon II, a third-generation builder with deep roots in Iowa's construction industry. Our team combines over 25 years of hands-on experience in foundation work and residential development to deliver architecturally distinctive homes that prioritize precision and craftsmanship. We specialize in creating energy-efficient, modern-designed residences ranging from $350,000 to over $1 million, incorporating premium materials like Pella triple-pane windows, Jenn-Air appliances, and custom alder trim. Our process maintains strict quality control from initial planning through completion, ensuring open communication and transparency throughout the building journey. Based in Johnston, Iowa, we focus on luxury walkout ranches and two-story designs with smart home integration, fully finished lower levels, and outdoor living spaces.Our 2x6 construction methods with BiBs insulation systems provide superior energy efficiency while solid-core doors and insulated walls enhance soundproofing. We serve Des Moines Metro areas including Norwalk, Grimes, and Urbandale, maintaining a reputation for integrity through consistent use of trusted subcontractors and material suppliers. Our portfolio showcases properties with expansive great rooms featuring 10-13 foot ceilings, chef-grade kitchens with 10-foot granite islands, and spa-like master bathrooms with heated travertine flooring. Personalized service remains our hallmark - we guide clients through every decision, whether they arrive with existing plans or require assistance in selecting architectural styles that suit their lifestyle needs.
Services
Custom Home Building
Modern Ranch Construction
Walkout Ranch Homes
High-Quality Materials
Personalized Design
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer over 25 years of custom home building experience in the Des Moines metro area
- Our team maintains strict quality control from foundation to final trim work
- We provide personalized, detail-driven service from design to construction completion
- Our energy-efficient homes feature premium materials like Pella windows and Jenn-Air appliances
- We guarantee transparency with consistent use of trusted subcontractors and suppliers
Services
Custom Home Building
We create fully customized luxury homes tailored to individual preferences and lifestyles. Our process begins with collaborative design consultations and continues through construction oversight, ensuring every detail meets exacting standards. We specialize in modern architectural styles with energy-efficient features and premium material selections.
Modern Ranch Construction
Our modern ranch homes feature open-concept layouts, expansive windows, and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces. We incorporate advanced insulation systems, smart home technology, and high-end finishes to create energy-efficient, low-maintenance residences that blend style with practicality.
Walkout Ranch Homes
We specialize in walkout ranch designs that maximize usable space on sloped lots. These homes feature full basements with daylight windows, allowing for additional living areas, entertainment spaces, and outdoor access while maintaining energy efficiency through insulated concrete forms.
High-Quality Materials
We use only top-tier building materials sourced from trusted manufacturers. Our standard features include solid alder doors, travertine tile, custom cabinetry, and energy-efficient mechanical systems to ensure lasting durability, comfort, and aesthetic appeal for every home we build.
Personalized Design
Our team works closely with clients to develop unique floor plans that reflect their specific needs and preferences. From initial concept sketches to final design approvals, we ensure every element - from room dimensions to fixture selections - aligns perfectly with the homeowner's vision and lifestyle.
People
Rick Laffoon II
President
Third-generation builder with 25+ years experience in foundation work and residential construction. Owner of Select Builders since 1996, specializing in luxury custom homes across Central Iowa while maintaining family construction values.
Questions
What makes Select Builders different from other home builders?
We combine generational construction knowledge with modern building techniques, maintaining strict quality control through every phase while using premium materials and providing personalized service.
Do you build homes outside Des Moines Metro area?
While we primarily focus on Des Moines suburbs like Johnston, Norwalk, and Urbandale, we consider projects in surrounding central Iowa communities that align with our construction standards.
Can I use my own home plans?
Yes, we welcome clients with existing plans and can help adapt them to meet local building codes, budget requirements, and site-specific considerations while maintaining design integrity.
What energy-efficient features do your homes include?
Our homes feature 2x6 construction with BiBs insulation systems, triple-pane Pella windows, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and LED lighting packages for optimal energy performance and cost savings.
How long does the custom home building process take?
Typical construction timelines range from 6 to 12 months depending on project complexity, weather conditions, and material availability while maintaining rigorous quality standards.
