Business Details
Custom Home Builders in New England
Top Notch Homes is a family-owned enterprise rooted in Salem, NH, with over 25 years of experience in crafting high-quality residential communities. Founded by Michael Wakeen, a seasoned home-building professional and active member of the National Association of Home Builders, we combine generational expertise with innovative design to meet modern homeowners' needs. Our team meticulously plans communities that prioritize quality, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, from site layout to landscaping. Michael's son, Shane Wakeen, serves as Project Supervisor, ensuring personalized attention throughout the building process, including a comprehensive 1.5-hour homeowner orientation.Recognized as one of the top 10 builders in Boston and New Hampshire by Builder Magazine, we pride ourselves on transparency, responsiveness, and a commitment to exceeding client expectations. Our accolades include special recognition from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for affordable housing leadership. Every home we build reflects our dedication to craftsmanship, client satisfaction, and creating communities that enhance quality of life.
Services
Custom Home Building
Community Development
Land Acquisition
Homeowner Orientation
4-Step System
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of home-building expertise in New England
- Family-owned with personalized attention from start to finish
- Award-winning team recognized by Builder Magazine
- 1.5-hour homeowner orientation for complete transparency
- Meticulously planned communities with quality-focused construction
What people say
Great build quality
Quality home construction
Exceeded expectations
Responsive team
Award-winning neighborhoods
Services
Custom Home Building
We design and build personalized single-family homes tailored to client preferences. Our process includes plan selection, customization options, and hands-on project supervision. Every home undergoes rigorous quality checks and concludes with a comprehensive orientation to ensure complete client understanding of home features and maintenance.
Community Development
Our team creates thoughtfully designed residential communities that balance suburban living with modern convenience. We focus on strategic site layouts, landscaping integration, and access to urban amenities. Each community reflects our commitment to quality construction and long-term resident satisfaction through carefully curated neighborhood features.
Land Acquisition
We actively seek residential land opportunities across Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire. Our approach prioritizes land preservation while developing award-winning neighborhoods. We work directly with landowners to ensure ethical acquisitions that maintain environmental integrity and community character.
Homeowner Orientation
Every client receives a 1.5-hour personalized orientation with our Project Supervisor. This detailed session covers home systems, maintenance requirements, and warranty information. The orientation ensures clients fully understand their new home's features and feel confident in their investment.
4-Step System
Our streamlined approach simplifies home buying through four clear stages: plan selection with customization options, purchase agreement finalization, homeowner orientation, and post-closing punch list completion. This system ensures transparency, reduces stress, and maintains clear communication throughout construction.
People
Michael Wakeen
Founder
With over 20 years in home building, Michael leads Top Notch Homes' vision. Recognized by HUD for affordable housing leadership, he focuses on quality design and community development across New England.
Shane Wakeen
Project Supervisor
Shane oversees daily construction operations and client interactions. He provides personalized guidance throughout the building process and conducts homeowner orientations, ensuring every client's needs are met.
Questions
What areas do TopNotch Homes serve?
We build homes across Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire, focusing on creating communities near major transportation routes and urban amenities.
What home styles are available?
We offer diverse options including Dutch Colonial, Modern Farmhouse, Gambrel, and custom designs to suit various preferences and lifestyles.
How does the 4-step building process work?
Our system includes plan selection with customization, purchase agreement finalization, homeowner orientation, and post-closing punch list completion for a stress-free experience.
What support exists after moving in?
We provide a 1.5-hour homeowner orientation covering all home systems, maintenance requirements, and warranty information for complete confidence in your new home.
Can I customize my home?
Yes! Choose from various floor plans with 3-4 bedrooms, 2-3 car garages, and personalize features through our extensive options selection process.
