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Builder Corner: Diamond Builders

Monday, January 6, 2025

A Legacy of Excellence in Custom Home Building

Since its founding in 1999, Diamond Builders, owned by Colin and Paula Woods, has been a cornerstone of custom home building in Long Grove, Iowa. Over the years, they have built a reputation for excellence, earning multiple accolades, including the 2020 Quad City Times Reader’s Choice Best Homebuilder and recognition in the Parade of Homes by the Quad Cities Home Builders Association. Their long-standing partnership with Amwood Building Systems has also brought numerous President’s Club and Top Builder awards, cementing their status as industry leaders.

A Passion for Building and Community

For Colin and Paula, the journey into the construction industry began with a shared background in teaching. Colin’s father, a self-taught carpenter, inspired his early passion for building. After selling two homes while working as a teacher, Colin realized he could turn his side hustle into a full-time business. Though initially hesitant, Paula joined the company later, managing the finances and her love for the design selection process.

Their teaching roots extend to their community involvement. Colin and Paula have remained active in local schools and sports, volunteering at track meets and supporting booster programs. This connection to their community is a cornerstone of their philosophy, emphasizing relationships and giving back.

Building Dreams with Amwood

Diamond Builders partnered with Amwood Building Systems in 2012 after recognizing the value Amwood brought over competitors. The partnership has been instrumental in the success of Diamond Builders, enabling them to deliver semi and fully custom homes with precision and efficiency. Over the past 11 years, they have constructed around 250 homes with Amwood and more than 500 throughout their career.

Crafting Unique Homes and Lasting Relationships

Diamond Builders specializes in ranch-style homes, including zero-entry designs, and offers homes ranging from $400,000 to $2.5 million. A model home serves as a vital tool for their business, helping clients visualize their dream homes. Their marketing strategy focuses on a strong online presence, including customer testimonials and video content, along with community-centered events like the Parade of Homes.

Referrals and word-of-mouth are their primary sources of leads, supported by a referral program that incentivizes past clients. This commitment to relationships extends to their subcontractors, who play a crucial role in their success.

Honoring Subcontractors with a Special Event

To celebrate their relationships with subcontractors, Diamond Builders hosts an annual Subcontractor Appreciation Party called Woodstock. Held on the Woods’ countryside property, this event brings together around 300 people, including subcontractors, clients, and partners. The gathering features live music, food, drinks, and a festive outdoor setting. It’s a way to thank the people who contribute to their success, from carpenters and realtors to bankers and other collaborators.

In addition to the appreciation party, Diamond Builders maintains strong connections with their subcontractors throughout the year. They deliver logo-branded items as tokens of gratitude and host a holiday potluck to further nurture these relationships.

Balancing Work, Family, and Passions

The Woods’ dedication to family is as integral to their story as their business. Their daughter, Avery, a college graduate and teacher, is a source of pride and joy. Recently, the family collaborated to fix up a small home for Avery, showcasing the same dedication to craftsmanship they bring to their clients’ homes.

Living in the countryside and enjoying a lake home in Missouri, the Woods prioritize family time and flexibility. Colin’s passion for vintage cars reflects his craftsmanship, as he collects and restores classic models and attends car shows whenever possible.

Building a Legacy

Diamond Builders isn’t just about constructing homes; it’s about building trust, community, and lifelong relationships. Their emphasis on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has made them a beacon of excellence in the custom home-building industry. For Colin and Paula Woods, the journey is as rewarding as the destination, and every home they build is a testament to their passion and dedication.

To learn more about Diamond Builders check out their website here.