Satterwhite Construction

Satterwhite Construction Inc. stands as one of the most respected custom home builders in the Raleigh-Durham Triangle region of North Carolina. Founded in 1981 by Howard Satterwhite and his wife Elizabeth, this family-owned company has grown from humble beginnings into a full-service residential construction powerhouse with over four decades of experience crafting exceptional homes.

Howard Satterwhite brought decades of hands-on homebuilding experience to the Raleigh area, establishing a foundation of quality craftsmanship and integrity that continues to define the company today. Now in its second generation of family leadership, Satterwhite Construction remains committed to the values that Howard and Elizabeth instilled from day one.

Specialties and Services

Satterwhite Construction Inc. operates as a premier residential custom home builder specializing in energy-efficient, expertly-designed new homes that consistently win awards year after year. Their comprehensive service offerings include:

• Residential New Home Construction
• Architectural Design through their in-house design team
• Interior Design consultation and coordination
• Project Management from start to finish
• Grading and Land Development
• Real Estate Services

The company builds throughout Wake, Durham, Franklin, Granville, and Orange Counties, serving communities including Raleigh, Wake Forest, Durham, Creedmoor, Knightdale, Wendell, Zebulon, Rolesville, and Youngsville.

Home Styles and Quality

What truly sets Satterwhite Construction apart is their commitment to building homes that families can call their own. Every home receives the highest level of attention to detail, with the company's philosophy centered on creating residences that exceed expectations and make families feel like part of the Satterwhite family.

All homes are built to Energy Star 3.0 standards or higher, incorporating the most up-to-date interior design and construction practices available. This commitment to energy efficiency not only benefits the environment but also translates to lower utility costs for homeowners.

Reputation

Client Testimonials

The true measure of any builder lies in the words of their clients. Satterwhite Construction has earned glowing reviews from homeowners throughout the Triangle:

"As new residents to the area, we were unsure about the home building process; however, working with Satterwhite Construction eased our minds in every way. They made the building process a simple and enjoyable experience from the first steps of designing our custom home to the closing process."

"Working with Satterwhite Construction was a very productive experience for us. We have worked with Satterwhite twice to build a new custom home in the Sweetwater subdivision. We would definitely recommend working with Satterwhite Construction if you're in the market for a custom-built home in the Raleigh area."

"Working with Satterwhite Construction was such a dream building experience! They went above and beyond to design a home that matched our style but also incorporated features we didn't even know we wanted. The Satterwhites were able to make our dream home a reality, and we will be forever grateful for the wonderful experience."

Clients consistently praise the company's thorough communication, attention to detail, and commitment to customer satisfaction. The family-led team takes time to answer questions on the job site and ensures that subcontractors deliver professional work during each phase of construction.

Awards and Recognition

Satterwhite Construction's excellence has been recognized through numerous industry accolades:

• 2018 Parade of Homes Silver Award – "The Southern Grace"
• 2017 Parade of Homes Gold Award – "The Magnolia"
• 2016 Parade of Homes Gold Award – "The Sweet Magnolia"
• 2015 MAME Award – Best Website for a Company

The company maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, with records showing they've been in business for 46 years and incorporated since July 11, 1979. They hold License Number 16560 issued by the North Carolina Licensing Board of General Contractors.

Neighborhoods and Communities

Satterwhite Construction has developed and built homes in several desirable Triangle communities:

• Brannon (Zebulon) – A charming community offering the perfect blend of small-town living with convenient access to Raleigh amenities. Residents enjoy peaceful surroundings while remaining connected to urban conveniences.
• Stonehenge (Raleigh) – An established, family-oriented subdivision in desirable North Raleigh founded in 1977. With nearly 1,400 single-family residences, this community features mature trees, natural beauty, and proximity to I-440 and I-540. Homes range in various architectural styles with properties built primarily in the 1990s and later.
• Sweetwater (Raleigh) – A beautiful, family-friendly neighborhood featuring a mix of ranch and traditional two-story homes with spacious lots and mature landscaping. Located with convenient access to New Bern Avenue and I-440, this community offers safe, walkable streets perfect for families.

Design & Customization

Home Styles from the Portfolio

Satterwhite Construction's portfolio showcases an impressive range of architectural styles that reflect both timeless elegance and modern sensibilities:

• French Country Farmhouse – Elegant European-inspired designs with rustic charm
• Moody Modern Farmhouse – Contemporary takes on classic farmhouse aesthetics
• Farmhouse Chic – Sophisticated country living with upscale finishes
• Traditional Designs – Classic architectural elements with modern functionality

Each home demonstrates the company's ability to blend aesthetic beauty with practical living spaces, creating residences that are as functional as they are stunning.

Square Footage Ranges

Satterwhite Construction builds custom homes ranging from 2,800 to 4,009 square feet, offering flexibility to accommodate various family sizes and lifestyle needs. Whether you're looking for a cozy family home or an expansive estate, the team can design and build to your specifications.

The Customization Process

Using original floor plans created by their in-house design team, Satterwhite Construction offers custom-built homes for clients with vacant lots, providing a personalized and enjoyable building experience. The process includes:

1. Initial Consultation – Understanding your vision, lifestyle, and requirements
2. Design Development – Working with the in-house team to create custom floor plans
3. Material Selection – Choosing finishes, fixtures, and features
4. Construction Planning – Establishing timelines and milestones
5. Build Phase – Bringing your dream home to life
6. Final Walkthrough – Ensuring every detail meets your expectations

Visual Selections and Finishes

The customization options extend to every visual element of your home. Popular selections featured in Satterwhite homes include:

Exterior Finishes:

• Paint Colors: Sherwin Williams Cocoon, Iron Ore, Maison Blanche
• Siding Options: Cedar shakes with clear sealer, lap siding in various colors
• Door Finishes: Minwax Special Walnut, Early American stains on mahogany doors

Interior Elements:

• Custom Beams: White pine beams custom-constructed by their trim vendor
• Flooring Options: Hardwood, tile, and premium carpet selections
• Cabinet Styles: Custom cabinetry with various finish options
• Countertops: Granite, quartz, and other premium surfaces

Construction Process

Self-Performing Trades and Partnerships

Satterwhite Construction is involved with every aspect of most communities' development: from clearing the land and grading the lots, to drawing the plans and supervising the building of each home. This comprehensive approach ensures quality control at every stage.

The company holds all employees and subcontractors to high standards of excellence. Many team members and subcontractors have been with Satterwhite Construction for over 20 years, demonstrating the loyalty and dedication that comes from a positive working environment. This long-term relationship with skilled tradespeople ensures consistent quality and reliable craftsmanship.

Typical Home Build Timeframe

The Satterwhite Construction team brings over 30 years of experience and expertise to the jobsite and can handle any issue that might arise during any stage of the development process. While custom home construction timelines vary based on size, complexity, and site conditions, the typical process follows these phases:

1. Pre-Construction (4-8 weeks) – Design finalization, permitting, site preparation
2. Foundation (2-4 weeks) – Excavation, footings, and foundation work
3. Framing (4-6 weeks) – Structural framework, roofing, windows, and doors
4. Mechanical Systems (3-4 weeks) – Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC installation
5. Interior Finishing (6-8 weeks) – Drywall, trim, paint, flooring, and fixtures
6. Final Details (2-4 weeks) – Landscaping, final inspections, and walkthrough

Innovations in Efficiency, Quality, and Durability

Satterwhite Construction has streamlined the home buying process to make purchasing your next home a simple and enjoyable experience. Key innovations include:

Energy Efficiency:

• All homes built to Energy Star 3.0 standards or higher
• Advanced insulation and building envelope techniques
• High-efficiency HVAC systems
• Energy-efficient windows and doors

Quality Assurance:

• 100% protected projects with no reported payment issues
• Rigorous inspection protocols at each construction phase
• Premium materials from trusted suppliers
• Experienced supervision throughout the build

Durability Features:

• Quality foundation work tailored to site conditions
• Superior framing techniques with square walls
• Weather-resistant exterior materials
• Long-lasting interior finishes

Building a Home with Satterwhite Construction

Understanding Your Needs and Vision

The journey to your dream home begins with understanding your family's unique needs. Satterwhite Construction takes the time to learn about your lifestyle, preferences, and long-term goals. This initial discovery phase helps ensure that your custom home will serve your family well for years to come.

Consider questions like:

• How does your family use living spaces daily?
• What features are must-haves versus nice-to-haves?
• How might your needs change over the next 10-20 years?
• What architectural styles resonate with you?

Researching Satterwhite Construction

Before committing to any builder, thorough research is essential. For Satterwhite Construction, you can:

• Visit their website at satterwhiteconstruction.com to view project galleries
• Browse their Houzz profile featuring 18+ projects and 84+ photos
• Read client testimonials from satisfied homeowners
• Check their BBB rating (A+ with 46 years in business)
• Tour completed homes in communities like Sweetwater and Stonehenge

Financing and Budget Guidance

Building a custom home requires careful financial planning. Satterwhite Construction's typical job costs range from $400,000 to $1 million+, depending on size, location, and customization level. Key financial considerations include:

• Construction Loans – Specialized financing for the build phase
• Permanent Mortgages – Converting to traditional financing upon completion
• Contingency Funds – Typically 10-15% for unexpected costs
• Land Costs – If purchasing a separate lot

Communicating Your Vision

Clear communication is the cornerstone of a successful custom home project. Satterwhite Construction's family-led team—including Jesse Satterwhite and Derek Satterwhite—takes time to answer questions and ensure your vision is understood. Tips for effective communication:

• Bring photos and examples of styles you love
• Create a prioritized list of features
• Be honest about your budget constraints
• Ask questions whenever something is unclear
• Provide timely feedback on design decisions

Understanding the Process

Satterwhite Construction promises honesty and integrity in every area of business. Their transparent process includes:

• Regular site visits and progress updates
• Clear milestone schedules and expectations
• Open communication about any challenges
• Professional subcontractor management
• Quality inspections at each phase

Choosing Materials and Finishes

The selection process is where your home truly becomes yours. Satterwhite Construction's in-house design team guides you through choosing:

• Exterior Materials – Siding, roofing, stone, brick
• Interior Finishes – Flooring, countertops, cabinetry
• Fixtures – Lighting, plumbing, hardware
• Paint Colors – Interior and exterior palettes
• Special Features – Built-ins, fireplaces, custom millwork

Managing Construction

Throughout the build, Jesse and Derek Satterwhite ensure that subcontractors deliver professional work during each phase. Their hands-on approach means:

• Daily oversight of construction activities
• Quality control at every stage
• Problem-solving when issues arise
• Timeline management to keep projects on track
• Budget monitoring to prevent cost overruns

Tips on Building with Satterwhite Construction

Quality Materials Information

Satterwhite Construction uses top-notch materials throughout every home. Key quality indicators include:

• Premium Lumber – Properly graded and dried framing materials
• Energy-Efficient Windows – High-performance glazing systems
• Quality Roofing – Durable shingles with proper underlayment
• Superior Insulation – Meeting or exceeding Energy Star 3.0 requirements
• Name-Brand Fixtures – Reliable plumbing and electrical components

Design Guidance

Leverage Satterwhite's in-house design team expertise:

• Space Planning – Maximizing functionality in every room
• Traffic Flow – Creating logical movement patterns
• Natural Light – Positioning windows for optimal illumination
• Storage Solutions – Built-in organization throughout
• Future Flexibility – Designing for changing needs

Resale Value Considerations

Homes built by Satterwhite Construction in communities like Stonehenge, Sweetwater, and Brannon benefit from:

• Prime Locations – Desirable neighborhoods with strong appreciation
• Quality Construction – Lasting value through superior building practices
• Energy Efficiency – Lower operating costs attract buyers
• Timeless Design – Classic aesthetics that don't date quickly
• Established Communities – Mature landscaping and proven neighborhoods

Technology Integrations

Modern Satterwhite homes can incorporate:

• Smart Home Systems – Integrated lighting, climate, and security
• Structured Wiring – Future-proof networking infrastructure
• Energy Management – Programmable thermostats and monitoring
• Home Automation – Voice-controlled convenience features
• Security Systems – Advanced protection and monitoring

Indoor Environmental Quality

Satterwhite Construction's commitment to Energy Star 3.0 standards ensures:

• Improved Air Quality – Proper ventilation and filtration
• Moisture Control – Preventing mold and mildew issues
• Temperature Consistency – Even heating and cooling throughout
• Reduced Allergens – Better filtration systems
• Acoustic Comfort – Quality insulation for sound control

Final Thoughts about Satterwhite Construction from Tim Clarke

As a 17-year veteran real estate agent and founder of the Tim M. Clarke Team here in the Raleigh-Durham Triangle, I've had the privilege of working with countless builders throughout my career. As a 30-year Triangle resident, I've watched Satterwhite Construction grow from Howard and Elizabeth's vision into the respected custom home builder they are today.

What impresses me most about Satterwhite Construction is their unwavering commitment to family values and quality craftsmanship. When you work with Jesse, Derek, and the Satterwhite team, you're not just another project—you're becoming part of their extended family. That personal touch makes all the difference in the custom home building experience.

My recommendations for a pleasant experience:

First, take advantage of their in-house design team. This is a tremendous resource that can save you time and money while ensuring your vision translates perfectly into blueprints. Second, visit their completed projects on Houzz and in person—seeing their work firsthand gives you confidence in their capabilities.

Money-saving tips:

Be upfront about your budget from day one. The Satterwhite team appreciates honesty and can guide you toward value-engineering solutions that deliver the look you want without breaking the bank. Also, make decisions promptly during the selection process—changes mid-construction always cost more.