Relationships mean a lot and, at Granite Ridge Builders, “family has nothing to do with blood.”
The Beginning
After spending 7 years in Russia doing ministry work, Lonnie Norris decided it was time to come back home to the states. It just so happened that Granite Ridge Builders was on the cusp of being born. With CEO Tony Reincke separating from Delagrange Homes and Lonnie returning, the timing was right. In the beginning, Lonnie and Tony did a little bit of everything from sales to managing construction and now over 20 years later, Lonnie is able to work with clients to qualify them and help them figure out the best places to live. The goal is to make home ownership an affordable reality.
Finding Home
Lonnie really enjoys helping people invest in their basic need for shelter and what typically becomes a major source of wealth. A challenge he’s come to enjoy during this process is there will be conflict and calculated risks that can ultimately reap big rewards. Lonnie prides himself on finding land to develop into a successful subdivision to provide homes for many.
Company Success
Having been with the company since day one, Lonnie has had a front row seat to the company’s growth. He believes that hard work, creativity, and taking calculated risks have been key to keeping Granite Ridge Builders strong. He also credits Tony’s leadership with helping shape the culture and success of Granite Ridge Builders, describing him as wise, positive, and enthusiastic.
Granite Ridge Builders Family
Granite Ridge Builders isn’t all about building houses, it’s a family-owned business as well. Lonnie runs a bible study every Wednesday and says it’s really special to see coworkers make a new faith commitment or someone returning to the faith. Relationships mean a lot and, at Granite Ridge Builders, “family has nothing to do with blood.” Lonnie’s cousin Teresa has become a very good friend and coworker to him over the years.
Looking Ahead
Lonnie hopes that Granite Ridge Builders will continue to “allow significance to trump success.” He says that working with the USDA loan program has been tough, but the result of having hundreds of people own homes that otherwise would not, has made the whole process worth the struggle. Looking ahead, he hopes to see Granite Ridge Builders continue to find ways to serve and provide for the community.
