Bert Singletary first started framing as an hourly employee and now runs four framing crews in addition to building 30 homes a year with his business, Singletary Construction.

“I started framing when I got out of the Army in 1989,” Singletary said. “The boss quickly realized I knew more about carpentry than a basic labor worker and let me start framing.”

Soon after in 1991, Singletary started his own business doing framing.  As he moved into complete construction, he first helped people build homes who wanted to save money.  He realized the need to get his contractor license and moved into construction about seven years ago, he said.

In addition to building 25 to 30 homes a year, Singletary Construction also frames as many as 200 houses with four crews subcontracting for other contractors.

“In building, the small things we do makes a house unique,” Singletary said.  “I take plans and customize them even for spec homes.  People see house I have built and want me to build something for them with some changes.”

Singletary said most of his business is by word of mouth and reputation.

Being involved in the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition project is “an opportunity to do something for somebody,” Singletary said.

“I’ve been blessed,” he explained. “I am very fortunate to have the skills and ability to do what I do.  This is a chance to give back.”

Singletary said he is thankful that he can help make a major difference in somebody’s live.  “This project is going to change these people’s lives forever.  It’s not so much about me as it is about the ability and opportunity I have been given.”

Singletary’s wife, Linda is a partner with him in the business.  She handles the business end of things and also helps coordinate finishing out the home.