About Us

Steve began his building career in 1994 and founded The Ernst Group, LLC in 2000. Steve oversaw all phases of design and construction on many of the area’s finest homes. His attention to detail and commitment to delivering an exceptional building experience helped The Ernst Group, LLC become one of the largest and most reputable custom builders in the market.

Nelda has been with AR Homes for over 20 years, bringing in-depth knowledge of the homebuilding process and a longtime commitment to her customers. She has learned the business from the ground up, working with many AR Homes franchises as well as AR Franchising in multiple facets which set a solid foundation for her to operate a building company. Nelda brings a passion for excellence in the design and building of your custom home.

With a warm, relationship-driven approach and a strong background in luxury customer experience, real estate, and consultative service, Deanna brings extraordinary care and clarity to every step of the custom home sales process. Her career has centered on helping clients understand their options, feel supported in high-value decisions, and enjoy an elevated experience from the moment they walk through the door. Drawing from years in real estate, design-minded brand consulting, and leadership roles in high-end retail, she excels at building trust quickly, asking the right questions, and translating individual lifestyles into thoughtful, tailored solutions. Deanna ensures that every future AR Homes homeowner feels heard, informed, and confident—guiding them seamlessly from initial inquiry through design conversations, and the exciting path toward building the home of their dreams.

Born and raised locally, Michael Bolden brings 37 years of expertise to the construction and development industry. As a former General Contractor, he has overseen the construction of entire subdivisions, infrastructure projects, and the development of thriving communities. His experience spans residential, commercial, and government/industrial work, including four years dedicated to large-scale projects. For him, the most rewarding part of his work is knowing that generations of families will create memories and enjoy the homes he’s helped build. Michael treasures time spent with his wife, three children, and three grandchildren. He is an avid car collector and enthusiast with a love for classic Fords.

Lawrence Welda, a local Construction Manager with 19 years of experience, began his career as a day laborer and spent the last 8 years in management. Specializing in luxury homes, he brings exceptional expertise in trim and cabinetry, adding a touch of craftsmanship to every project. With a passion for precision, Lawrence is committed to delivering homes that exceed expectations. When he’s not managing projects, Lawrence enjoys farming and spending quality time with his wife and two children. His dedication to both his work and family reflects his values of hard work, integrity, and excellence.