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.

Karen has been with the AR Homes family for 7 years. Before that, Karen worked in Design and Photography. She found her way to a career in real estate and was then selected to be the Lead Sales Consultant for an AR Homes Franchise in 2016. Her passion for design and attention to detail assists her customers in realizing their Dream Home dreams. When not at work, Karen enjoys cooking, travel and spending time with her 3 children and 2 fur babies.

Whitney is a Knoxville native and combat Veteran. She joined AR Homes® in June 2022 after working in the real-estate industry for 7 years. Whether you plan to build in a community or On-Your-Lot, her in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market, strong negotiation skills, and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction, makes her the ideal partner for your custom home journey. Outside of work, you’ll find Whitney trying new recipes or restaurants, relaxing on the water or planning the next adventure with her husband and kids.

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.

Christian Bolden brings 14 years of experience in the construction industry, beginning his journey as a laborer and growing into a seasoned professional in residential projects. His passion for working with his hands shines through in every project, as he thrives on turning plans into beautifully finished products. Dedicated and detail-oriented, Christian is committed to delivering exceptional results and ensuring every client’s vision becomes a reality. When he’s not creating dream homes, Christian enjoys spending his free time golfing or fishing, making the most of the local lifestyle he loves.