Invercargill builder returns to his roots

Carl Hamilton started his career in the construction industry as an apprentice with award-winning Invercargill builder Jennian Homes Southland. Twelve years on he's returning to where it all began – this time as the owner.

Together, Carl and wife Tracey have their sights set firmly on the future. The Southland born and bred couple aren’t yet 30, but they already have a successful business under their belts. Arriving home from the traditional Kiwi OE four years ago, they launched Carl Hamilton Builders Ltd, specialising in renovations as well as building new homes.

They will now run the business under the name Jennian Homes Southland.

The new venture will allow them to deliver even greater value to their clients, with the security and superior buying power that comes with being part of a well-recognised and established brand nearing its fourth decade.

Jennian Homes started as a small family-owned builder in Hamilton in 1982. Today its nationwide group of local owner-operators design, build and renovate homes for families throughout New Zealand.

“My own business was already doing really well, but buying into Jennian Homes means we can develop even further,” Carl says. “It extends our opportunities and will bring more benefits for our clients throughout the region. Plus, it’s reassuring to know there’s something bigger behind us, with the right people with specialist skills to support our local team.”

He and Tracey believe their clients will find the transition seamless. Carl will continue to work on site, while Tracey will help out with marketing and client liaison – when she’s not working as a part-time occupational therapist or looking after the couple’s two-year-old daughter, Anyia.

Tracey, who Southland locals will also recognise as a New Zealand-level netball umpire, said she was thrilled about expanding the business and boosting the couple’s contribution to the region.

“We’re proud to call Southland home,” she says. “Our families are here, we grew up here and launched our first business in Invercargill; our first child was born here and, come July, so will our next one be. We’ve lived in other places but we’ve always come back. We love the great lifestyle that Southland and the local community have to offer. This is where our roots are, and our future too.”

Carl added that he was grateful for the continued support of the previous Invercargill franchise owners. “They helped me get started in the industry and have contributed to where we are today.”

ENDS

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