Best of Raleigh | Featuring Stephen Dunn, President of Exeter Building Company

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In a city experiencing rapid growth like Raleigh, North Carolina, where new construction dots the skyline and demand for luxury real estate is booming, it takes something truly exceptional to stand out. That’s exactly what Exeter Building Company delivers, timeless architecture, a personalized homebuilding experience, and a deep commitment to client-first service.

In this episode of Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Stephen Dunn, President of Exeter, to discuss building dream homes, shaping community landscapes, and why Exeter is one of the most trusted luxury custom home builders in Raleigh.

From Finance to Foundations: A Builder’s Journey

Stephen Dunn’s journey to the top wasn’t a traditional one. With a professional background as a CPA and operations expert in SaaS and consulting, his transition into residential construction was driven by a passion for people, process, and place.

After joining Exeter. Building Company as Director of Finance, Stephen quickly became a minority partner and now leads as president.

“I grew up in Raleigh. I know this community inside and out,” Stephen shares. “It’s really special to help shape the place I call home.”

Stephen’s local insight is a key reason why Exeter homes in Raleigh feel so connected to their environment and the people who live in them.

Designing for Life, Not Just Luxury

Exeter isn’t just about building beautiful houses, it’s about creating high-performance homes that reflect the way families live today. Their portfolio includes everything from $1.5M spec homes to fully custom estates valued over $5M.

“Our design philosophy is simple: we build homes we’d want to live in,” Stephen says. “We think about how families move through space, what features they’ll actually use, and how we can bring that vision to life.”

Whether building in Wake Forest, North Hills, or North Raleigh, Exeter’s homes are defined by architectural integrity, thoughtful flow, and meticulous detail, making them some of the most sought-after new construction homes in the Triangle.

Collaboration as a Core Value

Behind every Exeter home is a trusted network of local architects, interior designers, and skilled trade partners. But beyond collaboration, Exeter is known for its culture.

“We treat everyone—clients, vendors, team members—as partners,” Stephen says. “We don’t call them vendors, we call them trade partners. Because they’re part of the experience, too.”

This client-focused approach aligns closely with The Coley Group’s values of elevated service and community insight, making Exeter a standout in the Raleigh luxury homebuilding scene.

Innovation Meets Client Care

While many builders focus on specs and square footage, Exeter takes a more thoughtful, forward-looking approach, integrating modern features like air-conditioned garages for cold plunges, advanced insulation systems, and mold remediation best practices. These features aren't just bells and whistles, they're part of delivering a home that supports modern wellness and functionality.

Where Exeter truly shines is in post-construction support.

“When your house is finished, we don’t disappear,” Stephen explains. “Our Client Care Manager is available long after move-in. We’re in this with you, for the long haul.”

This unwavering commitment to homeowner satisfaction positions Exeter as a top-tier custom builder in Raleigh known for both quality and care.

What’s Next for Exeter

With new gated communities in North Raleigh and exclusive land opportunities in Wake Forest on the horizon, Exeter is poised to lead the next wave of luxury residential development in the Triangle. Their upcoming Parade of Homes entries, including a North Hills charmer and a multi-million-dollar estate on Alamance Drive, will showcase the firm’s range and refined design sensibilities.

As Stephen puts it: “We’re not just building homes. We’re building legacy, community, and a better way to live in Raleigh.”

Find Your Fit in the Triangle

If you’re considering building a home in Raleigh or anywhere across the Triangle, the first step is finding the neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. 

From Wake Forest to North Hills, Exeter builds in the Triangle’s most desirable neighborhoods, and they’re not slowing down anytime soon.

Take our Neighborhood Match Survey to discover which Raleigh-area community is right for you. It’s quick, personalized, and the perfect first step toward building your future with a trusted builder like Exeter.

Thinking About Building in Raleigh?

Whether you’re relocating or ready to build your forever home, Exeter Building Company offers a luxury homebuilding experience rooted in craftsmanship, care, and community. Their client-first model and deep understanding of the Raleigh real estate market make them a premier partner for your next chapter.

Follow @exeterbuildingcompany on Instagram
Visit exeterbuilding.com

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