Modern Home Builders Issue 156 September 2026 | Page 96

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the team partners with clients to add the latest technologies, conveniences, and amenities, all while maintaining the quality and attention to detail that have defined McMahan Homes from the start.
“ We mostly build homes in the $ 5-10 million range, with a couple in the $ 15-25 million range,” Ross shares.“ Right now, everyone wants smart home systems for everything- from lights and security to automatic blinds. We get a lot of power outages here, so we install whole-house generators and zone each room for heating and cooling. We also add heated driveways and decks. Wine rooms and butler pantries are very popular. It’ s all about convenience and high-end finishes, crafted with great quality products from all over the world.”
Luxury and convenience are central to McMahan Homes’ projects, but Ross believes the company’ s approach goes further than just finishes and technology. The team considers each project as a whole and pays close attention to performance, durability, and responsible building practices suited for Tahoe’ s unique environment. Homeowners are looking for sophisticated design, greater efficiency, and environmental awareness, and McMahan Homes delivers on all three.
For Ross, this commitment is a natural extension of his background and values. He studied environmental science and spent years in construction, so he understands how thoughtful building can reduce a home’ s environmental impact without sacrificing comfort, quality, or performance.
“ In college, I earned a degree in environmental science with a political science minor, from Georgetown College, and I use that knowledge every day,” he explains.“ We make it a priority to be environmentally conscious in all our work. There aren’ t any empty lots in Tahoe, so each new home starts with tearing down an older one. We recycle as many materials as possible. Some go into the new project; others, such as wood and metal, are sent out for recycling. We go above and beyond for insulation and use energy-efficient windows and doors. Our hydronic heating systems are much more efficient than the forced-air systems used years ago.”
Passion for projects
This combination of environmental responsibility and thoughtful construction matters even more in Tahoe, where the natural landscape is just as important as the home itself. Patience has played a big role in some of the company’ s most ambitious projects. The permitting process in Tahoe takes time, but Ross believes the wait makes it even more rewarding when construction begins. One project, two years in the making, is finally underway.
“ Over the last two years, we waited on a permit for a project, and we’ re happy to say we finally got it and started excavation,” he says.“ This will be a beautiful legacy home for a family- 7000 square feet with unobstructed lake views. The build will take two years, and we can’ t wait to see it come together.” With more than two decades of experience, McMahan Homes finds its strength in doing things the right way- one project, one client, one detail at a time. Looking ahead, Ross doesn’ t want to grow just for growth’ s sake. He wants to keep the personal relationships, exceptional craftsmanship, and passion that have defined McMahan Homes from the very beginning.
“ I want to stay on the path we’ re on,” Ross adds.“ After 25 years, we’ ve found our sweet spot. We want to be selective, work on the right projects, and stay in demand with our clients. I’ m passionate about every home and project we take on, and I want to keep that passion.” ■
www. mcmahanhomesllc. com
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