Founded and led by Raymond Thompson, Sure Foot Builders is a cornerstone of the Asheville residential construction community. For nearly 20 years, Sure Foot Builders has been dedicated to reconciling their clients’ needs, desires, and budgets to create extraordinary structures that enhance the way Asheville families live. They seek to craft energy-efficient homes that truly last, and to that end, they prioritize sustainability, expert craftsmanship, and clear communication.
We talked to Raymond about his time in Asheville and his history working in construction.
Where did your career find its start? How did you get involved with your company?
I began my career in construction working alongside my father, a renovator and copper roofer, and later on renovation projects with his business partners. During college, I continued gaining hands-on experience through painting and small renovation work. After moving to Asheville in 2004, I worked with local contractor crews before starting my own business that same year. I grew from handyman services to carpentry subcontracting and, in 2009, completed my first design-build Green Built and Energy Star–certified home. I’ve been building and renovating homes for clients across Western North Carolina ever since, while steadily refining the company’s systems and processes.
How has your company grown over the years?
Sure Foot Builders has weathered the 2008 financial crisis, shifting market conditions, and multiple evolutions in how we operate—all while maintaining a consistent, client-focused approach. Over the past seven to eight years, our growth has been intentional, with a strong focus on building a core team, increasing wages, improving tool and materials management, expanding our equipment and vehicle fleet, and strengthening office efficiency.
We’ve tested a range of client-facing software platforms and ultimately refined internal systems that deliver the same level of organization and communication without unnecessary overhead or administrative layers. This approach allows us to stay highly responsive, maintain quality control, and keep costs efficient—resulting in the strongest, most enjoyable company culture we’ve had since we began.
“My passion for construction details and company performance never really shuts off.”
What was the biggest hurdle you’ve had to overcome?
Finding balance. My passion for construction details and company performance never really shuts off, and as a father of three and former competitive athlete, I’m pulled in many directions. We’ve addressed that challenge by committing as a team to complete every task—large or small—at 100%. That shared focus has reduced stress, protected schedules, and strengthened relationships across our company and partners.
How has your idea of success transformed?
Business success, to me, is contentment in purpose, achieved through process and shared with a team. I’ve been pursuing that ideal in one form or another for years, and while my language has evolved over time, the core principle has remained the same. From my first company name, Work-a-Day Renovations, to Sure Foot Builders’ original tagline, Craftsmanship of Balance, the goal has always been to build a tight-knit group working toward a happier, more efficient life through meaningful work.
“Business success, to me, is contentment in purpose, achieved through process and shared with a team.”
What’s a little-known fact or trivia about your business?
We meet as a team almost every morning. We have an office cat, Hank, that sits on keyboards and plans in the middle of meetings or work and keeps the mice at bay. Every year, we have a company and family party at the bowling alley where we can decompress and remember who we are.
What’s the greatest business advice you’ve been given?
Do the next right thing.
What’s on the horizon?
A deeper exploration of the creative space where design and construction align—finding new ways to integrate vision, function, and craft to deliver more inspired and innovative projects.