Built on decades of hands-on construction experience, trusted relationships, and a commitment to building thoughtful, lasting spaces the right way.
About Us
From the Ground Up
Quality craftsmanship, clear communication, and thoughtfully designed spaces built for real everyday living.
Martin Built Homes was built on experience earned in the field long before the company name ever existed. What started in the late 1990s as framing work on residential construction projects eventually grew into a long-term career focused on custom home building, project leadership, and construction management throughout Eastern Iowa.
Over the years, that hands-on experience shaped the way we approach every project today. We believe successful construction comes from strong communication, reliable subcontractors, careful coordination, and a builder who stays actively involved throughout the process. Whether working on a custom home, renovation, commercial project, or multi-family build, our goal remains the same: deliver quality work while making the construction experience as straightforward and organized as possible for every client.
Unlike larger companies where communication can become impersonal or disconnected, Martin Built Homes takes a more direct and relationship-driven approach. Clients know who they’re working with, subcontractors know what’s expected, and projects benefit from consistent oversight from start to finish. Our focus has never been on building volume for the sake of volume, but on delivering well-built projects with lasting value and attention to detail.
Established 1990s
Meet Javan Martin
25+ years of residential construction experience.
Owner and builder Javan Martin entered the construction industry in the late 1990s as a framer, quickly building a reputation for hard work, leadership, and attention to detail. Before long, he was leading framing crews focused primarily on large multifamily projects throughout Eastern Iowa, gaining firsthand experience in every stage of the construction process along the way.
In the early 2000s, Javan built his first new construction home and officially entered the custom home building industry. For more than a decade, he partnered with longtime friend Brandon Combs to operate Martin & Combs Custom Homes, where the company became known for quality craftsmanship, honesty, and dependable service throughout the region.
After Brandon shifted his focus toward growing his framing business, Javan launched Martin Built Homes in 2019 with the same values and hands-on approach that helped establish his reputation over the years.
Why Choose Us
What Sets Martin Built Apart
Our approach combines hands-on project involvement, practical construction experience, and long-standing industry relationships built over decades in the field.
Hands-On Project Leadership
Javan stays directly involved throughout the construction process to help maintain quality, communication, and consistency from start to finish. Clients work directly with a builder who remains accessible and engaged throughout the project.
Built on Industry Relationships
Strong relationships with trusted subcontractors and suppliers help projects stay organized, efficient, and professionally executed. Timely communication and dependable partnerships help maintain consistent quality across every stage of construction.
Experience That Started in the Field
Years spent framing homes and managing construction crews created a practical understanding of the building process from the ground up. That field experience continues to shape the way projects are planned, managed, and built today.
Honest & Straightforward Communication
We believe clients deserve realistic expectations, responsive communication, and transparency throughout every phase of construction. Our process is built around trust, organization, and keeping projects moving without unnecessary pressure or confusion.
Focused on Long-Term Quality
At Martin Built Homes, construction is about more than completing projects on schedule. It’s about building homes and spaces that continue to provide value, functionality, and reliability for years to come. That mindset influences every stage of the process, from planning and material selection to project management and final details.
We understand that every project represents a major investment for the client, which is why we approach each build with professionalism, accountability, and careful attention to detail. By staying closely involved throughout construction, we’re able to maintain higher standards, respond quickly when challenges arise, and deliver a building experience centered around clear communication, dependable service, and quality workmanship throughout Eastern Iowa.
Our goal is to create spaces that feel modern and thoughtfully designed while remaining practical, comfortable, and built to last.
Built for Eastern Iowa
Martin Built Homes proudly serves homeowners, business owners, and developers throughout Cedar Rapids, Marion, and surrounding Eastern Iowa communities. Over the years, we’ve built strong local relationships and developed a deep understanding of the needs, expectations, and priorities of clients throughout the area.
Whether building a custom home, managing a renovation, or completing a commercial construction project, our focus remains the same: quality workmanship, dependable service, and a building experience clients can feel confident in from beginning to end.
Experience the Difference of a Hands-On Builder
Whether you’re planning a custom home, renovation, commercial project, or multi-family development, we are ready to help bring your vision to life with thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship.
