Staff Reports | Real Property & Homes
Design trends and home prices have shifted significantly over the past four decades, but Cullum Homes’ leadership says its focus on delivering a quality homebuilding experience has remained constant since the company was founded in 1985.
The family-owned firm, launched by Rod and Kim Cullum, is marking its 40th year while continuing to build in several of the Valley’s most established communities.
What began as a two‑employee, home‑based operation has grown into a design and construction firm with projects in Paradise Valley, Scottsdale and Desert Mountain, according to a press release.
Cullum Homes is known for its emphasis on craftsmanship, design quality and consistency across projects, earning recognition including a National Custom Home Builder of the Year award from the National Association of Home Builders.
The company attributes part of its approach to what it calls the Cullum Way, an in‑house system that integrates architecture, design, construction and home care. Technology supports the process, and Cullum was an early adopter of Ressio, a project management platform that connects homeowners with the construction team. The goal is to maintain clarity and collaboration throughout the building process.
Leadership has since transitioned to the second generation, with the Cullums’ daughter, Lindsay Cullum‑Colwell, and her husband, Paul Colwell, serving as co‑presidents.
“Hitting the 40-year mark is incredibly meaningful for our family,” said Kim Cullum. “From the beginning, we set out to create a building experience that puts homeowners first, and that approach continues to shape what we do today. Seeing the next generation carry it forward while continuing to raise the bar makes this anniversary especially rewarding.”
Arizona’s luxury real estate market has remained steady despite national fluctuations. Cullum Homes recently completed several neighborhoods, including Village at Mountain Shadows, Paradise Reserve and Cholla Heights. The firm also reported activity at Ascent at The Phoenician, including the sale of an $11,466,089 custom estate, its highest‑priced home to date. Additional sales occurred at Seven Desert Mountain, where four move‑in‑ready homes closed over the summer.
“The Village at Seven Desert Mountain really shows how much personalization and customization is possible, even on a smaller lot footprint,” said Scott Grigg of Grigg’s Group Powered by The Altman Brothers, referencing one recent home sale in the neighborhood.
“The sold property with the car bar is a great example of how thoughtful design can incorporate everything an owner wants, from added parking, entertainment spaces and basements while preserving the ease and flexibility of a lock-and-leave lifestyle.”
Cullum Homes currently offers a limited number of move‑in‑ready homes and available homesites across its active communities. Options include two move‑in‑ready homes at Ascent at The Phoenician, two at Seven Desert Mountain and one at Ironwood Golf Villas. Additional homesites are available at Ascent at The Phoenician and Seven Desert Mountain.
The year ahead includes the planned introduction of three new signature neighborhoods across the Valley. The company is also expanding its Cullum Care and Renovations divisions.
Cullum Care provides maintenance, warranty support and long‑term home care, now extending services beyond Cullum-built homes. The Renovations division focuses on full remodels and large‑scale updates.
Cullum Homes will continue its philanthropic efforts, maintaining partnerships with organizations including Habitat for Humanity Central Phoenix, The Phoenix Theatre Company, The Heart Ball, PANDA and ChildHelp.
“We wouldn’t be here without the confidence our clients placed in us or the people who’ve helped shape Cullum Homes over the past four decades,” said Rod Cullum. “From our employees and trade partners to the community that stands behind us, we’re truly thankful. We’re proud of what we’ve built, and we’re excited for our future.”
