The Columbus Dispatch writer Jim Weiker revealed on Sunday how Central Ohio's residential construction is dominated by big and aggressive local firms, to an "unusual degree." More than 12,000 of the approximate 13,000 apartments under development in Central Ohio are being built by companies based in the area. M/I Homes and Dominion Homes account for over half of all homes built in Central Ohio. Jim Hilz, executive director of the Building Industry Association of Central Ohio comments that for two companies to have that amount of market share is unprecedented. All but three of Central Ohio's other big home builders are based in the area. Aside from Ryan Homes, based in Reston Virginia, none of the nation's largest builders even operate in Central Ohio. Many have tried to establish themselves (Beazer Homes, Toll Brother, and Centex Homes) but have failed to do so. Central Ohio's local companies such as Bob Webb and Romanelli & Hughes continue to thrive thanks to their strong roots and good reputations with residents, customers, and landowners. A local company's established arrangements with subcontractors, experience with customers who may wish to remain with the same firm, and connections with land-owners and developers all benefit local companies.
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