Notable events in 1989:
The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 2,753.
The Federal Reserve Interest Rate was 10.50%.
The average cost of a new home was $120,000.
George H.W. Bush became the 41st President of the United States.
Popular movies included When Harry Met Sally, Twins and Driving Miss Daisy.
Popular musicians were Prince, Madonna and New Kids on the Block.
George Strait released his #1 single Ace in the Hole.
And with a dream, a pickup truck and several rolls of quarters (there were no cell phones back then!), Duke McDowell founded a little company called Sterling Custom Homes. As the owner of a successful swimming pool company, Duke’s father, JC McDowell, taught him that nothing worthwhile was ever built without a strong foundation.
The foundation of this young company would be its Faith in Christ creating a strict adherence to the principles of honesty, integrity and customer service. Duke set out to surround himself with likeminded people – employees who care as much about the company’s sterling reputation as he does. Twenty-four years later, through the Grace of God and with much hard work and sacrifice, there is no finer place to work or do business than Sterling Custom Homes.
When building a custom home, with all the components involved, there are bound to be challenges along the way. In my ten years with this company I can honestly say that when confronted with a difficult decision, we always do what’s right for the customer. I’ve seen it time and time again. Our past clients, over 250 enthusiastic Sterling advocates, can attest to it.
JC and Jan McDowell have since passed away, but not before they proudly witnessed the development of their son’s company into the premier Austin custom homebuilder it is today. They would still be proud of the leadership and ethical compass that continues to guide the company on its path to success.
If this is the kind of company you would like to do business with, please consider us for your next custom home project. It will be well organized, enjoyable and built on solid ground. JC McDowell would have it no other way!