Andrew Watkins

Andrew Watkins, originally from Atlanta, GA, formed Custom Homebuilding to fulfill a life-long dream. As a child, he spent much of his free time drawing houses and building many different designs with Lego’s - hoping that some day he may be able to construct real ones with wood. Andrew got his wish when, at the age of 16, he designed and built a small cabin using only the help of his father and a few hand tools. Andrew’s experience as a builder has progressed considerably since then.

After relocating to Bath County, to settle down with a new wife in 1996, Andrew began working locally with Wayne Williams. Wayne was truly an inspiration in so many ways but mostly for introducing Andrew to the finer side of home construction and providing a foundation for Andrew to nurture his talents. “The good ones always leave”, Wayne said, when Andrew explained to him that he felt it was time to go out on his own. 

Since 1998, Andrew has been working hand in hand with many local craftsmen- dedicated to providing the best possible workmanship and customer service available in the industry. However, if you ask him about his work his reply will surely be: “Doing that which you truly love doing never seems like work at all.” Andrew lives with his wife Aimee, and their two children, Max and Molly, in Millboro, VA.  When Andrew isn’t busy “working”, he enjoys cycling, playing piano, and camping with his family.

Nathan Forbes

A Millboro, Virginia native, Nathan began working with Andrew during the summer of 2000 while still attending Bath County High School. Nathan also gained construction experience by working with his father on weekends since he was a young teen. Once he graduated high school, in 2003, Nathan decided to work with Custom Homebuilding full time.

Nathan has steadily grown into a leader and is highly regarded among all of our staff. He remains truly dedicated to construction and is always eager to learn as much as possible from everyone around him. Nathan has recently accepted a position as construction manager and will now be responsible for directing the work on our job sites. Nathan is an avid hunter and mainly seems to enjoy his down time in the woods.

Chantry Combs

Chantry is originally from Parkersburg, West Virginia and has spent the majority of his life in and around the state. Growing up, Chantry spent many years logging with his father. After graduating high school, Chantry worked to obtain the West Virginia state welding certification and then went on to gain employment in the construction industry. His experience with logs turned out to be useful again when he was hired as an apprentice building log homes with First General Services of Southern West Virginia. Upon leaving that organization, he continued in the carpentry trade with Heffner Construction; building homes near Snowshoe ski resort.

When the winter weather shut down construction work for the season at Snowshoe in 2002, Chantry found his way to Custom Homebuilding through Wayne Hobbs. Chantry continues to be one of the most reliable and determined individuals on the team. Over the past 5 years Chantry has proven himself as a leader and is now in a position to direct the flow of work around him. Chantry lives with his wife Jessica and son Taiden near Millboro and loves fishing and skiing.

Jeremy Cole

Jeremy was born in Towanda, Pennsylvania and relocated with his family to his mother’s hometown of Goshen, Virginia when he was 8 years old. A graduate of advanced studies at Rockbridge High School, Jeremy then attended Blue Ridge College where he continued his education in business administration. After studying business, Jeremy entered the workforce as a warehouse coordinator for the Best Buy Corporation. Subsequent to his employment there he continued work with the Amerigas utility company where he was able to earn the designation of EPA certified technician. After being exposed to the construction industry by Amerigas, Jeremy once again hoped to expand his knowledge and seek work as a carpenter.

We are happy that Jeremy found his way to Custom Homebuilding and asked to be part of our team. Since 2006, Jeremy has been an extremely reliable resource—always willing to learn and apply his education. Outside of work, Jeremy enjoys dancing, singing and spending time outdoors.