- Home
- Government
- Economic Development
- Support My Business
- Featured Businesses
- Wayne Harbin Builder
Wayne Harbin Builder
MARCH 2025
Custom builder marks 40 years
making its home (and others) in York County
By Melissa James, York County Contributor
Whether it’s a sweet starter home or a 5,000-square-foot estate, Wayne Harbin Builder has constructed enviable abodes for four decades.
Founder Wayne Harbin—who started in the industry when he was fresh out of high school—said he relishes the opportunity to work alongside his sons, building dream homes for other families on the Peninsula and beyond.
“There is just something about working with your hands,” Harbin said. “I couldn’t do this without my sons. I may have started the company, but they took it to another level, and that has been something that I have been proud to see. They have the same spirit that I do when it comes to the job and the quality of work and the quality of our products.”
Harbin launched the company in 1985 from a room above the garage in his family’s Seaford home. He serves as president, while his sons, Doug and Brad, are vice presidents who oversee the various construction projects. Harbin’s wife, Bonnie, works for the business as well, along with their grandsons Maxwell and Zach.
Brad Harbin said he grew up wanting to work in the business, and for that reason got a degree in and construction management. He strives to bring clients’ dreams to building reality on every project.
Doug Harbin recalls getting to know his father’s employees as he grew up, because they would come to the house for their paychecks—and Doug would sell them crabs he had caught. Doug had intended to pursue a career in marine science, until his father asked him to become the superintendent of a new subdivision in York County in 1998.
Wayne Harbin (center) with sons Doug and Brad
“I work a lot of design builds, and I enjoy speaking with clients and helping them develop the plans for their home,” said Doug. “Watching the building process every day and getting to see the final product is still really exciting to me.”
Wayne Harbin Builder, which has locations in Yorktown and Williamsburg, constructs custom homes in a variety of price points, from affordable housing units to larger, multi-million-dollar homes with luxury amenities.
“No matter the size, it’s always the same quality, and we always use the same contractors,” Doug said. “We really believe in affordable housing and helping first-time homeowners build that basis for their family. It’s important to us to build a nice home for them, and they are very appreciative.”
In 2008, the company expanded with the introduction of its remodel division, Home Enhancements, which is run by lifelong family friend Scott Maynor. The division offers interior remodeling services, along with additions such as in-law suites, sunrooms, garages, decks and porches.
“That’s been a nice way to branch out, and it has been a success,” Doug said.
The company is a member of the Coastal Virginia Building Industry Association, and the Harbin family also takes pride in being part of Southern Living’s Custom Builder program since 2002. What’s more, Wayne Harbin Builders was named Southern Living’s Builder Member of the Year in 2015.
“We’re the only builder in the area who is a Southern Living Custom Builder,” Doug said. “It’s based on our attention to detail, the type of homes, interviews with our clientele, our stability and our brand. It’s been a good experience and what sets us apart from other builders locally. We are always striving for excellence.”
Wayne Harbin Builder and its 25 employees also take time to give back to the community, especially in the Seaford area. The company has donated hours and materials to Seaford Elementary School’s butterfly garden, sheds for the PTA and Little Library boxes. Relationships have been a focus at every level. Some of the company’s employees have been on the team for more than two decades, and forming trust with quality subcontractors like electricians and plumbers has also been vital to the company’s success.
“I think what also makes us unique is our team approach, with each client assigned a project manager and superintendent in the field,” Doug said. “We walk them through step by step, from the design to the description of the materials to the subcontractors who will be with them through the whole process, and guide them along to ensure they’re making the right decisions for their home.”
As the company celebrates 40 years in business, the Harbins expressed gratitude to the County for its support.
“York County has always been a great place to do business, and we’ve always had a great working relationship with all the County officials within the various departments,” Doug said.
“As someone who was born and raised in York County, I find it especially meaningful to celebrate a homegrown business like Wayne Harbin Builder,” said Kristi Olsen-Hayes, director of York County’s Department of Economic and Tourism Development. “For 40 years, they’ve helped shape the character of our community—building not just homes, but neighborhoods and a lasting legacy of craftsmanship. Their coastal-inspired style fits perfectly with the charm of our area, from the York River to the Chesapeake Bay. We’re proud to recognize this incredible milestone and are thankful for their continued commitment to York County. Their dedication to excellence and its deep-rooted ties and commitment to our community are truly commendable."
Like many others in the industry in recent years, the company faced challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent supply chain issues and rising costs of materials. But Wayne Harbin Builder has been able to endure thanks to its tight bond with the team and community.
“We have family and friends who grew up with us who work for us, and that helps with the trust factor,” Doug said. “They are just as excited as we are to offer quality service and put out a good product.”
As Doug reflected on the company his father built and his hopes for the future, he said he was excited at the possibility of his own sons carrying on the legacy.
“My father worked very hard through the years, through the down times and when things were good,” he said. “He gave us a great start. My brother and I learned everything from him. We’ve modernized and kept up with the changes to continue to be a well-rounded company. The industry is getting harder, but we have a new generation who is helping us keep up with changes like social media, and that will be an asset for us through the years. We hope to continue to build quality homes—because your home is the biggest purchase you’ll ever make.”