When Dave Labus became an Epcon Franchise Builder in 2004, he wasn’t simply changing careers, he was taking control of his future.
After years spent in the fast-paced world of architectural design and corporate retail, Dave found a new path that allowed him to blend creativity, business acumen and community impact.
Today, as the co-owner of Foundation Development Group in West Chester, Ohio, he continues to build Epcon communities with the same intentionality and passion that have guided his entire career.
An Architectural Start and Unexpected Turning Point
Dave’s journey into home building began far from residential construction. Early in his career, he and his business partner, Carl Fankhauser, met at an architecture firm specializing in retail design. From there, Dave’s path led him deeper into the corporate side of the retail world, helping shape the branding and construction of stores across the country for The Limited and later Gaylan’s Trading Company.
His work was high-profile, fast-paced and creatively fulfilling, but it also came with demands that began to reshape his priorities.
“I had just renovated a home and wasn’t excited about relocating again. I realized I wanted to step out of the big corporate world and take control of my career.”
Through Carl, who had begun designing models and clubhouses for Epcon, Dave learned more about the company’s unique model, one that blended business ownership with community development. What began as curiosity soon became a clear next step.
A New Entrepreneurial Chapter with Epcon
By the time Dave joined Epcon as a Franchise Builder, he was well-versed in design, construction and real estate. But running a home building business was a whole new challenge.
“We were very well acquainted with home building from our backgrounds, but running a business is different. Still, we had been moving toward more entrepreneurial roles our entire careers.”
The transition felt natural. Epcon’s strong product library, proven processes and peer network gave him the foundation he needed to build something lasting.
“Epcon has provided a tried-and-true product. Then you couple that with the process and the sharing of experiences with other Franchise Builders… that’s where so much value comes from.”
Building Communities and Relationships
For Dave, the most rewarding part of being an Epcon Franchise Builder goes far beyond the construction itself.
“We’re on-site a lot. You get to know the homeowners. It becomes part of a large family.”
Those relationships became especially meaningful when their Hamilton, Ohio community extended over several years during the recession. They attended homeowners’ events, built deep connections and even hosted four weddings in the community clubhouse.
“If it’s not personal and it doesn’t mean something, it wouldn’t have the same value. Our homeowners appreciate that we’re involved.”
Dave believes this personal connection, paired with Epcon’s award-winning floor plans, is what truly sets their homes apart.
Why Dave Chose to Stay with Epcon
Despite market shifts, tough seasons and industry changes, Dave’s commitment to Epcon remains strong.
“It’s a business that can be financially rewarding. The model is sound. We can’t control the economy, but we can control having the best products and processes.”
For Dave, the combination of Epcon’s systems and his team’s personal approach creates a powerful formula for both customer satisfaction and long-term personal and professional fulfillment.