Epcon Communities, No. 59 on the 2025 Builder 100 list, is celebrating 40 years of creating homes, neighborhoods, and lifestyles across the country.
Founded in Columbus, Ohio, in 1986, entrepreneurs Phil Frankhauser and Ed Bacome set out with a simple idea: “create affordable, thoughtfully designed single-level homes that serve the needs of home buyers, particularly those seeking a low-maintenance community without sacrificing quality or style.”
At the time, low-maintenance, single-level homes were a largely overlooked product by traditional home builders. “We believed we had a strong concept,” Bacome says. “But in those early days, we couldn’t have imagined how far it would grow.”
Starting with a small operation in central Ohio, Epcon has since evolved into a national builder and developer known for its signature courtyard-style homes. Its first community, Deer Run, helped introduce the concept of single-story living with open floor plans and shared outdoor spaces that encourage connection while also preserving privacy.
“Our success over the past four decades didn’t happen by accident,” Fankhauser says. “Every year, we learned from our customers and applied that learning to our business. I believe we provide the best homes in low-maintenance communities in America.”
Following that first community, Epcon steadily grew beyond Columbus into six markets including Atlanta, Charlotte, Indianapolis, Nashville, and Raleigh. In 1995, the company expanded its reach through a franchise division with independent home builder markets across the country.
Epcon Communities
With its network of 66 franchisees, Epcon has developed more than 450 communities in 28 states. “From the beginning, Epcon’s focus has been on creating homes and communities that help people live the lives they want,” says Joel Rhoades, CEO of Epcon Communities. “That means thoughtful design, welcoming neighborhoods, and a commitment to delivering one remarkable experience for our homeowners.”
In anticipation of the 40th anniversary, the founders and leadership team launched the Epcon Communities CARES Foundation last year. The foundation, supported by a $1 million commitment, formalizes the company’s history of philanthropic efforts.
Giving began in late 2025 when the foundation gifted a significant donation to The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute at Ohio State University. Grants were also provided to children’s hospitals in each of Epcon’s regional markets as well as national nonprofits within those markets. Regional offices were also given funds to support locally driven charitable initiatives.
Entering it’s fifth decade, Rhodes adds, “Forty years is a milestone worth celebrating, but what excites us most is where we’re headed.
“For 2026, we’ve set ambitious sales and closing goals across all six of our regions, supported by strong demand and a clear growth strategy. We have the teams in place to deliver, which gives me confidence in our ability to continue building on the success we have achieved the past four decades.”
