Discover The Dabbert
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About
Don Dabbert Jr. was born in Aberdeen, South Dakota and moved to Fargo, North Dakota in 1985 with his family, where his passion for architecture and design led him into the homebuilding industry. He began his career in 1992 with Contemporary Builders and, driven by a vision to create homes that truly reflect the people who live in them, he established Dabbert Custom Homes in 2010.
Today, Dabbert Custom Homes builds more than 60 single-family homes each year across Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo, Horace, and surrounding communities. Under Don’s leadership, the company has grown into a trusted name known for quality, thoughtful design, and personalized service. In addition, Don owns and operates DCH Property Management, which manages 200+ single-family, multi-family, and commercial properties throughout the region. He has also developed numerous thriving neighborhoods, including Hampton Place, Rivers Edge, and Cub Creek, as well as several past developments that remain cornerstones of the community. His portfolio further extends into commercial real estate with successful projects like the Shoppes at Boulevard in West Fargo and East 32nd in Fargo.
A dedicated leader within the industry, Don has been active with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) for more than two decades. He currently serves as the ND State Representative and served as Area 10 National Area Chairman which held the position of 2024-2025 NAHB National Chairman, representing North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Over the years, Don has served as State Representative, BUILD-PAC Trustee, National Area Chairman Moderator, and NAHB Senior Life Delegate. He has chaired and contributed to numerous national committees, including Design, Land Development, Housing Finance, Construction Liability Risk Management, Building Materials, Land Development Committee, and Land Use Policy Subcommittee. In addition, Don was honored to serve as a judge for the NAHB Best in American Living Awards (BALA), a recognition that highlights his expertise in homebuilding innovation and design at the national level. Don is also a familiar presence at NAHB’s Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., where he leads meetings with lawmakers to advocate on behalf of the housing industry.
At the state level, Don served as President of the North Dakota Association of Builders (NDAB) in 2006, followed by Immediate Past President in 2007, Vice President/President Elect in 2005, and Secretary/Treasurer in 2004. He has remained active on the NDAB Executive Committee since 2002 and has chaired the NDAB-PAC Trustees and Government Affairs Committees. Don has testified multiple times at the state Capitol in Bismarck, advocating for policies that support housing and development across North Dakota. He was honored as NDAB Builder of the Year in both 2000 and 2003.
Locally, Don served as President of the Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead (HBA of F-M) in 2003 and has held multiple executive committee positions, including Treasurer and President-Elect. He chaired the Education and Parade of Homes Committees, among others, and has long been a strong advocate on issues such as stormwater compliance, permanent flood protection, sprinkler policies, and frost depth foundation standards. His contributions have earned him multiple Horizon Awards, Best Builder/Developer recognitions, and the prestigious BEAM Award nomination.
Beyond his professional commitments, Don has a deep passion for community service. He has served on the Make-A-Wish Board of Directors for nearly two decades, raising more than $100,000 through charity builds and fundraising initiatives. He has also served on the boards of the Ronald McDonald House and the Hulbert Aquatics Center, where he contributed $50,000 to support the development of a world-class competitive pool and diving facility. His generosity has extended to organizations such as the Roger Maris Cancer Center, TNT Kids Gym, Hope Lutheran Church, and the Diversion Project Initiative. Most recently, Don donated land for both the NDSCS Career Innovation Center and the Capstone Project, demonstrating his continued investment in education and workforce development.
Throughout his career, Don has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Better Business Bureau Torch Award (2021), the Patriotic Employer Award (2017), multiple Best of Houzz Service Awards, the Locals Love Us Best Builder Award (2018–2025), Better Business Bureau Torch Award Finalists (2026), and ongoing nominations for Best Small Business and Entrepreneur of the Year by the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce.
Above all, Don takes pride in his family, his company, and the communities he serves. With over 30 years in the industry, he has combined a passion for architecture, a commitment to advocacy, and a heart for giving back.
Outside of work, Don loves spending time with his wife, Kathy, and their two daughters, Isabell and Liz, at the lake. He is passionate about health and fitness, and when time allows, he enjoys bird hunting. These pastimes reflect his love of the outdoors and his commitment to balance between career, community, and family.
Don Dabbert, Jr.
President
NAHB Senior Life Delegate | NAHB National Area Chairman | ND Professional Builder
MN# BC639326 | ND# 38812
