In 2005, Pablo and his wife Vanessa were living in The Heights. They spotted a lot for sale across from their home for $110,000. At that time, Pablo was working for a large commercial general contractor on major projects like hotels and stadiums. They decided to buy the lot and build a house for themselves. Although they didn't know exactly what they were getting into, they quickly learned the ropes. Their initial budget of $440,000 soon proved insufficient, and they realized they needed $520,000 to complete the house. Instead of keeping it, they decided to sell it, listing it for around $600,000.
Back in 2006, no one had ever listed a home west of Heights Blvd for such a high price. Realtors were intrigued and came to see why it was so expensive. Despite the premium price, Pablo and Vanessa quickly found a buyer—a couple from Tennessee. Though they didn't make a significant profit on the sale of this home, they saw the potential in making a few adjustments to their approach. They realized they could build 2-3 homes a year and make a decent living.
They built another home on a neighboring lot, and their friends became investors, leading to the creation of their home-building company. In May 2007, Pablo left his job and ventured out on his own. Unfortunately, this was just as the financial crisis hit, making loans and financing hard to come by. Despite these challenges, they poured love into their work, which taught them the importance of being responsible with their customers' budgets. During these tough times, they also forged strong relationships with their most skilled contractors, such as their tile setter and carpenter, who remain with Unika Homes to this day.
By 2009-2010, the market had improved, and they began building more homes each year, continually raising the bar for quality. They quickly built a reputation for the quality of their work. Each home they built was better, more beautiful, and more complex than the last.
Pablo and Vanessa enjoy building spec homes because it allows them to express themselves. Custom homes also excite them as they challenge their creativity and keep them at the forefront of the custom home market.
Vanessa has been with Unika Homes since the very beginning. She knows every part of the business inside and out, understanding the Houston custom homes they build better than anyone. She manages the design partners and architects, serving as the point person for interior design and architecture. As the realtor who best represents their brand, she excels at selling Unika Curated homes because she knows them from top to bottom. Her work with Unika Curated homes means she is not as involved in the custom homes side these days, but her influence and expertise remain vital to the success of Unika Homes.