Builder Profile: Urban NW Homes, Building Foundations for Better Living

Since 2008, Urban NW Homes has been dedicated to creating healthy, high-performance, and sustainable home designs across Clark County, Washington, and the greater Portland, Oregon area. Believing that everyone deserves a healthy home, each of their homes is proudly constructed and third-party certified to meet the National Green Building Standard (NGBS). From close-knit communities of single-family homes to comprehensive custom home design/build services, Urban NW Homes caters to a diverse range of buyers. Their homes range in price from starter homes in the $400,000 range to multi-million dollar residences, offering something for every budget.

Based in Vancouver, Washington, and led by Principal Owner Jerud Martin, Urban NW Homes has ambitious plans for 2024, aiming to build 25-30 new homes. Their target market includes move-up homebuyers, families, multi-generational homebuyers and retirees/empty nesters looking for their forever home.

Urban NW Homes distinguishes itself with a dedication to building healthier, more durable and cost-effective homes compared to standard code-built homes. The company’s holistic green focus encompasses health, wellness, efficiency, durability, sustainability and homeowner education/training. These features are built into their standards rather than offered as options, ensuring higher quality and performance.

With every home by Urban NW NGBS-certified, many achieve the Gold level on the four-tier rating system. Key green features include high-performance HVAC systems, electric heat pump water heaters, advanced framing and air sealing techniques, above-code blown-in-blanket insulation, ENERGY STAR-certified appliances, low-to-no VOC materials, smart vapor retarders to manage humidity, maximum recycling of construction materials, use of local products within 500 miles, pre-wiring for solar and electric car charging stations, radon venting/mitigation and low-flow toilets.

Urban NW Homes recently received a Best in American Living Award from the National Association of Home Builders in the Healthy Home Category (Gold Level) for their Benton floor plan in Ridgefield. They also launched a new 63-lot community in La Center, Washington, called Urban Meadows, offering a variety of floorplan designs. In their communities, homes typically range from the mid $500,000 to the upper $700,000s, while custom homes are priced from the high $700,000s to $2 million.

Urban NW Homes Owner Jerud Martin shares, “At Urban NW Homes, we’re driven by a vision that extends beyond the mere construction of buildings; we’re dedicated to creating foundations for better living. As we move forward in 2024, our commitment remains steadfast—to make healthy, green, and smart homes accessible at every price point. I deeply believe everyone deserves a home that supports their health, integrates the latest in sustainability and efficiency, and incorporates smart technology, regardless of their budget.” 

Despite competition from large national builders, limited lot availability, and rising costs, Urban NW remains committed to excellence. Martin’s dedication to cost reduction without quality compromise ensures affordability. As new building codes emerge, Urban NW leverages proactive construction practices to maintain affordability and quality for clients.

Urban NW’s unwavering commitment to quality, transparency and extensive construction experience sets them apart. Martin’s hands-on involvement and deep industry knowledge empower the team to deliver unparalleled results backed by third-party verification and a relentless pursuit of excellence. While design may evolve, Urban NW’s innovative spirit, diversity and high-performance ethos continue to define them as leaders in sustainable homebuilding.

At Urban NW Homes, the future of sustainable, healthy living is now—built with care, precision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The company’s vision includes not only building homes but also educating homeowners about the benefits of green living. Workshops and informational sessions are regularly held to ensure homeowners understand the value and operation of their high-performance homes. This educational approach empowers homeowners to make the most of their sustainable features, contributing to a greener lifestyle.

The builder actively engages with local communities and participates in various environmental initiatives. The company collaborates with local suppliers and businesses to minimize their carbon footprint and support the regional economy. By prioritizing the use of local products, Urban NW Homes not only reduces transportation emissions but also fosters a sense of community and local pride.

In addition to their residential projects, Urban NW Homes is exploring opportunities to expand their sustainable building practices to commercial developments. This potential growth area aims to bring the same level of commitment to sustainability and quality to commercial spaces, further enhancing the company’s impact on the environment and the communities they serve.

Urban NW Homes remains a trailblazer in the sustainable building industry, continuously pushing the envelope with innovative designs and eco-friendly practices. Their dedication to building not just homes, but healthy, vibrant communities, sets a new standard for the future of homebuilding. As they look ahead, Urban NW Homes is poised to create a more sustainable and healthy living environment for all.

Angélica Escobar is the assistant editor for Green Home Builder Magazine. She may be reached at angelica@builder.media.