THE LAKEVILLE LEGACY
In 1976, Susan Ho immigrated to the U.S. from Hong Kong with her husband and infant daughter and $20 in their pockets. In 1985, she embarked on a unique journey, driven by a vision to help clients build their beautifully-designed dream homes.
On the shores of Lake Washington, there began a company known as Lakeville Homes.
A minority and woman-owned business was unusual for the time. With each project, Susan faced trials that tested her dedication and resilience. But slowly, Lakeville built a reputation on intricate design and meticulous craftsmanship. The team nurtured trust as sturdy as the foundations it laid.
Susan hired Rick Rahlfs, an eager and hard-working 15-year-old, to mow lawns and sweep out the dust at new project locations. Eventually, Rick went off to Washington State University, earning a degree in Construction Management. He returned to the company, where Susan gave him opportunities to grow. Now, Rick is the owner of Lakeville.
Since taking over in 2022 and establishing SoBella Construction, named after his daughters Isabella and Sophia, Rick has embraced trustworthiness, high quality, and top-notch customer service as the company's ethos. In a tech-dominated era, where personal connections are fewer, He emphasizes face-to-face meetings, resisting the trends of automated processes and remote interactions.
Today, Lakeville Homes by SoBella stands proudly as a respected general contractor, renowned for translating clients’ concepts into stunning realities. Recognized by Architectural Digest for its focus on the 'power of human connection' within projects, they’ve garnered over 25 industry accolades, including the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) Remodeler of the Year, 425 Magazine’s Best Remodeler, and the Best of Houzz Design Winner.
In 2025 alone, Lakeville was honored with five industry awards, including the MBAKS Remodeling Excellence Award in the Outdoor Living category, two BIAW Excellence in Remodeling Awards, and a Qualified Remodeler Master Design Award.
They take pride in their history, and are driven by innovation, adapting to modern trends while cherishing the timeless values that have defined them for generations.
OUR TEAM
The people of Lakeville Homes by SoBella are a testament to its enduring legacy. Like a finely tuned orchestra, the team harmonizes with talented and dedicated architects, designers, and subcontractors, creating a symphony of expertise and creativity, and beautiful music for clients.
Rick Rahlfs
Owner/General Contractor
Rick is the conductor behind every home venture. From his humble beginnings at Lakeville, laboring on grounds and assisting in budding projects at the tender age of 15, he's ascended to ownership. His composed demeanor conceals a profound desire for client connections, dedicated to delivering excellence. Beyond his earnest façade lies a deep fondness for Tillamook cheddar cheese, rivaled only by his adoration for his daughters, Izzy and Sophia, who inspired the namesake of SoBella Construction. Rick passionately leads, ensuring each project's direction and pace with an unwavering commitment to exceeding expectations.
Kellie Cheadle
Marketing/Business Development/Project Management
Kellie assumes the role of the orchestra's publicist and promoter in the realm of marketing and business development. She operates as the driving force behind the scenes, attracting new clients, making sure current clients have exactly what they need, and creating pathways for Lakeville's growth. As the project manager, Kellie uses her decades of experience in journalism running a newsroom to make sure projects hit their deadlines. Beyond her professional pursuits, she cherishes her trio of kids while savoring her passion for coffee, and a devotion to the Seattle Seahawks.
Scott Monte
Lead Carpenter
Scott, our virtuoso lead carpenter, resembles a seasoned soloist. He's a maestro whose mastery shapes the orchestra's performance. His illustrious tenure spans over three decades with Lakeville.
Fondly referred to as 'Scotty' by the team, his affable nature resonates as he indulges in Seattle sports fervor and proudly showcases his remarkable Belgian Malinois.
Scott's instrumental expertise not only defines precision in carpentry but also elevates the achievements at Lakeville, cementing his pivotal role in its enduring success.
Experience
Integrity
Quality