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.

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On the shores of Lake Washington, there began a company known as Lakeville Homes.

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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.

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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 came back to Lakeville where Susan gave him opportunities to grow. Rick is now the owner of Lakeville.

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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, Rick emphasizes face-to-face meetings, resisting the trends of automated processes and remote interactions.

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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. They recently won a 2025 MBAKS Remodeling Excellence Award in the Outdoor Living category. And in 2024, they earned two BIAW Excellence in Remodeling awards for outstanding projects in "Kitchen Over $140,001" and "Addition Over $250,001."

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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.