"Communication was excellent. We always knew what work was scheduled for the upcoming week and which subcontractors would be in our house. It can be difficult to have "strangers" in your house at 7:30 every morning, yet we found everyone to be polite and corteous and easy to work with."
Theresa & Richard Quandt, March 2007

“We’ve been thinking you should consider renaming your business Cates ‘Family’ Homes. Aside from the obvious reasons of a family-run business and your creation of warm, inviting homes, your approach to construction felt like we were teaming with family. We’ve enthusiastically recommended Cates Fine Homes to anyone thinking of a new project and we will continue to do so.”
John & Katie Mack, 2006


“Frank and I have bought and sold many homes in our 50 years together and engaged many construction companies but no experience was ever like this one. I truly can say we recommend Cates.  We found them through our son and daughter-in-law that have had Cates work for them in both of their homes and their experience, like ours, has been stellar.” - Jane Pazlar, 2005


“I had a blast with the entire Cates team during the duration of our build process. To this day, I am amazed at how effortless and fun our experience was. I sing their praises constantly and now I want Cates Fine Homes over for dinner!”
Robin Culbreath, 2005

“Your emphasis on customer service, high-quality materials and workmanship make you the cream-of-the-crop. The result of this project was our dream home (completed on time when you said it would be) and we couldn’t be happier. Thank you (and your subs) for an excellent job. We’d recommend you to anyone!” - Dave & Susie Kelley, 2004


"Since Cates’ method of building is based on perfectionism, they satisfied us and more. I would not hesitate to recommend them.” - Margaret Humphrey, 2004


“The house, by the way, is looking fantastic. The site was crawling with people yesterday, all hard at work. I’ve been very impressed with the set of subs you guys work with.” - Robert Gerloff, 2003


“...you orchestrated this build so beautifully. We always felt informed as to what was happening and really appreciate how responsive you always were to us and all your effort on so many fronts.”
Bruce & Jan Tockman, 2002


“People often ask us if we would build with Cates Fine Homes again and we always give a resounding YES!!” - Laurie Carlson, 2002


“We place a high value on doing things right and we are happy that Jay shared these same values when making decisions regarding the project. We would not hesitate to recommend your firm to anyone who is considering the services of a contractor.” - Greg & Julie Doyle, 2002


“Thanks, Jennifer, to you and the guys!  Your service and work was great... money well spent!” - Annie S., 2002


“Thank you for all of your extra help & advice on the new house that we are so happy to call home.  I appreciate being able to move in before the holidays and for all of the beautiful work. Thanks for all you did.” - Ali Johnson, 2003


“What I find so interesting about working with Jennifer, Jay and Jeff, is that you get highly sophisticated details and craftsmanship from a team of brothers and sisters that truly makes you feel like you are working with your best friends or with your own family.” - Shane Coen, 2000


“We can’t thank you enough for being so patient throughout the building process. We are proud to recommend Cates to anyone who asks about our builder.” - Scott & Kim Bracey, 1996


“Just wanted to let you know how much we’ve enjoyed working with you.  We’re so excited about our new home and we’ve received many compliments from family and friends.” - Steve & Mia Anderson, 1990




Cates Fine Homes • 126 South 2nd Street • Stillwater, MN 55082 • (651) 439-2844 • jennifer@catesfinehomes.com