S1Ep101 Jim Lawler on Building Homes in Arizona the Right Way

If you’re serious about building homes in Arizona, this is one story worth paying attention to. Jim Lawler started in the trades at 18, got his license at 25, and built a company that’s lasted through four recessions. From custom homes in Sedona to entire subdivisions in Cottonwood and Lake Havasu, Jim has seen—and built—it all.

He started with a tool belt and a willingness to learn. Within a few years, he was managing million-dollar builds and handling everything from jobsite logistics to client scopes of work. His early mentors gave him more than tasks—they gave him access. He learned how to manage budgets, coordinate subs, and run a job from the inside out. That foundation shaped everything.

But it wasn’t just skill that carried him. It was vision. Jim worked 12-hour days because he knew where he was headed. When he finally struck out on his own, he was ready. Not just technically—but mentally. And when the 2012 housing slump hit, that preparation paid off.

An investor approached him with a failing subdivision after the original builder went bankrupt. Jim didn’t pitch himself—he delivered a full business plan. The investor handed him the keys. Over the next few years, he built 127 semi-custom homes and expanded into another development in Lake Havasu.

While many builders chase volume by stripping down quality, Jim did the opposite. “We’re yes builders,” he said. “Most guys say no to customizations. We say yes.” That mindset helped Lawler Construction stand out in a sea of tract builders and price shoppers.

He’s also been honest about the toll. “There were times in 2009 when I thought it was over,” he said. “I dedicated the company to God. I said, if it’s meant to go, so be it. But we’re still here.”

Now, Jim’s focused on legacy. His son Patrick is helping run the business. Younger crews are stepping into leadership. And a new generation of tradespeople is starting to show up, thanks in part to local vocational programs making a comeback in Cottonwood.

His advice to builders looking to scale is blunt: know your weaknesses, hire better than yourself, and don’t fake it. “You can’t do it all. Surround yourself with strong people, and everything gets better.”

You can check out Jim’s work and learn more at LawlerConstructionAZ.com.

Watch the full episode on YouTube or listen here or on your favorite podcast platform.

About Jim Lawler
Jim is the founder and president of Lawler Construction, a family-owned and operated general contracting company based in the Verde Valley, Arizona. With over 37 years of experience, Jim has built a reputation for delivering quality custom homes and commercial projects. Starting his career at 19, he learned the importance of relationships and craftsmanship from his father, a plumbing contractor. At 26, Jim secured his first contract as a general contractor, laying the foundation for Lawler Construction's commitment to "Good Service, Good Value, and Good Quality." The company is known for its dedication to energy-efficient building practices and has been an ENERGYSTAR® Partner, incorporating sustainable building methods into their projects.

About Michael Krisa
Michael Krisa is the host and producer of the Builder Straight Talk Podcast, where he shares expert interviews and real solutions to the U.S. housing shortage. With a background in SEO, video marketing, and real estate, Michael leverages his experience to deliver unfiltered insights into the building industry. His mission is to help builders navigate challenges and succeed by providing practical strategies and stories from those who have been in the trenches.​

Through Builder Straight Talk, Michael offers a platform for builders, contractors, and tradespeople to share their journeys, lessons learned, and strategies for growth. His straight-talking, casual but credible approach resonates with a no-nonsense, practical-minded audience seeking to scale their businesses and fund more projects.