Ryan Rodehorst
Edited 1/30/2026: After speaking with John, one of the managers, I am even more convinced that individual homeowner’s should avoid doing large project-type business with Builder’s until significant changes are made to its culture, training, processes, and customer service expectations. While acknowledging ways that communication could be improved, he accepted minimal responsibility for the major issues we experienced, shifting them largely to us. (We did learn a lot through this process the hard way and will keep the pointers below in mind regardless of who we work with in the future.) I suspected this was his true position even though he had suggested otherwise in previous conversations, saying Builder’s would “make it right” and to keep track of our issues and the additional expenses they created. He did say he will be working toward making improvements, and yet did not appear to fully appreciate the improvements that are needed. Nor did he take responsibility for the problems those issues created or the other issues we informed him about (albeit, in areas of the business he does not directly manage). I hope they take the concerns I have communicated seriously and make the improvements that are needed to ensure a better experience for their customers. I truly want their best and wish for their continued success as a foundational part of the Kearney business community. Original review: We recently spent about $18,000 with Builder’s for countertops and cabinets as part of a kitchen and bathroom refresh. I wanted to support a local business and assumed paying a little more would mean a smoother process and better results. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. I don’t enjoy leaving negative reviews, but I hope sharing this helps others avoid the same experience. This also reminded me of a similar issue we had about five years ago with a countertop order at our previous home. At that time, Builder’s sent an apology card and a gift certificate to a restaurant. While I’d like to forget this current experience as I had the one before, writing this review will help me avoid repeating the same mistake. A few things to keep in mind if you choose Builder’s: 1. Don’t rely on their “design” services team. Communication, coordination, and consultation were extremely poor. There may be exceptions, so if you go this route, ask friends for recommendations on specific designers they’ve had good experiences with. 2. Involve your contractor early and often. Their input is invaluable throughout the process. 3. Double-check everything...before, during, and after. Be prepared to follow up repeatedly for updates. Don’t expect Builder’s to take initiative. Having your contractor review key decisions can save you headaches. 4. (Added 1/31/26). Choose your words carefully and check their understanding. Otherwise, like the man who found a genie lamp and wound up with a dinosaur-sized rooster, you’ll get “what you asked for.” As a lifelong Kearney resident, I always wondered how so many kitchen and bath businesses opened despite Builder’s being first to market with direct supplier access. Now I understand why.
