The True North Mission

We create enduring homes that serve as each family's True North - anchoring their story, gatherings, and legacy - while cultivating a culture of purpose and belonging, where our team and their families experience stability, find fulfillment, and flourish in every area of life.

Vision Statement

To become Nebraska's preeminent team of craftsmen and leaders - committed to purpose, excellence, and growth - and known for the remarkable homes we build, the people we develop, and the families we strengthen.

Our Values

Trust The Process

We commit to proven systems, clear communication, and doing things the right way every time.

Relationships First

We elevate others before ourselves through humility, respect, and integrity.

Uncompromising Craftsmanship

We uphold exceptional standards and sweat every detail, no matter how small.

Execute with Ownership

We lead with initiative, own the outcome, and deliver excellence.


True North History

Our founder, Sam Swartz, started building in Lincoln with a partner in 2016. He ventured off on his own in 2020, founding True North Custom Homes. The company emerged from a desire to do things differently, to construct homes that are not only beautiful but built with a focus on improving every step of the process. From the beginning, True North’s mission has been to create comfortable, custom homes that both clients and the team can be proud of, with a strong emphasis on integrity, craftsmanship, and lasting satisfaction.

In its first full year of operation, True North completed its inaugural custom home and had six more projects under way
with foundations dug by 2021. Since then, the company has steadily expanded, growing from the original two employees to over a dozen, finishing over 133,000 square feet and now managing over 70,000 square feet in active builds at once. This trajectory reflects not only the demand for high-quality custom homes but also the trust homeowners place in True North’s vision.

True North in the Community

At True North Custom Homes, giving back is woven into the fabric of who we are. Founder Sam Swartz leads the way through active involvement and support of numerous local organizations and initiatives. From sponsoring events like the Run2Overcome, Lincoln Berean’s Men’s Tournament, and the Paul & Neva Grace Foundation Golf Tournament, to supporting youth athletics such as Lincoln Rebels Baseball and Force Basketball, we are proud to invest in the well-being of our community.


Kelli, our in-house designer served as president of the Young Professionals Group - a subdivision of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln - for 2 years from 2019 to 2020, and has been a part of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln since 2014. Sam took over for Kelli and served as president for 2 years from 2021-2022 and has sat on the Board of Directors for the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) since 2017. Sam served on the Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation Board from 2015 to 2024. Through their efforts they help create a path for the younger generation working in building industry and help them realize their potential.


Sam will serve as a keynote speaker at leadership events, including a series led by Nebraska’s former Economic Development Director called The Something In The Water series, and participates in the Governor’s Construction Industry Roundtable. Sam also helped manage the Habitat for Humanity build in Lincoln that the Home Builders Association of Lincoln collectively built.


Through partnerships with United Way, Lincoln Christian, and local media features, we aim to shine a light on causes that matter and help build a stronger, more connected Lincoln.

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