The Hughes Family began in Phoenix over sixty years ago, developing the extremely popular Apache Wells community, Fountain of the Sun and Arizona Golf Resort. Thirty years later in 1996, the second generation founded Hughes Development and continued to focus on Master Planned Communities, adding Apache Wells II, Apache Wells Condos, Las Campanas, Mountain Whisper, Pueblo Estates, Verde Groves, Vistoso Village, and The Villages at South Mountain. Since the turn of the century, the company has transitioned into one of the valley’s best custom home builders and expanded across the state. Mark Hughes now operates Hughes Construction II in the Payson area, currently building beautiful custom homes in the Chaparral Pines and Rim Club communities.

The third generation, current owner Justin Hughes, has grown up on jobsites learning what it takes to build quality homes. He was instrumental in developing homes in Apache Wells, Mountain Whisper and South Mountain communities. In 2015, Justin took over Hughes Development and has continued the family legacy of building superior custom homes. Justin not only learned from generations before him, he is surrounded by successful family members who have helped him develop into the businessman and builder he is today. From successful superintendents to remarkable realtors, the family is immersed in the industry. Justin supplemented his learning with a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University. He went on to obtain his Master of Business Administration with scholarly accolades and his General Contractors license quickly thereafter. All of Justin’s mentors and education contribute to the creative ideas and vision he has for the projects and the continued growth of Hughes Development.

Helping to keep projects on schedule and execute Justin’s grand ideas is Vice President of Construction, Chris Sidner. Chris has worked with the Hughes family for decades and has experience with many corporate builders as a project manager and superintendent. From developing hundreds of track homes and countless custom homes, Chris is well versed in the technical aspects of building a home. His experience and attention to detail serves the Hughes Development clientele well, ensuring no aspect is overlooked. Chris’ friendly demeanor has resulted in long term relationships with many subcontractors, helping to facilitate efficiency along the project timeline. He also became a licensed real estate agent to co-list the stunning homes he is so instrumental in building.

The most recent addition, Vice President of Operations, Mara Lee brings nearly 20 years of experience in the financial industry to Hughes Development. She also has her master’s degree in Business Administration and embarked on her real estate licensure once she joined the company. Mara has taken over all accounting operations, implemented new business systems and has filled an integral role in assisting Hughes Development with its future growth. Her prior leadership translates into streamlined organization of the various projects from scheduling, ordering, coordinating design and payment to delivering the final home. Her background in banking and detailed accounting practices assure each project’s budget is used effectively and maximized to the full potential. Mara co-lists the Hughes Development homes with Chris, truly providing service from start to finish.