When it comes to custom homes and high-quality renovations in Aiken and the greater CSRA region, Graybeal Construction & Design stands out—not just for premiere craftsmanship — but for the hands-on commitment of its founder, Lee Graybeal. With over 38 years of experience in real estate and construction, Graybeal has built a business on quality, integrity and an intimate approach to homebuilding.
“What I offer is personal attention, from start to finish,” said Graybeal. “My clients know what I look like. I’m on the job site. I handle every estimate and all day-to-day operations myself.”
Graybeal Construction & Design specializes in high-quality custom homes and renovations, serving clients throughout Aiken, North Augusta, Greenwood and beyond. Licensed in both South Carolina and Georgia as a real estate broker and residential and commercial builder, Graybeal has deep connections in the region and in the business itself. “I grew up around it,” he shares. “My stepfather, Jim Beard, started building homes in 1985. I first helped him frame a house at just 14 years old. At one point, we were doing 100 homes a year — it was full throttle.”
After starting out in real estate at 18 years old and then earning his MBA, Graybeal gravitated toward the custom side of home construction. “We evolved into fewer homes with higher quality,” he explains. “It’s just a better business model for me — less volume, more attention to detail. I love to see homes we’ve built that will last forever and that families are proud to call home.”
A detail-oriented mindset is something he’s carried with him since childhood. “I built model cars and planes as a kid. I’d paint the numbers on the dials and make the seats look like real leather. I’ve always been drawn to the little things that make something great — the finishes, the fit and the feeling it gives.”
Graybeal’s business thrives on long-term relationships — not just with clients, but with subcontractors and staff. “I’ve worked with the same trim carpenter for over 25 years and most other subcontractors and suppliers for over 15 years. I don’t shop for the cheapest labor. I stick with the best guy for the best price,” he remarks. “It’s a delicate dance and every job is different. I’ve done this long enough to keep things moving and do it well.”
Behind the scenes, Graybeal credits a powerhouse team of designers who coordinate with suppliers, help clients select finishes and fixtures and ensure the experience is seamless from the ground up. “I’d be nowhere without them,” he adds with a smile.
Graybeal believes in keeping low overhead costs, eliminating layers of management and offering what he calls a personal building experience. There are no middlemen — clients work directly with Lee. That level of involvement is rare in today’s industry, and it’s one reason Graybeal Construction & Design has earned a loyal following and strong reputation.
“My goal is simple — to build something lasting that reflects the client’s vision and to make sure the client enjoys the process. It’s not just about framing walls and installing trim. It’s about creating a space that can be part of someone’s life, their story and their future.”
As a dad of two teenage boys and a North Augusta native, Lee Graybeal is invested in the community. With every home he builds, he continues a family legacy of excellence.