Image source: Napolitano Homes

It’s a vibrant, growing market,” he says. “There’s a lot of migration from the Northeast, people relocating thanks to remote work, and a diversified economic base. It’s not a volume-heavy target for publics, which is fine for us. As a private company, we focus on quality, not just units.”

He adds that Napolitano’s reputation is unmatched.

The attorneys we worked with during the deal—their first comment was, ‘When the Napolitanos say they’ll do something, they do it.’ That kind of local reputation is gold. We want to build on it, not change it.”

Product Complementarity: From Quads to Custom Appeal

One of the reasons Eastwood moved quickly on the opportunity is Napolitano’s complementary product offering.

They have some condo and quad products we don’t offer,” says Hutchins. “It allows us to reach different buyer profiles. We’re looking at potentially bringing some of those products into Richmond—and sharing some of ours in Hampton Roads.”

Napolitano agrees.

We’ve done everything from $2 million Chesapeake Bay condos to first-time buyer townhomes. But I’m excited to see Eastwood’s top plans in that 2,000–2,500 square foot range. We’ll use whatever works best. No pride of authorship—we want to deliver what buyers love.”

Continuity of Team, Identity, and Mission

The combined company will keep the Napolitano Homes name in place. Vince Napolitano will remain in charge of the Hampton Roads division. Hutchins says the playbook is based on what Eastwood learned from its successful acquisition of Fortress Homes in Columbia, South Carolina.

We focus on employee integration and growth,” he says. “Most of the Fortress team is still with us today. We don’t come in to strip it down. We build on what’s there.”

Napolitano says that commitment came through loud and clear.

They brought a dozen of their people to our office last Thursday and spent real time with our team. Everyone mingled, everyone connected. That matters. Culture matters.”

Strategic Growth at a Time of Caution Elsewhere

As high interest rates, inflation, and cost pressures reshape homebuilding economics, Eastwood’s deal positions it to play offense while others stay cautious.

It gives us 125 more closings this year, and more over time as new communities come online,” says Hutchins. “In this environment, volume supports positive cash flow even with compressed margins.”

Napolitano adds,

Eastwood has the financial strength to land bank, which we couldn’t do. That gives us staying power and future opportunity.”

Advice to Private Builders Thinking About Selling

Napolitano is candid in his guidance to other owner-operators facing similar decisions.

Don’t just sell for the sake of selling. That’s a recipe for disaster. Do your homework. Find a buyer whose values match yours, who cares about your people, and has a track record of integrity. We were lucky—we knew Eastwood. But we also made a conscious plan.”

Final Thought: A Next Chapter That Feels Like Home

The story of Napolitano Homes and Eastwood Homes coming together isn’t just about market expansion. It’s a case study in how values, legacy, and strategy can align to create a stronger whole.

Napolitano says,

This is as close to a perfect match as you can get. Our team feels that, and so do I.”

Hutchins echoes the sentiment.

We’re not just acquiring land and product. We’re welcoming a family into ours. That’s how we grow—and that’s how we win.”