Our Story

With a passion for remodeling and 25 years of industry experience under his belt, Ben Yanz launched Yanz Builders in 2017. As a full-service general contractor and remodeler, we collaborate with clients, design firms, and trade partners to build beautiful, durable, and seamless remodels. Through his years as a carpenter, project manager and now general contractor, Ben has gained a deep appreciation for the importance of client relationships & exceptional craftsmanship, which is why client satisfaction is the company’s number one priority. The team at Yanz Builders upholds this principle by delivering projects they're truly proud of and ensuring each remodel exceeds expectations.

Our team is what makes all of this possible. Throughout his career, Ben made connections with some of the most talented, intelligent and downright good people in the Twin Cities building community. From our crew of carpenters to the trade partners we collaborate with, you can count on us to build beautiful work, respect you and your space, and sometimes provide some fun in the process.

Crew
our team of builders
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Our Team

ben

Ben Yanz

Owner, Project Manager, sometimes (but never often enough) Carpenter

Coming from a family of hobby woodworkers, Ben got his start in remodeling working at the ReUse Center Architectural Salvage in Minneapolis. Working as a carpenter, then project manager, for two established Twin Cities sustainable design/build firms, he gained firsthand experience with multiple facets of the industry, and finished a degree in Construction Management at the U of M before launching Yanz Builders. In his off time, Ben enjoys time with his family, mountain biking, camping, and exploring Minnesota and the world.
jessica

Jessica Treat

Project Manager, Spreadsheet Wizard, Retired Apprentice Carpenter

With degrees in both engineering and urban development, Jessica brings project management skills from over 15 years in non-profit administration, and volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and the Peace Corps. In addition to bringing clear communication and order to all our projects, she facilitates accounting and marketing for the company. In her off hours, Jessica enjoys time with her daughter, hiking and biking, live music, thrifting, and travel.
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Doug Erickson

Lead Carpenter, Rogue Designer

Doug has decades of experience in carpentry, and his background in engineering and design make him a valuable asset on any project. When Doug isn’t working on site or in his shop, he enjoys riding and restoring vintage road bikes and spending time with his friends and family.
corey

Corey Hess

Carpenter, MacGyver, Jobsite Percussionist

Corey brings decades of carpentry experience and creative problem solving to all our projects. His mechanical mind and wide array of skills make him indispensable on our jobsites, and his positivity is contagious. When Corey isn’t helping us make your home beautiful, you can find him recording musicians in his home studio, making music out in the world, and spending time with his family.
sam

Sam Bahta

Carpenter, Artist, Chocolatier
Sam brings an artist’s eye to our projects. From making bean to bar chocolate to sculptures to a remodel in your home, Sam is driven by a deep desire to bring ideas to life. He’s an excellent carpenter with a quick wit, and a great addition to the team.
pepper

Pepper

Lead Barkitect

Inspires the whole team with her boundless energy and pawsitive attitude. In her spare time, Pepper pursues squirrels and naps in sunbeams.