Get to Know Us
Since 1988, our values have remained the same. We vow to build each custom home with honesty, integrity, and care.
Schultz Development was founded in 1988 by John Schultz, whose lifelong passion for design and building began at a young age. Born on Long Island, New York, and raised in Arizona, John grew up surrounded by entrepreneurship and developed a strong work ethic early on. As a child he would take on paper routes, mow lawns, and go on to spend summers and weekends learning the masonry trade.
John began his studies at Arizona State University in the pre-professional architecture program, drawn to design but soon realizing his true calling lay in building. He shifted to the business school with a single goal—to one day own his own custom homebuilding company. John established Schultz Development during the savings and loan market crash, taking on remodels and small projects while working tirelessly toward his first custom home.
In the early years, Schultz Development handled a mix of commercial work, remodels, and new custom homes, gradually earning a reputation for quality, honesty, and hard work. As the company’s reputation grew, so did the scale and complexity of its projects. John’s wife, Denise, joined early on to help run the office, and his father, Arne, became the company’s first superintendent, working alongside him for more than 20 years. Over time, the company’s focus evolved exclusively to large-scale luxury estates.
More than three decades later, Schultz Development continues to embody the same values it was built upon. What started as a family-run business has grown into a trusted name in Arizona’s luxury home market, known for exceptional quality and a personal, people-first approach. Today, John remains as hands-on as ever, leading a dedicated team that shares his commitment to doing things the right way and building homes that stand the test of time.
Our Beginnings
Schultz Development has always been built on family values and hard work. What began as a small operation has grown into a trusted name in custom home building. None of this would be possible without the incredible team that stands behind it all.
We love to give back
The entire team shares a passion for giving back.
Here are a few of the charities we’re proud to support at Schultz Development:
Jared Allen's Homes for Wounded Warriors
Jaren Allen is one of our clients and friends. Jared Allen's Homes for Wounded Warriors provides critically wounded combat Veterans with the opportunity to live comfortably and independently in specially adapted homes. We have been a supporter of this great cause for many years.
Almost There
Almost There, a mom and pups rescue shelter was started by our client Geri Hormel. The shelter is specialized in saving the lives of pregnant and nursing dogs and puppies. The Schultz Development team are all animal lovers and this is another great cause we all enjoy supporting.
Reigning Grace Ranch
Reigning Grace Ranch is a unique human and horse rescue ranch and sanctuary, nestled in the heart of the desert. They unite people and horses, creating transformative experiences for youth, families, veterans, first responders and individuals a like. This is another program that we love to support.
The Scottsdale Charros
The Scottsdale Charros are an all-volunteer, nonprofit group of business and civic leaders. John Schultz is a past president of the organization and was an active member for over 12 years. The group is focused on supporting youth sports, education and charitable causes while preserving Scottsdale's Western heritage.