Ben Christensen, president and driving force behind Benco Ventures, started working in construction at a very young age.
“Our father would take us out of school for the day and tell us we were having ‘practical education’ instead. That’s where I developed my love for construction and in particular my passion for building residential homes,” he says.
Benco Ventures has been operating in the Comox Valley since 2004 but the family behind the business has been working in the construction industry for over 50 years. Well known for their beautiful custom homes, in particular, in Crown Isle with their memorable show homes , the family behind the business has shared a rare glimpse into how they got started and how they’ve remained at the top of their game for close to 20 years.
Christensen’s father moved the family from Australia to Canada when he was a teenager and the family started building homes on the Lower Mainland. With the green light from dad, Christensen and his brothers Daniel, Jonathan and occasionally their eldest brother, Joe, began travelling and fast-tracking various multi-residential developments around Western Canada.
“We worked as a framing and foundation crew during those early years, and that eventually turned into what we have today, Benco Ventures.” says Christensen.
Christensen’s best kept secret? Repeat and referral business, along with showcasing design and quality.
“We had one of the earliest show homes available in Crown Isle. It allowed us to show potential buyers the quality of craftsmanship that we could offer,” Christensen says. “Along with good design & floor plans. The use of Aussie names for our plans is a nod to our family’s roots.”
Christensen’s favourite show homes over the past few years?
“The ‘Kingston’ is certainly memorable, it was part of the ‘The BC Children’s Hospital Dream Home’ package in the Comox Valley. While another more recent favourite, was part of their ‘Choice’s’ prize package. It was a privilege and joy to be involved in.”
Benco’s secret to quality control:
“The majority of our trades are under the Benco umbrella as Benco employees. As a result we have better control over quality, budget and meeting our timelines. Some of our team members have been with us since the beginning in 2004, and that’s also resulted in a positive and notable impact in all areas of the company,” Christensen says.
Christensen himself remains very hands-on and actively involved in all areas of the business, along with his siblings Daniel, Johnathan and Esther. While the three brothers remain actively working directly on Benco’s latest projects, Esther, the only sister in the family, works in the office alongside her niece. Together the Christensen siblings ensure Benco Ventures maintains its exceptional reputation and continues to build homes and friendships all across the Comox Valley.
You can find more information about this family-owned and operated business online here and information about their latest projects here.