Who we are

Meet the owners!

NRE Customs is owned and operated by Nick and Faith Ernst, a husband-and-wife team passionate about creating beautiful, functional spaces with craftsmanship, integrity, and genuine care.

Nick's journey began at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, where he studied machinery before discovering his true passion for carpentry. After relocating to Southeastern North Carolina, he started by helping neighbors with home projects, and what began as general home maintenance quickly grew into a business centered on custom carpentry and remodeling. Over time, Nick shifted his focus entirely to custom carpentry and remodeling, specializing in one-of-a-kind spaces built with precision and purpose.

While Nick brings each project to life in the workshop and on the jobsite, Faith leads the client experience behind the scenes. She attended Cape Fear Community College, where she studied Applied Science, and developed a strong foundation in organization, administration, graphic design, and client communication through both her education and technical training. Today, she oversees design concepts, project organization, scheduling, estimates, and client communication. Her passion is creating a clear, organized, and enjoyable experience where clients always know what to expect and feel like they're part of the NRE Customs family.

Building NRE Customs together has been one of the greatest blessings of our lives. Our mission is to create beautiful spaces while providing an experience built on trust, honesty, and genuine care. Our faith is the foundation of everything we do, guiding the way we serve our clients, communicate throughout each project, and conduct our business with integrity. We believe in being transparent from the very first meeting to the final walkthrough, treating every home with respect and every client like family. When we're not working, you'll most likely find us serving together in our church's youth and kids ministries, where our passion for investing in the next generation extends far beyond the work we do.

Every project we complete is truly custom. We don't use pre-made cabinets or doors unless a client specifically requests them. From media walls and custom cabinetry to complete home renovations, every detail is thoughtfully designed and built to fit your home, your lifestyle, and your vision.

At NRE Customs, our mission is to craft quality spaces with integrity, precision, and creativity. We're committed to transforming homes through custom carpentry and remodeling solutions that reflect each client's unique vision while delivering exceptional craftsmanship, honest communication, and an experience you can feel confident in from start to finish. We aren't just building projects—we're building lasting relationships and homes where families can create memories for generations.

The Ernsts

Owners, NRE Customs

What sets us apart

At NRE Customs, we believe a great remodeling experience is about more than the finished product—it's about the people you trust to bring your vision to life.

From the first conversation to the final walkthrough, we prioritize clear communication, honest expectations, and quality craftsmanship. We don't believe in cutting corners or rushing through projects just to get them done. Every detail matters because we're building something that's meant to last.

Every project we complete is tailored to your home and your vision. Whether it's handcrafted cabinetry, a custom media wall, built-ins, or a full remodel, we take the time to ensure every detail is thoughtfully designed, precisely built, and finished with care. We believe custom work should look and feel truly custom.

Your home isn't just another job site—it's where life happens. That's why we take extra care to protect your space and keep it as clean as possible throughout the renovation process. We clean as we go, minimize disruption whenever possible, and treat your home with the same care and respect we'd give our own. We believe exceptional craftsmanship isn't just about the finished product—it's also about how we care for your home every step of the way.

As a family-owned, fully insured business, we treat every client like family. Our goal isn't just to complete another project—it's to create a space you'll love for years to come while making the entire process as smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free as possible.

Client Reviews

  • Karen S.

    We hired NRE Customs for our new media wall with bookshelves and custom cabinets. We are over the moon excited about our end result!!! Nick is so professional! His estimates surpass others in accuracy, with drawings to confirm the end result. He keeps his workspace neat and clean and by end of day when he leaves, he always tidies up.He is quiet, a methodical worker. So particular about his work. Very much cares about his design and workmanship. Very detail oriented. High integrity!!!!! Excellent communicator.

    We highly recommend him and plan to hire them again in the future!

  • Dianne M.

    "If you want a space that is a work of art, perfectly functional, and reasonably priced, I highly recommend NRE Customs."

  • Tom B.

    "Their ability to take a rough idea and turn it into a beautiful, functional reality is a testament to their technical expertise and eye for design. "

  • Ellen F.

    ‘‘Nick does excellent quality work. I highly recommend him!”

  • Vickie K.

    ‘‘We love our built-in in our living room. Nick did an amazing job.’’