Notes From Our Journey

The founding of a company is often distilled to a single moment — a year, a name, a handshake. In reality, the birth of a business is a gradual evolution, shaped over years by practice, refinement, and a shared vision. Ceci Bates Custom Homes is no exception; its story is one of long-standing dedication, refinement, and partnership.

Tom Ceci had been working in the Lake Texoma region since the 1980s, cultivating his craftsmanship, standards, and relationships within the local trades long before the formal establishment of the company. By 1999, Scott Bates joined Tom, and together they formed Ceci Bates Custom Homes. Their last names came together in the name, marking the beginning of a meaningful partnership that would span decades.

Initially, Ceci Bates was a modest two-person operation. Both founders immersed themselves in every aspect of their projects, ensuring each design and build met their exacting standards. As the company matured over the next twenty-six years, it expanded into a robust firm composed of nine core employees and a team of specialists working across diverse disciplines, stretching even beyond national borders.

Yet, the essence of the company — the dedication to quality and community — remains unwavering. Tom Ceci manages the production side and also serves as the mayor of Pottsboro, seamlessly integrating his commitment to community service into his professional life. Scott Bates spearheads client engagement and the meticulous design process, maintaining a hands-on approach to every project. Their partnership thrives because both founders align on what they believe the work should accomplish: homes that are built to last.

The longest-lived firms are often those where founders align on their core mission from the start. We invite those interested to explore more about our work and legacy on our website, cecibates.com.