In 1963, Doug Hansen and Tom Klingelhutz embarked on a dream, founding Hansen & Klingelhutz Construction with a handshake and a vision rooted in integrity and trust. Starting as a truck driver and apprentice at Ecklund & Swedlund Homes in Minneapolis, Doug’s journey took a pause for U.S. Army service in Korea before he returned to partner with Klingelhutz, ready to shape Chanhassen’s future. They purchased 100 acres from farmer Pat Kerber and built their first rambler—a three-bedroom home with a double garage and fireplace—for just $19,900, laying the foundation for Highland Park. That simple handshake, struck between two men of grit and principle, set in motion a legacy that would transform a quiet stretch of farmland into the beating heart of a city.

Their work became the residential backbone of Chanhassen, crafting Western Hills and early 200+ homes that still stand today. Beyond building, they gave back, donating land for City Center Park, Hansen Ball Park, and Kerber Pond, leaving a lasting community legacy. In 1966, they pioneered Chanhassen’s first apartment building at 410 Chan View, a 12-unit complex they’ve managed ever since, showcasing their commitment to quality. The Chanhassen Bank and a company warehouse at 7920 Kerber Boulevard followed, with Doug recalling the hands-on challenge of pouring the bank’s vault walls.

As the business grew, Doug’s sons, Steve and Gary, joined the fold, learning the trade through old-fashioned apprenticeships rather than college. In 1986, they incorporated as Hansen Hometech, Inc., with Doug overseeing production and the sons taking on design and remodeling. Their quiet pride shines through in diverse projects—from the meticulous restoration of the Carver County Historical Society’s Andrew Peterson North Barn, a testament to their care for community heritage, to crafting high-end luxury homes along Lake Minnetonka’s shores, where their precision and artistry have earned them numerous prestigious awards. This breadth of work, spanning humble restorations to opulent residences, reflects their versatility and unwavering commitment to excellence, with many prestigious awards and accolades earned through exceptional craftsmanship. [Note: This sentence flows fine, but repeating "prestigious awards" twice feels slightly redundant—left as is per your request.]

Today, Hansen Hometech still owns three undeveloped acres near downtown, pondering an apartment building in today’s market. Doug, though retired to Green Lake/Spicer since 1995, stays involved between fishing trips up north and cherishing time with Steve, Gary, and his now many great-grandchildren. [Added commas after "Steve" and "Gary" for clarity and consistency in the list.] This family legacy, built on trust and craftsmanship, continues to transform homes with care, inviting new families into our story. With Gary’s son, Charlie, now part of the team, Hansen Hometech remains a family endeavor, quietly carrying Doug’s vision forward.

Through generations, Hansen Hometech continues to uphold a commitment to integrity, lasting craftsmanship, and honest work—shaping Chanhassen and the surrounding metro area one home at a time, proving that a handshake and a heart for community can build something truly enduring.