Over the past week or so, I've been letting readers peek into our experiences as we've gone through the journey of doing extensive updating and repairs at World Headquarters.  I've posted our choice of electrician, framing contractor, dry wall contractor and air conditioning contractor.

The idea, of course, is to give Dallas residents a head start in their own selections when they need these services.  (I would like to critique a chimney sweep service for you, but if I were to do that, it would likely end up with the company wanting to sue me)

When all is said and done, the appearance and function of remodeling is in the hands of the finish carpenter.  They have hands of a heart surgeon.  They are the ones that add the trim around windows, hang doors so they open and shut, put in that beautiful crown molding, cornice and base that brings life to the room.

Unfortunately, they appear to be a dying breed.  Lots of carpenters claim to be finish men, but few measure up.  Here's one that does.  Steve Shea.  He has amazing skill and unblemished patience; both requirements of that trade.

In fact Steve is so good that he doesn't advertise, doesn't have a sign on his truck, and is always busy from old clients and their referrals.  So without me telling you about him, in all likelihood you wouldn't find him.

Steve works alone, and he was with us for two weeks.  His price was more than fair and his work is flawless. 

I asked him about himself.  He's 55 and learned his trade helping his father, beginning when he had just entered his teen years.  And like me, he took woodworking and metal shop when he was in junior high school.  Both of us agreed that that was a wonderfully useful part of our education.

Steve Shea

214 597-3823

Like all of the others I've written about, my recommendation to you is to interview Steve and see some of his work.  It is up to you and Steve to decide if you want to work together. 

BILL CHERRY, REALTORS

DALLAS

214 503-8563

1 800 314-7110

Our 43rd Year Selling Texas