Crafting Dream Homes and Restoring Communities
By Taylor Shillam
Sean Gavin is in the business of both saving homes from disaster and making dream homes a reality as the owner of Mountain View Construction and North Idaho Flood & Fire. At Mountain View Construction, his team works to make his clients' visions come to life, crafting custom homes that combine modern luxury with a connection and appreciation for the natural beauty Sandpoint and the surrounding areas have to offer. At North Idaho Flood & Fire, Sean’s team works to help clients protect and rebuild the homes they love, specializing in fire and water damage restoration. Voted best of Bonner County 2024 in restoration and remodel, North Idaho Flood & Fire offers a long list of services to protect local homes and businesses from disaster.
Sean Gavin shares how his passion for home building and construction has allowed him to help make dreams come true for homeowners across Sandpoint.
Q. What inspired you to get into home building/remodeling and home protection in Sandpoint?
A. I’ve always had a natural interest in building things. Growing up, I was the kid building tree houses and forts. It wasn’t just a pastime but something that sparked a lifelong passion in me for construction. That early passion grew into a career where I could combine my love for creating and building with helping others make their dream homes a reality.
Q. Please share with our readers a bit about you and your professional background. When did you open Mountain View Construction and North Idaho & Fire? How long has each been in business?
A. After high school, I took a short detour at Washington State University before finding my way into construction, starting at Moscow Pullman Building Supply. From there, I joined Tamarack Homes, where I gained hands-on experience and learned the ins and outs of the entire building process. After a tragic event involving the owner of Tamarack, I found myself responsible for completing some of the company’s projects, including my parents’ home in Sandpoint. That experience stayed with me, and years later, the current homeowners reached out to me for a remodel—bringing it full circle.
My journey continued at Klein’s Home Improvement, where I became certified in water and mold restoration through the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification). From there, I worked in new construction and restoration at Creekside Construction before joining Mountain View Construction in 2005. By May 2007, I bought the company. The restoration side grew so quickly that in 2011, North Idaho Flood & Fire became its own business. Today, both companies continue to thrive and serve our community.
Q. Please describe some of the premier services provided by North Idaho Flood & Fire.
A. When someone faces a major disaster—whether it’s a flood, fire, or mold issue—our team of trained and certified technicians is there to help. We specialize in mitigating damage quickly and effectively, ensuring the homeowner has the support they need during what’s often one of the most stressful times in their life.
Q. What are some of the key qualities that set Mountain View Construction apart from other companies in the Sandpoint area?
A. What sets us apart is the relationships we’ve built with the best subcontractors and tradespeople in the area. We’ve been working together for years, and with some, even over the past 20 years. From plumbing to concrete to heating, cooling, and excavation, we have a network of strong partnerships that will translate into superior craftsmanship in the field. But that’s not all that separates us; we all share this commitment to the client. We take their dream home as seriously as they do and bring those visions to life together.
Q. What is most rewarding to you about your work within each of your businesses?
A. With North Idaho Flood & Fire, the biggest reward is helping families recover from disasters. It’s incredibly satisfying to restore someone’s home and give them back a sense of normalcy. For Mountain View Construction, the reward comes when we hand the keys over to a client who’s been dreaming of their home for years. Seeing the excitement and joy when they move in—that’s what makes it all worthwhile.
Q. What do you enjoy most about building custom homes? What draws you to the integration of nature and luxury?
A. The beauty of building custom homes in Bonner County is unmatched. Whether we’re working on a house by the lake or up in the mountains, the natural scenery is breathtaking, and we can design homes that complement and enhance these surroundings. The sites we work on aren’t always the easiest, but those incredible views make it worth it.
Q. How long have you lived in the Sandpoint area, and what do you enjoy most about being a part of the local community?
A. I’ve called Sandpoint home since 1999, and giving back to this community is a big part of who I am. I enjoy supporting local sports leagues like the Sandpoint Affordable Football League, Sandpoint Football Foundation, and North Idaho Volleyball Club. We also donate to local cancer and veterans’ events and support a financial literacy class at Sandpoint High School. Additionally, we purchase meat from 4H to provide lunch for my employees Monday through Thursday and breakfasts on Fridays—it’s one way I like to show my appreciation for their hard work.
Q. When not serving your clients, how do you enjoy spending your time? Are you involved in any local organizations in Sandpoint?
A. I love spending time outdoors with my family, whether we’re out on the lake, hiking, or skiing. I’m also involved with the North Idaho Contractors Association, which helps keep me connected to the construction industry locally.
Q. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers not already mentioned above?
A. I’d like to add that it’s an honor to be recognized in the community. North Idaho Flood & Fire was recently voted best of Bonner County 2024 in restoration and remodel. Mountain View Construction is currently a top-three finalist for Sandpoint’s Finest Builders. I’m incredibly proud of my team and grateful for the community’s continued support.
Mountain View Construction
468211 Hwy 95, Sagle, ID
208.946.5155
North Idaho Flood & Fire
468211 Hwy 95, Sagle, ID
208.263.1058
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