When you picture suburban living, what do you see? Maybe it’s a quiet place to raise a family, easy access to shopping and restaurants, or amenities that enrich everyday life.

As we close out 2025 and look ahead to a new year, I’ve found myself reflecting on what it means to build. And when I’m talking about “build”, I’m talking about more than how or where or when we build homes – I’m talking about how and where and when we build connection, care, and trust. This year has reminded me that leadership, like homebuilding, is a deeply human opportunity. At Brookline, we’ve always said that no one cares what you know until they know that you care. That philosophy has guided us through 2025, shaping not only how we show up for our buyers, but how we show up for one another. Our team has evolved in all the best ways. We’ve become more collaborative, more transparent, and more connected – across sales, field, office, and leadership – than ever before. It’s not always easy work, but it’s work that matters and makes a difference. And it’s the kind of work that reminds me every day why I love what I do: helping people find and feel at home. One of the greatest affirmations I received this year came from a homeowner who told me this: “When I realized the president was a woman, I thought, thank goodness – she’ll understand . ” That moment stopped me in my tracks. Because she’s right. I do understand. I understand what it means to want a space that feels like you; to care about every detail, from the warm sunlight that pours through the windows to the way a kitchen fits your family’s rhythm in the morning rush or as you all sit down to dinner together. I understand that home is emotional, not transactional. I’m proud that our homes, and our Brookline Homes team reflect that level of care. As we get excited for 2026, I’m filled with gratitude for the team that makes Brookline what it is today. They’re funny, they’re dedicated, they’re heart-forward people who bring joy to the work. They’re the reason I love what I do. The laughter in our meetings lately has been contagious, which is a sign to me that our culture and company feels more like a community than ever. And as we carry that spirit forward, I’m thrilled to share something new on the horizon: Bliss Custom Construction, our newest sister company and a 100% female-owned venture. Bliss Custom Construction will allow us to bring Brookline’s trusted and loved floor plans, craftsmanship, and heart to homeowners who want to build on their own lot. It’s an opportunity to extend what we do best, which is to make homebuilding feel joyful, transparent, and deeply personal – to an even broader community within Charlotte and Gastonia – and beyond. Bliss – which is also my last name – means happiness, harmony, and the feeling you get when things finally fall into place. That’s the energy I’m taking into 2026. I want this to be a year of continued growth, new beginnings, and many more families finding their version of home. To our homeowners, trade partners, and community: thank you for your trust, your feedback, and your partnership. We wouldn’t be here without you. Here’s to a new year filled with gratitude, growth, and a little bit of bliss. With my appreciation, Andi Dirkschneider Bliss President, Brookline Homes

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