Awards and Recognition

Heyaw Yimer

President & CEO

Heyaw Yimer

Heyaw has 15 years of banking and finance experience and leads overall strategic direction for AP working hand-in-hand with the founder and team of industry veterans. Most recently, he spent several years with a Single-Family Rental (SFR) platform where he led finance activities and gained invaluable experience on how general contractors operate and cater to institutional investors of residential assets. He is a husband and father of 3 kids.

Benny Pepaj

Founder & COO

Benny Pepaj

Benny started over 35 years of construction industry experience and comes from a family of entrepreneurs in the industry. He founded AP in 2018 and grew the business to become one of the prominent home remodelers in the Jacksonville metro area. He takes every project personally and has a reputation for being a zero-tolerance operator. He is a family man – a husband with two kids, a brother, friend, and a mentor to many. He oversees day-to-day operations of AP and leads sales and production efforts.

Josie Pepaj

Showroom Manager & Designer

Josie Pepaj

Josie is the showroom manager and lead designer at AP, overseeing day-to-day operations and ensuring a seamless client experience. As a designer, she enhances the sales process by creating detailed 3D renderings, helping clients visualize their curated projects with confidence. Beyond design, she drives AP’s marketing and advertising efforts, collaborating with marketers and SEO partners to maintain a strong digital and traditional presence. Her ability to blend creativity with strategic planning makes her an essential part of the team. With a passion for design and customer engagement, Josie ensures every client journey is both inspiring and effortless.

Artur Pepaj

VP of Sales

Artur Pepaj

Artur has over 30 years of construction industry experience and was instrumental in founding and growing AP to become the trusted name it is today. Artur leads sales efforts and ensures sales processes are consistent and transparent. He is also a family man – a husband, a father to 2 girls, a brother, and critical part of the team and works diligently to keep the company busy.

Keith Zicafoose

Sales Consultant

Keith Zicafoose

Keith has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry and is an essential part of the AP team. Keith has a unique knack for building incredible relationships with our clients. Keith doesn’t sell, he builds relationships and almost in every situation, he maintains and nurtures the relationship he builds. Being a sales consultant isn’t a job, it’s a passion for Kieth and any client of Keith would agree that he is a friend and a trusted source of wisdom on anything related to residential construction.

Deane Stokes

Materials Manager

Deane Stokes

Deane has over 30 years of experience as a former business owner. She oversees AP’s vendor programs and is essential to establishing and managing a sustainable procurement program to ensure every job runs smoothly. She runs a tight process and is a respected partner to all of AP’s vendors that rely on a transparent and win-win partnership. Deane’s wealth of experience and long-term approach to AP’s partners is a critical part of the company’s success.

Debra Hoffkins

Production Manager

Debra Hoffkins

Debra has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry and has worked for some of the notable big box names across the DIY space. Debra is part of AP’s founding team and has been instrumental in growing AP’s network of service providers. She embodies AP’s spirit of “whatever it takes to get the job done” and is the glue that keeps the production team moving along.

Daynett Rodriguez

Designer & Customer Experience

Daynett Rodriguez

As a client experience specialist and designer, Daynett brings over seven years of expertise in the home improvement industry. With a background in showroom management, project management, and procurement, she plays a vital role in ensuring seamless operations. She expertly coordinates project leads and keeps sales consultants aligned, creating a smooth and efficient workflow. Her design skills and industry knowledge enhance the client experience, making every project feel personalized and well-executed. A proud mother of three, her children are her greatest source of purpose and joy, inspiring her dedication both at work and at home.

Edward Villanueva

Operations Manager

Edward Villanueva

Eddie has over 25 years of experience in the construction industry. He is a professional member American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) and is trained in architectural design and project management. He’s been instrumental in growing AP from a small family-owned practice to the trusted name as a go-to home improvement specialist. He is a husband, a father of four, and an integral part of AP’s ability to execute and manage large projects such as home additions.

Gerard Nicodeme

Project Manager

Gerard Nicodeme

Gerard has 30 years of experience in the construction industry, including previous ownership of a successful remodeling business. Now a project manager with AP, he combines leadership with a hands-on approach, ensuring seamless coordination with service providers. Known for his deep expertise, he’s the go-to problem solver—when challenges arise, everyone calls Gerard to put out the fire. His commitment to quality and efficiency makes him an invaluable asset to every project he oversees. Outside of work, he’s a proud father of three who enjoys sharing his knowledge and craftsmanship.

Our Latest Home Remodeling Projects in Jacksonville

At AP Advanced, our team comprises talented designers, skilled craftsmen, and meticulous project managers—all focused on one goal: bringing your vision to life with precision and expertise. No matter the project size, we work seamlessly together to deliver top-notch results. Take a look at our latest home remodeling projects.

Before / after

Home Remodeling

Work With the Best Home Remodeling Team in Jacksonville

Ready to bring your vision to life? Our expert team is here to guide you through every stage of your home remodeling project. Let’s get started on transforming your space into something extraordinary.

Let’s talk about your project

FAQs: Our Home Remodeling Team in Jacksonville

Choosing the right people to bring your home remodeling project to life is important, and you might have questions about the experts you’ll be working with. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about our team at AP Advanced.

Who is the team behind AP Advanced?

Our team consists of skilled designers, craftsmen, and project managers, each with years of experience in the remodeling industry. From our founders, who bring a wealth of construction knowledge, to our dedicated showroom manager, sales consultants, and project managers, everyone at AP Advanced is committed to delivering top-notch service and results.

How does the team collaborate during a project?

Collaboration is at the core of our process. Our designers work with clients to create detailed plans and 3D renderings, while our craftsmen and project managers ensure every aspect of the project is executed flawlessly. We are in constant communication to ensure your project moves seamlessly from concept to completion.

Will I work with the same team throughout the process?

Yes, you’ll work closely with your dedicated team members throughout your entire project. From your first meeting with a designer to the final stages with a project manager, we believe in consistency and ensuring you have a trusted group of professionals guiding your remodeling journey.

What are the qualifications of the AP Advanced team?

Our team members bring a variety of expertise to the table. Our leaders have over 30 years of experience in the construction and remodeling industry. We also have certified designers, project managers, and craftsmen who hold advanced qualifications and are dedicated to delivering the highest standards of work.

Can I visit the team in the showroom to discuss my project?

Absolutely! Our showroom is the perfect place to meet some of our team members and get a hands-on feel for the materials and designs we use. It’s a great opportunity to discuss your project in person and review the many possibilities with the experts who will be working on your home.

How do I know my team will understand my vision?

We take time to listen and truly understand your needs. Our team is highly skilled at turning your ideas into reality. Throughout the design and planning process, we collaborate closely with you to ensure we capture your unique style and preferences. To help you visualize your space, we create detailed 3D renderings, allowing you to see your ideas come to life before any work begins. This ensures that the final outcome reflects your vision perfectly, and that every detail meets your expectations.

What makes AP Advanced’s team different from other remodelers?

Our team is built on experience, communication, and a shared commitment to excellence. What sets us apart is the seamless integration of our professionals. We combine expertise in design, construction, and project management to ensure your project is handled with precision and care from start to finish.

Do I have a single point of contact during the project?

Yes, you will have a dedicated point of contact throughout the project. Whether it’s a designer, project manager, or sales consultant, you’ll always know who to reach out to with questions or concerns. We value clear communication and ensure you’re always in the loop.

What should I expect when meeting with a team member?

During your meeting with any of our team members, expect a thorough consultation where we listen to your ideas, answer your questions, and offer solutions based on your goals. We’ll also provide you with a clear vision for your project, complete with design options and timelines, ensuring you feel confident every step of the way.

Meet Us in Our Showroom

Visit our showroom to bring your home remodeling vision to life! Open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, our showroom offers an immersive experience where you can explore custom designs and materials. Meet with our expert team to discuss your project, review options, and create a tailored plan that exceeds your expectations.

Make an appointment

Schedule a Free Appointment Today

Whether you’re starting a new remodel or looking to enhance an existing space, schedule a free consultation today, and let us help you bring your vision to life with precision and care.

Showroom hours

Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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