My story begins
with the meaning of home.
A home should give you more than a place to live. It should give you room to breathe, a sense of belonging, and the freedom to build a life you love.
Hi, I'm Joy.
For more than 22 years, I've had the privilege of helping individuals and families achieve homeownership. But about three years ago, one young father's story changed the way I thought about what a home could be.
He owned about eight acres and wanted to build a home for his family. We first talked about placing a manufactured home on his land. Then I asked: What about a barndominium?
He told me, “Actually, Joy, that's exactly what I want to do. I just don't know how.”
One family. A different possibility.
We worked through the financing. He designed a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home, and his father served as general contractor. Within roughly six to eight months, it was built.
His completed home appraised at a value that left him with approximately $100,000 in equity. That was his unique outcome—not a promise of what every home will do. What stayed with me was the opportunity he'd created for his family: a home, a place to grow, and a stronger foundation for the future.
Why it felt so personal
I grew up in Colorado, surrounded by open spaces, swimming, and big dreams. When I was in fifth grade, my family moved to Nebraska. My parents divorced soon after, and the life I knew changed. Years later, as I was leaving for college, my mother lost our home to foreclosure.
Those experiences taught me how deeply our sense of home is tied to stability and belonging. Maybe that's why I found my way into mortgage lending. I know what a difference a home can make—and I take that responsibility seriously.
Inspired by Grace
Today I'm a single mom to an amazing 13-year-old daughter, Grace. As I look toward our own next chapter of homeownership, I understand the excitement, uncertainty, and hope my customers have shared with me for years.
Grace is the inspiration behind the name of this company. Grace Barndo & Co. brings together what I've learned about families, homes, and the importance of building something that lasts.
More land. More freedom. More life.
I picture families on a covered porch watching the sunset. Kids with room to explore. Gardens, dogs running through the grass, perhaps a few chickens or horses where permitted. Quiet mornings, wide-open skies, and the convenience of being close enough to the city for schools, shopping, and healthcare.
Our goal is to create beautiful, thoughtfully planned homes on acreage in Kansas and Missouri—with a disciplined focus on value and a simpler way of living.
Thank you for being here. Whether you're just starting to dream or preparing for your next home, I'm honored to share the journey.
With gratitude,
Joy
Founder, Grace Barndo & Co.