meet Mike

MIKE SPECIALE is a super-husband, deeply family-oriented leader, and purpose-driven entrepreneur whose life’s work has helped shape the future of sustainable, community-minded living in Austin. An Italian “Chief Dirt Officer” with an eye for design and an instinct for opportunity, Mike has been an entrepreneur and business owner for more than half of his life—first rising to prominence as Austin’s youngest home builder at the age of 24. Today, he is recognized as one of the city’s most distinguished and forward-thinking builders.

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Mike’s career has been defined by innovation, intentionality, and an unwavering commitment to elevating the way people live. Through Sett Studio, he has introduced a new era of homebuilding—infusing health, wellness, and sustainable building practices into modern residential design. His approach earned him a Sustainable Building Award, further cementing his reputation as a leader in Austin’s real estate landscape.

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With a strong concentration in residential asset management and building legacy portfolios, Mike’s work extends beyond construction. He is a serial investor with a passion for long-term value, community-driven living, and what he calls his core philosophy: “mailbox money.” His focus on income-producing assets has guided his clients, partners, and projects toward financial stability and generational wealth.

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One of Mike’s most impactful contributions is his vision for micro-communities—thoughtfully designed neighborhoods that bring back what true community once was. His developments are designed with intention: spaces that naturally encourage connection, togetherness, and being a good neighbor. This philosophy is now expanding beyond Austin into Nashville, where Sett Studio is growing its footprint and carrying its community-first mission into new markets.

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At his core, Mike builds more than houses—
he builds connection, belonging, and lifestyle-driven communities with purpose.
And that is why he’s not just a builder…
he’s a good neighbor.