A pair of COMO Business Times 20 Under 40 alums are responsible for a variety of visually stunning home exteriors throughout the Columbia area. And visually stunning often translates into significant improvement in property and home values.
Elias Abadi is the founder and owner of CoMo Premium Exteriors, a Columbia-based renovation company. He earned recognition as a CBT 20 Under 40 honoree in 2017 for his community impact and business growth.
Austin Isley (20 Under 40 Class of 2022) started Ai Painting Plus in 2013. From the age of 16, he started working with other painting companies, which eventually sparked his passion for creating his own company dedicated to professional-quality work and highly trained crew members.
Abadi has steered his company to become a highly sought-after exterior renovation firm throughout mid-Missouri. He has been a Columbia resident since age 10. Like Ai Painting Plus, Abadi and CoMo Premium Exteriors emphasize quality and customer-centric values.
When it comes to curb appeal, the paint color, quality of workmanship, the style and color of vinyl siding, deck composition, soffits, gutters, and roof systems can transform not only a home, but all properties in a neighborhood.
How does that happen? It’s the “a rising tide lifts all boats” principle. Isley says when one homeowner invests in improving their property’s appearance, it often inspires others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that elevates the look and feel of the entire area. As a result, that can lead to increased property values and a stronger sense of community pride.
Curb appeal is also essential when it comes to a home’s value, whether for the aesthetic appeal or making sure it is in prime condition for the real estate market.
Besides being pretty and appealing, a home’s exterior serves other vital functions, Abadi says. For one, investing in modern, energy-efficient siding improves insulation and reduces utility costs, further enhancing home value.












