Nation's Building News Online: November 17, 2003Print All Articles Text Version |
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2004 International Builders’ Show Shatters Records for Space, ExhibitorsThe blockbuster event of the year for the nation’s residential construction industry, the 2004 International Builders’ Show, has shattered all records for exhibits and is expected to draw record crowds in Las Vegas on Jan. 19-22. An unprecedented 1,400 suppliers will occupy the equivalent of 40 football fields at this year’s event, which is enough room to host all 28 of this season’s College Bowl games at once — with enough room left over to accommodate three-quarters of the professional football games played on any given Sunday. The net square footage of exhibits (not including hallways and other unsold space) at what is historically one of the world’s largest shows is expected to top 800,000 square feet, up more than 12% from last year’s net area of 713,000 square feet. To meet the soaring demand, NAHB has opened an additional 50,000 net square feet of space in the Convention Center’s South Exhibit Hall to accommodate exhibitors who were previously wait-listed. With suppliers at the show representing more than 200 building industry categories, convention-goers have the opportunity to view an unparalleled showcase of products and services — including the latest innovations and the right materials and supplies to provide the comfort and convenience that consumers are seeking in the homes they buy. The 2004 International Builders' Show, which is not open to the public, is expected to attract more than 90,000 attendees from 100 countries. Former President George Bush will be the keynote speaker at “The Magic of America” grand opening ceremonies at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 19, in the Orleans Hotel Arena. The President who signed into law the Americans With Disabilities Act and the Clean Air Act, successfully negotiated the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and served during a period of major global realignments will share his thoughts on the American economy and the world at large and the critical contributions home builders make to the quality of life in our nation. Former Michigan Congressman Guy Vander Jagt will also appear during the opening ceremonies as the emcee for an entertainment extravaganza produced by NAHB. Jeffrey R. Immelt, chairman of the board and CEO of General Electric Company, will open the tecHOMExpo in the Convention Center at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 20, with a keynote address on the state of technology and its likely evolution over the next few years, and how builders can best take advantage of these developments. This is an extraordinary opportunity to hear from one of America’s captains of industry on how home building companies can profit from technology in the homes they build and in the way they conduct their business. Advance registration for the show is available through Dec. 17. After that date, attendees can register on site. To register online, click here. For more information about registering, call 800-368-5242 x8111 or 202-266-8111, or send an e-mail. Building News Coast To CoastNot-So-Rustic RetreatsModern log homes cost significantly more than conventional dwellings of the same size and can have many upscale features, ranging from cathedral ceilings and skylights to hot tubs, waterfalls and gourmet kitchens. "Log design can be anything from contemporary and slick and modern to rustic and conventional. It comes in different forms — mountain cowboy chic, Adirondack, Southwest, traditional, upscale," observes Robbin Obomsawin, author of "The Not So Log Cabin: Log-Element Building & Design." Log-home buyers should choose an attractive location, as well as a quality builder. Custom Log Structures owner Steve Fox says these dwellings are more expensive than traditional homes because of the labor-intense carpentry involved. Home owners can achieve the rustic log-cabin look in their existing residence without shelling out tons of money. This can be accomplished with wood railings, staircases, columns, mantels, twig art and porch rafters, notes Obomsawin. Builders Using Forensic Inspections to Boost Quality, Preclude SuitsMore and more builders are using independent home inspectors to perform forensic inspections of new construction. This trend is spreading across the country after starting on the West Coast, where Californian builders fought hard for a right to repair defects before they can be sued. Now, 15 states have such laws: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, South Carolina, South Dakota, Washington and West Virginia. The trend is motivated both by a desire for higher quality and a desire to avoid costly payouts in class-action suits alleging defective construction. "It helps me sleep at night; it's sleep insurance," said one major national builder's risk management officer. The forensic inspection programs differ in the details, but there are several elements often found. These are review of the plans, training of subcontractors and staff on spotting potential problems, on-site inspections and project documentation. Aiming to Be the Next Big AmenityDespite the benefits of formaldehyde-free cabinets, energy-efficient appliances, air filtration systems, recycled building materials, double-pane windows and other green building components, most home buyers want tangible amenities. In fact, renters at the nation's first green high-rise — the Solaire in New York's Battery Park City — say they were drawn to the parquet floors, granite countertops, concierge service, gym and views of the Hudson River more than its environmentally friendly components. According to Newmark Homes Vice President Chuck Lemmond, green features make the firm's homes more marketable only if they are in a quality location and have the same amenities and prices as nearby developments. Although the Environmental Protection Agency believes builders can sell green homes by touting the 15%-30% in energy savings, Energy Star National Director Sam Rashkin says such sales techniques are difficult for builders accustomed to showcasing master suites and upscale materials. However, some builders expect green construction to catch on once buyers are made more aware of the concept. Cool Climates, Hot Suburbs, Mixed BlessingsThe population has exploded in what Virginia Tech demographer Robert Lang has dubbed "the low-SPF Sun Belt," which encompasses counties outside Kansas City, St. Louis, Chicago, Philadelphia, Cincinnati and other aging metropolitan areas. The low-cost land and housing in these locales have contributed to rampant growth — which in turn has led to traffic congestion, the development of so-called "McMansions," higher home prices and the need for better schools and other infrastructure. However, many experts do not consider the expansion of these areas to be growth because new residents are moving in not from elsewhere in the nation but rather from nearby communities. University of Missouri-St. Louis Public Policy Research Center Director Mark Tranel dubs this phenomenon "intra-urban migration." Though the population gains in outlying counties add to the number of jobs in the nearby metropolitan areas, there are concerns over the distribution of limited public funds and the shift in development from downtown to the suburbs. Homeownership Is Key to Closing Wealth Gap for African AmericansAccording to the latest Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances, the net wealth of the average African-American household skyrocketed 221% from $5,919 in 1989 to $19,010 in 2001; while that of the average U.S. household in general rose just 32.9% from $64,788 to $86,100. However, Consumer Federation of America Executive Director Stephen Brobeck believes that blacks cannot narrow the wealth gap unless more become home owners. A report by Providian Financial and the Consumer Federation attributes the 23% surge in personal wealth among low- to middle-income households between 1995 and 2001 to a jump in home equity. Although the homeownership rate among African Americans climbed from 42% in 1990 to 48% this year, it still lags behind the overall homeownership rate of 68% and the white homeownership rate of 76%. In Metropolitan Areas, Home Prices Balloon in Third QuarterDouble-digit home-price gains were seen in more than 40 U.S. metropolitan areas during the third quarter, with the median appreciation rate at 10.1%. According to National Association of Realtors® Chief Economist David Lereah, the trend can be attributed to a lean supply of residential properties for sale as well as to low mortgage rates. Home prices surged 26.5% in Riverside, CA; 24.5% in Los Angeles; and 11.8% in Corpus Christi, TX, to name a few. However, NAR expects appreciation to cool to 4.3% or so in the coming year. Rain Gardens Are a Naturally Pretty Way to Control RunoffIn a number of communities across the country, rain gardens are being used to prevent stormwater from passing over polluted pavement and into lakes and rivers. The gardens are cut into the landscape, lined with a mixture of compost and sand and topped with native wildflowers and shrubs. They typically absorb and filter rainwater in just 48 hours, serving to prevent mosquitoes from breeding and spreading the West Nile virus and to improve the quality of local waterways. Rain gardens already exist in Lathrup Village, MI.; Madison, WI.; Prince Georges County, MD.; and Minneapolis-St. Paul; and as the concept catches on, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resource's Roger Bannerman believes they will alter the appearance of the nation's cities. Study: Schooling Barrier to HousingAccording to a Commonwealth Housing Task Force study, Massachusetts could see the construction of as many as 33,000 new residential units in the next decade if lawmakers would set aside $62 million to pay for each new student to attend public school. Overcrowded schools and the soaring costs of education have kept many cities and towns from allowing new development, the paper concluded. According to the task force, however, the cost of the proposed plan is equivalent to just 2% of the state's yearly Chapter 70 budget, which provides funding to local school districts. Though some lawmakers believe the state's budget crisis makes the plan impossible, the task force believes it could be accomplished if the state frees up money by selling $400 million in surplus land. Northeastern University Center for Urban and Regional Policy Director and study co-author Barry Bluestone adds that the state would be forced to spend just $4.7 million during the first few years of the program. NY Aims to Make Roofs 'Green'In New York, both government officials and environmentalists are banding together to add more so-called green roofs. The latest move finds the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency teaming up with New York City's Department of Environmental Protection and various environmental groups to convince Pace University to install a green roof on top of a portion of its downtown New York campus. Officials and environmentalists hope to use Pace's green roof as a demonstration project for building developers and owners citywide. Jane Kenny, administrator of the EPA's regional office, states, "This is a great place to showcase green roofs because it's visible to so many high rises. We wanted to find a building to set an example for other building owners to follow." Green roofs are being touted due to their environmental and health benefits, ranging from lower energy costs to reduced air pollution to better storm-water runoff. Earth Pledge reports that such roofs can cost anywhere from $15-$35 per square foot to install. Sacred Spaces Help to Make Homes Spiritual SanctuariesAccording to "In a Spiritual Style: The Home as Sanctuary" author Laura Cerwinske, an increasing number of home owners are incorporating meditation rooms, altars, Sabbath tables and other spiritual spaces in their homes to provide an escape from the material culture and the post-Sept. 11 climate. "We found people who considered their homes to be sanctuaries for others, to be places for gathering and celebration, for worship, for memorial, even for burial," remarks Cerwinske. Home owners can create sacred spaces by simply altering lighting and fabrics and building an altar, but some consider their spiritual needs while the home is being constructed. Builders in Lakewood, NJ, for instance, have taken the needs of Orthodox Jews into consideration when erecting homes in the area. These dwellings have large gathering spaces and extra bedrooms and kitchens that allow them to follow Jewish dietary laws. First-Time Buyers Tend to Paint, Plant, RefinishAccording to research by Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies, first-time home buyers age 35 and younger spend an average of $2,070 yearly on home improvements. Studies also show that first-time buyers who earn under $40,000 spend about $2,050 annually on remodeling, while those earning more than $120,000 shell out $4,820 per year. Regardless of the age and type of home purchased, first-timers are often forced to put off improvements because they lack the necessary cash. Nevertheless, most will repaint the walls to suit their tastes, plant gardens, work on the floors, replace the water heater, add storage and consider installing another bathroom. However, Philadelphia-based contractor John Fries says it is important for first-time buyers to set priorities. American Express Vice President Ronald Shultz says home owners would add rooms, porches or decks, swimming pools and new roofs if money was not a concern. The Continued Lure of the FairwaysThere are now about 26 million golfers nationwide, according to CXOGolf.com, and billions in golf-related products are sold annually. As a result, builders continue to produce golf-course communities that offer home owners plenty of housing types and amenities. The National Golf Foundation says most of these developments are located in California, Florida, Michigan and Texas; and they serve nearly four million golfers. Upwardly MobileMobile workers will soon have access to wireless e-mail for just $7.99 per month through Xpherix's Remo. The service — which will be offered by Verizon and BellSouth this month — lets users check their e-mail, calendars and contacts via cell phone. New industry-specific mobile applications also promise to boost productivity. Eleven Technology's Smart Selling System, for instance, will make it easy for users to manage their schedules and inventory through their mobile phones, PocketPC or Symbol device. Me and My BlackBerryThe BlackBerry 6200 Series is the best all-purpose communicator-PDA available today, writes Corey Greenberg, the technology editor of NBC's Today show. Priced at about $300, the new PDA/phone allows Greenberg to retain a full connection to all information all the time. The BlackBerry unit saves Greenberg from having to wear an embarrassing-looking belt holster because the device, which is smaller than a deck of cards and weighs only 4.8 ounces, is able to fit in a suit jacket pocket without being noticed. The PDA is essentially a handheld organizer that offers always-on two-way e-mail and an integrated GSM-band world phone. The device allows users to use an existing e-mail address for outgoing messages, offers a fast mobile Web browser and a quality phone and provides calendar and contacts that link automatically with Microsoft Outlook and other personal-organizer software on a desktop computer. Owners can use a simple USB cable to connect the BlackBerry phone to their PC and recharge the internal lithium battery at the same time. Also, users no longer have to place a dangling bud in their ear in order to make or answer a call. Builders Ask Supreme Court to Review Wetlands Case on Roadside DitchesThe nation's home builders last week filed a petition asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review the 4th Circuit Court ruling in the Deaton v. United States wetlands case. NAHB is asking the Supreme Court to determine whether a roadside ditch, such as the one at issue in Deaton v. United States, should be considered as a tributary subject to government regulation under the Clean Water Act. “The 4th Circuit Court said that man-made, roadside ditches are navigable waters and therefore should be subject to regulation under the Clean Water Act,” said NAHB President Kent Conine. “But we think most reasonable people would agree that Congress never intended roadside ditches to be considered ‘navigable waters,' " he said, "and we are hopeful that the Supreme Court will overturn the 4th Circuit Court’s ridiculous decision.” NAHB is also closely watching two wetlands cases that have been filed with the Supreme Court by other organizations — Rueth Development v. United States and Newdunn v. United States. Rulings in those cases could have an influence on federal jurisdiction over wetlands. The Supreme Court is expected to decide early next year whether it will hear any or all of these wetlands-related cases. For more information, e-mail Tom Ward or call him at 800-368-5242 x8230. Housing SnapshotMortgage interest rates increased slightly last week but are expected to remain close to their current levels for some time. Framing lumber rose from $327 to $333 per 1,000 board feet, according to Random Lengths, remaining well below a high of $386 in mid-September. OSB mill prices remained at $465 per 1,000 square feet; many producers have order backlogs stretching into next month, with few new orders coming in. The price of plywood remains high but is continuing to trail down slowly: 15/32-inch 3-ply CDX Southern Westside plywood fell from $505 to $485 during the previous week. Mortgage Interest Rates30 Year Fixed Rate: 6.03\% Housing Starts: Sep. 2003Total: 1.89 million\% New Home Sales: Sep. 2003 *1.145 million Existing Home Sales: Sep. 2003 *6.69 million * Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate Spotlight on: JacksonvilleLocal HBA: By Arnold Tritt, EVP of the Northeast Florida Builders Association Vital Stats:
Outlook for 2004: Jacksonville has been discovered. We have a good quality of life here. Several Fortune 500 companies have come to the area. Employment is strong. We’re hosting Super Bowl '05 and we’re building new streets and infrastructure in preparation. We’re probably one of the 20 hottest markets in the country. And we can build all year round. We expect home building this year to be up about 5% over 2002, which was a record-breaking year. 2004 should be a strong year, too. Our hottest market is homes in the $250,000 range and it should stay that way if interest rates remain at modest levels. The military is our largest payroll. We have the second largest Naval base in the country, next to San Diego. That means lots of families and off-base housing. Biggest source of concern for builders: Jacksonville doesn’t know whether it wants to be a big little city or a little big city, so growth, capacity and concurrency are concerns. We don’t have impact fees in Duval County (Jacksonville). I think we can show overwhelmingly that growth pays for itself, but some of the surrounding counties have them. There’s also a group in the state that is trying to get a constitutional change so that all land use changes would be done by referendum. That’s a real concern. Because of the strong Navy presence, we’re also concerned about the next round of military base closings. We recently lost a submarine and aircraft carrier to other bases. When you lose a carrier with its 5,000 sailors and their families, it’s like losing a small town. Market trends: Jacksonville has been growing and it’s expected to continue to grow. We also have lots of land. We’re basically a single-family detached market, but we are seeing more multifamily housing being built. Housing is becoming considerably more vibrant in the downtown area, where old hotels and larger buildings are being converted into loft housing. Lofts are a trend that has finally hit Jacksonville. Several condos and apartments have been built where the old shipyard used to be. Our remodeling stats are up. There are many good buys in existing homes out there. Springfield, an older neighborhood just north of downtown, is coming back nicely. The rate at which people are moving out of the area is slowing down. Seniors want to stay close to their children. I know I want to live next door to my grandchildren. I see the high-end market — homes over $800,000 — getting a little softer. It wasn’t that long ago that we didn’t have million dollar homes, but now they’re not uncommon. The really big money has been buying two adjacent waterfront homes and tearing them down to build a larger home. 60 years ago, you could buy a home in town for $4,000 and one on the water for $7,000.
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Put Processes in Place to Reduce Your Punch ListsWhat’s better than a short punch list? Why, no punch list at all, of course. Imagine how delighted your customers will be if you deliver a home that doesn’t need any tweaking or touch-ups. They could use every bit of their home as soon as they moved in and you wouldn’t have to invest any more labor into the house until it needed warranty repairs. Come to think of it, you’d probably have fewer of those to attend to. Sounds impossible? It isn’t. Christopher Homes in Las Vegas shoots for a “zero” punch list on every custom or luxury production home it builds. “We couldn’t build the product we do without superior construction processes,” says Erika Geiser, vice president of marketing. That includes having no punch list items at the pre-closing walk-through. Their system assures Christopher Homes’ exacting customers that their homes are 100% complete at closing. It also maintains the company’s productivity by enabling its superintendents to move on to other houses. Even if you don’t build a high-end product, you can reduce your punch lists down to nothing or at least trim them to only a few items. Your customers will benefit and you will, too. Here are several steps that will help you trim your punch list:
Find Out More In 'Home Builders Contracts & Management Forms On Disk' "Home Builder Contracts & Management Forms On Disk," available from BuilderBooks.com, contains trade contractor checklists, home owner walk-through approval forms and other tools to help you deliver the best product possible. To view or purchase the book and CD online, click here, or to order it, call 800-223-2665. Business management publications available at BuilderBooks.com BuilderBooks.com also offers a variety of other publications about business management. To view or purchase these publications online, click here. Want more information about effectively managing your business? NAHB’s Business Management Department offers a variety of online resources to help you run your business better and more profitably. Click Business Management Tools for articles about human resources, financial management, sales, production, technology, customer service and other business-related topics. In addition, visit the NAHB Software Users Network Discussion Forum (SUN) to ask technology consultants and other builders what they think of various software packages and applications. Subscribe to NAHB’s Business of Building e/Source NAHB’s Business of Building e/Source is your monthly electronic guide to the hot issues and emerging trends in home building business management. You’ll find practical advice, tricks of the trade and sound business guidance — all delivered monthly, straight to your desktop, in a quick and easy-to-read format. Business of Building e/Source is available free to NAHB members and their employees. To subscribe, click here on the members only side of www.nahb.org. University of Housing Offers Courses on Customer Service and Business Management The NAHB University of Housing offers a course on business management designed to help builders improve their business and profitability. For a list of current offerings, click here. Search keywords: “Introduction to Business Management.” The NAHB University of Housing offers designation programs for builders and remodelers interested in improving their productivity and profitability. Click here for a list of NAHB designation programs. Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Ask the Lawyer — About Vested Development RightsQ. I am a residential home builder who purchased several lots in a subdivision for which the local city council is now contemplating a zoning change. Under the proposed new zoning rules, my project would have to be scaled back, resulting in a net loss of five lots. To date, the project has received preliminary plan approval. How can I know if my development rights have vested in this project? A. Generally, vested rights are determined on a state-by-state basis, either by statute or state common law. Acquiring vested real estate development rights in a project enables a property owner who has made substantial expenditures, and perhaps attained some level of governmental approval, to proceed under the zoning in place when the project was conceived and designed. In other words, the property owner’s vested rights status would prevent the local government from enforcing new zoning laws against the development. The vesting rules fall generally into three categories throughout the United States:
Because of the broad array of state statutes and cases, you should consult with your local attorney to determine to what degree your state recognizes vested development rights.
If you have questions for Ask the Lawyer, click here. There is no guarantee that your question will be answered in this format, so if you have a particular legal concern that requires immediate attention, contact the NAHB Legal Research Service at 800-368-5242 x8491. This information is provided as a service of the NAHB Legal Action Committee and NAHB Building Products Issues Committee. The information is intended to familiarize you with the law in this area. It is not intended to be an exhaustive presentation of legal information on this particular subject, and in no way constitutes an opinion of law. Your own attorney must review this information to determine how it may apply to your particular situation.
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Court Ruling Casts Habitat Conservation Plans in DoubtA recent ruling by a U.S District Court judge on the "No Surprises" clause in incidental take permits issued by the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has put the future of innovative habitat conservation plans (HCPs) in doubt. On Sept. 30, without explaining his reasoning, Judge Emmett Sullivan issued a one-page order in which he challenged the validity of the Service’s “No Surprises” clause, which is a vital component of an incidental permit through which a landowner or developer may inadvertently harm an endangered species in exchange for undertaking other conservation and mitigation actions outlined in an agreed-upon habitat conservation plan. Mitigation requirements are determined on a case by case basis. The “No Surprises” clause is a landowner’s guarantee that he will not be liable for any additional conservation and mitigation costs should unforeseen circumstances arise. NAHB President Kent Conine called the habitat conservation plans “a national model for cooperation and communication between builders and many environmental organizations that support species conservation on private lands.” The recent ruling, Conine said, “muddies the waters on the future of these programs.” Following the judge’s initial order, the Service quickly froze the issuance of HCP-related permits. However, on Nov. 4 it said in a memo that it would resume issuing the permits, but that the assurance of “No Surprises” would not apply should the rule be invalidated. In the interim, NAHB had contacted the Fish and Wildlife Service to express its concern and to convey its view that suspending the permits was not warranted by the judge’s order. As a way of moving forward, NAHB suggested the possibility of including the “No Surprises” clause in permits on an individual basis instead of including it automatically in all habitat conservation plans. As all of the stakeholders await a final ruling from Judge Sullivan, the future of the "No Surprises" clause remains in doubt. NAHB plans to meet with FWS officials to discuss the economic and policy implications of an invalidated "No Surprises" rule, and to discuss ways to avoid future misunderstandings about the permitting program. For more information about habitat conservation plans and the ruling, e-mail Christopher Galik or call him at 800-368-5242 x8663.
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Awards Recognize Smart Growth Development in Northeast OhioSix residential builders from the 11-county area of Northeast Ohio have won the Smart Growth Community Excellence Awards. Established last year by the Smart Growth Education Foundation and the Smart Growth Coalition, the awards program is designed to recognize builders, developers and community organizations that follow smart growth principles in building single-family and multifamily housing and mixed-use developments in both urban and suburban locations. The winners were chosen on the basis of site selection, land conservation, environmental sensitivity, use of infrastructure, housing choices, community character, transportation accessibility and overall design.
“Smart growth means land use planning that involves such issues as availability of land for housing, building to higher densities, reviewing and revising outdated zoning laws, preserving open space and environmentally sensitive areas and re-developing cities and older suburbs,” said R. J. “Buz” Buzogany, executive director of the Smart Growth Education Foundation.
The winning builders and developers were:
Also, the honorary designation of Smart Growth Precedent Setter for long-time smart growth development work was presented to Akron Mayor Donald L. Plusquellic and Bob Schmitt of Bob Schmitt Homes, Inc., North Ridgeville.
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Conference Explores Facets of 50+ MarketIndustry professionals who are interested in tapping into the 50+ housing market — the fastest-growing segment of the residential construction industry — should make plans to attend Building for Boomers & Beyond: Seniors Housing Symposium 2004. More than 500 builders, developers, architects, interior designers and merchandisers, land planners, sales and marketing professionals and others will be on hand for this year’s conference, which will be held April 14-16 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. Sponsored by the NAHB Seniors Housing Council, this year’s symposium will focus on the lifestyle component of 50+ seniors housing. Seminars will explore the mindset of aging post-World War II baby boomers and older seniors, their quest to live life to the fullest, and their demand for homes and communities that meet their unique needs. Conference-goers will also hear expert discussions on how to size up local market demand, drive referrals through customer satisfaction, plan effective public relations and special events, devise the ultimate options program and much more. A total of 19 educational sessions will be offered, with separate tracks for design, finance, marketing and sales, and research and trends. A new feature of this year’s conference is an entire multifamily track for builders, developers and others interested in the rapidly expanding seniors rental market. The conference also will include a bus tour of active adult communities, with stops at Carillon Lakes by Cambridge Homes/DR Horton; Lakewood Homes’ award-winning Grand Haven; and Sun City Huntley, Del Webb’s first active adult community in the Midwest. Other highlights include an exhibit area showcasing high-tech products and other services tailored to the mature market, the 2004 Icons of the Industry Awards breakfast and networking opportunities. Register now for “Building for Boomers & Beyond” or click here. For information, e-mail NAHB’s University of Housing or call 800-368-5242 x8338.
Learn More About Seniors Housing Through the Seniors Housing Council To learn more about seniors housing or boomers, join the NAHB Seniors Housing Council. The council provides information, education, networking and recognition opportunities for its members and represents NAHB on seniors housing issues. For more details, e-mail Jeff Jenkins or call him at 800-368-5242 x8292. BuilderBooks.com Has Publications About Seniors Housing BuilderBooks.com offers a variety of publications about the seniors housing market. To view or purchase these publications, click here and type “seniors” in the search engine. University of Housing Offers CAPS Designation Program The NAHB University of Housing offers the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation program that teaches the technical, business management and customer service skills essential to competing in the fastest growing segment of the residential remodeling industry: home modifications for the aging-in-place. For a complete list of current offerings, click here. Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Builders Increasingly Responding to ‘Aging in Place’ Housing IssuesHome builders and remodelers are increasingly responding to the need to design homes to eliminate potential barriers for residents who decide to stay in their homes as they get older, according to NAHB research. The results were highlighted last week, which was designated as National Aging in Place Week to increase public awareness of this issue. The NAHB Remodelors® Council, NAHB Seniors Housing Council and NAHB Research Center have all been working with members of the National Advisory Council on Aging in Place and the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association to encourage seniors, retirees, pre-retirees and aging post-World War II baby boomers to take steps to ensure that their homes remain safe and comforable as they age. “The vast majority of people prefer to stay in their existing homes and neighborhoods as they age, but there are a number who want to move into a new home or community,” said NAHB President Kent Conine. “Whatever lifestyle choices they make, all Americans — regardless of their age — deserve a home that is comfortable and allows them to maintain their independence and dignity.” According to the 2003 NAHB Builder Survey sponsored by NAHB and Countrywide Home Loans, a significant number of builders are already including aging-in-place features in homes. Many homes built today — especially in active adult communities and senior apartments — are designed with the following features to allow residents to live there longer and to facilitate daily activities such as bathing, cooking or climbing stairs:
Aging-in-place features can be easily incorporated into existing homes. To encourage consumers to hire professionals with experience in the aging-in-place field, the NAHB Remodelors™ Council is stepping up its efforts to publicize Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) professional designation. CAPS professionals are specially trained to design and build aesthetically enriching, barrier-free living environments, and can provide consumers with comprehensive and practical aging-in-place solutions. For additional information on CAPS and other professional designations awarded by NAHB, click here. To receive a full copy of the 2003 Seniors Housing Builder Survey, click here and scroll down to 5/22/2003.
Learn More About Seniors Housing Through the Seniors Housing Council To learn more about seniors housing or boomers, join the NAHB Seniors Housing Council. The council provides information, education, networking and recognition opportunities for its members and represents NAHB on seniors housing issues. For more details, e-mail Jeff Jenkins or call him at 800-368-5242 x8292. BuilderBooks.com Has Publications About Seniors Housing BuilderBooks.com offers a variety of publications about the seniors housing market. To view or purchase these publications, click here and type “seniors” in the search engine. 2004 Seniors Housing Symposium To learn more about the seniors housing market, plan to attend the 2004 Seniors Housing Symposium, Building for Boomers & Beyond in Chicago from April 14-16. The symposium will focus on the lifestyle component of 50+ seniors housing. University of Housing Offers CAPS Designation Program The NAHB University of Housing offers the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation program that teaches the technical, business management and customer service skills essential to competing in the fastest growing segment of the residential remodeling industry: home modifications for the aging-in-place. For a complete list of current offerings, click here. Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Market-Rate Rental Communities for 'Not-So-Poor' Seniors a Potential Growth AreaWhile affordable housing is an important component of the seniors housing market, there is a large segment of the seniors population that can afford higher rents. In fact, market-rate rental communities for these “not-so-poor” seniors might be a key growth area for the industry. Right now, some existing buildings do serve the seniors market or will serve this market over time. But relatively few new rental developments are being built that cater specifically to seniors. In addition, the actual age profile in these communities varies dramatically, especially when the community is in a prime location. In general, apartments in prime locations attract more active, younger and diverse seniors than do those buildings where meals are included in the rent. Big Market Potential for an Underserved Population According to 2000 U.S. Census figures, rental households headed by persons 55 and older comprise more than one-fifth of the total U.S. rental market. Distribution of Renter Households by Age
The general size of the age-qualified housing market. Over the next five years, the 55+ population is projected to grow by 13.2%. Over the next decade (by July 2013) that total is expected to increase by 29.5%. U. S. Population Projections — Middle Series
The age-qualified rental housing market should grow at approximately the same rate as the U.S. senior population — roughly 30%. What’s more, actual development opportunities far exceed the growth rate. It’s a dilemma for seniors in search of rental communities, but it’s an exciting challenge for builders, developers and others in the seniors rental housing industry. Sizing Up Income 2000 Census income data for renter households by age of head of household is not yet available, but late last year the Census Bureau did release income data for all households (including owners and renters). Although median incomes for renter households are likely to be lower than for total households, the overall pattern should be the same. As a rule, income levels peak in the 45-54 age bracket, then begin to trail off. Households in the 55-75 age group should boast higher incomes than all other renter households and can afford to pay rents above the median rent levels in a local market. Median Household Income by Age
Mean Income for Households With Earnings
Research the Local Market While national trends may be favorable for age-qualified, market-rate rental developments, local market conditions vary significantly. With careful research, it will be possible to find underserved age-qualified markets that are ripe for new rental housing development. There are several ways to identify attainable rent levels for a market-rate age-qualified community in your area. First, identify several high-end, walk-up apartment developments in your local market. Often, these developments draw high-income 55+ residents because of their quality. Cross-reference the street address of the development to access the 2000 Census for that census block. Many times, the building will be the only apartment development in that particular census block. From the 2000 Census, you will be able to identify the number of renter households in the building by age group. Determine Market Value Typically, street access to these buildings is not secure. They feature walk-up units, so residents with mobility problems must choose ground-floor units, the least secure units on-site. If average monthly rent levels are $750 for a one-bedroom unit and $1,000 for a two-bedroom unit, it is possible for rents in a controlled-access, elevator building to be as much as one-third higher. To verify your findings, search out market-rate rental buildings that offer a range of services, such as meals, to seniors who are 75 and older. These developments also have controlled access and include elevators. Ideally, apartment owners offer basic shelter, plus on-site services such as housekeeping and meals on an a-la-carte basis. A fully, unbundled basic rent in a seniors building offering these services should be equal to the attainable rent levels for a market-rate, age-restricted rental development. In our example, the basic rent for a one-bedroom unit would be close to $1,000 per month, while the two-bedroom basic rent would be nearly $1,400 per month. Look for Development Opportunities In many suburban markets, virtually all apartment developments are two- and three-story walk-up buildings. There may be an obvious market opportunity in your suburban area. Other possibilities include college towns. Students often dominate the rental housing market, but there are few rental-housing alternatives for mature adults. Consider building a market-rate rental seniors housing community — the numbers clearly are in your favor. This article appeared in the Summer 2003 issue of Seniors’ Housing News, a quarterly magazine of the NAHB Seniors Housing Council. Author Gilbert Till is president of Urbek®, an economic consulting firm based in Seattle. Urbek® specializes in comprehensive site-specific housing market studies nationwide and has provided market analysis since 1980. Till also is a member of the NAHB Seniors Housing Council. He can be reached at 206-282-9300 or gtill@urbek.com. Learn More About Seniors Housing Through the Seniors Housing Council To learn more about seniors housing or boomers, join the NAHB Seniors Housing Council. The council provides information, education, networking and recognition opportunities for its members and represents NAHB on seniors housing issues. For more details, e-mail Jeff Jenkins or call him at 800-368-5242 x8292. BuilderBooks.com Has Publications About Seniors Housing BuilderBooks.com offers a variety of publications about the seniors housing market. To view or purchase these publications, click here and type “seniors” in the search engine. 2004 Seniors Housing Symposium To learn more about the seniors housing market, plan to attend the 2004 Seniors Housing Symposium, Building for Boomers & Beyond in Chicago from April 14-16. The symposium will focus on the lifestyle component of 50+ seniors housing. University of Housing Offers CAPS Designation Program The NAHB University of Housing offers the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation program that teaches the technical, business management and customer service skills essential to competing in the fastest growing segment of the residential remodeling industry: home modifications for the aging-in-place. For a complete list of current offerings, click here. Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Is It Time to Remodel Your Reputation?Only about 1,000 remodelers across the country have earned NAHB’s Certified Graduate Remodelor™ (CGR) designation, and if you’re one of them, that puts you at the very top of the nation’s 750,000 remodelers. But do your prospects know that you are the cream of the crop? Are you maximizing the potential of NAHB’s professional designations to benefit your business? First and foremost, your prospects need to understand how earning the CGR is their guarantee that they are hiring a professional who has proven expertise in the remodeling industry and the ability to provide them with top-notch products and services. Start with the basics:
These ideas will get you started. Just remember, however, that without explaining your designation, those acronyms are simply random letters behind your business name. Jeff Williams, marketing communications manager at Weather Shield Windows & Doors, has been marketing in the building industry for more than 10 years. He is a frequent participant in Remodelors™ Council national meetings and events, most notably, America’s Best Remodeling Hall of Fame, sponsored by Weather Shield.
BuilderBooks.com Offers Publications for Remodelers BuilderBooks.com offers a variety of publications about remodeling. To view or puchase these publications online, click here, or call 800-223-2665 to order by phone. University of Housing Offers Courses and Designation Programs The NAHB University of Housing offers a variety of business management courses and professional designation programs that set builders and remodelers apart from the competition. For a complete list of current offerings, click here. 'PREP: Your First Step to CGR' Offered at IBS PREP is your first step to becoming a Certified Graduate Remodelor™ (CGR). For more information on PREP offerings at the International Builders' Show in Las Vegas, Jan. 18 and 22, click here. Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Industry Forum Set for Florida Air Force Housing Privatization ProjectThe U.S. Air Force has announced that it is looking for a firm to own, renovate, operate and maintain 2,155 single-family housing units on Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field. Both installations are located in Florida. The management contract will extend for 50 years. An industry forum for the project will be held on Dec. 10 at the Ramada Plaza Beach Resort in Fort Walton Beach, FL. Jones Lang LaSalle is working for the Air Force to facilitate the selection process. Interested parties must register for this forum on Jones Lang LaSalle’s Web site. Click here to register and to obtain additional information. The upcoming forum may also present an opportunity for firms seeking to provide goods and services for this project to meet with teams planning to bid for the privatization contract. For further information on NAHB’s ongoing efforts related to military housing privatization, association members can click here. Achievements in Systems-Built Housing RecognizedThe Building Systems Councils (BSC) presented Roger Lyons, CEO of Penn Lyon Homes of Selinsgrove, PA, with its S.A. Walters Award for his significant contributions to the systems-built industry and NAHB. The award was presented at the recent SHOWCASE 2003, the only convention and trade show dedicated to the systems-built housing. Lyons has been an active BSC member for several decades. He served as BSC chairman in 1981. More recently, as the councils’ BUILD-PAC liaison, he helped raise more than $60,000 at SHOWCASE 2002, a record for BUILD-PAC donations from a single event. Lyons got his start in the systems-built housing industry working in a Pennsylvania manufactured housing plant in 1962. In 1981, he founded Penn Lyon Homes, a modular home manufacturing company specializing in high-end custom homes. By 1987, according to Inc. magazine, it was the 17th fastest-growing company in America. Marketing and Home Design Also Honored Also presented at SHOWCASE 2003 were the Building Systems Councils Excellence in Marketing & Model Home Design Awards. BSC associate members Bonded Builders Warranty and Building Systems Network each earned first place awards in three categories. In the manufacturer's competition, Genesis Homes and Precision Craft Log Homes each received a first place award and two honorable mentions. For a full list of awards winners, click here. The BSC Excellence Awards are open to the councils’ associate and manufacturer members; NAHB members using systems-built housing are eligible to enter some categories.
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Cutting-Edge Green Building Products Named the Top-10 for 2003A sensor-activated faucet in which a tiny hydropower turbine keeps the sensor batteries charged, a “smart” vapor retarder that becomes more permeable as the relative humidity rises and a line of laboratory casework made from straw-based particleboard are among this year’s top 10 green building products chosen by the editor of the GreenSpec® Product Directory and Environmental Building News™. The selections represent what the editors decide are the most exciting products that have been added to the GreenSpec Directory over the year. “Some are used primarily in commercial buildings, others in residential applications," said Alex Wilson, co-editor of GreenSpec. “Some are considered green because they are made from recycled content or bio-based materials, others because they save water or are highly durable.” Following are the top 10 products:
Attend the 2004 National Green Building Conference in March The National Green Building Conference, which will be held March 14-16 at the Hilton Austin Hotel and Convention Center in Austin, explores cutting edge building technologies and looks at the future of green building in America. Click here for more information. Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Exterior Doors Open to Zen MasterpieceA Cincinnati-area showcase house hailed as a Zen masterpiece when it was open to the public earlier this month in conjunction with the Home Builders Association of Northern Kentucky's CitiFest 2003 home tours incorporated products by Therma-Tru in designs that mix the ancient Chinese art form of Feng Shui and innovative building technologies in a modern urban setting. Headquartered in Maumee, OH, for more than 40 years, Therma-Tru is a member of the National Council of the Housing Industry — the Supplier 100 of NAHB. “By using the principles of Feng Shui, we were able to create a unique home that stands out in the marketplace and helps educate home owners about this design and architectural style,” said James Dunn, owner of Steller Homes, the company that built the 4,050-square-foot home in Newport, KY. The home’s brick exterior features a Therma-Tru Classic Craft® Oak entry door system with full frosted glass doorlite and sidelites. The company introduced this series of products in 1994. Six sets of Therma-Tru Slim-Line® patio doors across the back of the house provide home owners with beautiful views from a wooded hillside. Therma-Tru specializes in fiberglass and steel exterior door systems, and it says that its recent research found that enhanced entryways can add as much as $24,000 to the perceived value of a home. The objective of Feng Shui is to achieve a balance of energy and harmony to produce peace, prosperity and happiness. Following the tenets of the Oriental philosophy, the home’s designers used a Bagua map to determine the location of key living areas. The home’s exterior brick represents the I Ching, the book of change. The entrance reflects the Mouth of Chi. To encourage the flow of wealth, a waterfall travels through each of the three floors. The center core of the home, which starts in the kitchen, represents the heart and soul of health. Yin and yang are present throughout, bringing balance to the home, while the exterior views to the city of Cincinnati from every floor enhance relationships. This feature is solely for educational and informational purposes. Nothing on this page should be construed as policy, an endorsement, warranty or guaranty by the National Association of Home Builders of the featured product or the product manufacturer. The National Association of Home Builders expressly disclaims any responsibility for any damages arising from the use, application or reliance on any information contained on this page.
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Bob the Builder Activity Books Are Back in StockA fresh shipment of Bob the Builder™ "Blueprint for Home Safety" coloring and activity books has arrived at NAHB and they are now available to NAHB members who want to continue getting out the word about safety issues for young children. Earlier this fall, a supply of close to 100,000 books was depleted in less than three weeks. In a nationwide community outreach program, associations, women’s councils and members have been donating the books to local elementary schools, parades of homes and special home and fire safety events. HIT Entertainment, the owner of Bob the Builder™, has generously donated an additional 170,000 activity books to NAHB, which are now available on a first-come, first-served basis for the cost of shipping and handling. The books are five by seven inches, which is smaller than those in the original printing, but the content remains unchanged. NAHB’s safety message also appears in Bob the Builder™’s “A Christmas to Remember,” a home video/DVD featuring the voice of Elton John. The DVD’s packaging is branded with the NAHB logo and identifies Bob as “an honorary member of the National Association of Home Builders.” To order the coloring book, click here. Orders cannot be taken over the telephone. For more information, e-mail Kym Kilbourne at NAHB or call her at 800-368-5242 x8447.
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. February Is National Designation MonthDo you have a professional designation? Are you thinking about earning one? Join the NAHB University of Housing in February to celebrate National Designation Month, and make the most of this exceptional opportunity to enhance your on-the-job know-how with an NAHB designation. Why earn a designation? Professional designations offer excellent opportunities to improve your skills, advance your career and be recognized for your commitment to professional growth. They hone your business skills and convey superior training, practical experience and in-depth knowledge to potential clients. As part of National Designation Month, NAHB will also be stepping up efforts to educate the public about the value of selecting builders, remodelers and other industry professionals who hold an NAHB designation, so your hard work and dedication will mean even more when it comes to your bottom line. Throughout the month of February, building industry professionals across the nation can also take advantage of the many special events NAHB and local home builders associations are hosting to celebrate continuing education and recognize designation holders in the building industry. Stay tuned for details about exciting contests — featuring prizes including an exotic “Education Cruise” for two to your choice of the Mexican Riviera, Alaska or the Caribbean — that will be held during the International Builders’ Show. Plus, members who find the hidden designation airplane logo in the Builderbooks.com brochure or other NAHB publications can receive a special gift by visiting The NAHB University of Housing booth in the NAHB OnSite area at IBS. For more information on professional designations from NAHB and how you can become a part of these exciting programs, click here.
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. NAHB President Conine Reappointed to Texas Housing BoardTexas Governor Rick Perry last week reappointed NAHB President Kent Conine to the Governing Board of the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). The agency provides a wide array of financial and educational resources aimed at developing better communities and improving quality of life in Texas. “I am honored to accept Governor Perry’s appointment, and I’m grateful for his continued confidence in the department’s work,” said Conine. “Our efforts to expand affordable housing opportunities for deserving Texas families will continue with even greater vigor in the months and years ahead.” Conine has served on the TDHCA Governing Board since 1997. He is also a standing board member of the Home Builders Association of Greater Dallas and a past president of the Texas Association of Builders. He heads his own building company, Conine Residential Group. His new term on the TDHCA board will continue through Jan. 31, 2009. “One of the TDHCA’s most important tasks is to allocate federal assistance for housing through the HOME, Low Income Housing Tax Credit and Mortgage Revenue Bond programs,” Conine noted. “These resources are critical tools for meeting the demand for decent and affordable homes and apartments across the state and across the nation.”
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Fire Relief Fund Announced by Southern California BuildersA special fund to raise money for the victims of the Southern California wildfires has been established by the Building Industry Association of Southern California (BIAS/SC). The BIA/SC Relief Fund will help establish an education and assistance program for those who were hardest hit by the fires. The association will direct the majority of the funds toward supporting entities that have provided temporary shelter for fire victims and other housing programs related to the tragedy. “Our thoughts and prayers remain with those still in danger of losing their communities, as well as with those brave firefighters who have battled so honorably to save our lives and homes,” BIA/SC President Ray Becker of Lennar Communities said on Oct. 30 in his announcement of the fund. Donations may be sent to: BIA/SC Disaster Relief Fund, c/o Building Industry Association of Southern California, 1330 South Valley Vista Drive, Diamond Bar, CA 91765.
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. Calendar of Events
To view more meetings & events information on the NAHB Web site, click here.
Make Your Connection With www.nahb.org Make your connection to the latest housing industry news and information with www.nahb.org — the official public and members-only Web site of NAHB. Log in today to register for educational seminars, meetings and networking events; find important economic and housing data; and learn the latest developments in NAHB’s efforts to promote housing. It’s all available to you 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Member Log In" button to get started. If you are a member and need information about NAHB products and services, use the NAHB Staff Contact Directory to look up the direct telephone extensions for NAHB staff experts. |