Photo by the U.S. Census Bureau

Builders May Have Seen the Worst of Current Downturn

Although the current housing slowdown is expected to persist into the middle of next year, on a national basis builders may have seen the worst of the downturn, according to economists, a view substantiated last week by reports of new and existing home sales stabilizing in October.

“Although residential construction continues to sag, some indications suggest that the rate of home purchase may be stabilizing, perhaps in response to modest declines in mortgage interest rates over the past few months and lower prices in some markets,” said Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke in a Nov. 28 speech before the National Italian American Foundation. ...

Products, Networking, Education Draw Industry Pros to IBS

Home building professionals cite educational sessions, product exhibits and networking as key reasons for attending the International Builders’ Show (IBS), which will be held Feb. 7-10 in Orlando, Fla. with pre-show education beginning Feb. 3

According to previous attendees, the top five draws to the show include:

1. Countless Educational Opportunities
   
   Attendees can select from more than 290 educational sessions in everything from green building and land development to marketing techniques and tips on succeeding in a slowing market.
   
   Pre-show educational sessions offer builders and affiliates the chance for more in-depth industry knowledge, as well as the opportunity to earn credit towards a professional designation. ...
   

Flyer Lists 10 Great Reasons to Buy a Home

With “It’s a Great Time to Buy" promotional materials in hand, NAHB members are continuing to emphasize the opportunities for buying a home in today’s buyer’s market — including a leveling off in prices, affordable mortgage interest rates and a buoyant national economy that is generating new jobs and income growth.

A one-page flyer in the free, online package lists the top 10 reasons to buy a home: ...

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