Nation's Building News Online: December 12, 2005Print All Articles Text Version |
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Gen. Colin Powell Keynote Speaker at Builders’ ShowHeld in one of the largest convention centers in the country, the NAHB event will boast a record 1,600+ exhibitors spread across more than 1.5 million square feet of space — the equivalent of more than 40 football fields. On display will be the most cutting-edge designs, technologies, products and services available to the home building community in the new year. “Orlando is going to be the place to see and be seen if you’re a housing professional this January, because the International Builders’ Show is by far the most important event of the year for our industry,” said NAHB President David Wilson. “This will be our second consecutive year holding the show in Orlando, and many of our 220,000 members can’t wait to return or visit for the first time in 2006.” The event is the housing industry’s largest new-product showcase, with suppliers spanning more than 300 categories ranging across every niche of the residential and light commercial construction fields. Additional draws include more than 200 educational seminars to help builders and their affiliates expand their professional knowledge, explore new opportunities and grow their businesses, plus show home tours headlined by The New American Home® 2006. Starting things off on a patriotic note, General Colin L. Powell (Ret.), the highly respected soldier and 65th U.S. secretary of state, will headline the show’s grand opening ceremonies on Jan. 11 at 10:30 a.m. The keynote speech will be preceded by a spectacular musical and visual production with a live orchestra and a professional cast of Orlando’s top singers and dancers. NAHB’s more than 2,000-member board of directors will hold its annual winter meeting during the show. “All eyes are on the U.S. housing market right now, with expectations for a soft landing following some of the greatest years we’ve ever seen for home sales and production,” said Wilson. “Topics of discussion at our board meeting are certain to focus on the economy, tax reform proposals that would negatively impact housing and homeownership incentives, and the need to maintain and preserve the integrity of the government-sponsored enterprises that form the foundation of our nation’s world-class housing finance system.” The show is not open to the general public. Home builders and their affiliates throughout the housing trades can register by visiting www.BuildersShow.com. Discounted online registration ends Dec.16. Attendees will be able to register on-site at the show beginning on Sunday, Jan. 8. Visitors can also see what the show has to offer at www.BuildersShow.com/VTS, a virtual showcase for exhibitors and their products. IBS exhibit floor and onsite registration hours are listed below. 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDERS’ SHOW
Wednesday, Jan. 11, 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
ON-SITE REGISTRATION HOURS Sunday, Jan. 8, 7:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
More Housing Needed to Keep Children With Their FamiliesRoughly 30% of the children who have been put into foster care have been separated from their parents because the family doesn’t have access to affordable housing, said Ruth White, director of housing and community development for Catholic Charities USA. All but a scant 1.5% of the households who lose their children after being cited for neglect earn less than $30,000 annually, she said. There are currently about 500,000 children in the nation’s foster care system, the majority of whom will eventually be reunited with their families, according to White, but 25,000 age out of the program every year. Facing post-traumatic stress that is believed to be greater than that experienced by war veterans, and with poor educational backgrounds and a 50% unemployment rate, 12%-25% of the children who age into the mainstream will find themselves homeless within a year. Providing foster care for the average 2.7 children in a homeless family costs the government more than $45,000 annually, she said. By comparison, providing the family with a two-bedroom apartment at fair market rent and support services, which would allow the children to return, would cost about $13,400, suggesting the potential for saving $1.94 billion per year by moving from foster care to supportive housing. Affordable Housing Matters “Affordable housing matters,” said Debra Rog, director of the Washington Office of the Vanderbilt University Center for Evaluation and Program Improvement. “Subsidized permanent housing is the major predictor of residential stability.” In a nine-city study of 1,500-1,600 families by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Department of Housing and Urban Development in the 1990s, 88% of “multi-problem” homeless families receiving Section 8 certificates and services remained housed for 18 months or longer, Rog said. Sixty-two percent were able to have their children returned and 90% of those who were at risk avoided losing any of their children. The study found that homeless families moved an average of five times over a year-and-a-half period, Rog said. They would typically spend seven months doubled-up with relatives or friends, six months in their own home and 3.5 months homeless. More than half had experienced prior homelessness. Families comprise 34% of today’s homeless population, she said. Twenty-three percent are children and 11% parents. Over a year’s time, 1.8% of the nation’s families are homeless for at least one day, and 89% of them live in a poor household. Homeless families are typically headed by a female in her late 20s with two young children under the age of six. The rate of homelessness increases among ethnic families, especially those that are African-American. In a New York study tracking homeless families over a five-year period, 44% were separated from one or more of their children compared to 8% of poor mothers in housed families, Rog said. “Even if a housed mother was drug-dependent and experiencing domestic violence, she was less likely to have a child separated than a homeless mother.” Foster care itself is a predictor of homelessness in adults, she said. And “homeless adults who experienced family separation as a child are more likely to be separated from their own children.” Housing Is the Cheapest Solution “There is a lot we don’t know about the intersection of child welfare and housing because the issue is so complicated,” said Nan Roman, president of the National Alliance to End Homelessness. For instance, children aging out of foster care do face a higher chance of becoming homeless she said, “but homelessness doesn’t always occur immediately after what would seem to be a precipitating event. It can take a while to occur.” Family violence, school and drug abuse all play a role in determining outcomes for children exiting foster care, Roman said, but “stable housing is essential for people to deal with all of these other issues.” The homeless are stressed, they have worse health and they don’t perform as well on jobs or at school. “Housing seems to be the cheapest thing that can be done to solve the problem,” she said. “Foster care, corrections, institutions are more expensive,” and “there is no question that child welfare systems are a feeder into homelessness.” Long Lines for Housing Bob McKay, who has been most recently working in Massachusetts as a consultant to public and private housing and child-serving agencies, noted that “there is no waiting list at child welfare agencies, but long lines at housing agencies.” He said that HUD’s Family Unification Program has been able to make a small dent in the problem by setting aside Section 8 units for families with children in the welfare system. About 40,000 units have been allocated to unify families since the program’s inception eight or nine years ago. Once a child welfare agency discharges a child, a Section 8 certificate is given to the family, which then goes through orientation. “The service piece is so important,” McKay said, and it requires hard work and people who have been trained. “The child agencies want to pull the plug after a few months so they can close the case,” he said, “and then the services are gone,” so there is now a requirement for the support to be provided for six to 12 months. Some of the 40,000 units have been slipping away, at an annual rate of 5%-7%, when the housing authority gets the unit back and is not ready to return it to a reunification family, he said. Subscribe Your Employees — You Could Win a Digital CameraSign up three or more of your employees for free, online subscriptions to Nation's Building News and you automatically will be entered in a contest to win a Sony digital camera. There have been eight winners already — the most recent winner is Greg Zehe, of Parkview Homes, Inc. in Strongsville, Ohio — and you could be next. To subscribe your employees to Nation’s Building News and be entered in the "Make Your Business Click" contest, visit our contest subscription page by clicking here.
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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 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Log In" button to get started. Once you log in, personalize the site to reflect your interests. Simply go to the My NAHB>My Profile page and click the “Edit Content Preferences” link. To learn more about how you can customize My NAHB — including how to customize the links that appear on the Home page ― visit the How to Use www.nahb.org section. How Big U.S. Home Builders Plan to Ride Out a Downturn
Another Busy Hurricane Season Coming
Real Estate Investors Bailing Out?
Breadth of World Housing Boom Stuns Analysts
Construction Draws Mexican Migrants
Report Points to a Cut in Commutes
House Immigrant Worker Bill Raises ConcernsIntroduced by Rep. James Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.), the measure was brought to the House floor after passing the House Judiciary Committee on Dec. 8 by a party-line vote of 23-15. Before the vote, NAHB sent a letter to all committee members outlining several concerns with the bill and specifically calling for a legal guest worker program that would enable employers to legally hire immigrants when there is a shortage of domestic workers. Noting that current law already penalizes employers who knowingly hire illegal aliens and also imposes stringent paperwork requirements, NAHB said it was unfair that the “primary burden of enforcing our immigration laws should fall on employers.” NAHB said it opposed the bill’s increased paperwork requirements and stiffer penalties that would be particularly burdensome for many small or medium-sized builders. Further, NAHB called on its grassroots members to contact their lawmakers and voice their concerns over the legislation. During committee consideration of the measure, NAHB supported two amendments sponsored by Rep. Chris Cannon (R-Utah) that would have eliminated the mandatory employer requirement for existing employees and tougher penalties for employer paperwork violations. Despite lobbying efforts by NAHB and other prominent business groups who are members of the Essential Worker Immigration Coalition, the amendments failed on a voice vote. Another amendment offered by Rep. Howard Berman (D-Calif.) that would have created a guest worker program allowing illegal immigrants to apply for temporary visas to work in the U.S. and eventually earn permanent residency, failed on a party line roll call of 13 to 22. With the House expected to act on H.R. 4437 this week before the congressional holiday recess, it is unlikely that provisions to create a legal guest worker program will be adopted in the final House bill. Members within the Republican Party remain split on this issue. The Senate has committed to take up such a provision early next year. If approved, it would then need to be reconciled with the House bill. NAHB will continue to work with members in the House and Senate to urge them to oppose mandatory employer verification requirements and to support creating a legal guest worker program. To read the legislation, click here and enter H.R. 4437 in the box at the upper left. For more information, e-mail Michael Strauss at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8252. Halfway Commerce Measure to Cut Canada Timber Duties“Reducing overall duties from 20.2% to 10.8% is only a halfway measure,” said NAHB President David Wilson. Wilson said that the Administration should eliminate all border taxes on lumber and refund to Canada the more than $4 billion in duties that have been collected, as has been stipulated by binational appeals panels. There are not enough trees available for harvesting in the U.S. to fill the demand for lumber to build American homes. Canadian imports account for more than one-third of the entire lumber supply used in U.S. home building and are essential for meeting domestic housing demand. Expected to take effect in about a week, the new countervailing duty will be 8.7%, down from 16.2%, and an anti-dumping tariff will decline from 4% to 2.1%. U.S. law allows countervailing duties to be imposed only if a foreign supplier is benefiting from subsidies and U.S. producers are being injured, or threatened with injury, as a result. Several rulings have found that neither of those requirements were met. NAFTA panel decisions have unanimously determined that the Commerce Department’s finding of a Canadian lumber subsidy was based on flawed calculations. And separate binational review panels have ruled that there was no threat of injury from Canadian imports. Appellate decisions also have stipulated that the U.S. must refund the billions of dollars in duties that have been paid to date. NAFTA rulings carry the weight of law in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, but the Administration has not implemented decisions that invalidate the lumber duties and return all duties paid out by Canadian firms. For more information, e-mail Michael Strauss at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8252.
Want to Know the Housing Starts Through 2014? Find out in HousingEconomics.com’s Long-Term Forecast. HousingEconomics.com includes downloadable Excel tables featuring the housing starts forecast, GDP, demographics and more. To learn more, visit www.housingeconomics.com. Builder’s Tip: Adjustable Stair Jigs Instead of Gauges
First, the cheaper six-sided gauges are difficult to set accurately because the edge of the gauge that contacts the edge of the lumber sits off the edge of the framing square. And while my good Starrett stair gauges align exactly with the edge of the square, they have not solved the problems posed by the lumber. The edges of lumber have defects: nicks, knotholes and wane (sloped edges caused by the rounded edge of the tree). When the gauge falls on one of these imperfections, it throws off the layout. Another problem occurs when the lumber used for the stringer is only long enough for the layout. When this occurs, one of the gauges has nothing to bear against for the first or last step because it’s off the end of the board. Because of these problems, I’ve stopped using stair gauges to lay out stair stringers. Instead, I use a stair jig with an adjustable fence, as shown in the drawing. The jig consists of a framing square, a fence and two tiny C-clamps. The fence is 32 inches long, a full 1 inch thick and 1-1⁄4 inches wide. To make the fence:
In use, the fence rides along the board and easily bridges imperfections in the lumber. It also holds the square in the correct position right up to the end of the board. Once the fence is fabricated, it takes no longer to set up this jig than it does to affix stair gauges. This jig also can be used to lay out rafters. — John Carroll, Raleigh, N.C. Tips & Techniques provided by Fine Homebuilding.
To request a reprint of this feature, e-mail Mary Lou von der Lancken at Fine Homebuilding.
BuilderBooks.com is your source for training and education products for the building industry. The official bookstore for NAHB, BuilderBooks.com offers award-winning publications, software, brochures and more available in both English and Spanish. To view these publications online, click here, or call 800-223-2665.
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Why Owners Don't Sell Their Companies to EmployeesThe final article in a series about selling your company. In the first two articles of the series, you learned why business owners want to sell their companies to their key employees and why they actually do sell to their employees. In this final part of the series, you will learn reasons why owners decide not to sell their companies to their employees. If you are considering or are in the process of transferring ownership to key employees, pay particular attention to the following seven obstacles that can derail this process.
Go to NAHB's Business Management Tools Web pages (available to members only) for instant access to more than 170 timesaving, moneymaking and cost-cutting business resources to help you run your business more profitably. Get guidance on accounting and financial management, business strategy, computers and information technology, customer service, human resources and more. Resources are added weekly, so bookmark www.nahb.org/biztools to go directly to these vital business management resources. Local and state home builders associations can link directly to www.nahb.org/biztools from their Web site and give their members instant access to these resources. It will make your HBA's Web site the place to go for the information and guidance that members need to succeed.
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, visit www.nahb.org/BoB on the Members Only side of the NAHB Web site. A Solid Estimating Workflow Can Improve Your Bottom LineBy David Moyer, Sage Software A true cost estimating workflow ― not the typical price comparisons done every now and then ― allows you to present clearer options to your home buyers, track and adjust for variances before and during construction, and finish the job with a healthy profit and a satisfied customer. By implementing a best practices workflow approach rather than a “quick fix,” you can build on, refine and continually optimize your basic estimating processes. This approach will potentially reveal new efficiencies, create cost savings, reduce your estimating time and increase your accuracy. This will result in far less wasted effort and guesswork, better awareness and communication of all costs and a boost to overall productivity. Among the tools NAHB offers builders to help them improve their business practices are the builder-tested contracts and forms in “Home Builder Contracts & Management Forms” on disk. Whether you are a custom or production builder, the following step-through process can help you take a fresh look at your business that goes beyond simply calculating labor, materials and costs. First, Take Stock of Your Needs Your answers to the following questions will give you a thumbnail sketch of your current estimating strengths, areas that could use some help and potential new factors that may warrant exploration. Combined, these factors will also help orient your thinking toward an estimating business workflow:
Now, Develop Your Estimating Workflow With your answers in hand, develop your own estimating workflow based on the following topics. This will enable you to improve your data and data delivery from creation to final budget comparison.
David Moyer is the director of channel relations for Sage Timberline Office for Sage Software, a product suite of integrated accounting, estimating, project management and production management software. Sage Timberline Office features integrated accounting, estimating and information management software designed to improve operations for all types of residential builders. BuilderMT (Management Technology) provides implementation, business and custom end-user training and consulting services to help builders recognize the benefits of organizing internal work processes and workflow as a means of increased productivity and profitability. For more information, visit www.sagestimberlineoffice.com and www.buildermt.com.
NAHB Has More Than 170 Resources to Help You Run Your Business More Profitably Go to NAHB's Business Management Tools Web pages (available to members only) for instant access to more than 170 timesaving, moneymaking and cost-cutting business resources to help you run your business more profitably. Get guidance on accounting and financial management, business strategy, computers and information technology, customer service, human resources and more. Resources are added weekly, so bookmark www.nahb.org/biztools to go directly to these vital business management resources. Local and state home builders associations can link directly to www.nahb.org/biztools from their Web site and give their members instant access to these resources. It will make your HBA's Web site the place to go for the information and guidance that members need to succeed.
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, visit www.nahb.org/BoB on the Members Only side of the NAHB Web site.
‘Estimating Home Construction Costs’ Available at BuilderBooks.com ‘Estimating Home Construction Costs,’ available through BuilderBooks.com, has been newly revised and updated to help you bring your houses under budget and make your construction process more efficient. “Estimating Home Construction Costs” includes a new, larger floor plan and new elevations, work sheets, checklists, a comprehensive glossary and a list of resources and recommended reading. To view or purchase this software online, click here, or call 800-223-2665. Learn How to Compete With the ‘Giants’Industry experts will tell you how to compete with the “giants,” run a paperless business, survive a market slowdown and more during the 18 educational sessions sponsored by NAHB’s Business Management and Information Technology Committee at the International Builders’ Show, Jan. 11-13 in Orlando, Fla. “The education is selected by builders for builders,” said John Barrows, of J. Barrows, Inc., who led the selection committee. “We incorporated a broad array of topics that builders would be interested in learning about. Then we chose the most dynamic speakers with the greatest expertise in each of those areas.” The following is a sampling of the business management educational sessions offered at IBS:
Visit the business management educational sessions online at the International Builders’ Show Web site for a complete list of seminars offered. Use the My Show Planner tool to create an electronic calendar. For more information, call Wil Heslop at NAHB at 800-368-5242 x8472, or Marcia Childs at x8388. Housing Wealth Is Primary Source of Financial SecurityHousing wealth recently has become the main source of financial security — and a possible cause of concern — for older Americans entering their retirement years, according to a recent study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University. “Housing Wealth and Retirement Savings: Enhancing Financial Security for Older Americans,” released in September, examines the impact that housing wealth is having on investment and retirement decisions and “consumption and investment activities” among senior citizens. The study pointed out that “…residential real estate has grown to become the largest single asset class” held by households headed by people 65 or older. According to the study, more than 80% of seniors owned a home and those homes were valued at more than $3.16 trillion — $3.95 trillion when second homes are included. Though a majority of older home owners rely on housing wealth as a source of retirement savings, the study also found that many aging consumers still rent and therefore are not able to take advantage of housing wealth for their retirement savings. “[T]here can be little doubt that renters in general, and low-income renters in particular, face a bleak retirement future given the relatively limited reach of current Social Security and other income support systems now in place,” the study pointed out. How much seniors could take advantage of housing wealth also depended on local housing markets, according to the study. Local housing markets vary widely across the U.S. and retirees in hot markets often will fare the best. “As a result, there is a certain lottery-like element to the role that home equity buildup plays as a source of retirement savings, with the winners generally being those lucky enough to live in areas where home prices have appreciated most rapidly just as they prepare to move into their retirement years,” according to the Harvard study. Gains in Equity Accompanied by Increased Mortgage Debt The past decade has seen a rise in both housing equity and mortgage debt, according to the study. After a steady increase in real estate prices, the “median net wealth holdings for homeowners headed by someone ages 65 to 74 increased from 1992 to 2001 by close to $100,000 to just shy of $250,000.” But these strong gains in equity also have been accompanied by mortgage debt ―and older households are carrying much of the mortgage debt. “Tracking specific age cohorts over time reveals that each succeeding generation is carrying more mortgage debt into their older years.” Part of this is due to consumers’ ability to swap mortgage debt for unsecured debt, such as credit cards. “Even more remarkable is the level of debt these older home owners carry into their retirement years," according to the study. "After adjusting for inflation, the median mortgage debt of those older home owners more than tripled to $44,000 in 2001.” The study examined the dilemma faced by lower-income households. “While it seems unlikely that home prices will fall precipitously in the future, it still is true that persistent homeownership affordability problems will continue to limit the ability of low- and moderate-income families to realize the wealth-building potential of homeownership.” For those low-income families that do own a home, the costs of utilities, taxes and other costs make housing expensive, the study reported. In addition, mortgage debt “increases the housing cost burden of lowest-income older home owners.” The study concluded that, while homeownership is not an answer for all older Americans, the housing industry should still strive to “create home buying options that not only are affordable in the short run, but buffer these new buyers from the significant downside risks associated with owning a highly leveraged asset.” Also, once these consumers sell their houses, it is important to give them affordable housing options for their next life stage. While many will benefit from increases in home equity, it is important to have sources of retirement income for those who will not. “The inability of all households to realize the benefits of homeownership leaves behind gaping holes in the retirement security safety net,” the study found, while noting that housing wealth was “no substitute for a comprehensive set of housing and income support policies designed to help households prepare for retirement” “The best retirement support policy will undoubtedly involve a mix of income transfer programs and housing assistance efforts that enable retired people to sell their homes and tap into accumulated home equity,” the study indicated. “Housing Wealth and Retirement Savings: Enhancing Financial Security for Older Americans” was conducted by William C. Apgar and Zhu Xiao Di. To read the study findings, click here.
Attend the 2006 50+ Housing Symposium in Phoenix Learn more about the fastest-growing segment of the housing market. Plan to attend Building for Boomers & Beyond: 50+ Housing Symposium 2006, the premier educational and networking event for industry professionals serving the burgeoning 50+ market, in Phoenix from April 24-26. For more information, click here. What’s New in Universal Design?
Mary Jo Peterson, CKD, DBD, CAPS
Peterson chairs the 50+ Housing Council’s convention education working group and frequently gives talks about the active adult and aging-in-place market. She also teaches the Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) program for the Remodelors™ Council. NAHB recently asked Peterson to explain some of the basics that builders and remodelers need to know when expanding into universal design. Here are her thoughts:
A. Builders and remodelers need to be able to respond to the changing needs of any household. In addition, they need to acknowledge the needs of aging-in-place active adults. Universal design allows them to do that. But universal design has to be incorporated in context. When done correctly, it’s invisible and is just good design.
A. In the production market, kitchen features are very popular. These include raised dishwashers (when the design supports them), improved cabinet accessories to enhance access — rollout shelves, pullout pantries, more drawers, etc. ― and varying counter heights. As the price point goes up, more accessible appliances are available — cooktops and ovens rather than a range for instance — that put things within better reach of most people. With price points higher still comes kitchen features that include dishwashers and refrigerators with drawers and separate work stations that are user-friendly to a variety of cooks.
Marketing universal design features must be subtle, however. So emphasize improving or enhancing lifestyle, not supporting needs. There are no short answers about how to do this effectively, except maybe this one. The design must be beautiful. If not, don’t do it.
A. People are asking for larger bathrooms and, within them, showers and more clear floor space. Also, vanity sinks that look great and have knee space rather than cabinet doors beneath them are popular.
A. New products are introduced daily, which is good. Recent examples include a drawer microwave oven and, as I’ve said before, drawers in dishwashers and refrigerators; vanity sink designs that encourage and beautify the concept of knee space; larger, open showers; and more “no-hands” technology for faucets, flushing, liquid soap and other operations. I keep a “new UD (universal design) products” file and toss new product information in it all the time. Most products will work if the designer breaks out of the box and logically considers what would be an easier way to install a product or use a space.
A. That realization is becoming more accepted, but there is still a huge aversion to anything that suggests that the consumer is “older” or “needs help.” The message builders and remodelers have to convey when discussing universal design with clients is that the features and products are “smarter” and that they provide convenience and pampering. For more information, e-mail Peterson, or call her at 203-775-4763. Learn More About 50+ Housing Through the 50+ Housing Council To learn more about 50+ housing, join the NAHB 50+ 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.
NAHB Members: Subscribe to 50+ Housing e/Source 50+ Housing e/Source, the regular e-newsletter of the NAHB 50+ Housing Council, is a builder's guide to the emerging, evolving 50+ housing market, offering industry updates as well as important NAHB and council news. Distributed once a month, 50+ Housing e/Source details information, products and services within the 50+ housing market that will enhance your bottom line. Go to the NAHB Web site to subscribe.
Subscribe your employees to Nation’s Building News Online. It’s free, easy and NAHB members who sign up three or more employees will be entered into the "Make Your Business Click" contest to win a digital camera. To learn more or sign up your employees, click here.
Learn More About the Emerging 50+ Market at IBSThe 50+ market, with boomers leading the way, is the fastest-growing segment of the housing industry. In fact, consumers 50 and older will account for more than a quarter of the 1.267 million new home purchases this year. Find out about this burgeoning market at the 2006 International Builders’ Show in Orlando, Fla. next month. The 50+ Housing Council will present more than 35 seminars and education sessions, networking opportunities and special events — including a bus tour of three of Central Florida’s best-selling active adult communities — for builders, developers and other industry professionals interested in knowing more about the 50+ market. "Aside from the council's Building for Boomers and Beyond symposium, the International Builders' Show is the biggest event for the 50+ housing industry," said Randy Rhinehart,CGR, CAPS, chairman of the 50+ Housing Council and a custom builder from Charlottesville, Va. "At IBS, we will offer plenty of opportunities for those in the housing industry to increase their knowledge about the 50+ market, design better products and market to these unique customers." Featured events include:
Visit www.nahb.org/50plusevents for a complete list and schedule of 50+ Housing Council activities at the show.
Learn More About 50+ Housing Through the 50+ Housing Council To learn more about 50+ housing, join the NAHB 50+ 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.
NAHB Members: Subscribe to 50+ Housing e/Source 50+ Housing e/Source, the regular e-newsletter of the NAHB 50+ Housing Council, is a builder's guide to the emerging, evolving 50+ housing market, offering industry updates as well as important NAHB and council news. Distributed once a month, 50+ Housing e/Source details information, products and services within the 50+ housing market that will enhance your bottom line. Go to the NAHB Web site to subscribe.
50+ Housing Publication Set Available at BuilderBooks.com Save 15% when you purchase the 50+ housing publication set through BuilderBooks.com. Receive one copy of “Boomers on the Horizon: Housing Preferences of the 55+ Market,” “Marketing Seniors Housing” and the “Best of Seniors’ Housing News.” This publication set is a must-have for anyone serving the active adult market. To view or purchase this publication set online, click here, or call 800-223-2665.
Learn More Before IBS Attend one of these pre-show courses to learn more about the emerging 50+ market. "Working With and Marketing to Older Adults" will be held on Jan. 8 from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. "Designing for the Active Adult" will be offered twice — Jan. 9 and Jan. 10 from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. For more information and to register, visit www.buildersshow.com. Focus Group to Address Section 8 Vouchers in Assisted LivingNAHB is seeking members to participate in a focus group discussion about using Section 8 housing vouchers in assisted living facilities (ALFs). Participation will require providing construction and operating cost information on current or recent projects. NAHB believes that HUD should establish higher fair market rents (FMRs) for ALFs than for other multifamily units. NAHB is arguing that FMRs in many communities are too low to permit the use of Section 8 vouchers in ALFs, and that the problem arises because rents (not including payment for services) typically are higher in ALFs than in standard rental units due to higher costs of construction and operations. HUD has asked NAHB for evidence that documents the cost differences. The purpose of the focus group, which will take place during the International Builders' Show in Orlando, Fla., is to gather the necessary information. To participate or for more information, contact Claudia Kedda at NAHB at 800-368-5242 x8352, or Jeff Jenkins, x8292. Learn More About 50+ Housing Through the 50+ Housing Council To learn more about 50+ housing, join the NAHB 50+ 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.
NAHB Members: Subscribe to 50+ Housing e/Source 50+ Housing e/Source, the regular e-newsletter of the NAHB 50+ Housing Council, is a builder's guide to the emerging, evolving 50+ housing market, offering industry updates as well as important NAHB and council news. Distributed once a month, 50+ Housing e/Source details information, products and services within the 50+ housing market that will enhance your bottom line. Go to the NAHB Web site to subscribe.
Bob Bell Named 2005 Remodelor™ of the Year
Bob Bell, CGR, CAPS, of Bell’s Remodeling based in Duluth, Minn., was named the 2005 Remodelor™ of the Year by the NAHB Remodelors™ Council during a ceremony at the 2005 Remodeling Show in Baltimore earlier this year. “Bob Bell represents all that is good about the professional remodeling industry,” said Patrick O’Toole, editor of Qualified Remodeler magazine. “He operates a small remodeling company by choice, focusing on customer satisfaction, employee retention and profitability. His clients love his team and the work they do. Above all, for more than 18 years, Bell has consistently given back to the remodeling industry through his work to further the quality and availability of designation programs for remodelers nationwide.” During his career, Bell was named to the Minnesota Building Industry Foundation’s Hall of Fame in 2001, was given an award of excellence for his legislative leadership by the Builders Association of Minnesota and earned a distinguished service award from the national Remodelors™ Council in 2004. In addition, Bell was named a "Big 50 Remodeler" by Remodeling magazine and "One of the Best Companies to Work For" by Professional Remodeling magazine. “Remodelor™ of the Year exemplifies the professional we all aspire to be,” said Don Novak, CGR, CAPS, CKB, CGB, chairman of the Remodelors™ Council and a remodeler from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. “Mr. Bell’s business savvy, consumer satisfaction and dedication to his employees are only a few of the qualities that represent why he is honored.” Bell also has been involved with Habitat for Humanity and was named the March volunteer of the month by the City of Duluth for coordinating volunteers and donations to do home repairs for an accident victim. He has served as the president of the Arrowhead Builders Association in Duluth and was on the board of directors and several task forces for the Builders Association of Minnesota. Nationally, Bell is an NAHB life director and has served or chaired Remodelors™ Council committees and served as a council trustee.
NAHB Gives OSHA Staff Insights on Home BuildingThe “Building a House” course was developed by the association as part of the NAHB-OSHA Alliance program, and was introduced last month in Red Bank, N.J. The seminar is aimed at several objectives for OSHA personnel:
As part of the training program, NAHB also conducted a home building job site tour with the OSHA Region II compliance officers and compliance assistance specialists. Hosted by K. Hovnanian Homes, the tour provided an opportunity for a first-hand discussion with OSHA personnel of home building techniques and significant safety issues confronted by builders. Classroom instruction for the seminar was provided by Jim Carr, a member of the NAHB Construction Safety and Health Committee and an associate professor in construction management at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. For more information, e-mail Rob Matuga at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8507.
Protect Your Workers and Your Profits The “Jobsite Safety Video,” available through BuilderBooks.com, provides an overview of the key safety issues residential builders and workers need to focus on to reduce accidents and injuries. Based on the “NAHB-OSHA Jobsite Safety Handbook,” this DVD is intended to be used as part of an essential residential construction safety-training program and includes two 20-minute videos. To view or purchase this DVD online, click here, or call 800-223-2665. Concrete House Stands up to KatrinaThe Sundbergs had been building their fully-mitigated home for eight years, and it was 85% complete, when Hurricane Katrina slammed into their area on Aug. 29 with a huge storm surge and reported sustained winds of 125 mph. The water reached an elevation of 28 feet. After the winds had died down and the water retreated to the Gulf of Mexico, the Sundbergs found that their home had survived the storm largely intact, with some blown-out windows, lost materials and missing upstairs panels. Now they are focusing their efforts on finishing the building before the next storm strikes. “This is where our heart is,” said Scott Sundberg, a graduate of the University of Alabama and a structural engineer for 25 years. He used his experience with structural physics and design to build the home, which he and his wife Caroline call Shadowlawn. Before breaking ground, Sundberg did his homework. He studied the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Maps, Florida building codes and the storm history of the area, and he visited abandoned home sites where scars of Hurricane Camille were still visible. The information from his research motivated him to build the home to withstand severe storms. In 1998, Hurricane Georges dealt a glancing blow to the Sundbergs’ area of Pass Christian in Harrison County, which is one of the three counties in Mississippi that was hardest hit by Katrina. When Georges hit, the Sundbergs had just put the forms up and rebar in place for the carport slab. “I became even more convinced [after Georges] that it had to be right, that it had to withstand a Camille,” Sundberg said. Hurricane Camille was a Category 5 storm that raged across the Gulf Coast in 1969, leaving a wide swath of destruction.
A native of Thornton, Ill., where there is a major concrete quarry, Sundberg said that “concrete has been in my blood since I was young.” Accordingly, when it came to building his dream house, he used concrete as the main building material. The result is a sturdy house constructed of Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) walls, reinforced both horizontally and vertically; post tension concrete slab; concrete columns; and a concrete roof on top of cold rolled metal panel sections.
The Sundbergs’ home, which stands roughly 350 feet from the shoreline, is fully insured. The couple has yet to settle their flood insurance claim. They had renters insurance for the contents of their rental home in Long Beach, which was destroyed. Unfortunately, they did not have flood insurance, so they lost everything at that property, and their belongings and precious records were not insured against flood. The Sundbergs had to replace their cars, and all of the finished landscaping at their new home was destroyed. Since Katrina, the couple has been living in an 8-foot by 33-foot trailer, with two 3-foot slideouts parked next to their driveway. When they visited their new home after Katrina, Sundberg looked for cracking, spawling and displacement. He was relieved to find no signs that the structural integrity of the home was compromised. “Using concrete adds about 10% to 15% above the cost of conventional construction,” stated Sundberg. In this case, it proved to be a wise investment.
Plan to Attend the 2006 Concrete Tour Concrete is among the fastest-growing building materials and one of the most essential. To learn more, plan to attend the 2006 Concrete Tour will be held in Phoenix on June 11-13. The tour offers completely new information and behind-the-scenes technologies. NAHB to Work With Charity on Building Material DonationsIn the immediate aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, food, water, medicine and emergency shelter dominated the urgent needs in the Gulf Coast region. Now that recovery efforts are directed at rebuilding, members who have expressed interest in donating products or building materials are encouraged to join NAHB’s industry-wide effort to donate needed material through Gifts In Kind International. Gifts In Kind serves as a donation conduit between for-profit companies and nonprofit organizations in order to benefit communities in need worldwide. The charity takes donations from companies, including 44% of the Fortune 500, and then matches those donations to a network of 200,000+ registered charities worldwide so the specific help and material gets to where it is needed most. Your Donations Will Reach the Gulf Coast Now focused on the Katrina relief effort, Gifts In Kind has developed a coordinated donation process by assessing needs not only in areas affected by Katrina but in areas servicing evacuees. More than 30 distribution centers managed by local Gifts in Kind programs are now accepting product donations and distributing them to local agencies. So far, more than 150 truckloads of products have been distributed. NAHB members have the ability to work with Gifts in Kind not only to donate materials to the Gulf Coast region, but also locally or regionally based on need, goals of the donor company or future disasters. Gifts In Kind is seeking plumbing and electrical materials, sheet rock, roofing, insulation, 2x4 framing, doors, windows, cabinets, sinks, toilets, etc., but all building materials can be used and are being accepted. Why You Should Donate Through Gifts In Kind Not only will you be able to help others by meeting specific needs, you and your company gain positive recognition from your donation. In addition, you also could earn a tax deduction of up to twice the value of the merchandise donated. Several NAHB members, including Sears and Maytag, already are working with Gifts in Kind. However the charity can accept product donations both large and small. Also, coordinating product donations industry-wide will enable NAHB to aggregate the generosity of members and enable the federation to shine a positive light on the industry’s philanthropy. Donate Now To donate, complete Gifts In Kind’s Product Donation Agreement and fax it to Doyle Delph at Gifts In Kind at 877-798-3192. Please Note: During times of natural disaster, Gifts In Kind International requests that donors cover the shipping costs of their donated products in order to eliminate any fees involved in serving communities devastated by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. For more information about Gifts In Kind International’s efforts, visit www.giftsinkind.org/katrina.asp or e-mail Kym Kilbourne at NAHB, or call her at 800-368-5242 x8447. HUD to Help Hurricane Victims on FHA Loan Defaults“These families have been devastated,” said Jackson. “Not only are they living far from home right now, but many have lost their source of income. We want to help end that hopeless feeling for them, by letting them come back home and concentrate on putting their lives in order without having to worry about making mortgage payments.” Eligible families can receive the amount of money they need to cover monthly mortgage payments that are currently in default and future payments until they are able to resume paying their loans in full. The total amount of mortgage assistance cannot exceed the equivalent of 12 months worth of principal, interest, taxes and insurance. The assistance will be secured by a second mortgage that carries no interest rate, and no repayment will be required until the first mortgage has been paid in full. The assistance is available to FHA borrowers who:
The mortgage assistance funds cannot be used for property repairs. However, these HUD programs do provide assistance for rebuilding efforts:
HUD is asking lenders to contact as many families as possible that may be eligible for the special mortgage assistance. FHA home buyers can also contact their lenders or HUD’s National Servicing Center at 888-297-8685. Are Consumers Buying Smart Growth? Let NAHB KnowThe term “smart growth” has been around for years, but there is no clear consensus on what it means. Regardless of how smart growth is defined, in the end it is the power of the marketplace that will determine the relative success of growth policies established by each local jurisdiction. In the 1990s NAHB created a task force to study land use and development issues and to establish a smart growth policy for the association. At the core of that policy are NAHB’s five smart growth principles:
NAHB is conducting a smart growth survey to learn more about what’s happening in the marketplace today. It includes questions such as: Do those in the residential construction industry believe that smart growth is a valid development concept? Is there a sense that consumers are willing to purchase ― perhaps even pay more for — housing found in what might be called “smart growth developments? What are the challenges of producing a smart growth development? To Take the Survey Let us know about smart growth where you build homes by completing the short, online survey. To take the survey, click here. For more information, e-mail Deb Bassert at NAHB, or call her at 800-368-5242 x8443. NAHB Housing Education Programs Guide Now AvailableThe 2006 NAHB University of Housing Education Programs Guide, a comprehensive source for NAHB education offerings that features conferences, designations, courses and an easy-to-use planning calendar, is now available. The NAHB Education Programs Guide simplifies the class selection process and aims to help members determine a course of study. “The NAHB Education Programs Guide is a one-shot glance to see what’s being offered for the year,” said Patty Nearhoff, of the Building Industry Association of Southern California. “My members don’t have to read every single course to figure out what to take. And the designation section tells me what the designation is about and how it can benefit individual members. Overall, it’s a really handy piece.” Marylee Putnam, of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association, agreed and said she encourages her members to use it. “The education guide helps our members plan out their designations and determine what classes count towards continuing education.” To Order The NAHB Education Programs Guide is available individually or in bulk for distribution to local home builders associations. E-mail requests to NAHB at info@nahb.com, or call 800-368-5242 x0. Learn More Before: Pre-Show Education at IBSThe NAHB University of Housing will offer a choice of 20 in-depth educational opportunities for builders, remodelors and sales and marketing staff Jan. 7-10 before The International Builders’ Show (IBS) in Orlando. Pre-show courses about marketing, sales, design, safety, effectively managing your business, the 50-plus market and more will be offered. For builders and remodelers considering the Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) or Certified Graduate Remodelor™ (CGR) designation programs, introductory BAR and PREP assessments that measure business strengths and weaknesses will be offered prior to the builders' show. A sample of the pre-show classes being offered follows. The pre-show courses require a separate registration fee. For the complete listing and to register, click here or visit www.buildersshow.com.
Whether you’re new to the industry, hope to make your next career move or want to improve your company’s bottom line, The NAHB University of Housing can assist you in your educational pursuits. Visit www.nahb.org/education for a comprehensive listing of courses throughout the country. Be sure to visit often in order to view the most up-to-date information in your area.
Subscribe Your Employees to Nation’s Building News — and Earn a Chance to Win Digital Camera Subscribe your employees to Nation’s Building News Online. It’s free, easy and NAHB members who sign up three or more employees will be entered into the "Make Your Business Click" contest to win a digital camera. To learn more or sign up your employees, click here.
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 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Log In" button to get started. Once you log in, personalize the site to reflect your interests. Simply go to the My NAHB>My Profile page and click the “Edit Content Preferences” link. To learn more about how you can customize My NAHB — including how to customize the links that appear on the Home page ― visit the How to Use www.nahb.org section. Education Calendar
Whether you’re new to the industry, hope to make your next career move or want to improve your company’s bottom line, The NAHB University of Housing can assist you in your educational pursuits. Visit www.nahb.org/education for a comprehensive listing of courses throughout the country. Be sure to visit often in order to view the most up-to-date information in your area.
Subscribe Your Employees to Nation’s Building News — and Earn a Chance to Win Digital Camera Subscribe your employees to Nation’s Building News Online. It’s free, easy and NAHB members who sign up three or more employees will be entered into the "Make Your Business Click" contest to win a digital camera. To learn more or sign up your employees, click here.
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 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Log In" button to get started. Once you log in, personalize the site to reflect your interests. Simply go to the My NAHB>My Profile page and click the “Edit Content Preferences” link. To learn more about how you can customize My NAHB — including how to customize the links that appear on the Home page ― visit the How to Use www.nahb.org section. Online Survey to Assess Use of Green Building Material
If you do, a research team at the University of California, Santa Barbara could use your help. Graduate students at the Donald Bren School of Environmental Science and Management are studying the use of green innovations in the building industry and conducting a simple, 15-minute online survey of building industry professionals about their perceptions of alternative building materials. The survey focuses on residential housing and a new potential building material — a block made entirely of compressed straw. The survey is being used to try to understand:
All home builders, regardless of whether they have experience with alternative or green materials, are invited to participate. All participants will be entered in a drawing to win a $50 Visa gift card. All survey respondents and responses will remain anonymous. To Take the Survey To start the survey, follow this link. The survey results will supplement a larger report on the use of green building materials in the home building industry. A summary of the survey results will be published in an upcoming issue of Nation’s Building News. For more information, e-mail the University of California, Santa Barbara research team.
Attend the 2006 Green Building Conference Plan now to attend the 2006 National Green Building Conference, March 12-14 in Albuquerque, N.M. — the only national conference targeted to "green building" for the mainstream residential building industry. The high caliber education programs will give you a chance to network with other green-minded builders from all around the country as well as meet with exhibitors with products to help you build a better home. For more information, click here. Prepare Yourself for a More Competitive 20062006 will be more competitive than 2005. Prepare yourself for the challenge ― and the opportunity — to outperform your competition with the following 10 profitable tips: 1. Be Prepared. Take the time to know your product and your competition. Shop competitive projects in your price range and meet with your suppliers to learn the latest technology so that you can adapt all your newfound knowledge and give yourself a competitive edge. 2. Update Your Product. Don’t let your competitors pass you by with new designs, technology, craftsmanship or customer service. Search for ways to enhance your product, price points and incentives, and then incorporate these changes into your product as quickly as possible. 3. Survey Your Past Customers. Find out how your home, remodel or service has measured up to their expectations now that that have settled in and are living with it. This is an excellent opportunity to get valuable feedback because they’ll tell you how it’s “working” for them. What you learn will be helpful for product improvement. Implement any changes as quickly as possible. 4. Market Your Past Customers. Typically, sellers forget about their purchasers once the sale is completed and the home owners have taken possession of the house or service. Satisfied customers are one of your best sources of referrals. Don’t overlook them. Market to them — and always ask for referrals. 5. Follow-Up With Prospects and Previous Buyers. There are many reasons to follow-up with prospects and previous buyers ― price increases; sales; new product, service or inventory selections; financing programs; product changes; economic changes, etc. So review your prospect cards daily and assume that your prospects are ready to purchase. Follow-up with phone calls, letters, postcards, newsletters, direct mail, e-mail — whatever it takes to keep you in their minds. 6. Contact Realtors®. Realtors® do one of two things ― they either produce or perish. They’re in your marketplace creating new business every day, so help them and help yourself, too. Keep them apprised of your offerings. They may not have a buyer today, but they probably will tomorrow. Follow-up with them daily. Contact a minimum of 50 Realtors® a week. Offer competitive real estate cooperating commissions — and don’t forget to thank them for their interest and business. 7. Participate in Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development Councils. Get to know your business community. There are many people looking for housing, and many leads out there. Mingle and ask. The more you let people know what you have to offer, the more sales you will make. 8. Professional Education. Study your profession. Attend seminars and workshops and read books about business and personal development. Develop a business network to exchange ideas and find two or three mentors to develop and create better business practices. 9. Develop and Maintain a Positive Attitude. Look for the positive in everything you do. We have no problems in our industry, only situations. Solve all situations fairly and equitably. Praise people. Thank people. Be enthusiastic. Enjoy your job. Act positive. Be positive. Smile. 10. Maintain Your Health. Take care of yourself physically and mentally. Be happy. Help others. Exercise and eat well ― in moderation. Learn to relax and rest throughout the day. Meditate. Enjoy hobbies. Take vacations. Be good to yourself. In conclusion, be the best you that you can be. Review and repeat these tips as you sell your products or services and you will put yourself in position to have a profitable 2006. S. Robert August, MIRM, is president and founder of S.Robert August & Company, Inc., a national marketing and public relations firm based in Denver that specializes in providing home builders, developers, Realtors®, manufacturers and lenders marketing/management consultation and sales training. August is an owner of Colorado-based RealtyWorks, Inc. a real estate brokerage company. He is also past chairman of NAHB’s National Sales and Marketing Council and the only person to receive the prestigious Bill Molster Award twice. For more information, contact August by phone at 303-220-8480 or via e-mail.
For additional cutting-edge sales and marketing information, subscribe to NAHB’s Sales + Marketing Ideas Magazine (www.smimagazine.com). Click here to learn about membership benefits of the National Sales and Marketing Council and the Institute of Residential Marketing.
The Institute of Residential Marketing (IRM) offers four designation programs for sales and marketing professionals:
For more information on these designation programs, click here.
BuilderBooks.com offers a variety of sales and marketing publications online. To view or purchase these publications, click here. Sales and Marketing Pros Honored at IBSThe National Sales & Marketing Council (NSMC) will be hosting two events at the International Builders’ Show in Orlando, Fla. to honor members’ accomplishments ― the IRM Commencement Breakfast and The Nationals Awards Gala. The public is invited.
For a complete list of NSMC events at the show, including meetings, courses and seminars, click here.
Subscribe to Sales + Marketing Ideas Magazine for Cutting-Edges Information For additional cutting-edge sales and marketing information, subscribe to NAHB’s Sales + Marketing Ideas Magazine (www.smimagazine.com). Click here to learn about membership benefits of the National Sales and Marketing Council and the Institute of Residential Marketing.
The Institute of Residential Marketing (IRM) offers four designation programs for sales and marketing professionals:
For more information on these designation programs, click here. NCBC Offers Discounted Rates to New Members — Till Dec. 15The National Commercial Builders Council (NCBC) is seeking new members who are ready to diversify their home building business to include commercial construction or who are adapting to less land availability in their area. NCBC is offering discounted rates to new members who join the council by Thursday, Dec. 15. The commercial builders council offers members a variety of tools that will help members expand into or grow within the commercial building industry. These tools include:
NAHB membership is required to join NCBC. Builders who are unsure of their membership status should contact their local home builders associaton for more information. Subscriptions to Commercial Builder magazine are also available without membership for $79. For more information about the discounted rate for new members, e-mail Jill Pivovarov at NAHB, or call her at 800-368-5242 x8455.
Panel Looks at Mexican Housing OpportunitiesCarlos Gutierrez, Mexico’s commissioner of housing, and other distinguished experts from Mexico, will be discussing “Mexico’s Housing Market: Cross Border Investment and Business Opportunities.” Demand for housing is particularly strong in Mexico, and its economy is increasingly prepared to support the construction of new and better homes. Mexico is rated investment-grade, and relatively low interest rates have provided incentives for corporate and consumer spending. At the same time, housing has been gaining access to broadening sources of capital in the financial marketplace, and domestic pension funds and foreign institutional investors have been helping to develop a well-functioning and liquid mortgage-backed securities market. The presentation will be on Thursday, Jan. 12, 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the W300 Lecture Hall at the Orange County Convention Center. For more information, e-mail Rita Feinberg at NAHB, or call her at 800-368-5242 x8415. People With Disabilities to Pursue Home Building CareersThe center will be offering HBI’s Project HOPE training through a three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education's Projects With Industry (PWI) program, under the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. Project HOPE (Home Building Opportunities for Positive Employment) provides people with disabilities with intensive training and employment and related services to connect them with jobs in the home building industry. The DAC training program will expressly target adult offenders, homeless persons and veterans with disabilities, while retaining open space to train any interested adult with a documented disability. There will be 91 students receiving Project HOPE training during the first year of the partnership, 182 in year two and 136 students in the third and final year. “The focus of the partnership is to help our citizens with disabilities access high-quality employment through strong business and industry linkages,” said Stephen Maglione, DAC’s executive director. “We intend to create a seamless project system that will provide individuals with access to job openings and referral to training, retraining and career advancement opportunities.” Project HOPE will offer students two courses exploring the array of careers in the home building industry:
Recognizing the importance of training skilled workers for the home building industry, the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia and the HBA of South Carolina played major roles in making the program a reality. "Project HOPE provides hope for those that need it," said Earl McLeod, Jr., executive director of the HBA of Greater Columbus. "We are proud to support such a worthwhile program." John Cone, executive director of the state association, added that, "Project HOPE is just the sort of effort NAHB needs to be involved with. It serves the dual purpose of providing training to a special group of people who badly need new skills and providing skilled workers to meet the ever-increasing demand in the construction industry." For more information on Project HOPE, e-mail Dennis Torbett at HBI, or call him at 800-795-7955 x8908. Pulte and Historic Chapel on Tucson Job Corps SceneUnder the leadership of John Gallagher, HBI’s 2005 Instructor of the Year, qualified students continue to graduate with skills in plumbing, facilities maintenance and electrical wiring. A ‘Superintendent-in-Training’ for Pulte
Stemming from a visit to Pulte’s Sierra Morada site in Tucson by Gallagher and his students earlier this year, the company has initiated a pilot internship program for entry-level superintendents. Working with Jose Moreno, Pulte’s superintendent at Sierra Morada, Albert Preston was the first Job Corps “superintendent-in-training” at the site. Each day, he walked with the building inspector, keeping a daily log of inspections; contacted subcontractors to correct work; maintained accurate spread sheets; and called ahead for next day’s inspections. Preston made a strong impression on Pulte superintendents, City of Tucson building inspectors and subcontractors alike. After completing the internship and graduating from the program, he was hired as a permanent assistant superintendent of the Framing Department by Pratte Building Systems, an exclusive Pulte subcontractor. “I am extremely proud to see our students working at such a professional level straight out of Job Corps,” said Gallagher. “It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved.” Historic Chapel Gets a Face Lift
In October, a week-long revitalization project at the historic old Mary Immaculate Chapel in Tucson tested the skills of students from the Acosta Job Corps Center. Spearheading an effort to give the chapel a face lift were Alex Jacome, the Southern Arizona Home Builders Association's government liaison; Greg Miedema, owner of Dakota Builders and the association’s incoming chair; and Gallagher. The project called for the removal of everything that was not in the original structure, and HBI students were put in charge of ripping out walls, drywall, glass, stairs, cabinets, plumbing fixtures and floors from an office space remodel. The goal of the project was to restore the chapel to its original 1916 condition and have it placed on the National Register of Historic Places. All usable materials were donated to Habitat for Humanity. Students — who receive hands-on training at the center by working on community service projects — participated in the chapel restoration as part of “Make a Difference Day.” Local media coverage included a front-page story in The Arizona Daily Star and reports by CBS and ABC affiliates. HBI, the workforce development arm of NAHB, each year trains and places more than 2,000 at-risk youths enrolled in the Department of Labor’s Job Corps program in industry-related jobs. For more information on HBI’s Job Corps programs, e-mail Maria McIntyre at HBI, or call her at 800-959-0052 x8912. Holiday Lighting Requires Safe HandlingHeadquartered in Palatine, Ill., Square D is a member of the National Council of the Housing Industry — the Supplier 100 of NAHB. Following is a list of holiday lighting safety tips from Square D:
Following this fall’s hurricanes, Square D provided consumers in flooded areas with information on how to restore electrical power safely, reminding them that water can be a conductor of electricity and to be aware of potential hazards that may exist when water comes in contact with electrical equipment. “In many cases the water that has been in contact with the equipment has been contaminated with substances that can negatively affect the equipment’s integrity,” Square D says. “Remaining water, debris, rust and chemical contaminants are just some of the sources of hazard. If electrical distribution or control equipment has been in contact with water or moisture, it must be replaced.” Another warning from Square D: "Residual debris or wet surfaces may result in a loss of dielectric spacing within the equipment, presenting a hazard upon re-energization.” However, “some equipment may be reconditioned as determined by a professional." Before restoring electrical power, Square D suggests that customers always seek professional advice and contact a qualified electrician, local electrical building code inspector, trained factory service personnel and the local electric utility. 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. I Want a New Car for ChristmasCindy, my wife, was squeaking at me the other day. “Tim, I need a new car.” “What’s wrong with your Camry?” I replied, scarcely able to believe my ears. “It’s 15 years old.” “So, it runs fine. And it’s paid for.” “The tail light is broken.” “It’s the lens actually, hon. The light still works.” “Well, what about the passenger window that doesn’t go down, and the dome light that doesn’t light, and the big cloud of blue smoke that follows me everywhere, and…” “You should be thankful that window is up,” I interrupted. “It could have been brok… er locked in the down position instead. Winter’s here, you know.” “Yes. I know,” she said icily. “I might consider actually taking my car shopping today, but I can’t because my puny, 2-wheel drive car can’t even make it up our driveway in this snow.” “You could throw on some chains,” I suggested brightly. “About the only thing I’m gonna chain is my car to an anchor just before I drive it into the Sound.” “Say,” I said with a lilt. “I’ve got an idea. Why don’t you take my Jeep — shopping that is, not into the Sound. It’s got 4-wheel drive and it’s a lot newer. It’s a ’95.” “I hate your Jeep. It’s a piece. Is there any other family in America that has two vehicles, both with the same window stuck in the up position?” “Such a triviality. Again, I remind you that it’s winter, darling. Up is preferable. Now, what say? Wanna take the Jeepster?” “Okay, I’ll take it. But not because I want to.” “Great! Now, remember I showed you how to lock in the front hubs and put it in 4-wheel drive? Right. But keep in mind, as soon as you hit pavement, you need to unlock them again and take it out of 4-wheel drive or you’ll wear out the transfer case. Oh, and if you need the emergency brake, the little plastic button is broken, but it still works if you pull out the nubbin with one hand and pull the handle up with the other. Oh, and remember, I took the engine’s thermostat out, so the heater takes quite a while to heat up… but once it does, boy, it heats like a blow torch! Yes, and one last thing, if you’re low on gas and you take a left turn too fast, sometimes it quits in the intersection. So make sure if you do that, there’s no cars coming the other way. Wouldn’t want an accident — not this close to Christmas!” She replied with her eyes, only then stomped away. Probably grateful I didn’t tell her what was really wrong with the old Jeepster! A few hours later the phone rang. It was Cindy. She sounded cross. “Tim. I — hate — this — car.” “What’s wrong, my little shopmeister?” “You need to come get me. I’m at the mall and your car won’t start.” “What? It always starts for me.” “Well, when I turn the key it just makes this gggkkkkkggkkgkkgkkgkgkgkkgkkk sound.” “Hey, you did that pretty well — I can tell exactly what the problem is! Bet you left the lights on, hunh? See, that sound is the solenoid trying to engage, but there isn’t enough amperage to lock the electromagnetic piston firmly against the slave plate, thereby completing…” “TIM! I don’t care what the electromccallit solemajig does. JUST COME GET ME…NOW!” I felt compelled to correct her, but thought better of it. “What should I come get you in?” I asked. “Well, what about the Camry? It’s our only other car isn’t it?” I thought I detected a touch of sarcasm in her voice. “We’ve got a little problem there, hon. Your key is the only one that will turn the Camry’s ignition switch. Mine fits in the slot well enough, but the tumblers must be worn a tad thereby not allowing the grooves to align properly.” Silence. “Hon, you still there? Did you hear me… my key won’t…” “YES — I HEARD YOU!” “Good. Well, I’m afraid we’ll have to resort to Jeep-rescue-plan-‘B’. I’m pretty sure the old Lawn Rocket garden tractor has a 12-volt battery. I’ll just jump on it and scoot over. You’re approximately six and three-quarters miles away. At five and a half miles per hour, I ought to be there in just over 74 minutes.” When we got home at about midnight, the neighbors happened to be visiting and they and my kids ganged up on me, insisting that I get my gal a new rig for Christmas. What didn’t they understand about the “But it’s paid for!” part? However, reflecting back on all the negative energy, wasted time and frostbite I’d endured over this whole car thing, after some more thought, I tended to agree with them. Which brings me to the hard-hitting moral of this festive holiday story: Your crew will be a lot happier, not to mention more productive, if you keep them outfitted in good gear. Tim Garrison of ConstructionCalc.com, is a professional engineer, author, and software producer for the building industry. Check out his new book, Cracks, Sags, and Dimwits, available at www.lulu.com. Send e-mail to buildersengineer@constructioncalc.com. Tim reads every one. This column cannot be reprinted without permission from the author. The views expressed in this article represent the personal views, statements and opinions of the author and do not necessarily represent the views, statements, opinions or policies of the National Association of Home Builders. NAHB does not necessarily endorse any of the views expressed by the author and NAHB is not responsible for any direct or indirect consequences arising out of the views expressed in this article. NAHB Programs on HGTV & DIY This WeekNAHB-produced television shows for consumers on HGTV and DIY: "I Want That" on HGTV
"Dream Builders" on HGTV
"Rock Solid" on DIY
"Assembly Required" on DIY
The NAHB Production Group is a full-service, self-contained, media production unit creating programming for cable television, broadcast television, non-profit, museum and corporate clients. Productions range from magazine format shows for general audiences to museum-installation videos for specialized use. The production group includes award winning journalists, writers and photographers with experience in broadcast, documentary and corporate television.
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 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Log In" button to get started. Once you log in, personalize the site to reflect your interests. Simply go to the My NAHB>My Profile page and click the “Edit Content Preferences” link. To learn more about how you can customize My NAHB — including how to customize the links that appear on the Home page ― visit the How to Use www.nahb.org section. BuilderBooks.com Provides Holiday Gift IdeasJust in the nick of time for season giving, the first 100 online holiday shoppers who spend $250 or more at BuilderBooks.com will receive a $25 gift card that can be used on their next purchase. BuilderBooks.com offers a variety of merchandise and design idea books appropriate for gift-giving:
On the check-out page under ''How did you hear about the product,'' select ''Other'' and enter the code ''BB25GFT'' in the field. The offer ends on Dec. 31. The gift card will be mailed 30 days after purchase and will not be issued for returned items. NAHB Members, Board to Meet in Orlando at Builders' Show
Notice of Annual Meeting of
The annual meeting of members of the National Association of Home Builders will take place on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2006 in the Valencia A-C Rooms, Level 4 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., for the purpose of electing directors and state representatives, and other matters as may come before the meeting.
Official Meeting Notice of
The exact times and places of the scheduled meetings below will be listed in the program for the IBS. Sunday, Jan. 8 Subcommittees, Task Forces, and Working Groups
Monday, Jan. 9 Committees and Councils Meetings
Tuesday, Jan. 10 Committees and Councils Meetings
Wednesday, Jan. 11 Opening Ceremonies
Thursday, Jan. 12 Joint 2005 Executive Board, Budget & Resolutions Committee
Friday, Jan. 13 2005 Board of Directors Meeting
Saturday, Jan. 14 Educational Programs Your NAHB Membership Can Take You for a Great RideNAHB’s exclusive automotive partner, General Motors, offers eligible NAHB members preferred supplier pricing through Jan. 3. Most 2005 and 2006 model year vehicles from Chevrolet, Pontiac, Buick, Cadillac, GMC, Saturn, HUMMER and Saab are included. See www.gmfleet.com/nahb for complete details. In addition, members can realize the benefits of other offers such as eligible customer cash and the GM Business Choice Program — stacking up to an even better value. The 2006 GM Business Choice program is available to qualified commercial customers requiring the use of work-type vehicles for daily business operations. Available on most Chevy and GMC commercial trucks and vans, Business Choice allows customers to the option that works best for them:
Other Member Advantage Discounts For the most up-to-date details on the Member Advantage discount program and all of the participating companies, go to www.nahb.org/ma.
Subscribe your employees to Nation’s Building News Online. It’s free, easy and NAHB members who sign up three or more employees will be entered into the "Make Your Business Click" contest to win a digital camera. To learn more or sign up your employees, click here.
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 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Log In" button to get started. Once you log in, personalize the site to reflect your interests. Simply go to the My NAHB>My Profile page and click the “Edit Content Preferences” link. To learn more about how you can customize My NAHB — including how to customize the links that appear on the Home page ― visit the How to Use www.nahb.org section. Save More With BuilderBooks.com RewardsBuilderBooks.com is offering it's first-ever Rewards program to provide privileges, savings and rewards to its loyal customers. Launched at the 2005 International Builders’ Show, the program is available for a $9.95 annual fee.
Join the Rewards program today and save on the very books and services that build your business. Click here to start saving.
Subscribe your employees to Nation’s Building News Online. It’s free, easy and NAHB members who sign up three or more employees will be entered into the "Make Your Business Click" contest to win a digital camera. To learn more or sign up your employees, click here.
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 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Log In" button to get started. Once you log in, personalize the site to reflect your interests. Simply go to the My NAHB>My Profile page and click the “Edit Content Preferences” link. To learn more about how you can customize My NAHB — including how to customize the links that appear on the Home page ― visit the How to Use www.nahb.org section. Calendar of Events
To view more meetings and events information on the NAHB Web site, click here.
Subscribe your employees to Nation’s Building News Online. It’s free, easy and NAHB members who sign up three or more employees will be entered into the "Make Your Business Click" contest to win a digital camera. To learn more or sign up your employees, click here.
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 24 hours a day at www.nahb.org. Just click the "Log In" button to get started. Once you log in, personalize the site to reflect your interests. Simply go to the My NAHB>My Profile page and click the “Edit Content Preferences” link. To learn more about how you can customize My NAHB — including how to customize the links that appear on the Home page ― visit the How to Use www.nahb.org section. |