The Digital Magazine of the Fairfield County HBRA FEBRUARY 2017 UPCOMING March 1, 2017 General Membership Meeting March 3, 2017 Energy Codes Training March 14, 2017 Winter Trade Showcase (Free Builder Event) March 30-31, 2017 OSHA10 Construction FEATURED February GMM Luxury Home Tour Member News Energy Codes Winter Trade Showcase
Financing some of the top builders in Fairfield County. People you trust, service you expect, and products to fit your financial needs. • Construction Financing • Commercial Mortgages • Term Loans • Revolving Lines of Credit 877.431.7431 • www.fairfieldcountybank.com NMLS ID #516624 EQUAL HOUSING L E ND E R MEMBER FDIC
2016-17 OFFICERS President Chris Steiner Steiner, Inc. Sr. Vice-President Anthony DeRosa DeRosa Builders Vice-President Kim DiMatteo DiMatteo Group Secretary/Treasurer Michael Church William Pitt Sotheby's Immediate Past President Peter Gaboriault Bear Paw Builders Peter Battaglio Hocon Gas Max Bender Bender Supply Steve Berko Four Square Build & Design Ken DeLeo Doherty & DeLeo John Hertz Hertz Construction 2016-17 DIRECTORS Brian Kurtz Interstate Lumber Rob Michaud The Michaud Group Steven Roth Elevator Service Company Alex Shook Pella Commercial Michael Wood Wood Builders gas LIFE DIRECTORS Joanne Carroll JMC Resources Jerry Effren The Greyrock Companies Gary Fanali City Carting Peter Fusaro Preferred Builders Maureen Hanley United Bank Andrew La Sala Jr. Cannondale Building & Design Michael Palumbo ERI Building & Design Nick Yanicelli Susquehanna Enterprises MEDIA SPONSOR Thank you to the following VIP Associate Members for their support in 2017. Due to their generosity the Association greatly benefits - from developing new events and educational opportunities for the membership, to keeping our lights on! FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 3
IN THIS ISSUE Board of Directors VIP Circle Letter From The CEO Upcoming Events 8 Feb GMM 12 OSHA10 14 Luxury Home Tour 4 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017 February General Membership Meeting Congratulations to Peter Fusaro January OSHA 10 Hour Construction Class Luxury Home Tour 2017 2017 Membership Survey 2017 Builder Event – Trade Showcase HBRA Breakfast Series – Sales Institute New Members Builder Spotlight Cornerstone Contracting Construction Management Group Member News Congratulations to HBRA member Birgit Anich of BA Staging & Interiors Perfect Provenance Celebrates Design Team Connie Cooper Designs Showcased Greenwich Builder Named Best In Fairfield County Seminars Energy Code Changes - Residential (IECC) OSHA 10 Hour Construction Builder News Labor Shortage Bucket Brigade p.3 p.3 p.6 p.7 p.8 p.10 p.12 p.14 p.16 p.16 p.16 p.18 p.22 p.24 p.26 p.26 p.27 p.27 p.28 p.29 p.30 More First-Time Buyers Boost Homebuilders p.30 New Fund to Address Labor Shortage p.31 Building Success with Happy Home Owners p.32 Member Benefits p.33 Advertising/Sponsor Pages Interstate Lumber Fairfield County Bank Hocon Elevator Service Company Ed’s Garage Doors United Bank East Haven Builders Supply CTC&G Ridgefield Supply County TV & Appliance DiMatteo Ring's End Editorial Staff Gina Calabro Publisher/Editor Clare Michalak Designer Sarah Iannarone Executive Assistant HBRA of Fairfield County 2228 Black Rock Turnpike, Suite 307 Fairfield, CT 06825 203-335-7008 hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com www. buildfairfieldcounty.com Want to advertise? Contact the office for more information and rates. p.2 p.2 p.5 p.11 p.11 p.16 p.19 p.23 p.25 p.31 p.32 p.34
MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dear HBRA Members, Although February is a short month, it wasn’t short on planning future events and education! First up is the Legislative Night/General Membership Meeting at the DoubleTree Inn in Norwalk on March 1st. We have commitments from ten state and local legislators as of today. Let your voice be heard about the state and local issues facing the building industry and plan on attending this event. The 2nd Annual Trade Showcase is being held on March 14th at the Sheraton Stamford. This is FREE Builder Member event, presented by the Associate Council. It is a great opportunity to catch up with other builders and earn more about the products and services our Associate Members in attendance have to offer with food, drink, and fabulous prizes and giveaways. On March 3rd, we are offering an Educational seminar on the changes to the Energy Codes, sponsored by Energize CT and Ring’s End. And on March 30th and 31st, we have an OSHA 10 Construction class - this sells out fast so register quickly. The 2017 Luxury Home Tour sponsorships and advertising opportunities will be closing soon. This is an exceptional opportunity and many have already stepped up to be part of this fantastic event. Tickets will go on sale in March and proceeds will benefit two charities, one local and one national. See page 14 for info. Congratulations to the new State board members from Fairfield County and special congratulations to Peter Fusaro, the 2017 State Board Chairman. If you haven’t had an opportunity to take the membership survey, please do so. The link to the survey is on page 16! Lastly, in this issue, we have launched a new feature - The Builder Member Spotlight. Fairfield has over 160 builder members so this was our opportunity to highlight the wonderful homes they build and remodel as well as insight into their companies. If you would like to be included, please contact me or the office. As always, if you have any questions, please call the office or e-mail us at hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com! Best, Gina Calabro gina@buildfairfieldcounty.com 6 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017
February 28, 2017 12:00 To 2:00 March 1, 2017 Highlights Of The 2012 IRC Code Changes The Norwalk Inn And Conference Center 99 East Ave, Norwalk, CT Sponsored by: District 8 Building Officials Cost: $12.00 (Includes Lunch) RSVP: Bill Ireland (203) 854-7760 or Wireland@Norwalkct.Org March 3, 2017 Energy Code Changes - Residential (IECC) Ring’s End Educational Facility 160 Avon Street Stratford, CT Click Here to Register March 30-31, 2017 OSHA10 Construction Ring's End Educational Facility 160 Avon Street Stratford, CT Click Here to Register General Membership Meeting Legislative Night DoubleTree by Hilton Norwalk 789 Connecticut Ave. Norwalk CT 06854 Click Here to Register March 14, 2017 Winter Trade Showcase (Builders Only Event) Sheraton Stamford 700 E Main Street Stamford, CT Click Here to Register April 5, 2017 General Membership Meeting Connecticut Stone 39 Larkin Street Stamford, CT Click Here to Register Upcoming Committee Meetings Luxury Home Tour Advertising Meeting February 27 - 9:30AM HBRA Office Membership Committee Meeting March 15 - 12:00PM HBRA Office Golf Committee Meeting March 16 - 3:30 HBRA Office FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 7
HBRA NEWS February General Membership Meeting Ed’s Garage Doors and Sunshine Floors hosted the February 1st General Membership Meeting for the HBRA. Close to 140 members and guests had the opportunity to walk through the amazing displays and offerings in a connected showroom environment while enjoying an exceptional buffet, wine, craft beers and desserts and some parting gifts. There was no winner of the membership raffle – the name drawn was not in attendance, but there were many other prizes including gift certificates and gift baskets to be won. Congratulations to all of the evening winners. Executive Officer, Gina Calabro also gave a presentation on the 2017 Luxury Home Tour, a brand-new event showcasing homes in Greenwich and Darien for one weekend in April. Special thanks to RT Tata from Sunshine Floors and Rich Cunningham from Ed’s Garage Doors for hosting this fantastic event. About our hosts: Over the past 40 years, Ed’s Garage Doors has sold, installed and serviced thousands of doors and door openers in Connecticut, Westchester County and beyond. As a family-owned and operated company, they take their business personally, and listen closely to their customers and provide them with custom solutions for their homes. For more than 10 years, SunShine Floor Supplies, Inc. has proudly provided the finest materials and products to clients throughout the Northeast. This, combined with their unparalleled service and an ever-expanding inventory of pre-finished, engineered and unfinished hardwood floors, stains, finishes, supplies and tools, has propelled them as a leader in the flooring industry. With their retail store and warehouse located at 1957 Main Street, Bridgeport, CT, Sunshine Floors Supplies, Inc. has expanded their locations to include a high-end wholesale and retail showroom at 136 Water Street, Norwalk, CT and a fully-stocked supply store at 6 Cheryl Drive, Canton, CT. 8 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017
FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 9
HBRA NEWS Congratulations to Peter Fusaro, 2017 State HBRA Chairman of the Board On January 24th, Peter Fusaro of Preferred Builders Inc., and a member of the HBRA of Fairfield County, was installed as the 2017 Chairman of the Board for the HBRA State association. Peter has been very involved at the state level over many years sitting on the Government Affairs committee and working with the state association CEO, Bill Ethier. Also, installed as officers that evening - Chris Nelson of Nelson Construction in Simsbury as First Vice Chairman & VP, and Eric Santini, Jr. of Santini Builders, LLC in Vernon as VP Treasurer. Nort Wheeler of Mystic River Building Company, LLC in Mystic, the 2016 Chairman of the Board, now assumes the Past President position on the board. The 2017 State Board of Directors from Fairfield County also include: Joanne Carroll, JMC Resources Michael Church, William Pitt Sotheby’s Ken DeLeo, Doherty & DeLeo Development Anthony DeRosa, DeRosa Builders Kim DiMatteo, The DiMatteo Group Steven Roth, Elevator Service Company Chris Steiner, Steiner Inc. Nick Yanicelli, Susquehanna Enterprises 10 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017
BEAUTY. ELEGANCE. STRENGTH. Our Aluminum Doors Will Surprise You. Ed’s Garage Doors offers a broad selection of aluminum doors that are the perfect complement to your home. Visit our showroom to see many exclusive aluminum doors on display, and talk with a design expert about our countless in-stock and custom options. Showroom Hours: Mon. – Fri.: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Evenings: By appointment Sunday: Closed 136 Water Street, Norwalk, CT 06854 203-847-1284 edsgaragedoors.com ® FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 11
HBRA NEWS January OSHA 10 Hour Construction Class It was another sold out 10-Hour Construction class held on January 19th and 20th. This 2-day, 10-hour class teaches recognition, avoidance, abatement and prevention of safety and health hazards in workplaces. John F. Able, CSP, Occupational Safety Training Specialist from CONN-OSHA has conducted our classes, which are required in CT. Connecticut also requires re-certification every 5 years. The next OSHA 10 Construction class will be on March 30th and 31st at the Ring’s End Education facility in Stratford. Cost for HBRA members is $30pp and nonmembers are $60pp. These classes sell out fast – register here Special thanks to The DiMatteo Group and Ring’s End for sponsoring the Fairfield HBRA OSHA 10 education. 12 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017
FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 13
HBRA NEWS The HBRA Presents the Luxury Home Tour: April 21 - 23, 2017 The Luxury Home Tour, presented by HBRA of Fairfield County on April 21-23, 2017 is featuring the Greenwich homes by Karp Associates and Argus Development, and the Darien homes by Doherty & DeLeo Development and Altamura Homes. The tour will be Saturday and Sunday from 10AM to 5PM. Prospective buyers and visitors will be able to view these well-appointed homes and all net ticket sales will be going to two charities – PSC Partners Seeking a Cure [www.pscpartners.org] and the Fairfield County Community Foundation [http:// fccfoundation.org]. Tickets will go on sale in mid-March and will be $20 if purchased online and $25 at the door. We are planning a Friday night VIP kick-off event with food, wine tasting and music – tickets will be $75. The tour offers some amazing sponsorship and advertising opportunities. Sponsors for the tour will receive a wide variety of promotional advertising including print in CT Cottages and Gardens 14 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017 Magazine, Train Platform advertising from Fairfield to Rye NY, and recognition and advertising in the 3,000 Official Tour Guidebooks that will be distributed to all tour visitors, local businesses, and sponsors. Online promotion includes targeted Social Media Posts, Email blasts, e-Newsletter articles and a unique mobile application. Plus, the Luxury Home Tour Website accessible at ctluxuryhometour.com. The deadline to become a sponsor and to advertise in the Tour Guide Book is February 28th. For more information on advertising and sponsorship opportunities, call the HBRA office at 203-335-7008 or visit www.ctluxuryhometour.com. Our Charities:
Top left- Karp Associates, Top Right Doherty & DeLeo , Left and Right Middle - Argus, Bottom Left and Right - Altamura Homes © Tim Lee Photography © Tim Lee Photography Thank you to our current Sponsors: FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 15
HBRA NEWS 2017 Membership Survey Do you attend membership meetings? What is your reason for membership? Do you currently use any Membership Benefits that save members hundreds of dollars each year from NAHB or NPP? These are just a few of the questions posed to the membership in the 2017 Membership Survey. If you haven’t already do so, please take a few moments (that’s all it takes) to answer the 15 questions on your reasons for membership and what you would like to learn more about. This information will assist the office and the committees in formulating new programs, and distributing information. Click on 2017 Membership Survey to respond to the survey. 4. Are you interested in information on the government affairs group that assists with the advocacy efforts in Hartford? Yes No 2017 HBRA of Fairfield County Membership Survey * 1. Please select all of the following that best describes your reason for membership? Education Lobbying efforts in Hartford and D.C. Networking/General Membership Meetings Events - i.e. Trade Showcase, Golf Outing, Yankee Game, etc. Memberships Benefits Other (please specify) 2. Have you attended any education sessions? i.e. OSHA10, Building Codes, ICF, Marketing Yes No 3. Are there topics you would like to see offered? MEET THE MOST POWERFUL BUSINESS PARTNERS IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY. Kathryn A. Eren, VP, Cash Management Officer; Lisa Stuard, AVP Commercial Loan Administrator; Maureen Hanley-Bellitto, SVP, Commercial Team Leader; Gregory Pastor, Jr. VP, Commercial Banking Officer; Kim Karl, VP, Commercial Banking Officer; Deep community roots. Unrivaled market knowledge. Unmatched customer service. When a bank builds its commercial banking team around the values that truly make a difference in helping your business and community grow and prosper, that’s more than banking. That’s changing the way you bank. Talk to us today. Visit bankatunited.com/commercial 16 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017
HBRA of Fairfield County Builder Event March 14, 2017 6PM - 9PM SHERATON STAMFORD 700 E Main Street, Stamford, CT 2017 Builder Event – Trade Showcase On March 14th, the 2nd Annual Trade Showcase will be held at the Sheraton Stamford. Builder Members of the HBRA are invited to join us for a drink, some great food, fabulous raffle prizes, networking, and an opportunity to learn about BDX (Builders Digital Expo), the leading digital marketing company for the home building industry. BDX is owned by the building industry where their mission is to help builders sell more new homes, at higher margins, while improving builder profitability. Builders can RSVP HERE or call the HBRA office at 203-335-7008 by March 9th. This is a FREE event for Builder Members! This event is hosted by the Fairfield County HBRA Associate Council and is sponsored by: gas FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 17
HBRA NEWS HBRA Breakfast Series – Sales Institute The HBRA of Fairfield County and Sandler Training will be launching a Sales Institute in April and May at the Rings End Educational Facility in Stratford. This sales training is designed to help discover how simple improvements to your sales cycle and close ratio can increase your team’s highest level of performance to exponentially improve your bottom line. The Sandler sales methodology fosters an attitude of leadership, rather than just emphasizing technique. Reinforcement training facilitates the development of new and empowering behaviors, attitudes, and sales skills, mapping a unique road map to lasting success. Three courses will be offered that can be taken individually or as a package. Classes are from 8AM to Noon – breakfast is provided. April 28th: Part A: Understand the 4 Personality Styles Salespeople recognize that establishing rapport with a prospect is an essential ingredient for developing a meaningful business relationship. Learn how personality affects the sales process as well as prospecting. This tool can help you and your employees learn more about personality styles, paving the way toward improved communication. Part B: Developing a Sales System Tired of providing unpaid consulting to potential customers and watching the deals go elsewhere? The Sandler sales system will be different than any other sales call you have ever done. You should hear things from your prospects that you have never heard before. You should be able to “sell” without the stress and pressure of traditional sales. May 12th: Part A: Develop Leverage When it Comes Down to Price Effective questioning strategies help move your prospects’ and customers decision forward. Learn how to ask the tough and effective questions. Part B: Why do People Make the Decisions that They do? Is your brain working for you or against you? Learn how to become a sales psychologist. Understand the barriers to success and develop tools to deal with the difficult prospect/customer. May 24th: Learn How to Separate Yourself from the Competition Tired of drawing up the plans, writing the proposal, and being told “this really isn’t what we’re thinking?” People buy emotionally and justify intellectually. People buy for two reasons – to avoid pain or to gain pleasure. Pain is 4x stronger than pleasure … so are you presenting your proposal effectively? The cost for all three courses is only $800 (normally $995), or you can pick and choose a course for $325 each. For more information, contact the HBRA office at hbra@buildfairfieldcounty or 203-335-7008. Registration will be open in March. 18 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017
ANNOUNCING the arrival of our new 8-story BOOMTRUCK CONNECTICUT - East Haven - Manchester - Newtown SANDY HOOK - 2 Turnberry Lane - 203-426-0030 NEW YORK - Millwood • Mold / Mildew Resistant Board • Fire Rated Board • ½” Light Weight Board • Exterior Sheathing • Metal Studs • Acoustical Ceiling Tile March 1st General Membership Meeting – Legislative Night The HBRA is hosting a Legislative Night – an opportunity for the association members to dialogue with the Fairfield County’s State and Local legislators. The event will be held at the Double Tree Inn, Norwalk from 6PM to 9PM. The event is sponsored by City Carting and Recycling. The Fairfield County HBRA membership represents over 400 businesses and thousands of families and workers and is the leading voice of the homebuilding and remodeling industries in Southwestern CT. We estimate that 100 new homes will generate 324 new jobs, $21.1 million in income, and $2.6 million in revenue for local government in the year they are built; and a total of $8.9 million in taxes, fees and charges paid to all governments in the year built. With an urgency and importance unparalleled in our association’s history, we are looking to the Governor, legislature and all state and local regulators: • To reduce and streamline regulations on land development and building • To make Connecticut a more productive, attractive place to be an entrepreneur and add jobs our citizens need • To allow home builders, by removing obstacles, to provide more affordable housing to grow our economy. Confirmed Attendance as of 2/20/17: Senator Bob Duff Representative Tom O’Dea Representative Terrie Wood Senator Tony Hwang Representative Jonathan Steinberg Representative Fred Wilms Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling Stamford Director of Economic Development, Thomas Madden Tentative: Senator Toni Boucher Representative Brenda Kupchick CLICK HERE to register to let your voice be heard. Representative Fred Camillo FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 19
NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the newest members of HBRA of Fairfield County! Go to www.buildfairfieldcounty.com for their contact info. Scott Buddenhagen Barrington Building Co, LLC Scott J. Buddenhagen started Barrington Building Company as Managing member in 1992. Since then we have started and completed 44 luxury homes. Although most of our homes are in Westport and Weston, we have built many other homes in the surrounding areas of Wilton, New Canaan, and Farifield-Greenfield Hill area. BLUE STAR CONSTRUCTION Gus Curcio Sr Blue Star Construction Specializing in new construction and remodeling Robert Priest Burr Roofing Siding & Windows Inc. Since 1969, Burr Roofing, Siding, & Windows has been providing quality home improvement services to homeowners in Connecticut. With a complete range of roofing, siding, gutters, windows, doors, and deck building services available, we have the solutions you need for your home. Matt Orsaia Complete Dismantling Services, LLC A “class a” demolition contractor serving fairfield and new haven counties. Complete dismantling services is reliable and thorough. We pride ourselves on our strong work ethic and keep safety a top priority WELCOME TO OUR NEW AFFILIATE MEMBERS Keith Domack Elevator Service Company Amber Wilder Elevator Service Company 20 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017 John Intravia Oxford Lumber Peter Rogers Oxford Lumber
Will Contento Huber Engineered Woods Founded in 1883, the J.M. Huber Corporation has grown to be one of the largest family-owned companies in the U.S. We’re now a global company with approximately 4,000 employees in more than 20 countries. We are guided by a spirit of creativity and innovation that transforms ideas into products that meet the challenges of an evolving world. And we do all this while honoring a commitment to the Huber Principles: Chris Radford HydroShield of Southern Connecticut HydroShield of Southern Connecticut is a family owned business based out of Ridgefield Connecticut. HydroShield has established itself as an industry leader in surface protection and restoration. We work with windows, shower glass enclosures, granite countertops, natural stone, porcelain and tile and grout. Leia T. Ward LTW Design LLC LTW Design was created to help homeowners stage their properties for a faster sale at top market value. We understand how important it is for buyers to emotionally connect with a space. Our extensive inventory of luxury furnishings combined with our lifestyle design approach allow us to ‘tell a story’ that brings the imagination and emotional component needed for buyers to envision themselves living in a home. Once that emotional connection is made, homes sell faster and for a higher price. Thor Vanderblue Tallman Segerson Builders LLC Tallman Segerson Builders is a high-end custom building company specializing in new homes, additions and renovations in Connecticut, New York and beyond. With over 40 years in Fairfield County, our rich heritage isn’t to be understated – and discerning homeowners and leading architects have come to rely on Tallman Segerson for exquisite attention to detail and comprehensive knowledge of master home-building. FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 21
BUILDER MEMBER SPOTLIGHT F ounded in 1992, CORNERSTONE Contracting’s mission is to build extraordinary custom homes. Our team is dedicated to consistently exceeding each client’s demanding expectations with incomparably high standards supported by our unique client-focused, on-site management approach. It’s what separates CORNERSTONE from other contractors. CORNERSTONE is proud to an exceptional home at an acceptable price. Our Projects, often complex and challenging, attest to this expertise. Our Clients entrust CORNERSTONE with their important construction projects and are enthusiastic about the results. We have a long term commitment with many of our clients beyond their original project and continue to provide services to them, and often times their children, on multiple projects over the years. Our Team of Project Managers and Construction Managers George Pusser celebrate its 25th Anniversary and the outstanding portfolio of work it has achieved. With over ninety custom projects completed, our exceptional talent and diversity has earned us projects for New York City Apartments, Family Compounds, Poolhouses, Barns and Recreational Buildings. We have been featured in Architectural Digest, luxe interiors and design, Period Homes, Beautiful Homes and Greenwich Magazine among many other publications. CORNERSTONE Contracting is a dynamic construction company, enthusiastic about our projects, selective about those we undertake, creative in finding solutions, and committed to providing the personnel, service, and technology to ensure success. We value our teamwork with Clients, Architects, Interior Designers, Engineers, and various Consultants and recognize their importance in the construction process. CORNERSTONE’s work continues to be defined by superior craftsmanship, attention to detail, technical ability, outstanding project management, organization, and coordination, and excellent value. Our process ensures that we consistently deliver 22 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017 (many of whom are Master Carpenters and Cabinetmakers) are highly talented and experienced. Most of them have worked with us for fifteen or more years and have completed multiple projects. By employing our own crews, CORNERSTONE is best able to control quality, budget, and schedule. Our team works with a firm determination and is willing to go to any length to bring the project to completion. CORNERSTONE builds teams who build homes, and we can build your dream home too. Distinguished Awards 2016 Best of the United States U.S. Builders Review Award 2016 Fairfield Small Family Owned Business Award 2014 HOBI Award 2012 Best of Year Finalist I.D. Magazine Award 2011 Westchester Award 2009 and 2015 Palladio Award George Pusser 301 Valley Rd Cos Cob CT 06807 (203) 861-4200 www.cornerstone-builders.com
Architect: Vita Design Group Architect: Vita Design Group BUILDER MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Architect: Andrew Nuzzi Architects Architect: Andrew Nuzzi Architects C This year, Construction Management Group is taking that onstruction Management Group, LLC (www.cmgbuilder.com) is an award winning full service building firm specializing in residential and commercial projects. Founded by Salvatore Zarrella in 2005 and based in New Canaan, Connecticut, Construction Management Group has an unwavering commitment to our clients’ satisfaction, from our first consultation to the final walk through of a project. While only 42 years old, Salvatore is entering his third decade in the construction industry and has nurtured a diverse background with extensive hands-on experience in a variety of trades including millwork, carpentry, stone fabrication and the design of mechanical systems Construction Management Group is the top Fairfield County Salvatore Zarrella firm in leading the movement on the exciting building concept called Passive House. In 2011, Salvatore was part of the early group of builders, architects and engineers in the United States to study at the Passive House Institute (U.S) and now fully experienced and knowledgeable about this amazing building standard. 24 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017 knowledge and passion to start construction on two new Passive Houses, the first in the City of Stamford, Connecticut. One is a transitional farmhouse and the other is a modern (featured above), both will set on the same subdivision. These two homes will be revolutionary builds and will set a new high standard for energy efficient home building in the Fairfield County area. Our firm is a proud member of the HBRA, New York Passive House Organization and the Stamford 2030 District. Construction Management Group are the 2014 winners of the HOBI award for Best Custom Home (5000 SF – 6000 SF), Best In Town Custom Home, and Best New Construction Technology. Salvatore Zarrella 58 Pine Street New Canaan CT 06840 203-966-3388 www.cmgbuilder.com
airfield County | 25
MEMBER NEWS Congratulations to HBRA member Birgit Anich of BA Staging & Interiors Birgit was presented with the 2017 Top 10 Professional Stager in the US - Vacant Homes Staging Award. on January 20th during the Annual Awards Banquet during the RESACON Convention organized by Real Estate Staging Association® (RESA®) in Las Vegas. The RESA is the trade association for Professional Real Estate Stagers and Redesigners. The RESA Awards are the most prestigious awards in the Real Estate Staging Industry. BA Staging & Interiors believes that there is a profound connection between the beauty of wellstaged homes and the happiness of home buyers They are the only real estate staging company in Fairfield County that displays a unique staging design for new construction, making homes memorable for potential buyers. The Perfect Provenance Celebrates Design Team The Perfect Provenance celebrated its design team as well as its recent HOBI Award victory at a party for friends, family, and area industry professionals. General contractors, Murphy Brothers Contracting received the 2016 HOBI Award for Best Adaptive Reuse (commercial) from the Connecticut Home Builders and Remodelers Association. Located at 47 Arch Street in the part of the historic streetscape in downtown Greenwich, the Perfect Provenance is a unique shopping destination with its art gallery + boutique + 47 Café combination. “The clients presented us with the challenge of restoring the building and to create an art inspired luxury concept store and café,” said architect Nancy Lovas of Lovas + Tomasetti Architects. The awardwinning design team included interior designer, Frances Wilson and landscape designer, Ron Wendt. The building is a beautiful example of Queen Anne Victorian architecture. “We are proud to be recognized for the restoration of our building and celebrating the provenance of its heritage”, said owner, Lisa Lori. “We hope that visitors will be able to enjoy it for many years to come”. The HOBI Awards are the most prestigious awards presented annually by the HBRA-CT, a Connecticutbased association of construction professionals recognizing excellence in design, construction, sales and marketing, and financing by members of the organization. “Award-winning projects are always the result of teamwork.” Said Chris Murphy, President of Murphy Brothers Contracting. “We were blessed to be a part of an outstanding team!” Murphy Brothers Contracting is a general contracting firm owned and operated by Greenwich residents, Chris and Sean Murphy. 26 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017
Connie Cooper Designs Showcased at Farrow and Ball On January 19th, Farrow and Ball hosted an event at their 396 Post Road East, Westport location to showcase the window design by Connie Cooper of Connie Cooper Designs. Many of the attendees were HBRA members showing support for Connie’s work. The purpose was to spread awareness about HIV and AIDS, Partnering with DIFFA, the Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS, the window was unveiled on December 1, which was World AIDS Day. “My space was imagined as the personal office of a doctor who travels the world helping those with AIDS. She is home for the holidays but still focused on her critical work. I was even able to find an antique doctor’s bag that was filled with all sorts of vintage medical tools and apparatus from 1948,” said Cooper. Greenwich Builder Named Best In Fairfield County In addition to winning a home-industry award that helped Greenwich dominate the annual competition, brothers Anthony and Michael DeRosa, who co-own DeRosa Builders, saw their company named the best builder in Fairfield County for 2016. Anthony DeRosa said despite their ages, he and his brother represent plenty of industry experience in their five-year-old firm. At 19, DeRosa owned his own construction company straight out of high school, and he often sought help from his brother. In pursuit of a more stable job, Anthony DeRosa found a project manager position in Greenwich as his brother held down an insurance job in Manhattan. “My boss had the foresight to get out of the business in 2008 and sold his company to me and another guy,” Anthony DeRosa said. “We were always busy and made good connections. After six or seven years in Greenwich, we were embedded in the local network.” The business partners separated in 2010, said DeRosa, who moved on to owning his own company again. His brother’s corporate background turned out to be just what the fledgling firm needed, and the two went into business together. In a town full of longtime building companies, the brothers quickly gained a reputation, DeRosa said. “We were young when we started, and we were building multimillion-dollar houses. That made people wonder, ‘Who are these new guys?’” he said. “After only a year, people were coming up to us and saying, ‘Oh, you’re DeRosa Builders,’ and we wondered how they knew about us.” Read More FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 27
SEMINARS AND TRAINING Register Online or call the HBRA office at 203-335-7008 Energy Code Changes - Residential (IECC) Friday, March 3rd 8:00AM - 12:00PM Registration begins at 7:45AM Learn more about the 2012 IECC and Chapter 11 of the 2012 IRC. The training will cover the residential requirements of the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) which is the same as Chapter 11 of the 2012 International Residential Code (IRC). Both became effective on October 1, 2016 with the adoption of the 2016 Connecticut State Building Code. It will also cover the thermal and air leakage requirements of the building envelope including fenestration, insulation requirements for the mechanical systems, testing requirements of the thermal envelope and the air distribution system, and other system requirements. REScheck will be discussed as a compliance document for the submission with the application for a building permit. The session will also have an example showing one way to meet the requirements of the code along with the accompanying sample REScheck. HBRA Members: $10.00 Non-Members: $25.00 Presenter: Fred Wajcs Fred Wajcs is an Energy Code Consultant located in South Windsor, Connecticut and is a licensed Professional Engineer. He has over 45 years of experience in public works administration, engineering, economic development and customer relations with electric and gas utilities. He has previously served on ASHRAE committees and is a current member of Connecticut’s Codes and Standards Committee. He is an active member of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Institute of Architects and the Connecticut Chapter of ASHRAE. 28 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017
Register Online or call the HBRA office at 203-335-7008 OSHA 10 Hour Construction Thursday, March 30 & Friday, March 31, 2017* 8:00am-2:00pm Breakfast/Registration starts at 7:30AM Rings End Educational Facility 160 Avon Street, Stratford, CT OSHA is coming to FINE you! Get ahead of them & learn what you need to know for your business and your employees. The OSHA 10hour construction training course is designed for anyone in the construction industry. Upon completion, participants will receive an OSHA construction safety and health 10-hour course completion card from the Department of Labor. OSHA 10 cards are good for 5 years. HBRA Members: $30.00 Non-Members: $60.00 *Must attend both dates in order to receive OSHA card-per federal regulation. Continental Breakfast & Lunch included both days. Payment must be received by March 24th to reserve your spot. Walk-ins will not be accepted at this course due to limited seating. Sponsored by: FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 29
BUILDER NEWS More First-Time Buyers Boost Homebuilders Steven Blitz Labor Shortage Bucket Brigade Vincent Aviani There’s a bucket brigade being formed throughout the building industry. This determined group has assembled to extinguish the fire that is the construction industry’s labor shortage. Over the past few years, individuals, corporations, lobbyists, and associations have coordinated their efforts to address the problem. “[During the recession,] I was going to various governors and lieutenant governors warning there was a growing lack of labor in the building industry and that this would slow any hope of an economic recovery,” says Gerald Howard, chief executive officer of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). “But they had bigger fish to fry then. Now I talk with roughly 150 people a day about this crisis, and you know what? They are all listening intently.” More than two-thirds of construction firms in nearly every state are having trouble finding skilled labor, according to a survey by The Pew Charitable Trusts. “Every single person is important to forming a solution,” Howard says. “We not only want to rebuild the industry, we want to also build a better society in the process.” While the sentiment may sound lofty, the NAHB, along with the Home Builders Institute (HBI), is aiming to replenish the construction industry’s labor pool by targeting three specific groups: immigrants, former military personnel, and ex-offenders. Read More Recent volatility in monthly housing starts data, including December, merely functions to revert starts to trend -- and the underlying trend remains up. The trend rises now mostly for single-family construction and is generally weakening for multifamily. This is not an altogether odd mix considering the rent/buy calculation favors buy when, at last, millennials entering prime home-buying age just when the expansion has raised employment levels and income enough to support eligibility for mortgage credit. The upshot is a strong year for single-family home construction, most notably for homes to be sold to first-time buyers. A number of builders of new homes, such as DR Horton (DHI) , have shifted market strategy in the past several years towards first-time buyers and away from moveup purchasers, which was the support of housing during the early years of the recovery. That’s a move, I would argue, that still has a fair amount of tailwind to it, and this should increase in the coming year. A number of analysts believe higher mortgage rates may quash demand, but this ignores the why of rising rates. If, as I have written before, rates are rising because of improved growth, real and expected, and this is carrying the equity market higher as well, there is more reason to believe home buying accelerates. Read More 30 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017
New Fund to Address Labor Shortage The housing industry has created the Skilled Labor Fund to address the lack of skilled labor entering the residential construction field. NAHB, the National Housing Endowment, the National Kitchen + Bath Association, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and SGC Horizon announced the new fund during the Builders’ Show in Orlando. The fund will be launched with the support of SGC Horizon, parent company of Professional Builder and Professional Remodeler magazines. The fund will be used to attract and train skilled labor for the residential construction market by providing scholarships for students to attend accredited training schools and training facilities across the country. According to the latest data from the 2015 American Community Survey, the median age of owner-occupied homes nationwide is 37 years. The age of housing stock is not evenly distributed across the United States. Among the states, New York has the oldest homes with a median age of 57, followed by Massachusetts at 53 years. The median age of homes in the District of Columbia, which is entirely urban, is 75 years. The newest homes are in the West. The median age of homes in Nevada is only 20, followed by Arizona where half of all owner-occupied homes were built in the last 24 years. Older houses are less energy-efficient than new construction and ultimately will require remodeling and renovation in the future. THE SMART CHOICE For Making Your Dream Kitchen A Reality SMART HOME CONTROL THERMADOR SUBZERO / WOLF GE MONOGRAM ...and more BEST SERVICE AT THE GUARANTEED BEST PRICE In-Store And Online 2770 Summer Street • Stamford, CT 06905 203-327-2630 STORE HOURS: MON & THURS: 9AM-9PM | TUES, WED, FRI & SAT: 9AM-6PM | SUN: 11AM-5PM www.countytv.com FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 31
Building Success with Happy Home Owners Happy home owners are the No. 1 referral source for home builders and remodelers. Companies that forget to keep that top of mind are in for a bumpy ride, presenter Ed Earl of Priority One Projects told attendees at an educational session during the 2017 NAHB International Builders’ Show. “Quality construction does not guarantee a happy home owner, because your home owner is going to focus on the construction process rather than the final product,” Earl said. “The home owner is part of the project, and [he or she] is the best source of your new business.” We need to communicate effectively and make sure to manage expectations,” Earl said. It does not matter how many DIY cable shows the average home owner watches, or maybe because of them, the average home owner “doesn’t understand construction on a fundamental level. They don’t understand it’s a process. You can’t go and buy a kitchen in a box from Amazon.” Continually managing customers’ expectations and ensuring they understand the meaning and impact of change orders will save them a lot of heartache and bad feelings, he said. Learn each customer’s communication preferences, including which channels and how often. Sometimes it’s one long email at the end of the day, or a series of texts throughout the day, and for others it’s speaking by phone. Make sure you find a method that works for the customer. No matter what the form of communication, document everything. “A group text is great for a lot of conversations,” Earl said, “and a way to get husbands and wives on the same page, but make sure you get a screenshot of the conversation and put it in your records.” Investing in a cloud-based construction management system is a great customer service tool because your home owner can log in and see the progress, view photos and see what’s on the schedule. Audio recordings of IBS education sessions, like Building Happy Home Owners, can be purchased on nahb.org. Look no further for an insurance agent who can work with you to design an insurance portfolio just right for your business. If you engage in construction or remodeling of one or two family residences in CT then I want to talk to you. Our construction insurance program includes: • General Liability • • • Property Business Auto Inland Marine • Workers Compensation • Umbrella • Builders Risk Kim Marie DiMatteo, CIC, MWCA I have been in the construction insurance business since 1992. I know the markets, the products, and what’s right for you. Call me today to schedule a convenient appointment. 79 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton, CT 06484 | 203.924.5429 | www.dimatteogrp.com 32 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017
MEMBER BENEFITS NAHB Member Advantage Discounts NAHB Member Advantage gives members an easy way to reduce expenses, maximize profits and increase efficiency. Through agreements with leading national companies, NAHB offers exclusive discounts on a variety of products and services that can benefit your business, employees and family. In the past year, members have saved over $17M through Member Advantage. For the most up-to-date information about which companies are offering discounts as well as detailed information on how to access the savings, please visit www.nahb.org/ma How to Register: Visit www.mynpp.com, select Company, then Construction, then Residential. Select HB&RA - Home Builders and Remodelers Associations from the dropdown menu, complete the enrollment and START SAVING! Save on Your Next Truck Purchase During Ram Truck Month! When your business depends on your truck, you need something that can handle the job. Keep your business moving with the strength and reliability of Ram® trucks. Built to fit your business, it’s designed to be comfortable while you outwork the rest. Now during Ram Truck Month combine your $500 cash allowance from NAHB and FCA US LLC for even bigger savings. Find out more about the $500 cash allowance for members, employees and family members and access your NAHB Proof of membership form at NAHB.org/fca. NAHB Members Benefit with Houzz 25,000+ NAHB members are taking advantage of the strategic alliance with Houzz to showcase their work, build their brand, and reach new clients. Are you? NAHB Member Benefits Include: • Free access to Houzz Concierge Service for one-on-one support • Exclusive discounts on local advertising to reach homeowners in your area • Shop Houzz product discounts for you and your clients Create your professional profile today or learn more at houzz.com/nahbmembers. FEBRUARY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County | 33 10% OFF disaster recovery solutions Green Cloud Technologies offers affordable backup and disaster recovery solutions to protect your most important asset – your data. Save 15% OFF Any Package NPP is proud to partner with RingCentral, a world leader in cloud business communications. Now NPP members can elevate their phone system and save 15% on RingCentral Office® Standard, Premium or Enterprise packages with a money-back guarantee**.
REdefining home improvement RingsEnd.com 34 | HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2017 800 390 1000
1 Publizr