The E-Magazine of the Fairfield County HBRA MAY 2017 FEATURED Annual Meeting Member News Builder News UPCOMING JULY 24 HBRA Golf Outing SEPTEMBER 6 Clambake at the Beach OCTOBER GMM Hocon Gas
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 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
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 2016-17 DIRECTORS Peter Battaglio Hocon Gas Max Bender Bender Supply Steve Berko Four Square Build & Design Ken DeLeo Doherty & DeLeo John Hertz Hertz Construction Brian Kurtz Interstate Lumber Rob Michaud The Michaud Group Steven Roth Elevator Service Company Alex Shook Pella Commercial Michael Wood Wood Builders Joanne Carroll JMC Resources Jerry Effren Gary Fanali City Carting LIFE DIRECTORS Peter Fusaro Preferred Builders The Greyrock Companies Maureen Hanley United Bank Michael Palumbo ERI Building & Design 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! MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 3 MEDIA SPONSOR gas
IN THIS ISSUE Letter From The CEO Upcoming Events May GMM Annual Meeting 8 MAY GMM 12 Annual Meeting 14 Golf Outing Annual HBRA Golf Outing New Members Builder Spotlights Doherty and DeLeo Argus Development Associate Spotlight Connecticut Stone Member News NAHB Mid-Year Director’s Meeting Clambake at the Beach HBRA Bowl-A-Rama Builder News Staying Social, 6 Ways to Drive Leads Built to Last: The Builder-Buyer Relationship Spending Reaches Post Recession High What’s Cooking: Kitchen Design Trends Aging in Place Remodeling Popularity Growth Construction Jobs Making Up For Lost Time Who are NAHB Builder Members Seminars OSHA 10 Hour Construction HBRA Breakfast Series - Sales Institute Member Benefits Advertisers: Fairfield County Bank East Haven Builders Supply TD Bank Ed’s Garage Doors County TV & Appliance United Bank New England Home DiMatteo Ridgefield Supply Elevator Service Company Interstate Lumber CTC&G Hocon Gas Ring's End Editorial Staff Gina Calabro Publisher/Editor Clare Michalak Designer Sarah Iannarone Executive Assistant Want to advertise? Contact the office for more information and rates. HBRA of Fairfield County 2228 Black Rock Turnpike, Suite 307 Fairfield, CT 06825 203-335-7008 hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com www. buildfairfieldcounty.com p.6 p.7 p.8 p.10 p.12 p.14 p.16 p.22 p.16 p.22 p.22 p.23 p.23 p.23 p.24 p.24 p.24 p.24 Kitchen’s Edge Baths as Top Remodeling Projects p.24 Lumber Duty Will Cost 8,000 Jobs p.24 p.28 p.28 p.30 p.2 p.2 p.3 p.4 p.15 p.15 p.17 p.17 p.19 p.21 p.21 p.27 p.29 Back Cover
You design the home. We’ll take care of the loan. Lock in your permanent rate at application with our complete package for building and financing your home. For expert advice and personal service, call Dorothy today. Dorothy Cardillo Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS ID#: 722895 office 1-203-940-3266 mobile 1-347-365-0488 dorothy.cardillo@td.com tdbank.com/dorothycardillo TD Bank, N.A. | Loans subject to credit approval. | Equal Housing Lender 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 ®
MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dear HBRA Members, T here has been a whirlwind of activity at the HBRA office since our last issue. The May 3rd General Membership meeting sold out and once again Clarke Distributors hosted an amazing event. Thanks so much to the Clarke crew and to all who attended to congratulate Tom Conley, the 2017 Building Official of the Year. Next up is the 2017 Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner on June 9th at the Greenwich Regency Hyatt. Congratulations to all of the 2017 Award Winners and thanks to all that sent in nominations. We have a spectacular night planned with cocktails, dinner, our HBRA award ceremony, and a silent and LIVE auction benefitting the local charities. See pages 10 & 11 for additional details. The Annual Golf Outing will be held at Tashua Knolls Golf Course on Monday July 24th. See pages 12 & 13 for information. Sponsorships and foursomes sell out quick so register soon! The Clambake is scheduled for September and a BRAND NEW event in October - a Bowla-rama! Details on these events will be out soon so keep a lookout! 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 | MAY 2017
MARK YOUR CALENDARS UPCOMING EVENTS July 24, 2017 2017 Fairfield County HBRA Golf Classic Tashua Knolls Golf Course 40 Tashua Knolls Lane Trumbull CT 06611, US Click Here to Register September 6, 2017 Clambake at the Beach Fairfield Beach Click Here to Register October 4, 2017 General Membership Meeting - Hocon Gas 33 Rockland Road Norwalk CT 06854, US Click Here to Register 1 MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 7
l-r: FS Michael Tetreau, Tom Conley, Board President Chris Steiner, HBRA CEO Gina Calabro MAY GMM The Building Official of the Year Award hosted by Clarke Distributors T he stylish showrooms at the Clarke Distributors set the stage for a wonderful evening filled with endless networking, delicious food and a wonderful award ceremony. May 3rd was another SOLD OUT General Membership Meeting with 125 members and guests making connections and congratulating Tom Conley, the 2017 HBRA Building Official of the Year. Tom is the Head Building Official from the Town of Fairfield Building Department. Tom’s wife Linda and his mother Patricia were in attendance for the presentation as well as First Selectman Michael Tetreau, who proclaimed May 3rd as Tom Conley Day in the Town of Fairfield. The membership drawing produced no winner for the $1,000 membership raffle. The next drawing of $1,250 will be in September at the Clambake at the Beach. Special thanks to Joe Tanguay, Marco Barallon, and the Clarke staff for once again hosting - that makes 4 years in a row! - a wonderful evening filled with spectacular food and drink. 8 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017
“Congratulations to Tom Conley, the 2017 Fairfield County Building Official of the Year! MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 9
June 9, 2017 Greenwich Hyatt Regency 5:30PM - Midnight Walk the RED CARPET and Join Us to Celebrate our Accomplishments and to Recognize your Peers at the 2017 Annual Meeting & Awards Dinner/Dance. Individual Tickets: $125 Table of 10: $1,200 To purchase tickets, CLICK HERE 10 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017 Additional Photos at http://buildfairfieldcounty.com/photo-gallery
D The 2017 HBRA of Fairfield County Awards on’t miss the premier event of the year where your peers are recognized for their achievements and involvement in the HBRA. The evening includes cocktail hour, dinner, award celebration, a LIVE auction, and dancing with Pimpinella! Dinner Choices: 1. Merlot Braised Short Ribs with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Wild Mushroom Ragout, Broccolini and Cabernet Demi-Glace 2 Sustainable Salmon Fillet with Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Haricot Vert, Mango Salsa and Citrus Reduction 3. Free Range French Chicken Breast with Herbed Risotto, Rainbow Cauliflower, Heirloom Tomato Relish and Thyme Demi 4. Vegetarian Option Upon Request Individual Tickets: $125 Table of 10: $1,200 To purchase tickets, CLICK HERE Evening festivities include: 5:30PM - 6:30PM 6:30PM 7:15PM Cocktail Reception Silent Auction Dinner Welcome & HBRA update (Silent Auction Closes) 7:30PM – 8:30PM HBRA Awards 8:30PM -9:00PM LIVE Auction 9:00PM- midnight Music and Dancing There is a small block of rooms available for $139- click here to reserve one. Deadline is May 26th. T he HBRA Awards are bestowed to members for excellence in new home construction, land development, remodeling, allied supplies and services, and volunteerism to the organization. “Our award winners are deserving of this recognition for the accomplishments they have made within our industry and for their commitment to our association and the Fairfield County communities,” stated Gina Calabro, Chief Executive Officer of the HBRA of Fairfield County. “Our 430+ members represent the best in their industry and are committed to the highest standards in building.” Builder of the Year Arnold Karp, Karp Associates, Inc., Remodeler of the Year Michael Palumbo & Kent Eppley ERI Building & Design Associate of the Year Steven Roth, Elevator Service Company Woman of the Year Karen Bradbury, Closet and Storage Concepts, Business of the Year Marlin Electric Supplier of the Year Clarke Distributors Member of the Year The Michaud Group New Member of the Year Emilia Ferri, Emilia Ferri Architecture + Design LLC, Volunteer of the Year Lora Mazurak, Aitoro Appliance & Electronics Associate Council Awards Ken DeLeo & John Doherty Doherty & DeLeo Development Pete Battaglio, Hocon Gas HBRA Hall of Fame Gary Fanali, City Carting & Recycling Kim DiMatteo, The DiMatteo Group John P. Rowins Meritorious Service Award Peter Fusaro, Preferred Builders, Inc. President’s Choice Award Gina Calabro, HBRA CEO y/ MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 11
2017 HBRA of Fairfield County Golf Classic JULY 24, 2017 Tashua Knolls S ign up your foursomes for the 2017 Home Builders and Remodelers of Fairfield County Golf Classic at Tashua Knolls Golf Course in Trumbull, CT! This year we will be hosting TWO tournaments. The 18 hole tournament of 136 Golfers is only $225/individual and $875for a foursome, and includes two hours of the driving range, lunch, cocktail hour & dinner. “The Glen” 9 hole tournament of 36 Golfers is $125/individual or $475 for a foursome and includes the driving range, cocktail hour and dinner. Jon Small of Marlin Electric will once again be sponsoring the raw bar on the course. Plus, hand rolled cigars, course beverages and new games! Trumbull, CT Presented by Ring’s End Schedule 10:00am 18-Hole Registration & Driving Range 11:00am Lunch begins 12:00pm 18-hole Tournament - Shotgun start 1:30pm 9-Hole Registration/Driving Range 2:30pm 9-hole Tournament - Shotgun start 5:30pm Cocktails, Dinner, Raffle & Awards 12 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017
Become a Golf Classic Sponsor! A great opportunity to show your support and publicize your business! Covers both tournaments: $2,500 $2,000 $2,000 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500 Hat Sponsor Dinner Sponsor Dinner Sponsor Beverage Cart Sponsor Beverage Cart Sponsor Cigar Sponsor $1,000 Water bottle Sponsor $1,500 $1,500 $1,000 $750 $250 Ice Cream Truck Tee Sponsors (27 total) CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE or call the office at 203-335-7008 18 Hole Tournament Only: $1,000 Golf Ball Sponsor $500 Closest to the Line $500 Closest to the Pin $250 Hole-in-One -PRIZE $250 Hole-in-One -PRIZE $250 Hole-in-One -PRIZE Thanks to our Current Sponsors! Named Sponsor Rings End Awards Awards/Dessert Beverage Cart Cocktail Hour Driving Range Acadia Insurance DiMatteo Group Ridgefield Supply Interstate Lumber Ed’s Garage Doors Golf Cart Sponsor Elevator Service Co. 9 Hole Tournament Only: $500 Golf Ball Sponsor $300 Closest to the Line $300 Closest to the Pin $200 Hockey Stick Putt Complimentary Gift Bags Golf Towel Sponsor Golf Cart Sponsor Golf Cart Sponsor County TV & Appliance Hole in One($10,000 prize) Tooher & Ferraris Lunch Sponsor Longest Drive Putting Green Tee Sponsor Hocon Gas United Bank Fairfield County Bank Parksite Have a raffle item to donate? Contact the office at 203-335-7008 MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 13
NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the newest members of HBRA of Fairfield County! Go to www.buildfairfieldcounty.com for their contact info. Fred T. Albano Albano Appliance & Service LLC Driven by a love of food and cooking, Fred was instrumental in bringing on the pro-style appliance offerings that are so popular now. In his continued efforts to remain on the cutting edge, he was the first appliance dealer on the East coast to have a professional chef on staff. This move gave birth to the company’s continuing education program, which includes culinary classes and manufacturer demos as well as private and in-home instruction for customers to get the best out of their appliances. Amity Excavation & Construction Services, LLC Daniel Cusano Amity Excavation and Construction Services, LLC Paul A. Bonomo Cannondale Generators, Inc. Cannondale Generators opened our doors for business in 1990. 25+ years later, we have grown into the premier generator service in southern Connecticut and Westchester County New York. We offer professional installation for residential and commercial standby generators, and are authorized retailers of the world’s top brands, including Generac, Kohler, Cummins, and Briggs & Stratton. We handle every step of the installation process, from choosing the correct unit for your home to acquiring legal permits to get the job done. John McKenzie HomeRun Homes Inspection, LLC Established in 2013, HomeRun Homes Inspection, LLC is a company that wants to help revolutionize the purchasing/selling experiences for homeowners throughout the state of Connecticut. Our mission is to start at the beginning with the education process. Buying/Selling a home is probably one of the biggest life decisions any person, couple, family, and even the real estate investor could make. Welcome to Our Newest Affiliate Members Albano Appliance & Service LLC Michael DiNapoli Joe DiNapoli Meg Mikula 14 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017 Tooher - Ferraris Insurance Group Winthrop “Win” H. Smith III
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 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 MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 15
BUILDER SPOTLIGHT Doherty & DeLeo Development, LLC prides itself in building unique and beautiful custom designed homes in Darien and Greenwich, CT. Long standing relationships with architects, sub contractors, vendors and interior design specialists ensure state of the art technology, the highest level of efficiency and premier home design. Open and constant communication with each new home owner ensures welcome collaboration. Each home we build represents the individual client’s lifestyle, personal taste and family’s requirements. Known for building in some of the area’s more challenging landscapes, long term town relationships ensure efficient cohesion for each projects success. About Ken DeLeo: Ken, a lifelong native of Fairfield County, has been in the construction business for over 35 years, turning his passion for building into a lifelong career. His high expectations and a relentless 16 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017 Doherty & Deleo Development LLC 21 Canoe Trail Darien CT 06820 (203) 984-7003 work ethic ensure happy clients rewarding both referrals and repeat business. His hands on and personal interaction with each individual project promotes confidence in both building schedules and performance. About John Doherty: John Doherty and Ken DeLeo John has been in all phases of the construction business for over 30 years, partnering with Ken in 1991. Specializing in landscape design and large machinery operation, his talents have produced some of the area’s most stunning outdoor entertainment designs. Working successfully as a key liaison with all state and local bureaucracy ensures the highest in time efficiency for each project.
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 MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 17
BUILDER SPOTLIGHT Argus Development, LLC specializes in architecturally unique, custom high-end new home construction in Greenwich, CT. About Tim O'Malley Working with some of the area’s top architects, Argus has the ability to provide a turn key solution for the client. From pre-design outline, development of construction documentation, bid and cost estimation, construction and turn over, Argus focuses on bridging all the various elements of a project together and working to ensure the clients wishes are met at all stages. Argus' strong financial position allows us to maintain an inventory of buildable sites primarily in the Riverside and Old Greenwich area. The company's hallmark is to build top quality homes. We employ top quality employees and work with skilled subcontractors. We always maintain a sound financial base. Safety is good business and we will always work in a clean and safe environment. Our customers will always be our top priority. Tim O’Malley Argus Development LLC was founded by Tim O'Malley a 30+ year resident of Greenwich, CT. With deep roots in the community, Tim takes great pride in maintaining a close relationship with his clients. His commitment to his clients does not end at the turnover of the home. They are available to all of their clients as long as they are in their homes. They take great pride in the homes they build and are proud to stand by the product well past completion. Argus Development LLC 199 Sound Beach Ave, 2nd Floor Old Greenwich CT 06870 (203) 637-4144 argusdevelopmentllc.com 18 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017
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ASSOCIATE SPOTLIGHT © Neil Landino Connecticut Stone is your complete source for innovative ideas on designing with stone. Our knowledgeable staff has more than sixty seven years of experience collaborating as a trusted partner with architects, builders, and landscape designers on largescale residential and commercial projects. From full-scale custom kitchen and bath designs to outdoor pools and patios, our team will work closely with you to ensure a seamless process from materials selection to project completion. Browse our beautiful showroom and 15 acre yard for a wide selection of native and imported natural stone, including marble, granite, limestone, building stone, and much more. In our factory, we cut and finish materials to your exact specifications. Our professional and friendly staff will guide you through our luxury product lines of porcelain, ceramic and glass tile, featuring respected brands such as Walker Zanger, Artistic Tile, and New Ravenna to name a few. The natural stone industry constantly changes, evolves and reinvents itself. Connecticut Stone not 20 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017 only evolves with it, but serves as a leader in the industry. We are inspired by our industry colleagues to push the boundaries of what has and can be done with natural stone. Tyra Dellacroce We are proud members and supporters of the HBRA. Let us help you see the full potential of stone, and the unexpected ways it can transform your project. Call 203-882-1000 or visit us online at connecticutstone.com for ideas and inspiration. Please find Connecticut Stone’s contact information below: Connecticut Stone 138 Woodmont Road Milford, CT 06460 203-882-1000 connecticutstone.com
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MEMBER NEWS NAHB Mid-Year Directors Meeting DNAHB leadership will convene in Washington, .C. June 13-17 for the Midyear Board Meeting and to recognize the association’s 75th anniversary. In addition to the Board, Committee and Council meetings, NAHB members will meet with their congressional delegations on the Hill during the all-day Legislative Conference June 14. For more information, please click here. Clambake at the Beach knoThe 3rd Annual Clambake at the Beach, Sponsored by Marlin Electric will be here before you w it! It was a sold out affair in 2016 and will no doubt be the same for 2017. You can pre-register here. HBRA Bowl-a-rama BoThe Associate’s Council is planning a Builders vs Associates wl-a-rama for October. We are looking to make this an annual event with a trophy to be passed to the winning membership. So get your bowling ball and shoes ready -- details will be coming soon... 22 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017
BUILDER NEWS Built to last: How keeping up the builder–buyer relationship can lead to future business with a client tBuilders know that investing in a relationship down the line. oday can lead to more business Staying social: 6 ways to drive leads on Facebook, Instagram tThe construction industry was slow to warm o social media, with many firms tiptoeing their way in reluctantly. Fast forward a few years and social media has become as essential as a website: If you’re not participating, you’re missing out. “It’s definitely a necessity,” said Ali Peters, account manager at Philadelphia-based Group Two Advertising, which manages social media marketing for builders and remodelers. “It’s really a good communication tool for builders beyond their website. It’s a way to capture people where they’re already living and socializing.” “It’s becoming more and more critical,” said Robin Burrill, CEO of Curb Appeal Renovations, in Keller, TX. “Almost all our ‘cold’ leads come from some type of social media or internet search.” What’s also changed is that many building pros aren’t on social media just to be on it — they’re leveraging engagement and the twoway conversation it offers to bring in leads and connect directly with potential and existing customers. And that’s a good thing, since most of today’s popular social media platforms — Facebook, in particular — favor engagement. And the more engagement you have, the more likely your posts will be seen by your followers and beyond. Read More “You always want your company’s name to be viewed well in the public eye,” said Nicole Murray, chief operating officer of John Burns Real Estate Consulting. “Most builders do feel a very strong sense of what they do and how it affects people and how it contributes to the American Dream.” As a result, most stay in touch with homebuyers through the warranty period to help tie up loose ends, resolve major issues and provide a basic roadmap for taking care of what could be the largest purchase they’ll ever make. But that relationship is typically short-lived — at least relative to the life of the home and how long owners typically stay there. Today, however, more builders are exploring ways to continue that relationship, and they are relying on a mix of tried-and-tested and hightech methods to get there. Read More Spending Reaches Post-Recession High grePrivate residential construction spending w 1.2% in March to a seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR) of $503.4 billion, according to NAHB analysis of Census data. This is 7.5% higher than a year ago and represents a new post-recession high. The gains are largely attributed to growth in spending on multifamily and home improvements. Multifamily construction spending continued its record breaking pace to a SAAR of $66.1 billion. Spending on home improvements has now increased for six straight months, reaching an SAAR of $178.9 billion in March. MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 23
BUILDER NEWS What’s cooking: The trends shaping kitchen design today cHome repair and renovation projects are inevitable — pipes orrode, window trim warps, roof shingles buckle and curl. Others require more of a push, such as a living room addition to keep up with the space needs of a growing family, a new patio or deck to extend that area outdoors and even the installation of a home-entertainment system to bring it all together. One of the most popular remodeling projects these days — the kitchen — is equal parts technical and functional. Home-improvement spending is expected to grow 6% annually to $318.6 billion by the first quarter of 2018, according to the Joint Center For Housing Studies of Harvard University. And although DIY’s popularity continues, owners in the millennial (76%), Gen-X (83%) and baby boomer (88%) generations overwhelmingly chose to work with a professional builder or remodeler in 2015, according to a recent Houzz user survey. Read More Aging-in-place remodeling sees its popularity continue to grow D ive Brief: More remodelers are completing aging-in-place home improvement projects, with 80% of remodeling firms reporting work in the category in Q4 2016, up from 68% in 2013, according to a recent National Association of Home Builders’ survey. Simple and less-expensive projects are gaining popularity, with added lighting or task lighting (12%), curb-less showers (9%), grab bars (7%), non-slip floors (7%) and widening doorways (5%) seeing the largest increases from 2013. Read More 24 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017
Who are NAHB Builder Members T Construction jobs making up for lost time D espite lower residential construction permits in 2016, Connecticut builders are on track to increase their ranks at the fastest pace of any industry over the next few years, with continued low interest rates combining with stock market gains to unleash pent-up demand for home improvements and upgrades to commercial facilities. A recent surge in hiring has helped fill in an employment chasm that developed over six years following the 2008 collapse in the housing market. Over that stretch, only the manufacturing and finance sectors terminated more jobs in Connecticut than construction, with the sector’s employment down by more than 10,000 jobs as noted in a state Department of Labor report, despite major residential developments in downtown Stamford, Norwalk and the Danbury area. Between the summers of 2014 and 2016, however, construction staged the biggest employment rally in Connecticut, the Labor Department noted, with builders bringing on nearly 4,500 people. And many projects were able to get an early jump heading into 2017 thanks to unseasonably mild weather throughout much of the winter. Behind only a “mining” category in Connecticut that relates largely to gravel and sand quarries operated by companies like Tilcon — resources directly hitched to construction — the Labor Department believes builders will lead the state in hiring through 2018, bolstering their combined workforces by 2.5 percent against a 0.8 percent increase in overall employment. Read More MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 25 he 2016 annual member census conducted by NAHB reveals that 60% of our builder members are singlefamily builders, 23% are residential remodelers, 6% are commercial builders, 5% are multifamily builders and 4% are land developers. Commercial remodelers and manufacturers of modular/ panelized/log homes each comprise 1% of the builder members. Read More Kitchens edge baths as top remodeling projects A recent survey conducted by NAHB shows that kitchens squeaked past baths as the top remodeling jobs performed by NAHB Remodelers in 2016. As NAHB Senior Economist Paul Emrath shows in this Eye on Housing blog post, 81% of remodelers said kitchen remodeling was a common job for them last year, compared to 80% who cited bathroom remodeling. Read More
BUILDER NEWS What Young Adults Think of the Construction Trades betwMost young adults een the ages of 18 and 25 say the two most important benefits of a career in the construction trades are good pay (80%) and learning useful skills (74%), according to a recent poll of this age group conducted by NAHB. Only 15% cite seasonal work as a benefit, while a modest 37% rate it as an advantage that this field does not require a college degree. The vast majority of those surveyed, 74%, say they already know the field in which they want to have a career. Meanwhile, the 26% of respondents who do not yet know the career path they want to take got a follow-up question about the chance they might consider a number of fields (construction trades being one of them) using a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 meant “no chance no matter the pay” and 5 meant a “very good chance if the pay is high.” Construction trades got an average rating of 2.1, with 63% of undecided young adults rating it 1 or 2 (no or little chance regardless of pay) and 18% a 4 or 5 (good to very good chance if pay is high). Distracted Driving a Serious Matter problem.Whether the driver is off-the-clock or on the job, Distracted Driving is a growing The National Safety Council estimates that in 2016, roughly 40,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes — the highest total in nine years and an alarming 14% increase from just two years ago. “From an insurance industry perspective, distracted driving is the No. 1 issue for automobile safety, as the vast majority of people admit they frequently drive while talking on the phone, texting, eating, or doing any number of other activities,” says Bill Schaffner, director of risk management for Builders Mutual Insurance Company. Schaffner suggests that more employers should be mindful of how often their workers are potentially distracted while operating company vehicles and heavy equipment. 26 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017
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TRAINING & SEMINARS OSHA 10 Hour Construction Monday, May 22 & Tuesday, May 23, 2017* 8:00am-2:00pm Breakfast/Registration starts at 7:30AM Rings End Educational Facility, 160 Avon Street, Stratford, CT Register Online or call the HBRA office at 203-335-7008 OSHA is coming to FINE you! Get ahead of them & learn what you need to know for your business and your employees. The OSHA 10-hour 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 May 8th to reserve your spot. Walk-ins will not be accepted at this course due to limited seating. Sponsored by: HBRA Breakfast Series – Sales Institute Wednesday, May 24, 2017 8:00am-Noon Breakfast/Registration starts at 7:30AM Rings End Educational Facility 160 Avon Street, Stratford, CT 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? Cost is $325pp (normally $495) Register Online or call the HBRA office at 203-335-7008 28 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017
MEMBER BENEFITS Each quarter Verizon offers NPP members promotions on phones, devices, accessories and more $200 Bill Credit When you port in your number and bring a qualifying iPhone 6 to Verizon, you’ll get a $200 bill incentive credit. This offer is good through May 21, 2017. $50 Bill Credit Activate any new 4G LTE smartphone on a 2-year plan of $34.99 or higher and you’ll get a $50 credit on your bill This offer is good through June 30, 2017. Accessories Business customers save additional $20 on Plantronics Bluetooth headsets like the Voyager Edge, 5200 an Legend. These headsets feature convenient controls, fit comfortably and reduce noise. This offer is good through June 30, 2017. You can redeem promotions three ways: 1. Log into your Verizon account. 2. Contact your local business rep. If you aren’t sure who your rep is, request a rep here. 3. Go to your local Verizon store. Find a store near you. 30 HBRA of Fairfield County | MAY 2017
Save $500/$1000 with the GM NAHB Private Offer We're pleased to extend to NAHB members a private offer 1 of $500 toward the purchase or lease of most new GM vehicles. NAHB members who are business owners can now qualify for up to $1,000 and also add on incentives from the National Fleet Purchase Program 2 and Business Choice 3 to get the best value on vehicles that run your business. To get this offer just visit your local dealer, choose an eligible GM vehicle, and present your NAHB proof of membership form. How it works: 1. Get your NAHB proof of membership form at www.nahb.org/gm. 2. Bring form to your GM dealer and mention this private offer. 3. At time of purchase or lease, present your NAHB proof of membership. For private offer details, visit www.nahb.org/gm. 1. Private offer amount varies by model. City Express and Low Cab Forward receive a $250 Offer for both Fleet and Retail deliveries. Fleet deliveries on the Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, Silverado, Express, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Acadia, Sierra, Savana, Yukon, XL receive a $1,000 Offer. All other Fleet or Retail deliveries receive a $500 Offer. Not compatible with other private offers. Not valid on prior purchases. Compatible with many current incentives. Incentives are subject to change without notice. See dealer for complete details. 2. Offer eligible for qualified fleet customers only through Dec. 31, 2017. See dealer for details. 3. To qualify, vehicle must be used in the day-to-day operation of the business and not solely for transportation purposes. Must provide proof of business. For complete program requirements, including information regarding offers, vehicles, equipment, options, warranties, and ordering, consult your dealer or visit gmbusinesschoice. com. Take delivery by Jan. 2, 2018. FCA US LLC is pleased to announce a special $500 cash allowance toward the purchase or lease of many of the most popular vehicles in our lineup. Between Chrysler, Dodge, FIAT®, Jeep® and Ram®, there's something for everyone. NAHB members and their employees can combine this stackable $500 cash allowance with most current retail incentives and choose an On The Job program allowance. Plus, same household family members receive a $500 cash allowance, stackable with most local and national retail incentives, toward the purchase or lease of a vehicle. Redeem this offer today! Here’s How: 1. Get your NAHB proof of membership form at www.nahb.org/fca. 2. Bring form to your FCA US dealer and mention this private offer. 3. At time of purchase or lease, present your NAHB proof of membership. For private offer details, visit www.nahb.org/fca. This offer is available to eligible NAHB members, their owners and employees, and eligible family members residing in the same household. This offer provides a $500 cash allowance towards the commercial purchase or lease of select new 2016 and 2017 Chrysler, Dodge, FIAT®, Jeep® or Ram® vehicles that are delivered by 01/02/2018 and is not valid on prior purchases. On The Job (OTJ) incentives vary depending on model of commercial truck chosen and are not available to family members. See dealer for allowance and OTJ incentive details and eligibility requirements. ©2017 FCA US LLC. All Rights Reserved. Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC. FIAT is a registered trademark of FCA Group Marketing S.p.A., used under license by FCA US LLC. 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 MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 31
REdefining home improvement RingsEnd.com 800 390 1000 MAY 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 32
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