The E-Magazine of the Fairfield County HBRA SEPTEMBER 2017 UPCOMING OCTOBER 4 GMM - Hocon Gas OCTOBER 12-13 OSHA 10 OCTOBER 24 Builders vs. Associates Bowl-a-rama NOVEMBER 4 GMM - County TV & Appliance Features HBRA CLAMBAKE NAHB 2016 EO AWARD NEW MEMBERS BUILDER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER NEWS BUILDER NEWS
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 John Hertz Hertz Construction 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 Michael Church William Pitt Sotheby’s Ken DeLeo Doherty & DeLeo 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! SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 3 gas MEDIA SPONSOR
IN THIS ISSUE Letter From The CEO Upcoming Events Bowl - A - Rama Clambake at the Beach New Executive Officer Award New Members Member News BA Staging and Interiors Names Terence Beaty 10 Clambake 14 New Members 35 CAPS Training as Sales Representative For their Southern Connecticut and Westchester County Marketplace Waterfront Home in Old Greenwich: Latest KLAFFS-Duffy Lighting Collaboration New Membership Card Available DeRosa Builders Spotlight NAHB Builder 20 Ben Krupinski Builder Spotlight Mayor’s Perspective Builder News 3 Issues That Worry State and Local Leaders A Show of Unity on Canadian Lumber Hot Off the Press Dear Sandler Coach Multigen Homes Need Space For Aging in Place 5 Facts about Millennial House Holds Tax Proposals Anger Builders, Real Estate Agents, Charities NAHB News Builder Confidence in the 55+ Housing Marketing Strengthens in Second Quarter Seminars NAHB Calls for Comprehensive Immigration Reforms NAHC Offers Stormwater Compliance Guide Judge Strikes Down Obama Overtime Rule New Silica Rule Goes Into Effect Sept. 23 Weigh in on WOTUS - Tell Feds What You Think by Sept. 27 OSHA 10 Hour Construction CAPS Training Member Benefits Advertisers: Tooher Ferraris East Haven Builders Supply CTC&G Ridgefield Supply Elevator Service Company Ed’s Garage Doors Interstate Lumber Hocon Gas DiMatteo Group Fairfield County Bank County TV & Appliance New England Home United Bank Marlin Electric 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 p.6 p.7 p.8 p.10 p.13 p.14 p.18 p.19 p.19 p.20 p.21 p.22 p.24 p.26 p.26 p.27 p.27 p.28 p.28 p.29 p.30 p.31 p.31 p.31 p.31 p.33 p.34 p.35 p.38 p.2 p. 2 p. 5 p. 9 p. 15 p. 17 p. 18 p. 23 p. 25 p. 25 p. 28 p. 29 p. 33 p. 37 p. 40 Want to advertise? Contact the office for more information and rates.
MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dear HBRA Members, We ended our summer with another exceptional Clambake at the Beach - even the rain couldn’t keep the SOLD OUT crowd from enjoying seafood, grilled food, and some fantastic beverages! Special THANKS to Jon Small of Marlin Electric for once again sponsoring this event. Also thanks to our Raffle Sponsors - County TV & Appliance, Express Kitchens and Steiner Inc. As we wind down the year, be sure to sign up quickly for events. October 4th we are at Hocon Gas at their Norwalk Showroom. The membership raffle is at $1,250 - be there to win! The last OSHA 10 Construction class for 2017 will be held on October 12 & 13. These classes SELL OUT so register quickly! Get your bowling shoes for the October 24th Bowla-rama! Builders vs. Associate members trophy is on the line so mark your calendars for this fun event. Tickets are only $25pp (60 available) an ONLY 2 Alley Sponsors at $250 are left - what a great way to show your support. See page 8 for details. Welcome to all of our new members - it is quite a list - see pages 14 -17. We hope to see you all at a future membership meeting or event! Please consider giving your fair share to BUILD PAC before the year’s end. For a personal contribution of $25 you will help strengthen our voice and share in the fight for housing. BUILDERS and ASSOCIATE MEMBERS - We want to spotlight you and your business! This is a FREE service to our members. Contact our office for details on how your company can be “SPOTLIGHTED.” I was completely humbled and so appreciative to be awarded the 2016 NEW EO of Year by NAHB. Due to some medical issues I was unable to attend the event in Denver but the NAHB Executive Officer Council was so kind in allowing my daughters who were in Denver, to accept the award on my behalf. Against such strong competition, I really do have to count myself lucky to have won. Thanks to Chris Steiner, Kim DiMatteo for nominating me for this prestigious award. I couldn’t do it without the support of the Board of Directors, the membership, my staff, and my family - I really do love what I do! 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 | SEPTEMBER 2017
MARK YOUR CALENDARS UPCOMING EVENTS September 27, 2017 District 8 Building Officials Golf Outing Whitney Farms, Monroe CT Click Here for Registration Form October 4, 2017 General Membership Meeting - Hocon Gas 33 Rockland Road, Norwalk CT Click Here to Register October 12-13, 2017 OSHA 10 Training Rings End Educational Facility Click Here to Register October 24, 2017 HBRA Bowl - A - Rama Nutmeg Bowl 802 Villa Avenue, Fairfield CT Click Here to Register November 1, 2017 General Membership Meeting - County TV & Appliance 2770 Summer Street, Stamford CT Click Here to Register SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 7 1
NUTMEG BOWL FAIRFIELD, CT 10.24.17 WHO WILL WIN? BOWL-A-RAMA BUILDERS ASSOCIATES VS CURRENT SPONSORS REGISTER HERE TeamS of six - $135 Individual - $25 ALLEY SPONSOR - $250 2 available • Your logo on an Alley (2 lanes) • 6 Bowlers and rental shoes • 2 Bowling Games • Includes all Food and Beer gas GROUP THE HOME BUILDERS
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Clambake at the Beach Sponsored by Marlin Electric T he 3rd Annual Clambake at the Beach was held at the Penfield Pavilion in Fairfield on September 6th. Generously sponsored once again by Marlin Electric it was a spectacular event attended by 180 members and guests who dined on lobster, clams, hamburgers, hot dogs and pasta salads and watermelon from Captain John’s of Norwalk. The RIPE Company was also on hand supplying RIPE Craft Bar Juice Margaritas. The evening also included raffles sponsored by County TV and Appliance - a SONOs PlayBar won by Brian Kurtz of Interstate Lumber, a vanity/countertop won from Express Kitchens won by Lora Mazurak, Aitoro. The winning name for the membership raffle - Robert Calve of Fox Hill Builders was not present so the October drawing is $1,250! President Chris Steiner made a special presentation honoring CEO, Gina Calabro, who was awarded the 2016 NAHB New EO of the Year at the NAHB Association Management Conference in Denver. 10 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017 Photography by Jim Fuhrmann Pete Battaglio of Hocon Gas invited all to the October General Membership Meeting on October 4th at Hocon Gas in Norwalk.
Sponsored by Marlin Electric See Additional Photos Here: SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 11
The SOLD OUT event crowd enjoyed a wonderful evening of food, drink, and networking 12 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017
Gina Calabro 2016 NAHB New Executive Officer N amed after a former executive officer, David Lloyd, this prestigious award is presented to an Executive Officer who has served no more than three years in an association management position and is judged to have made major contributions to the profession during this time period. The award was presented at the NAHB Association Management Conference in Denver on August 17th. As Gina was unable to attend, her daughters Alaina and Victoria Calabro accepted the award on her behalf. Gina was nominated by her Board President, Chris Steiner of Steiner, Inc and Vice President, Kim DiMatteo of The DiMatteo Group for her efforts since being hired in April 2015. At that time the Fairfield County membership was at one of the all-time lows (290), and general membership meetings attendance was at about 17%. In her first 9 months, she made membership a priority by appealing to specific members to assist in revitalizing the membership committee, and reaching out to past members as well as prospective members ending 2015 with a 15% increase in membership. She continued on that path and in 2016 the Fairfield County HBRA was now at 390 members a 17% increase with an annualized membership retention rate of 83%. The current membership is over 440 members and continues to grow. In late 2016, she developed the CT HBRA Luxury Home Tour. This tour, open to the public, featured builder member spec homes over $2,000,000. The inaugural weekend tour in April 2017 was a great success with 4 homes ranging from $2.3 to $6.5 million and over 150 unique visitors. Net ticket sales of over $4,000 was donated to two charities. Three of the four homes sold within weeks of the tour. This event will continue in 2018 as well as other initiatives to further promote the Home Building industry in Fairfield County. Congratulations to Gina for this well deserved honor! Click here to see Gina’s Award Video SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 13 Congratulations to Fairfield County HBRA CEO, Gina Calabro (pictured above)
NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the newest members of HBRA of Fairfield County! Go to www.buildfairfieldcounty.com for their contact info. Denise Walsh Denise Walsh & Partners, LLC Though many agents will fight for your business, none make an effort to keep it quite like we do. Prior to becoming a client, our agents foster relationships by keeping you up to date on the market, only sending you information relevant to your particular interests. When it comes time for you to buy or sell a home, we tailor every aspect of the process to fit your individual needs. In every aspect of our business, we adhere strictly to theRealtor Code of Ethics, and have made honesty and fair business practices the foundation of trust in our relationships, both with our clients and the community as a whole. Collin Eldred Express Kitchens Express Kitchens is your source for all your cabinet needs. Our ability to supply cabinets that satisfy every taste, lifestyle, and budget will make the transition from your old, outdated kitchen to a brand new one easy and affordable. We are proud to introduce our own Star brand of cabinets. Built right here in Connecticut, Star Cabinetry allows us to offer ‘manufacturer-direct’ pricing on high-quality, solid wood cabinets. We also offer several lines of nationallyrecognized cabinet brands at some of the lowest prices you’ll find anywhere. Joseph Granitto Greenwich Custom Homes HONEST. RELIABLE. COURTEOUS. ACCESSIBLE. With over twenty-five years in the business, Joe knows how to build on time and preserve the highest standards. Family owned and operated, Greenwich Custom Homes is involved with and passionate about every project we undertake. In addition to the design and building of unparalleled homes, we also provide home additions, renovations and remodeling. Zibi Surowiec Kramer Lane Construction 14 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017
Paulina Morales LBM Contracting LLC Our Mission: To offer you, our valued customer, home improvement solutions that contribute to your well-being through high quality work and excellent customer service. To service you the best possible experience while you go through renovations and upgrades in your home and cultivate lasting relationships during the process. Raymond Terribile Maritime Chevrolet Raymond has 35+ years of Chevrolet knowledge and expertise. Why should you buy from Maritime Chevrolet? Our unmatched service and diverse Chevrolet inventory have set us apart as the preferred dealer in Fairfield. Visit us today to discover why we have the best reputation in the Fairfield area. Our skilled management team will ensure you have a phenomenal experience at Maritime Chevrolet. Please reach out to any of us if we can help you in any way! SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 15
NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the newest members of HBRA of Fairfield County! Go to www.buildfairfieldcounty.com for their contact info. Christopher Gatto Mondo Gatto, Inc. S. Rudy Gatto, founder of Gatto Development Corporation (GDC), arrived in the U.S. from Genoa, Italy with a dollar in his pocket and a vision of opportunity in his mind. Today, the business is headed by Rudy’s son, Christopher Gatto. GDC utilizes a focused and prudent approach to site selection, design, and construction management. Our team’s comprehensive knowledge of real estate management, commitment to hard work, and “hands on” approach create quality buildings Jim Fuhrmann New England Web Services New England Web Services is a West Hartford, CT based website development and internet marketing provider serving small businesses, entrepreneurs, and home building professionals throughout the entire U.S., including Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Led by Jim Fuhrmann, a technology professional w/ 20+ years experience, New England Web Services has been providing website design, development, and internet marketing services since 2004 Tom Sullivan StagingSells, LLC STAGING THE WAY PEOPLE ASPIRE TO LIVE. Our objective is to partner with home owners to assist with the transformation & staging of their home. Our customized staging designs create concepts that embellish the unique qualities of the home and showcase rooms that buyers aspire to live in. Designer consultations are available upon request. To evaluate your specific staging needs, to include interior and exterior improvements to create the right palate for us to stage. Using your furnishings and accessories we create a new, current design reflecting the taste of today’s demanding clients. John Tiago Tiago Building Group Offering over 20 years of dedication to homeowners of Fairfield County, Tiago Building Group continues its tradition of building, customizing, and rejuvenating homes throughout southern Connecticut. Tiago Building Group, founded by owner, John Tiago, is dedicated to the following: collaboration throughout any project to bring vision to reality, detail in every project, regardless of size and budget, creating clever solutions for custom project challenges and maintaining organization throughout each project to ensure timeline, budget, and vision are exceeded 16 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017
d Taylor R. Molgano T.R. Molgano Landscaping, Inc. For more than 30 years, T.R. Molgano Landscaping, Inc. has served residential and commercial property owners throughout Stamford, Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, and the surrounding areas with two main objectives: exceptional service and professionalism. Because of our dedication to these two key areas, many of our clients have been with us since the inception of our business — not just months, but decades. In fact, oftentimes when a homeowner sells their property, the new owner continues on with service. Why? Because of what makes us different, and how can we make an impact on your next project. Dave DeNomme VitaBuilt, LLC Paul Interlandi Waterford Builders Welcome to Our Newest Affiliate Members Merit Insurance Ryan Kelly 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 ® SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 17
MEMBER NEWS BA Staging and Interiors Names Terence Beaty as Sales Representative For their Southern Connecticut and Westchester County Marketplace Terence. Beaty, a 28-year Realtor® veteran, joins BA Staging and Interiors from a long career with William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty, based in Fairfield, Connecticut. BA Staging & Interiors is a multiple award-winning premier home staging company in Fairfield County catering to home sellers who are looking for a competitive marketing edge when selling real estate. “Our company is continuously growing. Our goal is to help as many home sellers as possible to attract homebuyers and want buyers to fall in love with our clients’ properties for a successful quick sale. The collaboration with Terence Beaty compliments our goal as we will be able to assist even more home sellers, Realtors®, home builders and real estate investors. I am thrilled about working with Terence.” “I’m excited to be able to lend my real estate experience and support for the decorating industry to this company. I look forward to bringing BA’s creative and energetic services to more consumers directly and through the professional builder and Realtor® communities”, said Beaty. Contact BA Staging & Interiors at (203) 807-4040 or visiting www.BAStagingInteriors.com. You can contact Terence Beaty at (203) 913.3535. 18 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017
Associate Member Appreciation Month September is Associate Member Appreciation Month. We thank our outstanding Associate members for their generous contributions, participation, leadership, and dedication to the HBRA. We are proud to announce that we have 169 Associate Companies with an additional 92 Associate Affiliates. Our associate companies make up 50% of our membership SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 19
Waterfront Home in Old Greenwich: Latest KLAFFS-Duffy Lighting Collaboration CottDuffy Home Solutions and KLAFFS senior lighting designer Monica on design an award-winning beach house. KLAFFS senior lighting designer Monica Cotton recently shared with us her excitement about her latest collaboration with design/build team Rachel and John Duffy of Greenwich-based Duffy Home Solutions. It’s a water-front home in the coveted Lucas Point Association in Old Greenwich. Designed as a contemporary interpretation of a classic New England shingle-style beach house with sunset views of Greenwich cove and a private dock and sandy beach, it has already won several awards. Monica has been working with the Duffys for 20 of her 21 years at KLAFFS, a trusted relationship typical of those she has built with many of the top designers, architects and builders in the area. She has great respect for the Duffys’ attention to detail and quality and their specific expertise in waterfront building. She also values their loyalty and trust, and their reliance on the experience and knowledge of partners like her to assure that every aspect of the home reflects up-to-date design and technology standards. A Heritage of Craftsmanship Not long after emigrating to the US from Galway, Ireland, John Duffy founded the company as Duffy Craftsmen, Inc., in 1986. While he and Rachel still consider their craftsman-like approach to construction as core to their values, they recently re-named and re-branded the business as Duffy Home Solutions to reflect that it has evolved to include new construction, renovation/remodeling and property management/maintenance services. Read More 20 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017 NEW Membership Card Available Fairfield County Members have a new opportunity on the HBRA website. By logging into their member profiles, HBRA members can access a new printable membership card that includes the place of a business , NAHB membership # and member since date. Steps: 1. Go to Manage Account link 2. Log in to your profile 3. Click on Profile tab 4. Scroll to the bottom of the page to view membership card 5. Print as needed
NAHB Professional Women in Building Week Sept. 18 - 22 NAHB Professional Women in Building Week celebrates the talented women in the residential construction industry. It’s an occasion for all members across the NAHB Federation to bring national awareness to their vital contribution with activities that promote, enhance and support housing and women in the industry. Professional Women in Building Council has become NAHB’s fastest growing council, experiencing a 40% growth in membership. NAHB Professional Women in Building Week The HBRA of Fairfield County is forming a Professional Women in Building Council. Contact the HBRA office at 203-335-7008 for more information. SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 21
BUILDER SPOTLIGHT DeRosa Builders, LLC. is a General Contracting company specializing in luxury custom homes and remodels. While our values and principles in business are timeless, we embrace new technologies and continuing education to enhance our building processes and educate our consumers. We are builders, craftsman, problem-solvers and communicators. DeRosa Builders aspires to raise the bar on what can be accomplished in our industry through integrity and hard work. We add value to our projects through innovation, planning, and regular communication. On each project, we deliver and employ our focused and flexible team of professionals in order to achieve the highest quality result. As a result of our people-centric culture, our clients and design partners quickly discover that we are team players with full partner commitment on every project. These are just a few of the reasons that we were voted FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUILDER OF THE YEAR being the youngest company and youngest recipients in the long history of the award. Founded by Anthony DeRosa we have grown from a single person owner/operator construction company to become one of the most respected and trusted general contractors in Fairfield County. One principal philosophy has driven our brand, BUILT ON TRUST. If you can imagine it, we can build it. About Anthony and Michael DeRosa: Anthony has built award winning new homes and remodels during his experiences as a project manager, partner and owner. He insists on active communication and coordination to help deliver quality and customization 22 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017 in a timely manner. He handles everyday operations, manages relationships, problem solves and demands excellence. Anthony is the Sr. Vice President of the HBRA, Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Fairfield County, is an avid sports fan, golfer, and most importantly husband and father of two. Michael’s priority is streamlining operations, quality assurance and making sure every customer is satisfied and fulfilled. Michael is an avid NY sports fan, loves to golf, and enjoys the outdoors. He is currently Secretary of the ‘Building Hope Foundation’ and assists other local non-profit organizations. Michael is a graduate of Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY, a longtime resident of Fairfield County. DeRosa Builders, LLC Anthony and Michael DeRosa www.derosabuilders.com 203-769-1804
NAHB 20 Clubs Build Your Future NAHB 20 Clubs is the only group that serves as your own personal board of directors. The 20 Clubs are a group of home builders and remodelers from non-competing markets across the country who are focused on discussing and developing real-world solutions to help improve each other’s operations and increase their bottom lines. 20 Club members gain the knowledge they need to build business management systems that survive and thrive the ups and downs of the home building industry. The results: PROFITS! 20 Club members reported an average of double net profits within their first three years of joining! If you’re ready to be a part of one of NAHB’s most exclusive and profitable programs, then visit nahb.org/why20clubs and complete an application today! AD220Club17 SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 23
BUILDER SPOTLIGHT Ben Krupinski Builder delivers exceptional craftmanship, construction expertise and professionalism on every project we undertake on behalf of our clients. Since 1981, we have partnered with discerning homeowners and design professionals to create residential projects of the highest quality. Our portfolio represents a mix of architect-designed homes, historic home renovations and remodeling projects of both modest and expansive scale. What do all our clients have in common? They enjoy a professional experience with an exceptional outcome. Our team is current on technical advances, new material, construction techniques and design trends. These capabilities are critical to collaborating with worldrenowned design professionals on sophisticated projects that require our well-honed problem-solving skills. At Ben Krupinski Builder, we pride ourselves as much on the longterm relationships we build with our clients and partners as much as we do on the superior quality of the projects we complete. From Montauk to Manhattan to Greenwich, Connecticut, BKB has earned a reputation for delivering outstanding results and earning the trust and respect of our clients in the process. Ben Krupinski Builder’s commitment to excellence, the enduring relationships with it customers, the quality of its staff, and the talent, expertise and professional manner in handling all projects; all of these combine to have created the success Ben Krupinski has enjoyed for the past four decades. Christopher Quinn is the managing partner in charge of all Connecticut, Westchester and New York City projects. He can be reached at chrisq@bkbuilder.com or at our Greenwich, CT Office. East Hampton (631) 324-3656 South Hampton (631) 283-8344 Greenwich (203) 990-0633 Ben Krupinski Builders Christopher Quinn www.bkbuilder.com 24 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017
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MODERATOR MAYOR’S PERSPECTIVE: Strengthening the Growth of Westchester and Fairfield Counties Presented by: The Construction Institute Fairfield County Council and SMPS-NY Westchester Tuesday, September 26, 2017 7:45 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. UCONN Stamford Campus University Place Stamford, CT MAYOR DAVID MARTIN STAMFORD, CT THOMAS MADDEN DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MICHAEL AYLES, AIA ANTINOZZI ASSOCIATES PANELISTS MAYOR HARRY RILLING NORWALK, CT ELIZABETH STOCKER AICP, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR MAYOR MIKE SPANO YONKERS, NY WILSON KIMBALL COMMISSIONER OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT CLICK HERE TO REGISTER MAYOR THOMAS ROACH WHITE PLAINS, NY CHRISTOPHER GOMEZ AICP, COMMISSIONER OF PLANNING
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 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 SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 27
BUILDER NEWS A Show of Unity on Canadian Lumber rigNAHB CEO Jerry Howard, far 3 Issues That Worry State and Local Leaders prThe latest news about weakening state revenues, federal tax-reform oposals that target the deduction for state and local taxes, and shifting demographics in the public workforce is giving a lot of state and local government leaders a headache. It’s enough to make anyone reach for the aspirin bottle. But the good news is that, rather than relying on analgesics, thoughtful public leaders are engaging in plenty of dialogue about these issues while keeping a focus on priorities and how to adapt to a challenging future. Certainly budgeting and spending considerations present a continuing challenge. While state general-fund revenues are projected to grow by 3.1 percent in fiscal year 2018, general-fund spending on Medicaid is expected to grow by 4.3 percent, reports the National Association of State Budget Officers. Revenue collections fell below budgets in 33 states in fiscal 2017, so state budget experts are cautious. And when state budgets are squeezed, local budgets become even more constrained. Alexandria, Va., has already cut everything it can in recent years, says Mayor Allison Silberberg, so “any further cuts come from the marrow of the bone.” Take housing, a growing challenge in the nation. Local governments would like to see more, not less, state and federal financial support for workforce and affordable housing. The HOME Investment Partnerships Program is the largest federal block grant program designed to create affordable housing for low-income households. Yet, the Trump administration’s proposed budget has targeted HOME for elimination. The homelessness crisis is a related challenge that local governments face without sufficient help from the federal or state governments. Read More 28 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017 ht, participated in a forum on Canadian softwood lumber this morning at the Canadian embassy in Washington that included Canadian Ambassador David MacNaughton and special softwood lumber envoys from the Canadian provinces. Howard said that he can’t overstate the importance of solving the U.S.Canadian softwood lumber dispute in which the U.S. Commerce Department has imposed duties averaging 26.75% on Canadian lumber shipments into the U.S. The tariffs are harming housing affordability and forcing builders to look overseas to Germany and Russia in order to meet demand. Read More A new home for HSL Building Company new headquart We’re excited about our ers in Westport, CT. Located in a renovated and repurposed mill, the office has many modern luxuries as well as historic design details From Scarsdale to North Salem, HSL Building Company is now licensed for custom home construction, renovations, and estate management in Westchester County. We’ve earned our reputation working closely with a network of architects, interior designers, and contractors and now we’re bringing our expertise to Westchester. Visit hslbuilding.com for more information
DEAR SANDLER COACH Home Buyer Preferences: Age, Income, and Other Factors From BuilderBooks, 2017, 312 pp/Softcover Item 00308 ISBN 978-0-86718-746-5 Retail $149.95 Member $79.95 Living Green Effortlessly: Simple Choices for a Better Home From MyHome Press, 2017, 146 pp/Softcover Item 00312 ISBN 978-0-86718-752-6 Retail $19.95 Member $17.95 Dear Sandler Coach, What the heck is Social Selling anyhow? - Jeff T. Dear Jeff, Great question, probably not enough room here to explain it fully but let’s see what we can do. I feel like Social Selling has become more of a buzzword then a specific system or process. Let’s break it down quickly. Social - typically would mean online, but the social aspect is more off the computer than on it. It’s a method of finding out common interests and using it to bridge the gap when you converse with someone. In checking Linkedin you see you went to the same school or they support an organization you are also involved with - that’s how you build rapport. Easy enough. Remodelers’ Cost of Doing Business Study, 2017 Edition From BuilderBooks, 2017, 52 pp/Softcover Item 00314 ISBN 978-0-86718-756-4 Retail $149.95 Member $79.95 The other aspect of social selling is how you are perceived online. Do you write blogs? Do you participate in groups? Do you have a good picture and description? What about Facebook? Twitter? Are all your comments and posts relevant? What do they say about you? We live in a world now where someone can research you prior to a meeting and see what you are “really” like. Think about it, if someone looked at your Facebook would they want to work with you? Or would they see a pic of you chugging a beer on top of a pickup truck? If you did “Social Selling” right then your presence online will reinforce your prospecting. Now it’s time for you to do the job which is qualifying that prospect. - John Visit the HBRA Bookstore to view available titles John J. Fazio, Jr. John’s clients include the single entrepreneur all the way up to Fortune 500 companies in the areas of sales, leadership, management and customer service. Have a training question for John? Send your questions to hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 29
BUILDER NEWS Multigen Homes Need Space For Aging In Place home buDesigning a multigenerational home means creating space for yers who want to age in place surrounded by family—a new perspective on American family dynamics. As we looked into the design themes of the 2017 reNEWable Home, one of the major factors to include beyond multigenerational living was aging in place design. A 2012 AARP study discovered 90% of seniors intended to continue living in their current home over the next five to 10 years. However, the study also identified that 50% of those seniors over age 70 can’t live independently without some form of help. Multigenerational design forces us to think about what kind of design changes we need to make in order to enable people to live in their homes longer. Read More 5 Facts About Millennial Households liMillennials are the largest ving generation by population size (79.8 million in 2016), but they trail Baby Boomers and Generation Xers when it comes to the number of households they head. Many Millennials still live under their parents’ roof or are in a college dorm or some other shared living situation. As of 2016, Millennials (ages 18 to 35 in 2016) headed only 28 million households, many fewer than were headed by Generation X (ages 36 to 51 in 2016) or Baby Boomers (ages 52 to 70). Read More 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 30 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017
Tax Proposals Anger Builders, Real Estate Agents, Charities arCongress is on recess, so things e mostly quiet in Washington. Don’t expect that to last. The offices of the National Association of Home Builders and the National Association of Realtors are gearing up for a fight. CNBC reports: With U.S. Congress members focused during their August recess on finding ways to lower the corporate tax rate, industry groups and other sectors of society are gearing up to fight proposed changes to the personal income tax. While tax cuts for business have garnered the most headlines, lobbyists and lawmakers have conceded that rewriting the corporate tax code will be a long slog. ... ...Still, proposed changes to the personal tax code have already stirred opposition from real estate agents, home builders, mortgage lenders and charities. These groups say proposed changes will hurt home sales and cut charitable contributions. The National Association of Realtors issued an “August Recess Talking Points” circular imploring members to remind lawmakers that “Homeowners must be treated fairly in tax reform” to avoid “another housing crash.”... ... To simplify the tax code, Republicans have proposed eliminating nearly all tax write-offs including those for state and local taxes, then doubling the standard deduction. This would eliminate the incentive to itemize and should drastically reduce the number of taxpayers who do so. ... ...Currently, about 30 million taxpayers claim the mortgage interest deduction, with about $70 billion in total claims, according to Robert Dietz, an economist with the National Association of Home Builders. Estimates suggest more than half of taxpayers would stop itemizing under the proposed plan, Dietz said, warning that this would create a large ripple effect through the economy. He said people in early years of a mortgage would suffer most, along with prospective home buyers. Read More SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 31
NAHB NEWS Builder Confidence in the 55+ Housing Market Strengthens in Second Quarter Home Builders’ (NThe National Association of AHB) singlefamily 55+ housing market index (55+ HMI) posted a reading of 66 in the second quarter of 2017, up 11 points from the previous quarter. This is the 13th consecutive quarter with a reading above 50, which means that more builders view conditions as good than poor (Figure 1). There are two separate 55+ HMIs: one measuring builder sentiment in the single-family market and another for the multifamily condominium market. Each 55+ HMI is based on a survey that asks builders if current sales, prospective buyer traffic and anticipated six-month sales for that market are good, fair or poor (high, average or low for traffic). All three components of the 55+ single-family HMI increased in the second quarter. Expected sales for the next six months increased 12 points to 80, while present sales rose eight points to 70 and traffic of prospective buyers jumped 19 points to 53. The 55+ multifamily condo HMI rose seven points to 53 in the second quarter (Figure 2). All three of the condo components posted gains: present sales increased six points to 56, while expected sales for the next six months and traffic of prospective buyers both rose eight points to 55 and 45, respectively. In addition to the for-sale market, NAHB also tracks activity in the 55+ multifamily rental market. All four indices tracking production and demand of 55+ rentals increased in the second quarter: present production rose three points to 53, expected future production climbed eight points to 52, current demand for existing units increased two points to 66 and expected future demand rose five points to 67. 32 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017 This quarter’s 55+ HMI is consistent with the NAHB forecast of continued gradual gains in the housing market in 2017. For the full 55+ HMI tables, please visit www.nahb.org/55hmi. Read More
NAHB Calls for Comprehensive Immigration Reform of the National Association ofGranger MacDonald, chairman Home Builders and a home builder and developer from Kerrville, Texas, issued the following statement after the Trump administration announced it would wind down the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which has allowed young people known as “Dreamers,” who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children, to live and work here: “President Trump’s call to Congress to find a permanent legislative solution to protect the ‘Dreamers’ underscores the urgent need for lawmakers to pass comprehensive immigration reform. Given the chronic shortage of residential construction workers, there has never been a more critical time for Congress to enact effective reforms that would help revitalize the economy and boost the housing sector. “NAHB believes that any comprehensive reform should protect our nation’s borders; include a new, market-based visa program that would fill labor gaps to ensure that the nation has a workforce that is sufficient to meet its housing construction and restoration needs; and provide a workable employment verification system. A successful guest worker program will help alleviate the current labor shortage in the residential construction sector, quicken the rebuilding efforts in Texas and support the overall economic growth of this nation.” NAHB Offers Stormwater Compliance Guide become morAs stormwater regulations e complex, NAHB wants to make sure that its members are up to date on compliance requirements and ready to advocate for smart, flexible and affordable rules when state permits come up for renewal. To that end, NAHB has developed a new stormwater toolkit to help members and their state and local associations make the case for programs that help meet water quality goals, reduce redundancy, and provide a clear path to compliance. The toolkit includes: • “Stormwater 101” – an introduction to the topic. • A look at EPA’s small lot template, a streamlined approach for smaller projects. • State-by-state breakdowns of national permitting trends. • Tips for how to make green infrastructure, also known as low-impact development, work in your community. The toolkit also includes planning checklists and links to resources from other organizations to help you better manage your stormwater issues. As part of the toolkit launch, NAHB this week released A Developer’s Guide to Post-Construction Stormwater Regulation. This report breaks down state-by-state data on five top post-construction permitting issues affecting members in the field. Judge Strikes Down Obama Overtime Rule doA federal judge has struck wn the Obama administration’s overtime rule that would have doubled the salary threshold for workers to be able to receive overtime pay. The Obama administration’s final rule that was set to take effect Dec. 1, 2016, raised the salary threshold for executive, administrative, or professional workers to receive overtime pay from $23,660 to $47,476. Last year, NAHB joined other business groups in a lawsuit in federal court challenging the overtime rule. As a result, the rule has not been implemented because a judge issued a preliminary injunction against it. New Silica Rule Goes Into Effect Sept. 23 t NAHB is advising its members o be prepared as enforcement of the silica rule in construction is scheduled to begin Sept. 23. The rule was originally scheduled to go into effect for the construction sector on June 23, but OSHA issued a 90-day delay. Some state-run OSHA programs, such as Virginia’s, have chosen not to follow OSHA’s enforcement delay and are already implementing the standard in their state plans. State-run OSHA programs have six months to adopt the federal rule or develop one that is equally effective. NAHB’s legal challenge on the silica rule is still pending. The case is scheduled to be argued before the court on Sept. 26. SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 33
Fair Share for BUILD-PAC WHAT is BUILD-PAC? BUILD-PAC, or Builders United in Legislative Decisions Political Action Committee, is the political arm of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). It helps elect pro-housing, pro-business candidates to federal office. WHICH party does BUILD-PAC support, Republicans or Democrats? BUILD-PAC is bipartisan. It supports pro-housing, pro-business candidates on both sides of the aisle regardless of their party affiliation. WHO can contribute to BUILD-PAC? Only NAHB members may be solicited to contribute to BUILD-PAC. PAYMENT INFORMATION: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FEC law requires that all BUILD-PAC contributions – check or credit card - come from personal, not corporate, funds. Checks should be made payable to BUILD-PAC and mailed to BUILD-PAC staff’s attention at 1201 15th St NW, Washington DC 20005. n Personal Check n Personal Credit Card: n Visa n MasterCard n American Express Card Number ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Name on Card _______________________________________________________________________ Exp Date _________________ CONTRIBUTION LEVELS: Capitol Club ($5,000 annually) Gold Key Club ($1,000 annually) Century Club ($100 annually) Platinum Club ($2,500 annually) Dollar-a-Day Club ($365 annually) BUILD-PAC Fair Share ($25 annually) n Other (amount not listed above) ________ Contributions to BUILD-PAC are completely voluntary. You may choose not to contribute without reprisal. Contributions to BUILD-PAC will be used for political purposes and are not tax deductible for federal income tax purposes. Federal law requires political action committees to report the name, mailing address, occupation, and name of employer for each individual whose contributions exceed $200.00 in a calendar year. Foreign nationals cannot contribute to BUILD-PAC. Name _____________________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________State______ ZipCode _________________ Occupation_________________________________________________________________________ Company Name ____________________________________________________________________ Preferred Phone Number _____________________________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________________________________________ Signature__________________________________________________________________________ Member ID _______________________________________ (for internal use – not required) Recruited by ______________________________________ BUILD-PWHO decides which candidates receive AC support? Contributors like you! More than 100 NAHB members serve on the BUILD-PAC Board of Trustees, which decides which candidates receive support. DOES BUILD-PAC accept corporate contributions? BUILD-PAC can accept only personal funds. It is illegal for a political action committee to contribute corporate donations to congressional candidates. participate?HOW can we get more members to Participation is critical. That’s why BUILD-PAC created a new Fair Share level. With a contribution of just $25, far more members can join the fight for housing. Just 4% of members shoulder the entire weight of BUILD-PAC. Imagine what we could do if the other 96% were to invest in our most important political tool. Do your fair share by investing in BUILD-PAC today! 34 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017
NAHB NEWS Weigh in on WOTUS – Tell Feds What You Think by Sept. 27 on a prThe EPA and the Army Corps are taking comments oposed rule that would replace the 2015 definition of the term “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) with the text that existed since 1986. Since the Sixth Circuit issued a nationwide stay of the regulation in October 2015, the agencies have been enforcing the regulations defining WOTUS that were in effect immediately before the 2015 rule. The proposed action would simply continue that practice and recodify the status quo that has been in place for decades. The agencies said the action is the first in a two-step process: In Step 2, the government will propose a new definition for WOTUS. Going back to the well-established 1986 definition allows the agencies to provide continuity and clarity to the regulated community while deliberating on a new one. The comment period closes on Sept. 27. For additional details on how to comment and to download sample letters, visit the members-only webpage or contact Owen McDonough. 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 SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 35
TRAINING & SEMINARS Register Online or call the HBRA office at 203-335-7008 OSHA 10 Hour Construction Thursday, October 12 & Friday, October 13, 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 October 6th to reserve your spot. Walk-ins will not be accepted at this course due to limited seating. Sponsored by: 36 HBRA of Fairfield County | SEPTEMBER 2017
CAPS I, II and III Designation (Certified Aging in Place Specialist) CAPS I: December 6th, 8:30AM - 5:00PM CAPS 2: December 7th, 8:30AM - 5:00PM CAPS 3: December 8th, 8:30AM - 5:00PM Ring’s End Educational Facility 160 Avon Street, Stratford CT 06615 HBRA Member Fee: $250 per course Non-Member Fee: $350 per course (Fees include registration, lunch, resource materials, and NAHB exam processing) Three Courses Required: Marketing & Communication Strategies for Aging and Accessibility (CAPS I) The goal of the course is to equip course participants with the knowledge and tools to effectively market and sell services to the aging in place (AIP) market. Design Concepts for Livable Homes and Aging In Place (CAPS II) The goal of this course is to enable participants to identify common challenges within the home and understand attractive design concepts that create a safe and comfortable environment for clients who want to age in place as well as identify with one or more of these groups: Individuals who are not experiencing health issues related to aging, individuals who have a progressive or other condition that requires home modifications or equipment, and individuals who are dealing with an abrupt or traumatic health-related change. Details & Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging In Place (CAPS III) This course builds on the CAPS I and CAPS II courses (which are prerequisites for this course) by introducing design solutions and techniques for professionals whose clients require specialized design and equipment to live and thrive comfortably in their homes. Whole house product specification and installation techniques will be covered accompanied by practical, hands-on activities. Certified Instructor: Alan Hanbury, CGR, CAPS, CGP. GMR, MBA House of Hanbury Builders Inc. 109 Stamm Rd Newington, CT 06111 REGISTER HERE SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 37
MEMBER BENEFITS HBRA Job Bank
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REdefining home improvement RingsEnd.com 800 390 1000 SEPTEMBER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 42
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