The E-Magazine of the Fairfield County HBRA SUMMER 2017 UPCOMING SEPTEMBER 6 Clambake at the Beach FEATURED Golf Classic New Members Dear Sandler Coach Member News SEPTEMBER 8 HOBI Application Deadline OCTOBER 4 GMM - Hocon Gas OCTOBER 12-13 OSHA 10 OCTOBER 24 Builders vs. Associates Bowl-a-rama
connecticut cottages & gardens March 2017 cottagesgardens.com Cottagesgardens.Com | marCH 2017 ArchitectureIssue The
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! SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 3 gas MEDIA SPONSOR
IN THIS ISSUE Letter From The CEO Upcoming Events HBRA Golf Classic International Builders Show HOBI Applications Member News Clambake at the Beach HBRA Bowl-A-Rama 8 Golf Outing 20 New Members 18 Clambake New Members Dear Sandler Coach Associate Spotlight DiMatteo Group/ Rebecca St. Germain Wells Fargo Advisors/Dennis Devane Builder News Creating A Passive House with Luxury In Mind p.6 p.7 p.8 p.16 p.17 p.18 p.19 p.20 p.23 p.24 p.26 p.28 What will it take for more millennials to own homes p.29 Suntegra® partners with murphy brothers contracting p.29 Lumber Shortages Encumber More Builders NAHB News 55+ Builder Confidence Strengthens in 2nd Quarter A Focus on Flood Insurance and Lumber Almost 80,000 Starts in 2016 Were Tear-Downs EPA Rescinds Post-Construction Stormwater Rule DOL Considering Next Steps on Overtime Rule Apply to Serve on an NAHB Committee/Council 34 Seminars OSHA 10 Hour Construction Job Bank Builder Book Store Member Benefits Advertisers: CTC&G Hocon Gas Eds Garage Doors Fairfield County Bank New England Home DiMatteo Group Interstate Elevator Service County TV & Appliance United Bank Tooher & Ferraris East Haven Builder Supply Ridgefield Supply Rings 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 Cover Image: Sandro Photography http://sandro-photo.com/ p.29 p.30 p.30 p.32 p.32 p.34 p.36 p.37 p.37 p.38 p.2 p.3 p.22 p.22 p.25 p.25 p.27 p.27 p.31 p.31 p.33 p.33 p.35 p.40
Building Relationships That Last. Propane and Natural Gas Products! • We Plan It • We Install It • We Fill It • We Service It With over 400,000 gallons of storage, HOCON GAS has a reputation for delivering propane energy and industry expertise for more than 65 years! PROPANE SERVICES RESIDENTIAL • Cooking • Fireplaces • Generators • Grills • Heat • Hot Water • Pools • Tanks CUSTOMER SERVICE • Appliances • Installation • Propane Delivery • Expert Services PETE “Propane Pete” BATTAGLIO Senior Regional Manager, New Business Development Hocon Gas, Inc. • 6 Armstrong Rd., Shelton, CT 06484 Shelton: 203.925.0600 • Fax: 203.944.0300 Cell: 203.343.2199 • Email: pbattaglio@hocongas.com NORWALK 33 Rockland Rd. (800) 801-3835 (203) 853-1500 WATERBURY 20 Railroad Hill St. (800) 992-2242 (203) 754-7601 www.hocongas.com GUILFORD 736 Boston Post Rd. (877) 906-2500 (203) 458-2790 DANBURY 86 Payne Rd. (888) 977-6726 (203) 744-4000 TORRINGTON 2407 Winsted Rd. (888) 744-8686 (860) 626-0900 © Copyright Hocon • HOD#726-30 INDUSTRIAL DIVISION • Industrial Gases • Safety Products • Temporary Heat • Welding Supplies
MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dear HBRA Members, Welcome to our Building Connections Summer Issue where we highlight the 2017 Golf Outing at Tashua Knolls in Trumbull. Even with the rain it was an excellent event! Special THANKS to our sponsors, committee members, volunteers, golfers and dinner attendees! The 2018 International Builders Show is now open for FREE EXPO registration for members but only for the month of August. See page 16 or go to the Fairfield County HBRA website for links to register. Joanne Carroll and the State Association are once again planning the 2017 HOBI Awards. The HOBI Awards offers recognition to HBRA builders, remodelers, and suppliers for excellence in home design and construction, home technology, sales and marketing and home financing. The HOBI Award application deadline is September 8th. Applications must be postmarked by that date so don’t delay. The 3rd Annual Clambake is scheduled for September 6th at the Penfield Pavilion on the Fairfield Beach. It is a terrific event sponsored by Marlin Electric and catered by Tilden Seafood. Join us for lobster, burgers, drinks, and a great evening of networking. 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. We are looking for Alley Sponsors for $250 - what a great way to show your support! We are also in need of Membership Raffle Sponsors for the September, October, and November General Membership Meetings. For $250 your company will be highlighted at the meeting and have the opportunity to say a few words prior to the raffle drawing. Contact the office for details. Welcome to all of our new members that joined in July. We hope to see you all at a future membership meeting or event! As always, if you have any questions, please call the office or e-mail us at hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com! Gina Calabro gina@buildfairfieldcounty.com 6 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
MARK YOUR CALENDARS UPCOMING EVENTS September 6, 2017 Clambake at the Beach Fairfield Beach Click Here to Register 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 SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 7 1
HBRA Golf Classic Presented by Ring’s End T he start of the 2017 Fairfield County HBRA Golf Outing may have been wet with a delayed start, but the 144 golfers persevered. Lunch was sponsored by Hocon Gas and luckily, the rain ended by 1:00PM and the scramble commenced. Beverages, ice cream and a spectacular raw bar provided by Marlin Electric was on the course. Over 170 attended the cocktail hour sponsored by Interstate Lumber, the dinner was sponsored by Rings End, Awards sponsored by Acadia and Dessert by DiMatteo Group. Congratulations to the 18 Hole Tournament Winners: • 1st Place - Elevator Service Company Steven Roth, CJ Giampaolo, Keith Domack, Amber Wilder. • 2nd Place - Shoreline Painting & Drywall Chris Polidoro, Cody Nizzardo, Joe Mish, Edward Mailhot • 3rd Place - Capital Tile & Stone Jordan Cutler, Rob Cutler, Leo Tatagiia, Izzy Quaranta • Longest Drive - CJ Giampaolo • Closest to the Pin - Dan Harris • Closest to the Line - Mike Clark 8 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017 • Most Honest - Pella Windows & Doors Tim Baxter, Randy Sullivan, Mark Motyl, Peter Helmes The 9-hole Tournament Winners: • 1st Place -Jason Ferry, John Gilloth,Debbie Kelly and Gerald Sceiner • Closets to the Line - John Lemke Thanks to the Golf Committee who once again planned an exceptional event and to all of the volunteers who helped make the day a success. 2017 Golf Committee Chair: Michael DeRosa, DeRosa Builders Lora Mazurak Aitoro Appliance Karen Bradbury, Closet & Storage Concepts Matt Orsaia, Complete Dismantling Services Connie Cooper, Connie Cooper Designs Anthony DeRosa, DeRosa Builders Len Volpe, Interstate+ Lakeland Lumber Rich Cahill, Ring’s End Win Smith, Tooher Ferraris HBRA Staff: Gina Calabro, Sarah Iannarone, Clare Michalak
1st Place - 18 Hole Tournament Elevator Service Company SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 9
10 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
Click here to see all pictures of the day SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 11
12 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
2017 Golf Outing Sponsors Presenting Sponsor - Ring’s End Awards - Acadia Insurance Awards/Dessert - DiMatteo Group Beverage Cart - Interstate Lumber Beverage Cart - Ridgefield Supply Closest to the Pin - 18 Hole - Key Insurance & Benefits Services Closest to the Line - 9 Hole - CAFD Closest to the Line - 18 Hole - City Carting & Recycling Cocktail Hour - Interstate Lumber Dinner Sponsor - Rings End Driving Range - Ed’s Garage Doors Golf Ball Sponsor- 18 Hole - DeRosa Builders Golf Ball Sponsor- 9 Hole - Closet & Storage Concepts Golf Cart Sponsor- Bender Golf Cart Sponsor- Elevator Service Co. Golf Cart Sponsor- County TV & Appliance Hats - Ring’s End Hole-in-One - $10,000 Prize - Tooher Ferraris Hole-in-One - Chevy Truck - Corporate Plans Retirement Strategies Hole-in-One - Trip - Tile America Hole-in-One - Golf Clubs - AW Hastings/Marvin Windows Ice Cream Cart - Shoreline Painting and Drywall Lunch Sponsor - Hocon Gas Longest Drive - United Bank Putting Green - Fairfield County Bank Raw Bar - Marlin Electric Tote Bag - Pella Windows & Doors Water Bottle Sponsor - Connecticut Stone Circa Lighting CironeFriedberg, LLP City Carting Complete Dismantling Services Feroleto Steel Company Inc. Fimbel ADS Frangione Engineering, LLC Hatch & Bailey Lumberyards Huber Engineered Woods Huber Engineered Woods - 9 Hole Magna Steel Sales, Inc. Mono-Crete Step Co Mr. Showerdoor Ontra Stone Parksite Savings Bank of Danbury Shoreline Pools Steiner, Inc. Stephanie Rapp Interiors SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 13
14 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
Click here to see all pictures of the day SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 15
Countdown to IBS | Registration Opened August 1 Get ready, because the best deals on IBS registration only happen in August: • IBS expo pass—FREE for NAHB members and $50 for non-members. • Save $100 on a full registration—with access to 140+ IBS Education sessions led by industry experts and phenomenal speakers. • Discounted 1-day education passes. • Free spouse registration Register Here Hotels are booking fast and some are already sold out. Hotel and travel info can be found HERE 16 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
Join the best in your industry by entering Connecticut’s Home Building Industry Awards. Sponsored by the state association , the HBRA of Connecticut, the HOBI Awards offers recognition to builders, remodelers, and suppliers for excellence in home design and construction, home technology, sales and marketing and home financing. ELIGIBILITY Only HBRA members may enter any house, development or product built, remodeled, supplied, marketed, or financed by an HBRA member after January 2015, or a community service project undertaken in 2017. JUDGING A panel of housing industry professionals will review all entries and visit selected homes and developments. Judges reserve the right to eliminate any category due to insufficient entries, or if the quality of the work does not warrant a winner. All decisions are final. WINNING ENTRIES Winners will be notified by October 14. Awards and a Power Point show of the winning entries will be presented at the HBRA HOBI Awards Dinner on Wednesday, November 15, 2017 at the Aqua Turf in Southington, CT. Winners will be featured in Connecticut Builder Magazine, and will benefit from local and state wide media coverage and publicity. TOP AWARDS will be kept confidential and announced at the awards dinner on November 15, 2017. SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 17
MEMBER NEWS Clambake at the Beach SPACE IS LIMITED! It was a sold out affair in 2016 and will no doubt be the same for 2017. It’s time for the 3rd Annual Clambake at the Beach, sponsored by Marlin Electric. Hamburgers, Salad, and Desert will also be served. September 6, 2017, 7 - 10 PM at the Penfield Pavilion in Fairfield The Membership Raffle is up to $1,000. Any attending members are eligible to win! REGISTER HERE 18 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
A - October 24, 2017 The Associate’s Council is hosting a Builders vs Associates Bowl-a-Rama at Nutmeg Bowl in Fairfield on October 24, 2017 from 5 - 8PM We are looking to make this an annual event with a trophy to be passed to the winning group. Get your bowling shoes ready and sign up as individuals or teams of 6. Register Here SPONSORSHIPS ALLEY SPONSOR - $250 10 available • Your logo on an Alley (2 lanes) • 6 Bowlers and rental shoes • 2 Bowling Games • Includes all Food and Beer SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 19 a a B m m o a w - R l
NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the newest members of HBRA of Fairfield County! Go to www.buildfairfieldcounty.com for their contact info. Paul Dispazio Bullbag Corporation The BullBag is your reusable and foldable dumpster bag. It is easily stored, simple to use and comes with a Lifetime Warranty. The BullBag can be filled to 3 different heights enabling you to set your budget for your project by knowing the total cost up front for disposal. The BullBag is reusable, easy to set up, will never damage your property and as long as it’s used according to design, will be replaced if damaged. Christian L. Calemmo Christian Rae Studio, LLC Christian is the co- founder of Christian Rae Studio, LLC, one of the top “up and coming” architecture and lighting firms in Fairfield County. He has spent the better part of the past 15 years working with clients to create some of Fairfield and Westchester’s most distinguished and unique designs. Rachel Calemmo orchestrates light, color, materials and space to create visually appealing environments which ease the demands of modern life. Michael Monahan P.E. Encon ENCON has been reliably delivering perfect indoor comfort and absolute confidence for Connecticut and Westchester County, NY since 1969. Our highly trained, highly specialized and innovative engineers and technicians are committed to creating piece of mind and delivering excellence in the field of customer service. We offer the newest technology in residential and commercial HVAC systems, as well as a broad portfolio of the latest energy efficient technologies in lighting and other energy efficient products. Tarra Del Chiaro Accurate Lock and Hardware Since 1972, accurate lock & hardware has operated under one guiding principle: if you can dream it, we can make it. Everything we build, from our team of experts to our manufacturing lines, is designed to ensure that when you call on us, we provide solutions to your most difficult challenges. Our dedication to craftsmanship and quality sets the standard for our legacy product line; while our commitment to modern technology pushes the boundaries of the industry to develop ground breaking solutions for the entire door. Welcome to Our Newest Affiliate Members Bullbag Corporation John Peters D & D Homes, LLC Jennifer MacLauchlan 20 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017 Deane, Inc Britt Newman
Jesse Kosko Lynx Security Systems & Home Theaters LLC Home Security runs in the family. Jesse Kosko has been working with home security since he could walk. Following in his father’s footsteps, Jesse ventured out on his own 10 years ago and has made his family very proud. The solid foundation of Lynx Systems has been and always will be treating the client like a member of the family. However, his passion for awesome movies and really loud speakers led him to incorporate Hi-Fi sound systems into his security work.And so, Lynx Security Systems was born. Mark Mosolino Mosolino Development LLC Mosolino Development LLC is an award winning full service custom builder specializing in Greenwich, New Canaan and Ridgefield Ct. We build architecturally designed homes exclusively with no preference for size or style of home. Whether the project is large or small we provide full staffing and attention to details throughout the project. Marc Vandenhoeck Riverside Design and Build In the Master Builder tradition, Riverside Design and Build provides a seamless process of designing and constructing custom residences for its clients. The uniqueness of this award-winning firm lies in the comprehensive knowledge and complementary talents of founders Marc Vandenhoeck and Michele Rudolph. David Kneisel Shorefront Construction Shorefront Construction fuses design and functionality to create detailed, creative, one of a kind custom luxury homes for our clients. Shorefront Construction is a team of hardworking, professionals with a shared focus of designing and building the best homes for our clients. Every person has a different idea of what their dream home is. Shorefront Construction turns your dream into a reality. John Snellman, Jr. Snellman Construction Inc. As a fourth generation family business, Snellman Construction Inc. aims to surpass your expectations. We create homes that are practical, yet creative. We make your personal taste is our personal mission. No matter the price or design, we are here to help. Through hard work, quality craftsmanship, and excellent service, we became one of the most reputable business in the Fairfield County. SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 21
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 ® 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 22 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
DEAR SANDLER COACH MEMBERSHIP RAFFLE SPONSORS NEEDED We are looking for companies to sponsor our monthly Membership Raffle. For $250 sponsors receive signage at the event, as well as the opportunity to say a few words at the event. The current membership raffle is up to $1000. We need sponsors for: September 2017 October 2017 November 2017 If you are interested in sponsoring please email gina@buildfairfieldcounty.com or call the office at 203-335-7008 Dear Sandler Coach, It seems every time I’m at a networking event I end up collecting a lot of business cards but have a hard time getting back with them for the meeting. Anything I can do differently? - Jessica L. Dear Jessica, I feel like these events haven’t changed much in the last 10 years so it’s time we start changing. In a networking event, a lot of people are trying to “sell” themselves when just getting to know someone should be the first step. Now these business cards. If you think about it, today we all have cell phones and can easily take down someone’s information especially if we are right in front of them, I’d say the same for appointments. Instead of exchanging cards, exchange open dates for the next week and set in your calendars your next meeting right then and there. You should now walk out of the event with actual meetings instead of a stack of cards - John 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. John is also active in the Greenwich and New Haven Chambers as well as Membership Success BNI out of Brookfield. Have a training question for John? Send your questions to hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 23
ASSOCIATE SPOTLIGHT Rebecca St. Germain (203) 924-5427 rstgermain@dimatteogrp.com www.dimatteogrp.com The DiMatteo Group is a family owned and operated insurance and financial service firm. Since opening in 1960, we’ve built a reputation of expertise and integrity by providing quality insurance, retirement plans, and employee benefits to families and small to mid-sized businesses. We also provide financial, income tax and accounting services. At the DiMatteo Group, we don’t peddle products, nor do we believe that one size plans fit all companies. When it comes to a comprehensive benefit program, each of our clients is unique with their own set of challenges and needs We want to get to know you before we recommend any solution. Our process begins with an initial meeting where we obtain copies of your current plans, determine your needs and budget, and what insurance company you are presently with. Then it’s back to the office for a comprehensive review of your plan where we will examine your coverages, look for shortfalls, and duplications. We will prepare our Offer and Recommendations and review your options in detail. Once a decision is made, we will obtain the necessary coverages and work with you to schedule employee education. But we don’t stop there. Our team is available throughout the year providing much needed support services such as: • Claims Support - We have an in house claim and billing analyst who assists our clients with claim rejections, billing errors, service authorizations, and Prescription issues. In 2016 he recovered almost $80,000 for our clients and their medical providers. • COBRA letters and administration • Monthly reminder emails for employee changes, births, marriages, termination. • Procedure Manuals to include plan and rates, COBRA procedures, enrollment forms and other necessary items along with your DiMatteo Team contact information • HealthCare Reform experts ready to explain how the new law/changes affect both your business and your employees. • And, finally approximately 60 days prior to your renewal, we will meet with you to review the plan, its past-year’s experience, present new product opportunities, and remarket, if necessary. Rebecca St. Germain acts as a trusted advisor to her clients. She has been in the insurance industry for over 20 years. She has worked at DiMatteo Group for over 8 years and prides herself in assisting clients and their employees. 24 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
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 “Roberta goes above and beyond selling advertising. She stays in touch with us regarding editorial opportunities, invites us to high quality networking events, and makes email introductions between us and potential partners.” —Kristen Sullivan, GatehouSe PaRtneRS Contact Associate Publisher, Roberta Mancuso to learn how New England Home Connecticut can help generate business for your company. rmancuso@nehomemag.com | 203.530.9593 nehomemag.com SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 25
ASSOCIATE SPOTLIGHT Dennis Devane, MBA First Vice President - Investment Officer Address: 450 Post Road East , Westport , CT 06880 Phone: 203-221-5557 | 800-327-8557 Fax: 203-221-1625 Email: dennis.devane@wellsfargoadvisors.com https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/dennis.devane For over 22 years, I have managed multigenerational wealth for private clients from the early stages of wealth accumulation through retirement and advised on the transfer of wealth to the next generation. I work closely with entrepreneurs, institutions, and high net worth individuals to provide integrated financial strategies to help them achieve their long term goals. My core capabilities include: - 401k rollovers* and IRA consolidations which includes retirement income and expense planning - The formation of risk based goal asset allocation strategies utilizing a variety of investment strategies - Family owned business planning which includes comprehensive retirement planning strategies, deferred compensation, and succession planning - Multi-generational estate analysis encompassing trust formation, annuity and insurance implementation strategies through Wells Fargo affiliates.. I earned my BBA in Accounting and an MBA in Finance from Adelphi University in Garden City, New York and hold the Series 3,7,63, and 65 FINRA registrations. I also maintain the Annuity, Life, and Health Insurance licenses. Prior to my wealth management career- I was a Certified Public Accountant (not currently practicing) and applied my background to various management, audit, accounting, financial analysis and consulting positions with such firms as Goldman Sachs and PriceWaterhouse Coopers. My Associate(s): Alex Zuniga, Senior Client Associate My Experience 2008 - Present : Wells Fargo Advisors, First Vice President- Investment Officer, PIM Portfolio Manager 1996 - 2008 : UBS, Vice President- Investments 1990 - 1996 : Smith Barney and related merger affiliates, Financial Advisor My Areas of Focus Portfolio Construction/Advisory Based Educational Funding & 529 Plans Wealth Transfer/Estate Planning Strategies Insurance Solutions IRA Distribution Strategies Securities Registered in the following states: AZ, CA, CT, FL, GA, IL, IN, MA, MD, MN, MT, NC, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OR, RI, SC, VA Insurance licensed in the following states: CT, FL, GA, NJ, NM, NY © 2009-2017 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. P Investment and Insurance Products: Are Not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency Are Not deposits of or guaranteed by a Bank May Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Links to third-party websites are provided for your convenience and information purposes only. Wells Fargo Advisors is not responsible for the information contained on third party websites. *Please keep in mind that rolling over your qualified employersponsored plan (QRP) to an IRA is just one option. Each option has advantages and disadvantages, and the one that is best depends on your individual circumstances. You should consider features such as investing options, fees and expenses and services offered. Investing and maintaining assets in an IRA will generally involve higher costs than those associated with QRP. We recommend you consult with your current plan administrator before making any decisions regarding your retirement assets. 26 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
spin zoom click explore Take a virtual tour through our award-winning showroom from the comfort of your home or office. Interstate + Lakeland Lumber’s Design Center is a state-of-the-art, high-end, custom showroom built in the original 1922 mill shop. It provides a gallery style setting for premium windows, doors, and hardware and our specialty, custom millwork. Our experienced representative is on hand to answer any of your questions and provide solutions to your building challenges. To learn more, contact Frank Bowron at 203-531-8050 ext 1156 fbowron@interstatelumber.com http://www.interstatelumber.com/services/designcenter-tour.html Specializing In: Residential Elevators | Commercial Elevators | Construction Hoists Limited Use Limited Application Elevators (LULA) Vertical Platform Lifts | Inclined Lifts | Stair Lifts Dumbwaiters | Material Lifts (Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors) And all other associated Vertical Transportation Equipment Serving: Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Eastern New York 203-757-5000 www.ElevatorServiceCo.com CT Lic.# ELV. 400105 R1 - RI Lic. # 21 MA Lic.# EC-000093 Providing not one, but ALL Major Manufacturer’s Equipment SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 27
BUILDER NEWS What will it take for more millennials to own homes? homeoIn the last 10 years, the wnership rate among Creating A Passive House With Luxury In Mind fThe design for the modern home or sale overlooking the Ponus Ridge Land Trust in New Canaan, Conn., strikes a serene setting. On 1.74 acres, the sprawling residence measures about 4,000 square foot with four bedrooms - each with ensuite baths - and two terraces and a three car garage. Yet despite its striking beauty and bountiful amenities what makes the residence unique is less noticeable to the untrained eye. The home is the first-ever to be built in New Canaan to Passive House Standards, a rigid level of energy efficiency that uses upwards of 90 percent less energy for heating and cooling than do traditional homes. It’s air-tight construction allows the entire residence to run on the same amount of power it takes to operate two hand-held hair dryers. But rather than succumb to the usual soulless, boxy designs that accompany many energy efficient homes, the New Canaan structure marks one of the first to be elevated to high-end luxury, employing a level of inventive elegance rarely seen in energysaving designs. “Passive Houses are more efficient than the average home, but that doesn’t mean they can’t also be luxurious,” says Salvatore Zarrella, founder of Fairfield County-based Construction Management Group (CMG) and the team behind the New Canaan home. The firm is building three Passive Houses in Connecticut and is at the forefront of the movement to elevate the energy-saving design aesthetic to luxury living. The company is also building a modern home with a glass enclosed herb garden in Stamford, Conn., that is that city’s first certified Passive House. It was voted by Cottage & Gardens magazine as one of the “Most Beautiful Listings of 2015”. Read More 28 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017 people aged 25 to 44 has dropped by 10 percentage points, per a recent study conducted by Fannie Mae and the University of Southern California, HousingWire reported. Fewer millennials own homes for numerous reasons, including the foreclosure crisis, a lack of entrylevel inventory, a slow job market and stringent mortgage lending. Millennials are also waiting longer to get married and have children. There was a correlation between higher education and potential increases in salaries and wealth, which could raise the millennial homeownership rate by 1.5 percentage points in the next 20 years. Closing racial education gaps could raise the rate by 2.5 percentage points. And doing both those things could push the rate up six to seven percentage points during that time. It’s not so much that millennials don’t want to own homes as it is that they lack the opportunity to. Roughly half of new homes are priced below $300,000, one Moody’s director told Construction Dive last year. Prices higher than that can be too costly for a firsttime homebuyer, who might also have student loan debt or a salary that cannot cover a mortgage just yet, let alone save up a down payment. Read More
The brave new world of construction recruiting tTimes have changed. It once wasn’t unusual for a construction career o start and end with family. “You learned the skills, gained responsibility along the way and often ended up years later with ownership of the business,” said Kim Waseca-Love, education and apprenticeship director for the Spokane (WA) Home Builders Association. But that scenario is becoming less and less common. And with the ongoing labor shortage, the need for solutions is taking on a greater importance. Waseca-Love says there will soon be a deficit of 200,000 to 250,000 construction workers annually nationwide. Part of that drop-off will come as the result of older workers retiring, making the need to transfer their knowledge and skills to those taking their place an urgent one. The challenge, of course, is finding those new workers. Passing along knowledge from an experienced worker to one who wants to learn is an age-old practice, and it remains one of the most effective ways to train someone in a skill. Since 1980, the Spokane HBA has offered a four-year apprenticeship program, which is approved and monitored by the state’s Department of Labor and Industries. Through the program, apprentices undergo 8,000 hours of on-the-job training in residential carpentry, plus another 144 hours of related classroom instruction, and are paid wages by their employers. Read More SunTegra® Partners with Murphy Brothers Contracting for First Solar Roof Installation in Stamford, CT MurphSunTegra, an advanced Solar Roof manufacturer, has partnered with y Brothers Contracting, a high-end custom home builder serving Westchester and Connecticut, to install the first-ever solar roof in Stamford, Connecticut. The solar roof system installed on a waterfront home in Stamford, CT consisted of fifty five 105W SunTegra Shingles. The 5.8 kWp SunTegra Shingle solar roof is sized to provide an estimated 6,543 kWh per year and replaced the need for over 400 ft2 of asphalt shingle roofing. “Murphy Brothers Contracting believes that building green is simply building smart, and when we saw SunTegra solar roof shingles, we thought ‘Brilliant!’,” said Michael Murphy, of Murphy Brothers Contracting. “We frequently host educational events for architects and design professionals to showcase new innovative products. The event we held at this home received a lot of interest and gave attendees the opportunity to see a solar roof in real time operation!” Read More Lumber Shortages Encumber More Builders country wHome builders across the ere getting hammered by skyrocketing lumber prices earlier this year. And now, more of them are reporting issues with lumber supply, too. A new post on Eye on Housing cites recent NAHB survey results which found that more than 1 in 5 singlefamily builders are experiencing a shortage of framing lumber. While access to lots and labor remain much higher priorities for the majority of builders, the availability of lumber is quickly rising on many of their priority lists. Russ Pies, general manager at Builders FirstSource in Sioux Falls, S.D., says the added duties on and availability of softwood lumber have created pricing instability. “Our builders are feeling even more pressure to keep their projects on time and on budget,” Pies said. “If this instability continues into the fall, the risk will be too high for smaller builders to build spec homes and force them to downsize.” For now, the majority of builders continue to have access to sufficient lumber supplies, albeit at prices much higher than a year ago. However, lumber prices recently began leveling off and dropping in most markets. Read More SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 29
NAHB NEWS 55+ Builder Confidence Strengthens in 2nd Quarter housing marBuilder confidence in the single-family 55+ ket strengthened in the second quarter of 2017 with a reading of 66, up 11 points from the previous quarter, according to the NAHB 55+ Housing Market Index (HMI) released today. This is the 13th consecutive quarter with a reading above 50, which means that more builders view conditions as good than poor. “Demand for 55+ housing continues to grow, and this quarter’s index is a reflection of that,” said Dennis Cunningham, chairman of NAHB’s 55+ Housing Industry Council and president of ActiveWest Builders in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. “Consumers in this market want a home that addresses their specific needs, and 55+ builders and developers are able to create homes and communities that cater to these needs.” There are separate 55+ HMIs for two segments of the market: single-family homes and multifamily condominiums. Each 55+ HMI measures builder sentiment based on a survey that asks 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). Read More A Focus on Flood Insurance and Lumber arWith Congress in its August recess, members e encouraged to visit their lawmakers in their home districts and seek action on two issues – flood insurance and lumber. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) must be reauthorized by Sept. 30. Congress requires all properties within the 100-year floodplain that are purchased with a federally backed mortgage to carry flood insurance. So it is essential that the program gets reauthorized in a timely manner. NAHB has been at the forefront of this issue, working with lawmakers on a viable, long-term bill. We have reached an agreement with the House Financial Services Committee to craft legislation that will provide a five-year reauthorization that will keep the NFIP fiscally sound and let builders provide safe and affordable housing. This is a huge win for NAHB, and brings us a big step closer to a program that protects home builders and home owners living in the floodplain. Read More 30 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
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 SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 31
NAHB NEWS EPA Rescinds Post-Construction Stormwater Rule withdrEPA announced in July that it is awing long-delayed federal Almost 80,000 Starts in 2016 Were Tear-Downs scant statistical eAlthough tear-downs can be flashpoints for public opinion, there is vidence of their real impact on the new homes market. The Census Bureau doesn’t specifically track new homes constructed on sites where a previous residence was torn down or where there is evidence of a previous residential structure. To fill the data void, NAHB polled members earlier this year about teardowns via its monthly NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index survey. Based on those responses, NAHB economists estimate that about 10.2% of single-family starts in 2016 — about 79,300 homes — were teardowns. That is significantly higher than the 55,200 tear-downs that NAHB reported in 2015 when they accounted for about 7.7% of singlefamily production. That increase mirrors the continued recovery of the single-family housing market, which recorded about a 10% increase in single-family starts in 2016. It may also reflect a shortage of developed lots which builders are facing in many markets. More than 40% of the tear-downs last year — 33,400 homes — were in the West. About 30%, or 23,800 homes, were in the South. The Northeast accounted for 9,800 homes, or about 12% of the total. About 15% of all tear-downs, or 12,300, were recorded in the Midwest. Read the full report in NAHB’s Eye on Housing blog. 32 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017 regulations that would require all developers to install stormwater management devices. In response to NAHB comments, EPA tabled the rule in 2014 that would have required additional “post-construction” controls for stormwater discharges. That rule would have required all builders to retain a certain volume of stormwater onsite, regardless of underlying soils or rainfall patterns. EPA’s existing rules simply require regulated cities to address post-construction flows to the “maximum extent practicable.” Since 2014, the shelved rule has sat on the agency’s “long-term action” list – not a priority, but eligible to be revisited at a future date. On July 27, EPA, along with all other federal agencies, published an updated rulemaking agenda for 2017. EPA announced that it has officially withdrawn its would-be national post-construction rule.
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 SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 33
NAHB NEWS DOL Considering Next Steps on Overtime Rule issued a rThe Department of Labor has equest for information How Construction Firms Compare to Other Industries of construction firms tA new study from NAHB Economics compares the business operations o businesses in other industries. The study is based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s new Annual Survey of Entrepreneurs (ASE). The study, available on HousingEconomics.com, presents new insights into the general business characteristics and finances of firms in the construction industry. Key results include finding that, compared to other industries, construction businesses in the U.S.: • Are somewhat more likely to operate on a seasonal basis; • More often operate out the business owner’s home; • Tend to make heavy use of subcontractors; • Are less likely to have company website A particularly useful aspect of the ASE is the financial data it collects, much of which is not available in a consistent and comprehensive way from any other source. The ASE financial data show that construction businesses in the U.S.: • Require less start-up capital than other businesses; • Often use personal or family savings as the primary source of start-up capital; • Tend to rely on banks and credit cards if they need additional funding; • Are marginally more effective than other businesses in raising additional funding; The ASE is the U.S. Census Bureau’s first effort to produce yearly estimates on businesses and business owners. . on the Obama administration’s overtime rule, and NAHB will submit comments independently and as a member of the Partnership to Protect Workplace Opportunity coalition. The Obama administration last year issued a proposed rule that was set to take effect Dec. 1, 2016, that would double the salary threshold to receive overtime pay from $23,660 to $47,476. Working with Congress and members of our business coalition, NAHB led the effort to mitigate the effects of the rule. Moreover, NAHB joined other business groups in filing a lawsuit to challenge the overtime rule. As a result of these efforts, the rule was never implemented because a judge issued a preliminary injunction against it. The Department of Labor is providing the public with the opportunity to offer input as the agency mulls its next steps. NAHB will provide detailed comments by the September 2017 deadline. Apply to Serve on an NAHB Committee/ Council fThe online application process or 2018 NAHB committee and council board of trustees appointments is now open. NAHB strongly encourages all who are interested to submit an application. Applications must be submitted online before Sept. 22. 34 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017
Our New Showroom NOW OPEN! We Will Be Featuring an Extensive Display Showcase of Andersen® We Will Be Featuring an Extensive Display Showcase of Andersen® Windows & Doors Windows & Doors 29 Prospect Street, Ridgefield, CT 203.438.2626 29 Prospect Street, Ridgefield, CT 203.438.2626 www.ridgefieldsupply.com Mon. - Fri. 7 - 5 • Sat. 8 - 2 • Closed Sunday www.ridgefieldsupply.com Mon. - Fri. 7 - 4 • Sat. 8 - 4 • Closed Sunday LUMBER • BUILDING MATERIALS • WINDOWS • DOORS • MILLWORK • HARDWARE • PAINT SUMMER 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 | SUMMER 2017
HBRA Job Bank If you would like to have a job posted, please use the Job Posting form to submit the information. FREE service for HBRA Members. The fee for Non-members is $50. Click here to Post a Job Please contact the HBRA office at 203-335-7008 or email us for more information, Available Jobs: These opportunities are offered by the HBRA members listed in the specific advertisement. Please do not contact the HBRA regarding these listings. Residential Building Products Specialist Parksite Inc. Resumes: Craig Smith – Sub-contractor, Remodeling and Renovation, Residential Carpenter FREE Resume Posting (Open to the public) E-mail your resume in Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat PDF format. Subject line: JOB BANK. Do not include your resume as body copy in an e-mail. Include a short paragraph summary of your skills or what type of job you are seeking. The HBRA of Fairfield County is not an employment agency nor will the HBRA recommend or refer any person seeking employment. It is up to the Member to contact an applicant directly and make employment decisions. Welcome to the Fairfield County HBRA Bookstore Members receive a 10% discount on all publications. The bookstore is linked to the NAHB BuilderBooks Bookstore where you will create your profile and place your orders. If you have purchased from the NAHB BuilderBooks Bookstore before all you need to do is login and place your order. Members Investing in Fairfield County HBRA Members when you purchase your books from the Fairfield County HBRA Bookstore you are helping your association earn a commission from all the sales derived from this bookstore with the association’s unique code: HBREMODE Click Here to View Library SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 37
MEMBER BENEFITS 30% OFF video security with smartphone response NPP members enjoy exclusive discounts on Home8 video-verified alarm systems that interact with your smartphone. Get prioritized response with direct police notification and video evidence. You watch. You know. You report. • NPP members receive 30% OFF all video-verified security systems • No monthly fees or contracts *Log in to NPP for the coupon code to activate your discount. TireBuyer Buy Tires & Wheels Online Save on tires online. FREE shipping to local installers.. Enjoy instant savings on all purchases at TireBuyer.com. Buy your tires and wheels online and receive fast, free delivery to a local installer for quick installation. Plus, the TireBuyer Installer Advantage offers guaranteed installation satisfaction. • NPP members receive • 9% OFF tires & wheels* • FREE delivery to 9,000+ installers • Guaranteed installation rates • 45-day hassle-free returns *Some brands may not qualify Log in to NPP for details 38 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2017 Not signed up yet? 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!
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 SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 39
REdefining home improvement RingsEnd.com 800 390 1000 SUMMER 2017 | HBRA of Fairfield County 40
1 Publizr