The Digest | Jan-Mar 2021

Digest T H E

JANUARY–MARCH 2021

Homeownership is all of it Launching Our Homeownership Campaign

BUSINESS TIPS

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

INTRODUCING

Refreshing Your Digital Presence

2020 Award Recipients

2021 Board of Directors

TWIN CITIES, MN PERMIT NO. 27734

PAID

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

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Contents JAN UA RY – M A R CH

2 0 21

23 45

50

20

HOUSING FIRST

IN THE INDUSTRY

BUSINESS TIPS

4

14 Advocacy in Action

23 Refreshing Your Digital Presence

6

From the President

President Todd Polifka shares his vision of bringing an industry together

2021 Board of Directors

Meet the leadership team of Housing First Minnesota

UP NEXT

8

Events

See what’s coming up next for industry events

12 Need to Know

A quick look at what’s going on at your association

A snapshot of the advocacy work of 2020

17 Industry Data

Digging into industry data to see what’s ahead in 2021

20 Homeownership Is All of It Launching our new campaign for homeownership for all Minnesotans

Eight professional visibility principles

26 Leveraging Member Connections Maximize your network within the association

28 Best Body Forward

Tips to cultivating a healthy environment for employees’ mental and physical health

30 Q+A: Ask the Building Inspector Peter Kulczyk answers your questions

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

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Digest T H E

Board of Directors EXECUTIVE BOARD PRESIDENT TODD POLIFKA, Custom One Homes VICE PRESIDENT JAMES JULKOWSKI, Julkowski, Inc. TREASURER JOHN QUINLIVAN, Gordon James Construction, Inc. ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT RYAN RUTZICK, All, Inc. SECRETARY SUNNY BOWMAN, Dakota County Lumber Company IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT GARY KRAEMER, John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. PAST ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT ED ENGELBRECHT, Pella Windows & Doors BOARD + COMMITTEE CHAIRS ADVOCACY CHAIR TONY WIENER, Cardinal Homebuilders, Inc. AMBASSADOR CHAIR DALE LOEFFLER, Marvin ARTISAN HOME TOUR CHAIR JOHN KRAEMER, John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. LARGE VOLUME BUILDERS COMMITTEE JAMIE THARP, Pulte Homes of Minnesota, LLC PARADE OF HOMES CHAIR SARAH DULONG, Ron Clark Construction PAST PRESIDENTS’ ADVISORY COUNCIL SHAWN NELSON, New Spaces

56

REMODELERS CHAIR SAMANTHA GROSE, Oak and Arrow Homes SMALL VOLUME BUILDERS CHAIR ART PRATT, Pratt Homes MEMBER AT-LARGE TIM FOHR, Lennar MEMBER AT-LARGE PHIL CONNOR, Fireside Hearth and Home

Staff BUILDING FUTURES

32 Foundation Fundraising Reflections Together we do extraordinary work

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DAVID SIEGEL FINANCE & OPER ATIONS

34 Renovations with an Impact

Remodeling apartments to create a nurturing environment for mothers recovering from addiction

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE JANICE MEYER FINANCE DIRECTOR TAMMI HALL MEMBERSHIP + EVENTS VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS NICOLE COON MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS COORDINATOR KIM CARTER

MEMBERS O N LY

36 Member Spotlight: 2020 Award Recipients

Recognizing excellence in several areas—from quality and value of construction to business ethics

48 In the Media 50 Clay Shoot Photo Gallery 52 Member News 54 Member Discounts 55 Elite Sponsors 56 Giving Back

Caring for our communities is at the heart of our industry

58 Looking Forward

Executive Director David Siegel shares six ways Housing First Minnesota will shine in 2021

EDUCATION & SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION & SPECIAL EVENTS TOM GAVARAS EDUCATION & SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR MARY BETH BLOM ADVOCACY VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVOCACY JAMES VAGLE DIRECTOR OF LEGISLATIVE & POLITICAL AFFAIRS MARK FOSTER DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH & REGULATORY AFFAIRS NICK ERICKSON COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR KATIE ELFSTROM COMMUNICATIONS & RESEARCH COORDINATOR KRISTEN OBER ADVOCACY COORDINATOR KATE WIGLEY CREATIVE SERVICES VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING & CREATIVE DAWNITA PARMELY CREATIVE DIRECTOR HANNAH SWAN EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER LAURA BURT ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP FULFILLMENT COORDINATOR LAURIE SPARTZ CREATIVE SERVICES & TECH COORDINATOR CASEY SCOZZARI FOUNDATION FOUNDATION DIRECTOR DONNIE BROWN FOUNDATION MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGER ERIN MILBURN INDEPENDENT CONTR ACTORS ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP SALES KORI MEEWES & BRAD MEEWES, and more by Kori

C O N TAC T U S

2960 Centre Pointe Drive, Roseville, MN 55113 • 651-697-1954 • HousingFirstMN.org The Digest magazine is an official publication of Housing First Minnesota. The Digest is published and distributed four times per year to members of Housing First Minnesota and others associated with the housing industry. Neither the advertisers, nor Housing First Minnesota, will be responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc., herein contained. For advertising rates, resource files or address change information, contact Housing First Minnesota. Suggestions, ideas and letters are welcome.

If circumstances require, Housing First Minnesota reserves the right to increase or decrease the number of The Digest issues published on an annual basis.

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The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

Bringing the Industry Together It’s official—we’ve made it to 2021.

Throughout the last year, we have all gained a new appreciation for the networks and communities in which we live, work, and build. As I begin my time as your Housing First Minnesota president, I am grateful for the opportunity to lead our community of builders, remodelers, and suppliers as we work to ensure the opportunity of homeownership for everyone, everywhere. Stepping into this role, I have reflected on what I have learned throughout this past year, and I am eager to put that knowledge into practice to help our members come together and build strong networks.

Solid industry connections are at the heart of all our work here at Housing First Minnesota. The events put on by our association—both in person and virtual—help members grow their networks and keep the market competitive. Your leadership team has pivoted many of the events and programs over the past 10 months to fit our ever-changing world, and we will continue to do so to best fit the needs of our membership. I encourage you all to participate in these reimagined events, particularly the brand-new Northern Design Build Expo. This expo is our new Builders and Remodelers Show and will kick off this spring in a virtual format. The two-day event will feature valuable

TODD POLIFKA 2021 HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA PRESIDENT

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

education, along with virtual exhibits that allow exhibitors and attendees to seamlessly connect.

But it’s not just our association events that provide a marketplace to grow your network. Our home tours allow members to connect with homeowners and are also wonderful opportunities for associates to strengthen their bonds with the builders and remodelers showcasing their products. The advocacy work of your Housing First Minnesota team is successful through bipartisan connections and collaboration as members share their real stories and experiences with our legislators at the Capitol. And the important work of your Housing First Minnesota Foundation is accomplished through leveraging new and longstanding partnerships, as well as the generosity of those that are committed to ending homelessness in Minnesota.

Throughout the changes over the past year, one thing has become increasingly clear to me: the value of membership has never been higher.

As the industry continues to adapt and change, your association is focused on providing the knowledge, advocacy, marketing, and connections to help our members succeed and bring the industry together.

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2021 HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

Board of Directors THANK YOU to our association’s elected volunteer leaders for their dedication to advancing homeownership for all Minnesotans.

PRESIDENT*

VICE PRESIDENT*

TREASURER*

Todd Polifka

James Julkowski

John Quinlivan

Custom One Homes

Julkowski, Inc.

Gordon James Construction, Inc.

PAST ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT*

ADVOCACY CHAIR

Ed Engelbrecht

Cardinal Homebuilders, Inc.

Pella Windows & Doors

Tony Wiener

ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT*

Ryan Rutzick All, Inc.

SECRETARY*

Sunny Bowman Dakota County Lumber Company

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.

ARTISAN HOME TOUR CHAIR

LARGE VOLUME BUILDERS CHAIR

Dale Loeffler

John Kraemer

Jamie Tharp

Marvin

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.

Pulte Homes of Minnesota, LLC

PAST PRESIDENTS’ ADVISORY COUNCIL

REMODELERS CHAIR

SMALL VOLUME BUILDERS CHAIR

MEMBER AT-LARGE

Sarah Dulong

Shawn Nelson

Samantha Grose

Art Pratt

Lennar

New Spaces

Gary Kraemer

AMBASSADOR CHAIR

PARADE OF HOMES CHAIR Ron Clark Construction

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT*

Oak and Arrow Homes

Tim Fohr

Pratt Homes

MEMBER AT-LARGE

Phil Connor

Fireside Hearth & Home * Denotes executive board

2 0 2 1 I N I T I AT I V E S

Homeownership Is All of It Campaign Homeownership brings with it greater community engagement, better mental and physical health, stronger educational outcomes, and it’s the single greatest creator of wealth in America. And yet, the importance of homeownership is too often taken for granted. It’s time to launch a powerful marketing campaign that reinforces the key societal value of homeownership for everyone, everywhere.

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The Digest

Renewed Focus on Membership

Northern Design Build Expo

Continued Home Tour Innovation

The value of membership in Housing First Minnesota has never been higher, yet there are still some in our industry who are unaware of the benefits they could gain by joining. This coming year will bring a renewed focus on membership and the important connectivity it creates. Housing First Minnesota is the glue that binds this diverse industry together and enables us to be a powerful, united force for industry good.

Sure, we’re still in the midst of COVID-19, which has forced us to introduce more virtual capability, but the need for our industry to connect has never been greater. To that end, we’ve reimagined the old Builders and Remodelers Show and reintroduced it as the Northern Design Build Expo, taking place virtually this spring. The Expo is not your typical trade show. It will feature rich online educational content and effective virtual exhibits that will allow exhibitors and attendees to seamlessly connect to do business.

We’ll continue to expand on digital initiatives we launched this past year, with an eye toward providing greater connectivity between our members and their customers.

We’ll launch a pilot print and digital neighborhood advertising opportunity that we believe will give our guidebook and website even more value. And we’ll think strategically about incorporating our new homeownership campaign into our Parade of Homes.

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

2021 LEADERSHIP

2021 HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA FOUNDATION

Board of Directors THANK YOU to our Foundation’s volunteer leaders for their dedication to building futures through housing.

PRESIDENT*

VICE PRESIDENT*

TREASURER*

SECRETARY*

PAST PRESIDENT*

MEMBER AT-LARGE*

Paul Roecker

Kathy Greiner

Kate Hamilton

Jim Fuschetto

Jody Kern

Meg Jaeger

Lyman Roofing & Siding

Rebuilding Together Twin Cites

MEMBER AT-LARGE*

Gary Kirt

Bell Bank Mortgage

Custom One Homes

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Lyman Lumber Co.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

Bob Bennet

Sunny Bowman

Gary Kraemer

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.

Dakota County Lumber Company

MEMBER AT-LARGE

Ricky Cheath

Movement Mortgage

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

MEMBER AT-LARGE

Amy Hendel

Lynne JensenNelson

Jeremy Larson

Mike Murtaugh

Kathy Raph

Hendel Homes

Conversion-omics Speakers & Consultants

Hampton Companies, LLC

Business Essentials

Mega Remodel

Gotcha Covered North Suburbs

MEMBER AT-LARGE

Sam Wick

FocalPoint Flooring Cabinets & Design * Denotes executive board

2 0 2 1 I N I T I AT I V E S

Partnerships + Build Projects Maintain community build and remodel projects in our pipeline.

Develop new relationships with service organizations, builders, remodelers, and trade partners while strengthening relationships with current partners.

Fundraising Ensure the financial viability of the Foundation by increasing donor cultivation, engagement, and recognition.

Strong Leadership + Governance Foster a network of trusted advisors, future leaders and fundraisers, and adhere to compliances and regulations.

Brand Awareness Elevate the Foundation’s profile through print and digital marketing.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

7

UP NEXT

Events UPCOMING

Contractor University Find courses on building/energy codes and the latest in building science taught by experts in their fields. Plus, legal, business management, and specialized courses you won’t find anywhere else.

Earn your continuing education credits at Contractor University.

FIND THE ENTIRE 2021 EVENT CALENDAR & REGISTER ONLINE AT

HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG/EVENTS

REGISTER AT

ContractorU.com

Live virtual courses available now-March 2021 Online on-demand courses available year-round

Parade of Homes There is no greater opportunity for members to showcase new homes to qualified homebuyers than our Parade of Homes. Hundreds of new homes across the Twin Cities are open Thursdays-Sundays from noon-6 p.m.

SEE HOMES AT

ParadeofHomes.org

Feb. 27-March 28, 2021

Housing Day at the Capitol No one knows the housing market better than you. Legislators need to hear from you about the dual challenges of inventory and affordability.

Share your story in the new era at our virtual Housing Day at the Capitol.

REGISTER AT

HousingDayMN.org

March 15, 2021

Remodelers Showcase Remodelers tell us they often get as much as 50% or more of their annual leads by participating in the Remodelers Showcase. Dozens of remodeled homes are open across the Twin Cities for three days from noon-6 p.m.

SEE HOMES AT

ParadeofHomes.org

March 26-28, 2021

Northern Design Build Expo This is not your same old trade show. The Northern Design Build Expo is the destination for residential homebuilding professionals to connect, innovate, and grow. Discover the latest and greatest products and services by some of the best in the business. This reimagined expo will provide the tools and resources for your business to thrive.

April 6-7, 2021

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

JOIN THE EXPERIENCE AT

NorthernDesign BuildExpo.com

COVID-19

Impact on Events Housing First Minnesota prides itself on first-class events and programming for our partners and supporters.

We’ve built a reputation and you trust that we will do what is in the best interest of our members when it comes to out upcoming events. We understand the investment our partners and supporters make in attending and sponsoring our events and know the impact a cancellation has on your business goals. Your health and safety are our number one priority in any decisions we make at this time.

We will be transparent about our decision-making process and do not take any of our decisions lightly. If circumstances change or we should need to cancel, reschedule, or restructure these events, we will communicate to registrants and sponsors in a timely manner.

Thank you for your patience as we continue to monitor the current crisis and make adjustments to the execution of these events.

All of our event offerings can be found at: HousingFirstMN.org/Events

VIRTUAL EVENT

April 6 + 7, 2021 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

For exhibit and sponsorship opportunities, contact show manager, Nicole Coon: Nicole@HousingFirstMN.org | 651.697.7571

NorthernDesignBuildExpo.com

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

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Building Blocks of Business Management

So, Tell Me About Your Problem House

1 Credit / Business

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Code Administration, Framing and Finish Applications of the 2020 MN Residential Code

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The Exterior Wall Envelope: Cavity Wall Insulation

Cyber Security for Builders: What You Need to Know About Cyber Security Threats and Social Media Attacks 1 Credit / Business

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How to Deal with a Crazed Homeowner: Responding to a Homeowner’s Aggressive Threats and Tactics 1 Credit / Business

Insulation: Why – Where – What 1 Credit / Energy

1 Credit / General 1 Credit / Energy

The How and Why of Exterior Insulation 1 Credit / Energy

The Nuts and Bolts of Business Management 1 Credit / Business

Top Five Misconceptions About Use of Electronic Logging Devices 1 Credit / Business

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The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

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Live Webinar Courses

Courses available through March 2021 can be taken from home, your business, or anywhere else!

Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021

Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2021

Code Administration, Framing & Finish Applications of the 2020 MN Residential Code

Building Blocks of Business Management 8:00–9:00 a.m. • 1 Credit / Business

Amendments to the 2020 Minnesota Residential Building Code

8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. • 7 Credits / Energy

9:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. • 3 Credits / Energy

Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021 Winning Construction Contract Terms to Stay Out of Court and Invisible to DOLI 8:00–9:00 a.m. • 1 Credit / Business

Amendments to the 2020 Minnesota Residential Building Code 9:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. • 3 Credits / Energy

Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021 Blower Door Testing and Common Air Sealing Issues 8:00–9:00 a.m. • 1 Credit / Energy

The Basics of Premanufactured Wall Panels 9:15–10:15 a.m. • 1 Credit / General

The How and Why of Exterior Insulation

Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021 Statutory Authority Related to the Minnesota Building Code and Licensing 8:00–11:00 a.m. • 3 Credits / General

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021 Prescriptive Wall Bracing Method of the 2018 International Residential Code

10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. • 2 Credits / Energy

Tuesday, Mar. 2, 2021 Code Administration, Framing & Finish Applications of the 2020 MN Residential Code 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. • 7 Credits / Energy

8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. • 4 Credits / General

Monday, Mar. 29, 2021

Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021

CAPS I (Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist): Marketing & Communicating with the Aging-InPlace Client

The Top Five Misperceptions About Use of Electronic Logging Devices

8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. • 8 Credits / General

8:00–9:00 a.m. • 1 Credit / Business

Tuesday, Mar. 30, 2021

The Keys to a Net-Zero Energy Home 9:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. • 3 Credits / Energy

Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2021

CAPS II (Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist): Design Concepts for Livable Homes and Aging-In-Place

Code Administration, Framing & Finish Applications of the 2020 MN Residential Code

8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. • 8 Credits / General

8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. • 7 Credits / Energy

Wednesday, Mar. 31, 2021 CAPS III (Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist): Details & Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging-In-Place 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. • 8 Credits / General

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UP NEXT

Need to Know Everything Home Minnesota Is your membership directory information accurate?

Make sure your company information is right at the fingertips of members and homeowners! It’s up to you to make sure your details are correct for Everything Home Minnesota. Our annual membership directory has been expanded to include category features on showrooms, companies, products, and services; member company listings; and classified listings.

Watch for the publication out mid-March 2021.

MANAGE YOUR DIRECTORY LISTING

HousingFirstMN.org INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? CONTACT:

Kori Meewes: Kori@HousingFirstMN.org Brad Meewes: Brad@HousingFirstMN.org

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Spring Awards Deadlines Your hard work deserves recognition! Enter the Housing First Minnesota awards program that recognizes excellence in several areas—from quality and value of construction to business ethics.

Enter so we can celebrate the fine work you do!

Spring Reggie Entry: Closed Spring Trillium Opens: Jan. 15, 2021 Spring Trillium Entry Due: Feb. 19, 2021 Spring Reggie Photos Due: Mar. 19, 2021

DETAILS & REGISTRATION AT

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HousingFirstMN.org/Awards

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The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

ENROLL NOW LEARN MORE AT HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG

ADVOCACY IN ACTION

Building Code Update Arrives with Minimal Cost Increase After decades of absorbing expensive building code updates, Housing First Minnesota was successful in advocating for a minimal cost increase during this code update.

Zoning Discussion Elevates at Capitol For the first time in decades, the legislature took a genuine interest in beginning to address the zoning issues that drive a large portion of the housing affordability problem in Minnesota.

While legislation didn’t advance in the shortened session, the discussion represented a major first step in the legislature taking a substantive interest in lifting zoning roadblocks to free up the housing industry to meet market demands for housing at affordable price points.

Street Impact Fees Stall at Capitol The ongoing debate about local government authority to charge off-site transportation impact fees on new developments continued at the Capitol in early 2020. While legislation didn’t move in the Senate, the House of Representatives held hearings on the matter and progressed the bill, up until COVID-19 restrictions halted most legislative activity.

Housing First Minnesota has opposed this measure as it creates another roadblock toward affordability at a time when we are attempting to lift roadblocks.

Housing First Minnesota asked the Board of Electricity to delay the implementation of the 2020 NEC due to its appeal.

A look back at a successful 2020 We all will remember 2020 as an unforgettable year of change and uncertainty. As the leading voice for the housing industry, Housing First Minnesota came into the year anticipating a familiar balance between advancing the cause of homeownership and housing affordability, while responding to industry challenges. As it turned out, the response to challenges quickly became the priority as COVID-19 brought sweeping change.

Despite these challenges, our industry enjoyed remarkable success and finished the year strong.

Here are some of the highlights.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

COVID-19 Essential Services & Safety Plans As we all experienced, COVID-19 brought immediate changes to the housing industry. In late March, Gov. Walz issued an executive order which shuttered major portions of the economy.

Housing First Minnesota pivoted to COVID-19 response and emphasized both the safety dynamics of the industry and the critical nature of housing. This resulted in the housing industry being deemed as an essential service, where it has remained for the entirety of the pandemic.

After the stay-at-home order was lifted, all industry companies were required to create COVID-19 preparedness plans. Again, Housing First Minnesota was a leader in these discussions with the Department of Labor and Industry, which resulted in a more efficient process for housing-industry businesses to comply with safety requirements. Throughout the pandemic, our industry has prioritized safety and has steered production of homes to levels unthinkable when the economy halted last spring, a truly remarkable accomplishment.

Minnesota Not to Adopt New Residential Energy Code In August, Housing First Minnesota led a coalition of organizations in advocating that the state should postpone an energy code update. Our rationale was simple and compelling: new homes in Minnesota are already the most energy-efficient homes in the country, and therefore, now is the wrong time to add more unnecessary mandates and costs. The Department was required to hold an advisory hearing with an Administrative Law Judge to assess the appropriateness of commencing a code at this time.

After hearing from the housing industry coalition and energy-efficiency advocacy groups, Judge Eric Lipman wrote an advisory opinion that stated the Department could go either way regarding the commencement of a code update but concluded by stating, “Yet, between these two alternatives, the Administrative Law Judge recommends postponement of the rules as the better choice.”

In December, the Commissioner of Labor and Industry agreed with the judge’s ruling and the state will not adopt a new residential energy code.

Electrical Code Clears Administrative Hearing, Awaiting Court of Appeals Next Housing First Minnesota challenged the electrical code adoption process before an Administrative Law Judge in an August hearing. The judge ruled that the code adoption process was adequate and allowed the code to move forward. Housing First Minnesota has appealed this decision which will move the discussion to the Minnesota Court of Appeals for an additional hearing.

Elections: Housing Wins In an unforgettable election season, Housing First Minnesota took a historic step forward with an elections effort that

saw our industry’s largest bipartisan slate of housing champions prevail.

Of the 69 endorsed candidates, 66 prevailed and will be central to the housing debate expected to unfold in the 2021-22 legislative sessions.

Innovation Work Reaches New Heights Three years ago a leading legislator asked us a simple question: if you could build an affordable, safe home, what would it look like, and what would be the regulatory processes to keep it safe and affordable?

Answering that question grew into a multi-year, member-led effort to reimagine the land development, building structure, and institutional impacts on housing. The innovation volunteers put in countless hours to advance this and received industry leadership awards in recognition for their accomplishments.

Recipients include: • Steve Behnke, Donnay Homes, Inc. • Andy Michels, Michels Homes • Bill Gschwind, Minnesota Construction Law Services, PLLC • Paul Heuer, Pulte Homes of Minnesota, LLC • Paul Robinson, The Bancor Group, Inc. • Jacob Steen, Larkin Hoffman • Roger Humphrey, GRAEF • Bob Cumbow, Country Joe Homes • Ross Anderson, The Energy Network Worldwide, LLC

Look for this work to emerge in early 2021.

Homeownership Is All of It Campaign As the leading voice for housing, and the producer of the largest consumer housing events in the state, Housing First Minnesota’s board set out a year ago to create a campaign that shared the importance of homeownership opportunities for everyone, everywhere in Minnesota. Launched in late 2020, the “All of It” campaign will serve as a catalyst for community thought and engagement around the idea of lifting the roadblocks to homeownership in Minnesota.

Successful 2020, Looking Ahead to 2021 There were many long days in 2020, but there is no doubt that it was a successful year for our efforts to elevate homeownership and housing affordability. Our long-term commitment to these issues helps Minnesotans looking for their dream homes, and it grows opportunities for all Housing First Minnesota members.

In 2021, we expect to continue to deal with COVID-19 impacts

on our industry and on the legislative process. We also expect the issues around zoning, homeownership access, and housing affordability to continue to elevate.

Our success is a team effort led by a visionary board of directors, our professional staff, and a fleet of committees filled with talented volunteers. Thank you to all who have contributed and supported these efforts—here’s to a successful 2021!

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

15

LUXURY INTERIOR FINISHES

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Our Customer Service Supervisor, Master Carpenters & Quality Walk Supervisors have all been part of our team for over 20 years. Our Millwork Shop Manager has been with us for 28 years, and our Labor Scheduler for 30 years. This team continuity empowers us to provide the highest level of service and a finished product your homeowners will love.

FINISH CARPENTRY • WOOD DOORS • MILLWORK CABINETRY • HARDWARE • DESIGN STUDIO

Contact Carly Schwieters to learn more: 612.669.8844 | carly@schwieterscompanies.com schwieterscompanies.com

INDUSTRY D ATA

BY THE NUMBERS

What Homebuilders Have Going for Them in 2021 When the global pandemic started, no one quite knew how it would impact housing. But after months of sheltering in place, working from home, and distance learning, families have really evaluated what they need in their home and the space that is necessary. This has led many to make the move and purchase a new home. Permits for single-family homes in the Twin Cities are set to end 2020 up, even after losing several months of sales during the statewide shelter-in-place order. So, what can builders expect in 2021? Here are some numbers that point to optimism for homebuilding activity in 2021.

want more Market data?

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Low Mortgage Rates The rate on a 30-year-fixed-rate mortgage fell from 3.65% in mid-March to 2.27% in mid-November, according to Freddie Mac. These record-low interest rates have resulted in a surge of new active homebuyers. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 50% of potential homebuyers have moved beyond the planning stage and are now active in the homebuying market. This emerging group is mainly millennials and Gen X buyers.

30-YEAR-FIXED-RATE MORTGAGE FELL

3.65%

IN MID-MARCH

2.27%

IN MID-NOVEMBER

SOURCE: FREDDIE MAC

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

17

INDUSTRY D ATA

COVID-19 Has Motivated Some Renters

SURVEY QUESTION

According to the America at Home Study, COVID-19 has created a new demand for homeownership. Their survey revealed that 46% of renters say they now want to own vs. rent. The study estimates that accounts for 7.4 million potential new homebuyers.

SURVEY RESPONSE

Does COVID-19 make you more or less inclined to want to own vs. rent a home today?

46%

SOURCE: AMERICAATHOMESTUDY.COM

of survey respondents saying they now want to own vs. rent

Low Inventory of Existing Homes The number of existing homes for sale in the Twin Cities continues to drop. Inventory levels fell 34.5% to just over 8,000 homes for sale. The months of supply of inventory also plummeted in October with a 40% drop to just 1.5 months of supply of homes. A healthy housing market has 5 months of supply. Simply put, we must build more houses to help balance our housing market.

MONTHS’ SUPPLY OF INVENTORY DROPPED

40% TO 1.5 MONTHS

SOURCE: MINNEAPOLIS ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

Builder Confidence Hits All-Time High In November, builder confidence for single-family homes soared to its third record high in as many months. Overall builder sentiment hit 90 on the monthly National Association of Home Builders’ Wells Fargo Housing Market Index. Anything above 50 is considered positive. That number was at just 30 back in April when the pandemic started.

NAHB/WELLS FARGO NATIONAL & REGIONAL HOUSING MARKET INDEX (HMI) JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

75

74

72

30

37

58

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

72 OCTOBER

85

78

NOVEMBER

90

83

DECEMBER

86

SOURCE: NAHB

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The Digest

Commutes Are a Non-Factor In a survey by Global Workplace Analytics, 82% of U.S. office workers reported that they want to continue to work from home, at least weekly, when the pandemic is over (approximately 75 million U.S. employees). With fewer people commuting into the office every day, the distance to work has become a non-factor for many homebuyers. This widens the pool of homebuyers that are looking to build out in the suburbs where much of the area lots are available.

WORK FROM HOME

82%

OF U.S. OFFICE WORKERS REPORTED THAT THEY WANT TO CONTINUE TO WORK FROM HOME, AT LEAST WEEKLY, WHEN THE PANDEMIC IS OVER

SOURCE: GLOBAL WORKPLACE ANALYTICS

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

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Homeownership is all of it, but it’s not attainable for everyone.

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The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

Our campaign for homeownership for all Minnesotans.

Home has never been more important.

When it comes to a space to call your own, the sense of community, safety, and wealth creation—homeownership is all of it. The global pandemic has impacted some more than others, and the gap between those who have access to homeownership and those who do not has never been greater.

The opportunity of homeownership for everyone, everywhere.

We know that as the rate of homeownership increases so does the health, wealth, safety, and happiness of people and the communities in which they live. Minnesota has the biggest homeownership gap in the country, affecting people of color most directly. Lack of affordable starter homes means Minnesota may lose its competitive advantage and quality of life. Lack of affordable entrylevel homes affects everyone, everywhere.

Minnesota needs affordable starter homes that are accessible to Minnesotans currently left out of the housing market (ie: many Gen-Z and millennials, non-white residents, and members of Minnesota’s workforce).

We have to explain why it’s nearly impossible to build affordable starter homes.

Why would any government add unnecessary costs?

Many of today’s roadblocks started out as good ideas decades ago—but they’ve become overgrown and duplicative.

One example: We all agreed 50 years ago that it is a good idea to protect wetlands from potential erosion caused by housing developments. But, instead of finding an efficient way to keep wetlands safe, we gave the role to many different government agencies. These agencies disagree with each other and require their own permits and engineering plans. The result? Our water protection costs are triple the costs in places like Illinois and Wisconsin.

Another example: Zoning is the power given to a city to plan for safe and sensible uses of land. No quibble from us, that is important. But historically, cities used zoning to intentionally exclude communities of color or people in a given economic class from living in certain areas.

Sadly, these exclusionary policies still exist today, albeit in different forms. Many cities require that all new homes be built on large lots, with large homes, and large garages— with stone exteriors and fancy landscaping. This may make for posh, designer cities, but it makes homes so expensive that tens of thousands of Minnesotans are left out.

What’s the bottom line here?

We get this question all the time. Why don’t builders just build more affordable homes? And yet, people seem to find it hard to believe the answer is simple: because we can’t. Many Midwestern markets provide these homes, but it is nearly impossible for us to do so. Housing First Minnesota wants to fix this, but in order to do so we need to help others—including homebuyers, thought leaders, and policymakers—to understand how we got here.

People are busy and politics are exhausting right now.

But Housing First Minnesota is passionate about fixing this problem and embracing the challenge of political change to help our fellow Minnesotans. We must fix this problem for our region to remain competitive and desirable.

The Homeownership is all of it campaign is about promoting homeownership and emphasizing the barriers to achieving it. Minnesota has created roadblocks, many of them unintentional, that add tens of thousands of unnecessary dollars to the price of new homes. Most of the roadblocks are government rules and regulations, and lifting these roadblocks would help us build more homes. We are more than 120,000 homes short right now and that number grows each year.

We created the homeownership is all of it campaign to help bring awareness to these problems and to inspire our community to act. We ask that you visit HomeownershipMN.com, learn more about the issues, share our posts on social media, subscribe to our email list for updates and potential action alerts, and become a champion of the cause. Homeownership is too important.

Help us spread the word that homeownership is all of it, but it’s not attainable for everyone.

So, how can members help?

HomeownershipMN.org JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

21

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BUSINESS TIPS

PRINCIPLE

1

YOUR WEBSITE REFLECTS THE QUALITY OF WORK YOU DO

Refreshing Your Digital Presence THROUGH THE 8 PROFESSIONAL VISIBILITY PRINCIPLES While there is never a bad time to take inventory of your digital presence, the new year does seem like the most appropriate time to do so. New beginnings and fresh starts are synonymous with Jan. 1. Many homebuilders, remodelers, and industry suppliers are looking to kick Q1 off on a good note by revamping their online marketing efforts.

Because many different components make up a business’s online efforts, it can be difficult to know where to start. To keep it simple, at Hook Agency, we implement eight key professional visibility principles to improving your online presence.

Essentially, professional visibility is making sure you’re getting in front of the right audience online and that your business looks good doing it.

To start 2021 on the right note, follow these eight professional visibility principles to review and optimize your digital presence.

First and foremost, it’s time for a self-assessment. Instead of doing a deep dive audit on your website, just take a look at it from a glance. Do you believe that your website’s quality is in line with the quality of work you do? Answering this question honestly is a great starting point for improving your web presence.

PRINCIPLE

2

YOUR CUSTOMERS CAN EASILY FIND YOU WHEN SEARCHING FOR YOUR SERVICES ONLINE If you’re a home remodeler in the Twin Cities area, then you want to show up on Google when someone searches “home remodeler Minneapolis.” There are many different ways you can improve your company’s standing on Google, with these three being the most crucial: • Write content that focuses on the problems your ideal customers have—whether it’s blogs, landing pages, infographics, etc.

• Focus your efforts on acquiring links to your website from other reputable sources within your industry (vendors, partners, periodicals, etc.).

• Make technical improvements to your website—with meta titles and descriptions being an excellent place to start.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

23

PRINCIPLE

3

WHEN CUSTOMERS GOOGLE YOUR COMPANY’S NAME, YOUR COMPANY SHOULD DOMINATE THE FIRST RESULTS PAGE If a potential client is Googling your name, that means they are already highly interested in your service. A Google search for your name should yield a first page that is roughly 70% you. In addition to writing content, acquiring links, and making technical improvements, here are three other ways to dominate search queries for your company’s name: • Get as many reviews as you can, whether on your website, Houzz, Google Business, etc.

PRINCIPLE

INTERESTED CUSTOMERS ARE MARKETED TO USING REMARKETING ADS Remarketing ads are an instrumental piece in a successful digital presence. They ensure that those interested in your services still consider you during their decision-making process. Also, it is a relatively inexpensive marketing expense.

Here are some remarketing tips to make sure you get the most out of your efforts: • Google Ads and Facebook Ads are fairly easy to use and are a great place to start.

• Try out different images, headlines, and call-to-actions to figure out the best combination for your customers (otherwise known as A/B testing).

• Create a fleshed-out Google My Business profile featuring reviews, images, and contact information.

• Write robust services pages and landing pages for cities and neighborhoods you tailor to.

PRINCIPLE

4

YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS SEE CONSISTENT, USEFUL CONTENT Social media is a massive part of the homebuilding, remodeling, and contractor industry. Social platforms are a great opportunity to showcase your fantastic work and provide value with tips and tricks for home improvement, interior design, and more. To ensure you’re getting the most out of your social platforms, do the following: • Post 3+ times per week; generally, the earlier in the day, the better.

• Don’t be overly self-promotional—provide value with helpful information, giveaways, etc.

• Engage with your followers by responding to questions and comments.

24

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

5

PRINCIPLE

6

YOUR WEBSITE TELLS A POWERFUL, EMOTIONAL STORY AND CENTERS ON THE CONSUMER, NOT YOU Perhaps the biggest mistake most businesses make with their website is creating a website that doesn’t speak to their consumers’ needs. Your website should be centered on your customers’ needs.

For example, instead of a headline on your front page reading, “Work With One of the Best Homebuilders in Minnesota,” it should instead say something that positions the homeowners as a hero (“Build a Home that Protects Your Family Today”).

You are the guide on their journey to a new or improved home.

You’re there to help, and your website should reflect that. Here are some tips to achieve this on your site: • Read “Building a Storybrand” by Donald Miller.

• Brainstorm your customers’ biggest problems and how you help them solve them. Make sure your website copy addresses these issues.

• You can still talk about your credibility, expertise, and awards, but make sure they aren’t the focal point of your story.

BUSINESS TIPS

PRINCIPLE

7

YOU HAVE EMBRACED YOUR NICHE, AND IT SHOWS IN YOUR MARKETING Catering to every single homeowner can create a messy, muddled marketing message. Find out what your ideal customers look like in terms of where they live, what types of homes they have or want, their budget, what services they need, etc. Once you discover this information, use to your advantage by: • Creating 3+ blog posts per month tailored to your ideal customers.

• Creating landing pages that cover your top locations and services (ex: “Edina Modern Home Remodelers”).

PRINCIPLE

8

When it comes to achieving these principles, start with the most manageable ones for you and your team. Working with a professional digital marketing team is also a surefire way to create a web presence that embraces professional visibility to the fullest.

YOUR CUSTOMERS ALWAYS KNOW WHAT THE NEXT STEPS ARE AFTER AN INTERACTION Whether it’s a social media post, a blog, a landing page, an email, a Facebook ad, or any other digital medium, once a potential customer sees it, they should know what to do if they are interested in your services. This is known as the “Call-to-Action” (CTA). Regardless of the digital format, the potential customer is using, contacting your company should be easy. Here’s how to get your ideal customer to take action: • Have a contact form at the top of your home page.

• Include CTAs in all your blogs and landing pages.

• Include contact info on all your social media platforms.

WRITTEN BY BRYCE BOYLE HOBAN HOOK AGENCY

As a content writer and strategist at Hook Agency, Bryce develops and delivers clear, relevant content that addresses customers’ pain points.

Using keyword research supplied by Hook’s SEO team, Bryce is focused on creating compelling copy to draw in high-quality prospects for clients that will also improve their search rankings.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

25

BUSINESS TIPS

Leveraging Member Connections

NICOLE COON VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS

Are you maximizing the connections available to you through the association? Here, Nicole Coon, vice president of membership and events at Housing First Minnesota, shares tips on how you can dig deeper into the resources at your disposal.

Online Community

Join our Housing First Minnesota social community.

@HOUSINGFIRSTMN

By participating in an online community, you’re a part of a large industry group of support, resources, one-onone connections, and industry experts. Be a part of the conversation and be informed of trending relevant industry info. Share information on your own networks and add a note with your personal thoughts to connect with others and position yourself as an expert. Pose a question (chances are you’re not the only one seeking that information) to receive tips and best practices from others.

Virtual Events + Networking

Check out our upcoming events!

PAGE 8

26

The Digest

Be sure you’re representing who you are. All too often on a Zoom meeting, an individual’s name might resemble the makings of a really strong password—letters and numbers and exclamation points, oh my! That doesn’t help ensure you are recognizable.

Whenever possible, make sure your display name is who you are.

Use your first and last name and, if space allows, your company or title. If given the opportunity for introductions, again be sure to use your first and last name and announce your company.

You may think your first name is easily identifiable like Prince

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

or Cher, but don’t leave that to chance. Let people know your intent to network and ask for the connection—put your name, company, title, and relevant contact information in the chat.

If you see someone virtually you want to connect with, send them a private message asking them to connect offline.

Directory You want people to know who you are and what you do, right?

Make sure you log into your member account and provide as much accurate information as possible for the Housing First Minnesota online directory so people can reach you. From HousingFirstMN.org, click the link in the upper right-hand corner to sign in. Once logged in (be sure to use the main company contact’s login credentials), you can manage your profile at the top of the page. Under the Information & Settings section, you can edit your bio and add employees. If you supply their email address, they will be able to log in with their own credentials and receive our association emails. Want to add more to your directory profile and be sure you stand out? Consider upgrade options!

Plus, our online directory is a great way to find contact information of other members in

the association. Find members by name, membership type, or by category. Have a question on a particular process, product, or service? Go right to the source and find a company that is an expert in that field. The listing will provide the main contact’s address and phone, and you’re able to send an email right through the directory.

Committees If you have some time to give, consider joining a committee.

A volunteer shared with me that joining a committee was a great way to make immediate personal connections. It made the organization more personable to have familiar faces that they would see at meetings and events. Another bonus of these new connections? The introduction to their network as well!

There are committees for almost every interest area you may have within the industry: advocacy, education, events, workforce, charitable giving, home tours, production size, DEI, etc.

Many of the committees don’t require much time outside of the committee meeting itself.

Visit our committee page on HousingFirstMN.org and reach out to that committee chair or staff member about how to get involved.

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MAKE THE MOST OF HOME

BUSINESS TIPS

Best Body Forward Six tips to cultivate a work environment that puts employees’ physical and mental health first.

by Taylor Hugo

There’s no denying that 2020 completely reshaped the way we think about our workplaces and employees. Remote offices became the norm for many, video calls replaced in-person meetings, and work-life balance took on new meaning for families juggling full-time jobs and childcare. With these unexpected changes to the status quo, it’s now more important than ever to create a work environment that fosters physical and mental health—whether your employees are in an office, at home, or on a job site.

“A healthy work environment has a direct impact on employee performance,” says Lynne JensenNelson, the founder, keynote speaker, and business strategist with consulting company Conversionomics. “It improves productivity, defines employee behavior and performance, and reduces costs related to turnover, workers’ compensation, and medical claims.”

Here, Housing First Minnesota members offer tips and advice for creating a workplace that leads to healthier, happier employees.

28

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

Put employees first.

Keeping employees top-of-mind when it comes to creating a healthy work environment may seem obvious, but it goes beyond offering the basics like health insurance benefits and paid time off. “My first and highest priority is to be a good leader for [my employees], and that doesn’t mean it’s about me; it means it’s about them. I have to know these people to give them what they need to create an environment where they can thrive,” says Jerry Olson of The Resultants, a business advisory firm.

“You want to know what they’re striving for in their personal lives, because that’s why they come to work for you—whether it’s providing for their family or accomplishing a goal.”

In a way, working from home, as so many people are right now, has made this task easier. Video calls give employers a glimpse into their employees’ personal lives, which may feature a furry “assistant” who needs to be walked, or a couple of kids wanting lunch or help with virtual schoolwork. This is the new worklife balance, and flexibility and support are necessary for an employee’s mental health. As Angela Warner, a third-generation owner and spokesperson for Warners’ Stellian, says, “There is no one-size-fitsall approach to dealing with a human being who is navigating life during a pandemic.”

Enforce safety protocols.

If you have employees working on job sites, implementing a safety program is one of the most direct ways to ensure physical health at work.

At John Kraemer & Sons, all subcontractors are presented with a “safety promise,” and if they don’t comply, they don’t get to work. Not only is this for the benefit of subcontractors’ health—there’s also a financial perk: John Kraemer & Sons’ safety director Denise Hansen estimates the builder saves an average of $70,000 on insurance costs for having a full safety program.

Create opportunities for connection.

Feeling connected to the company you work for is essential for employee mental health and morale.

Despite this being “one of the biggest challenges we are facing right now” in our virtual work environment, successful business leaders are committed to keeping their teams informed and engaged, says Jensen-Nelson. “Simple changes to an internal communications strategy can have a significant and positive impact,” she adds, pointing to tools like video calls, instant messaging, email, and online conferencing platforms “to keep employees excited to be a part of the team.”

Remove the chaos.

There’s always some level of uncertainty about the future—especially in the COVID world we’re currently living in—but, as a business leader, being forthcoming about your vision and expectations improves employee mental health. “When you’re unclear about what behaviors and results are expected, that just adds to the stress. You go home wondering, ‘What did my boss think today? I don’t know. I didn’t get any feedback,’” says Olson. “All of us want to know how we’re doing. We want a scorecard; we want to know we’re making progress.”

Rethink the office space.

Our environment plays a big role in how we feel, so when and if your employees do return to a physical office space, use it as an opportunity to make some enhancements that could boost wellbeing and productivity. In a recent Fellowes Workplace Wellness Trend Report, 87% of workers were in favor of healthier workspace benefits like wellness rooms, sit-stand desks, healthy lunch options, and ergonomic seating. Small tweaks—like flexible layouts, proper lighting, greenery—can also go a long way to improve employee satisfaction.

Have fun.

When your employees receive yet another handout from human resources on the importance of wearing PPE or proper computer posture, the lessons aren’t likely to make a strong impression. Instead, encourage hands-on activities—with incentives, if possible—so your health-conscious messages pack a punch.

At Warners’ Stellian, for example, monthly challenges make staying in good physical and mental shape fun.

Exercises like drinking more water, moving every day, or writing daily reflections earn employees prizes and health insurance discounts. “We have learned that you cannot be physically strong but mentally weak and succeed in any aspect of our business. That goes for the reverse as well,” says Warner. “You need both working in tandem to be truly successful at any job, from our labor teams to the sales floor and everything in between.”

To celebrate wins like good housekeeping or no injuries, Hansen will plan for a pizza party or hire a food truck to come to a job site, sometimes alongside presentations from PPE vendors such as 3M. On another occasion, she scheduled a fall-prevention outing at Vertical Endeavors Rock Climbing, highlighting the importance of properly using safety equipment. “You have to think of it as developing a culture, a new way to think,” she says.

“It’s about developing relationships.”

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

29

Q+A

Q. Does the energy code address specifically how this crawl space is to be insulated?

Ask the

Building Inspector With Peter Kulczyk, Green Code Knowledge

Scenario: We are designing a family-room addition to an existing house. Because of an issue with high-water table, we have decided to use a crawl-space foundation under the family room instead of a full-height basement wall foundation.

We have both building code and energy code questions related to the crawl space itself.

Have business questions you’d like to hear from an expert on?

We’ll feature a Q+A with various experts and topics each issue. Send your questions to ASK@HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG

30

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

The answer as written in the Minnesota code is complicated. Although the existing house may have been constructed based on an earlier edition of the Minnesota code from years past, in this scenario the addition would need to comply with the current edition of the Minnesota building code (MR 1309) and energy code (MR 1322). If the crawl space is to be a “conditioned space (heated and/or cooled)” the code requires that the crawl space foundation wall for the addition be insulated on the exterior side of the foundation, unlike earlier editions of the code that permitted the foundation insulation for both crawl spaces and full basements to be insulated on either side of the foundation wall. This complicates the actual construction especially when you are trying to match exterior facades where the existing foundation may have no foundation insulation and now the proposed crawl space will most likely need at least 2” of an exterior-rated R=10 minimum insulation product up to at least the top of the foundation wall, plus at least R=5 insulation on the inside face of the crawl space foundation wall (based on MR 1322.0402, Section R402, Table R402.1.1). There are some exceptions in the code to the required R=5 interiorside insulation noted in MR 1322.0402, Section R402.2.8. With all of this said, the following answers will apply to a new crawl space foundation based on the current energy code. It will assume that the crawl space foundation is insulated on the exterior side to a minimum R-value of 15, or as an option it is insulated on the exterior side to a minimum R-value of 10, plus interior side insulation of at least R=5.

If the crawl space is not intended to be a “conditioned space (heated and/or cooled),” in other words, vented to the outdoor air around it, then the floor above the crawl space would need to be insulated to a minimum R-value of 30, but the perimeter foundation walls of the crawl space would not be insulated at all. This answer assumes that the space above the crawl space is conditioned floor area of a habitable space (living room, sleeping room, etc.).

Q. If the exterior crawl space foundation walls are insulated for a conditioned crawl space, does the code require foundation wall vents?

No vents are required in these insulated foundation walls. Exterior foundation wall ventilation is only required for non-conditioned crawl spaces (IRC Section R408.1) at a rate of 1 square foot for every 150 square feet of under-floor space area. These vents should be placed at opposite sides if possible.

Q+A

Q. If the design for a conditioned crawl space calls for fiberglass batts on the interior side of the foundation wall (assuming the exterior side is insulated to at least R=10), would a vapor retarder and air sealing be required?

Fiberglass insulation batts, which are vapor permeable, would require a Class I (poly) or Class II (faced fiberglass batt insulation) on the warm side of the fiberglass batt insulation, and the wall needs to be sealed to prevent air movement through the insulated wall. No blower door test is required because the original house probably did not meet the air-tightness standards of the code today and a blower door test would most likely not pass anyways for most additions. The exposed vapor retarder, such as poly, would need to have a flame spread rating less than 25 if left exposed unless it was covered with ½” regular gypsum board or equivalent fire rating.

Q. If this were to be a nonconditioned crawl space vented to the exterior and the floor joists above were insulated to R-value of at least 30, would a vapor retarder be required for the insulated floor system?

Vapor retarders are not required for insulated floors above non-conditioned spaces (similar to a scenario of a tuckunder garage with a sleeping room above).

Q. If rigid foam plastic insulation is intended for installation either on the inside face of the exterior crawl space foundation walls or on the bottom side of the floor system above but exposed to the crawl space below, would the foam plastic insulation need to meet any special requirements?

Yes. In most scenarios, the rigid foam plastic insulation would need to be protected with at least ½” thick regular gypsum board (IRC Section R316.4), but there is an exception to the thermal barrier provision in the code for crawl spaces (IRC Section R316.5.4) that permits the use of ignition barrier materials to include: 1½” thick mineral fiber insulation; or ¼” thick wood structural panels; or ⅜” thick particleboard; or corrosionresistant steel and a few other materials.

Also, there may be approved evaluation reports for the particular type/brand of rigid foam plastic insulation or even spray-applied foam plastic insulation to be left unprotected (refer to product manufacturer for details).

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31

BUILDING FUTURES

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GOLD SPONSORS

Reflection of Giving in 2020 Together we do extraordinary work—this fundamental truth gives us hope when times are bleak.

This year presented unforeseen challenges, but we faced each challenge head-on with your support.

And, over the past few weeks and months, Minnesotans and Foundation supporters rose to the occasion by donating generously so that our work to help those experiencing homelessness could continue.

The new word of the year is pivot.

And like many organizations, we made programming adjustments and held our first virtual gala event on Oct. 1.

We were blown away by the generosity of those who donated, sponsored the gala, and contributed and bid on auction items. You demonstrated that you believe our life-changing work is relevant, important, and worth supporting. With your help, we raised $216,771, which will support our vision to end homelessness in Minnesota.

During Give to the Max Day on Nov. 19, Minnesotans gave generously donating over $30 million to 6,100 nonprofit organizations. Housing First Minnesota Foundation raised $10,110 from generous supporters. Two of those remarkable donors, Lakes Area Realty of Minneapolis and Movement Mortgage patronage, Karis AMC’s Foundation, matched funds of $3,000 each. Their donations helped us exceed our budgeted goal.

We will continue to build and renovate transitional housing so that Minnesotans who need additional support can rebuild their lives and regain the confidence to become selfreliant. There’s no doubt that your gifts, sponsorship, and volunteerism make a difference in the lives of many!

Thank you.

Together we do extraordinary work.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

Contract Interiors, Inc. Floor Covering Specialists

™

SILVER SPONSORS David Weekly Homes

LP Building Solutions

Emser Tile

Mohawk Industries

Foley & Mansfield, PLLP

RHC Flooring

Herregan Distributors, Inc.

Shaw Industries, Inc.

Homes By Tradition, LLC

Solid.

Installed Building Solutions II, LLC

The Builders Group

James Hardie Building Products

Wintrust Mortgage

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

Leggett & Platt

BRONZE SPONSORS All, Inc.

Larkin Hoffman

All Tile, Inc.

Lyman Companies

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.

Pella Windows & Doors

Kentwood Hardwood Floors

Ulteig Engineers, Inc.

HISTORICAL TIMELINE SPONSOR FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design

25TH ANNIVERSARY TOAST SPONSOR

Thank you Gala emcees LYNNE JENSENNELSON Conversion-omics Speakers & Consultants RUSTY KATH Fladeboe Advancement

YOUR PROVIDER FOR TURNKEY FRAMING SOLUTIONS TRUSSES

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FOR MORE INFORMATION WWW.JLSCHWIETERS.COM 651-762-1110

JL SCHWIETERS CONSTRUCTION 13925 FENWAY BLVD N HUGO, MN 5503

Impact Renovations with an

The Housing First Minnesota Foundation and builders renovate apartments to create a nurturing environment for mothers recovering from addiction.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

BUILDING FUTURES

A pathway to recovery.

The pathway to recovery isn’t easy for anyone. Imagine being a mother, homeless, and struggling with addiction with no family support. These barriers can immobilize a mother powerless to achieve success. Creating a safe and nurturing environment for mothers and their children is one way our members can help families begin the healing process.

“Having a family member that struggles every day like many of these mothers do and to give them a safe, warm place to reset in keeping the family together, I believe will give them the tools to work and achieve their goals of a better life,” said Pamela Velander, project manager and designer at Plekkenpol Builders, Inc. This is exactly why the Housing First Minnesota Foundation is passionate about helping Avivo, a nonprofit organization specializing in helping individuals and families who face complex barriers—poverty, homelessness, unemployment, chemical addiction, or mental health concerns—achieve recovery and economic stability.

Avivo purchased apartment buildings in Minneapolis with the intention to serve more families and increase shelter capacity by renovating some inhabitable units. Avivo received a grant for these units and the Foundation made a commitment to help restore them.

You can help.

This is where builders can offer their expertise and resources to renovate units for healing mothers and their children.

Starting in 2021, John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. and Plekkenpol Builders, Inc. are taking on two apartment units each.

This is not an easy feat as there are many obstacles and complexities.

“Avivo is making a real impact in the community for people dealing with addiction,” said Gary Kraemer, president of John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. “We all know people in our lives that have dealt with addiction and needed help. It’s nice to have the support services that Avivo provides where families can be successful.”

Having a family member that struggles every day like many of these mothers do and to give them a safe, warm place to reset in keeping the family together, I believe will give them the tools to work and achieve their goals of a better life.”

PAMELA VELANDER PROJECT MANAGER & DESIGNER, PLEKKENPOL BUILDERS, INC.

Build Partner Opportunities We are looking for builders and remodelers to renovate six additional Avivo family recovery apartment units. Each 700-square-foot unit could serve at least 64 mothers and their children over the next 20 years. Join John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. and Plekkenpol Builders, Inc. to transform these available units back into comfortable, livable recovery spaces.

2021 Build Projects

Build Partner

1810 Columbus Ave., Mpls, Unit B1

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.

1810 Columbus Ave., Mpls, Unit 101

Plekkenpol Builders, Inc.

1810 Columbus Ave., Mpls, Unit 102

Available

1810 Columbus Ave., Mpls, Unit 103

Available

1810 Columbus Ave., Mpls, Unit 202

Plekkenpol Builders, Inc.

1820 Columbus Ave., Mpls, Unit B1

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc.

Interested in becoming a build partner?

1820 Columbus Ave., Mpls, Unit B2

Available

CONTACT DONNIE@HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG

1820 Columbus Ave., Mpls, Unit 103

Available

1820 Columbus Ave., Mpls, Unit 104

Available

1820 Columbus Ave., Mpls, Unit 201

Available

HousingFirstMNFoundation.org

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

35

2020

Award Winners

Congratulations to our 2020 award winners!

These awards recognize excellence in several areas—from quality and value of construction to business ethics.

2020

ASSOCIATE

Bollig and Sons, Inc.

Bollig and Sons is a local excavating contractor that has been serving the Twin Cities metro area for over 60 years. As a fourth-generation, familyowned excavating contractor, Bollig and Sons believes in providing quality service in a timely manner while operating with integrity on the job site. The team partners with many Housing First Minnesota builders and remodelers and is involved in the association with staff serving as a Parade of Homes judge and on the Young Professionals Committee.

OF THE YEAR

2020

BUILDER

Gordon James Construction, Inc.

Gordon James is committed to delivering their clients dream home. Their team believes that organized planning and execution are the most critical parts of the building process. The homes they craft are designed to mirror each client’s personality and lifestyle needs.

OF THE YEAR

Gordon James’s team is committed to its community, supporting local drives for families in need and helping fundraise for the Housing First Minnesota Foundation. They hold a seat on the association board of directors, have had homes on the Artisan Home Tour, and have been selected as a Dream Home on the Parade of Homes to support the Foundation.

2020

REMODELER

Lake Country Builders, Ltd.

OF THE YEAR

From its start in the 1980s, Lake Country Builders has been recognized as a smartly managed, quality-conscious labor force that stands behind its work—and its word. Their team is focused on doing great work for great people.

Lake Country Builders has long been involved in the association and the Foundation. From donating materials and labor to becoming a builder partner on a Foundation project, one of Lake Country Builders’ core beliefs is to give back to the community.

Their team is also heavily involved in other community nonprofits, including Habitat for Humanity, A Better Chance, Make-A-Wish, and many more.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

2020

HOUSING INDUSTRY LEADER OF THE YEAR

Steve Behnke

Paul Heuer

Donnay Homes, Inc.

Roger Humphrey

Pulte Homes of Minnesota, LLC

Andy Michels

GRAEF

Paul Robinson

Michels Homes

The Bancor Group, Inc.

Bill Gschwind

Jacob Steen

Minnesota Construction Law Services, PLLC

Bob Cumbow

Country Joe Homes

Ross Anderson

Larkin Hoffman

2020

The Energy Network Worldwide, LLC

2020

LEGISLATOR

LEGISLATOR

Senator Mark Koran

Representative Shane Mekeland

OF THE YEAR

2020

BUILDING HOUSING FIRST MN AWA R D

Pattie Martin

Twin City Fireplace & Stone Company, Inc.

OF THE YEAR

2020

2020

RISING STAR AWA R D

ROBERT L. HANSON

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWA R D

Savanna Forster Minnesota Rusco, Inc.

Frank Kottschade

North American Realty, Inc.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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2020

Award Winners 2020

REGGIE AWA R D W I N N E R SM

2020

TRILLIUM AWA R D W I N N E R SM

Reggie winners are selected by judging teams of builders and remodelers who visit homes within each category and judge based on excellence in design, construction quality, and value. Trillium Awards are presented to all entered participating associates in a Reggie-winning home.

$299,999 & Under

$400,000 to $449,999

Semler 1. Construction, Inc.

Price Custom 5. Homes

#135 | Isanti Builds 1-49 Homes/Year

#131 | Big Lake Builds 50+ Homes/Year

Trillium Partners: Croix Design & Drafting, Inc.; Lampert Lumber; Village Floor & Wall, Inc.; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

Trillium Partners: Pella Windows & Doors; Schwieters Companies, Inc.

$300,000 to $399,999

2. Fitzke Construction, LLC

#325 | Faribault Builds 1-49 Homes/Year

Trillium Partners: All, Inc.; Arrow Building Center; Creative Lighting, Inc.; FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design; Lampert Lumber; The Energy Network Worldwide, LLC $300,000 to $399,999

Creative 3. Homes, Inc.

#199 | Hudson Builds 50+ Homes/Year

Trillium Partners: Creative Lighting, Inc.; Lampert Lumber; Pella Windows & Doors; Schwieters Companies, Inc. $400,000 to $449,999

RT Urban 4. Homes, Inc.

#279 | Lakeville Builds 1-49 Homes/Year

Trillium Partners: Ambiance At Home; Contract Interiors, Inc.

1.

$450,000 to $499,999

GreenHalo 6. Builds

#186 | Mahtomedi Builds 1-49 Homes/Year $450,000 to $499,999

Robert Thomas 7. Homes, Inc.

#17 | Chaska Builds 50+ Homes/Year

Trillium Partners: Ambiance At Home; Contract Interiors, Inc.; Creative Lighting, Inc.

2.

$500,000 to $549,999

Robert Thomas 8. Homes, Inc.

#16 | Chaska Builds 50+ Homes/Year

Trillium Partners: Ambiance At Home; Contract Interiors, Inc.; Creative Lighting, Inc. $550,000 to $599,999

Paulson 9. Construction, Inc.

#162 | Blaine Builds 1-49 Homes/Year

Trillium Partners: FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

3.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

4.

7.

5.

8.

6.

9.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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39

2020

Award Winners 2020

REGGIE AWA R D W I N N E R SM

2020

TRILLIUM AWA R D W I N N E R SM

$550,000 to $599,999

$800,000 to $899,999

OneTenTen 10. Homes, LLC

Hanson 15. Builders, Inc.

#309 | Lakeville Builds 50+ Homes/Year

#66 | Plymouth Builds 50+ Homes/Year

Trillium Partners: Muska Lighting; Schwieters Companies, Inc.; The Energy Network Worldwide, LLC

Trillium Partners: Contract Interiors, Inc.; J. Becher & Associates; Pella Windows & Doors; Schwieters Companies, Inc.

$600,000 to $699,999

Hanson 11. Builders, Inc. #101 | St. Michael Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Contract Interiors, Inc.; Pella Windows & Doors; Schwieters Companies, Inc. $700,000 to $799,999

Kerber Family 12. Homes, LLC #26 | Victoria Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Metro Air; Warners’ Stellian Appliance $700,000 to $799,999

Robert Thomas 13. Homes, Inc. #108 | St. Michael Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Ambiance At Home; Contract Interiors, Inc.; Creative Lighting, Inc. $800,000 to $899,999

Charles Cudd 14. Co., LLC #4 | Minnetonka Builds 1-49 Homes/Year

10.

$900,000 to $999,999

16. Cuddigan Custom Builders, LLC #335 | Prior Lake Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partners: FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design; River City Tile & Underlayment $900,000 to $999,999

Hanson 17. Builders, Inc. #65 | Plymouth Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Contract Interiors, Inc.; Pella Windows & Doors; Schwieters Companies, Inc. $1 Million to $1.2 Million

Stonegate 18. Builders

11.

#40 | Minnetrista Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Contract Interiors, Inc.; FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design; Muska Lighting; Pella Windows & Doors; Scandia Custom Cabinets; Water Doctors Water Treatment Co.

Trillium Partners: Creative Lighting, Inc.; Shaughnessy Flooring; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

12.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

13.

16.

14.

17.

15.

18.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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41

2020

Award Winners 2020

REGGIE AWA R D W I N N E R SM

2020

TRILLIUM AWA R D W I N N E R SM

$1.2 Million to $1.5 Million

Hartman 19. Homes, Inc. #193 | Somerset Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Innovative Surfaces, Inc.; Warners’ Stellian Appliance $1.5 Million to $2 Million

20.

19.

Sustainable 9 Design + Build

#33 | Shorewood Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Ambiance At Home; Distinctive Elements Tile & Design, LLC; FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design $2 Million & Above

Highmark 21. Builders, Inc. #332 | Prior Lake Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Contract Interiors, Inc.; Lampert Lumber; Muska Lighting; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

20.

21.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

2020

ROMA WINNER

2020

TRILLIUM AWA R D W I N N E R SM

The Remodeler of Merit Awards (ROMAs) recognize our remodeler members for quality and value in remodeling projects that range from baths, kitchens, and additions to whole-house remodels. Entries are judged on creativity in meeting the unique challenges of remodeling, and in successfully meeting the needs, desires, and budgets of their clients. Trillium Awards are presented to all entered participating associates in a ROMA-winning home.

1.

Addition: Under $300,000

1. John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. Edina

Addition: $300,000 & Over

2.

Locale Design Build Minneapolis

Bathroom: Under $60,000

3.

McDonald Remodeling, Inc. Minneapolis Trillium Partner: Innovative Surfaces, Inc.

2.

3.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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2020

Award Winners 2020

2020

TRILLIUM

ROMA

AWA R D W I N N E R

WINNER

SM

Bathroom: $60,000 & Over

4. Highmark Builders, Inc. Apple Valley

Commercial

5. Arbor Haus, LLC Wayzata

4.

Detailed Component

6. McDonald Remodeling, Inc. St. Paul

Interior: Under $200,000

7.

Finished Basement Company, Inc. St. Paul

Kitchen: Under $65,000

8. White Birch Design, LLC Minneapolis

Kitchen: $65,000 to $115,000

9.

AMEK, Inc. Minneapolis Trillium Partner: Lampert Lumber

5.

Kitchen: $115,000 & Over

10. Knight Construction Design, Inc. Minnetonka

Trillium Partner: Warners’ Stellian Appliance Lower Level: Under $125,000

11. Great Northern Builders, LLC Eagan

Trillium Partner: Lampert Lumber Lower Level: $125,000 & Over

12. MA Peterson Designbuild, Inc. Edina

Trillium Partner: Trademark Wood Products, LLC

6.

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

7.

10.

8.

11.

9.

12.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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45

2020

Award Winners 2020

2020

TRILLIUM

ROMA

AWA R D W I N N E R

WINNER

SM

Outdoor Living

13. Lake Country Builders, Ltd. Shorewood

Trillium Partner: Manomin Resawn Timbers Residential Exterior

14. Great Northern Builders, LLC Inver Grove Heights

13.

Trillium Partner: Lampert Lumber Secondary Structure

15.

Gordon James Construction, Inc. Medina Trillium Partner: Lampert Lumber

Whole House: Under $400,000

16. Finished Basement Company, Inc. Mound

Trillium Partners: Manomin Resawn Timbers; Warners’ Stellian Appliance Whole House: $400,000 to $800,000

17. Pillar Homes Partner, Inc. Wayzata

Trillium Partner: Shaughnessy Flooring

14.

Whole House: $800,000 & Over

18.

Great Northern Builders, LLC St. Paul Trillium Partner: Lampert Lumber

15.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

16.

2020

BENNIE AWA R D W I N N E R

The Bennie Award recognizes excellence in neighborhood design and construction. Judging criteria used to determine the winner includes aesthetic appeal, land plan, retention of natural features, amenities, neighborhood structures, and street layout.

The Excelsior Group, LLC 17.

Adelaide Landing | Hugo

18.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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47

Media in the

The Artisan Homes Tour, virtual awards, and the latest industry data—check out some of the places Housing First Minnesota has been mentioned on social and in the press this past quarter.

@HOUSINGFIRSTMN

Foundation Gala Goes Virtual Our annual Foundation Gala was a bit different this year, but we’re so grateful to all our generous supporters who stepped up to support our mission. A special thank you to Rusty Kath and Lynne Jensen-Nelson for hosting the evening!

megaremodel

Digest Feature Spotted in the most recent issue of the Digest!

jalin_design

michaelleehomes

lakecountrybuilders

Parade of Homes Progress Builders and remodelers are hard at work creating homes that will be featured on the upcoming spring tours.

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Busiest October in 15 years for Twin Cities homebuilders

Permit Data

Twin Cities homebuilding continues to surge through October

Permit data released by Housing First Minnesota is featured across the media.

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

Metro Air Heating & Cooling

Awards Award recipients showcased their trophies that were presented virtually at the Little BIG Night.

SEEN + HEARD

Artisan Home Tour The Artisan Home Tour made headlines across TV and print with 22 homes featured on this fall’s tour.

Star Tribune article featuring home no. 4 from Alma Homes: Artisan home on Lake Independence has French accent.

WCCO-TV’s Jason DeRusha and Heather Brown feature the 2020 Artisan Home Tour and home no. 14 from Nor-Son Custom Builders and interview event spokesperson, Katie Elfstrom.

FOX 9’s Shayne Wells features home no. 8 located in Medina and built by Swanson Homes. Shayne interviews designer Lindsey Swanson.

FOX 9’s Shayne Wells features home no. 9 located in Plymouth and built by BohLand Homes. Shayne interview BohLand Homes’ Director of Project Development, Kassi Mihm.

Twin Cities Live features the Artisan Home Tour in its What’s Happening This Weekend segment sharing a sneak peek of home no. 13 from Divine Custom Homes.

Finance & Commerce article featuring home no. 1 from Sustainable 9 Design + Build: Top Transactions: Artisan Home Tour offers peek at lives of luxury.

Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal article: Artisan Home Tour continues this weekend with 22 new and remodeled homes.

KARE 11’s Charmaine Nero visits home #2 on the 2020 Artisan Home Tour built by Wooddale Builders. Charmaine interviews the event spokesperson, Katie Elfstrom, and Mary Ellen Dalman from Wooddale Builders.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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49

SEEN + HEARD

Clay Shoot Housing First Minnesota members enjoyed an afternoon on the range at our annual Clay Shoot. It was a great day to take your shot, build member connections, and enjoy the great outdoors.

STAFFED AMMO SPONSOR

SAFETY SPONSOR

BEER SPONSOR

THE BIG SHOT PRESENTING SPONSOR

October 6, 2020

SKILLED CONTEST STATION SPONSOR

STATION SPONSOR Arrow Building Center

REGISTRATION SPONSOR Pella Windows & Doors

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

James “Fish” Fisher

Central Division Builder Manager

NMLS# |15622 10400 Baltimore Street NE, Suite 120 Blaine, MN 55449 612-719-2737 Fish@caliberhomeloans.com www.caliberhomeloans.com

The Builder’s Choice for Home Financing Caliber Home Loans, Inc. provides builders and new home sales associates with a team of knowledgeable and experienced loan professionals. We have specialized products, tools, services and support to help our builder partners capture more sales opportunities, close more transactions and achieve higher inventory turns. Caliber is your strategic resource to help sell and close more new homes.

Caliber Home Loans, Inc., 1525 S. Belt Line Rd Coppell, TX 75019 (NMLS #15622). Copyright © 2020. All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Lender.

For real estate and lending professionals only and not for distribution to consumers. Distribution to the general public is prohibited. Minnesota Residential Mortgage Originator License: MN-MO-40149066, This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Any such offer may only be made in accordance with the requirements of Minn. Stat. Section 47.206 (3) and (4).

SEEN + HEARD

&

Member News Announcements HAVE NEWS?

SEND YOUR ANNOUNCEMENTS TO LAURA@HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG

New members SEPTEMBER–NOVEMBER 2020

Brolsma Design Build, Inc. Tim Brolsma

BrolsmaDesign.com | 952-851-9547

Caliber Home Loans James ‘Fish’ Fisher

CaliberHomeLoans.com | 612-719-2737

DeWall Design Build, LLC Joshua DeWall

612-850-2668

John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. Named Face of Custom Home Building Congratulations to the team at John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. for being named the Face of Custom Home Building by Minnesota Monthly magazine!

EarlyBird Electric Steve Grohn

651-955-9240

KJH Builders, Inc. Mindy Joos

320-287-3547

Kroiss Design + Build Steve Kroiss

612-802-2600

Metro Garage Door Co. Dustin Winter

MetroGarageDoor.com | 763-535-4774

R House Design Build Ryan Hemingson

RHouseDesignBuild.com | 612-961-6190

Peter Coyle Awarded 2020 “Lawyer of the Year” Peter Coyle of Larkin Hoffman was named a 2020 “Lawyer of the Year” for Land Use and Zoning Law by Best Lawyers. This honor is based on peerreview assessments. Peter is a trusted advisor and problem solver for clients in regard to laws and regulations on the federal, state, and local level.

Congratulations, Peter!

Health has never been more front of mind.

Offer your employees a powerful, industry-backed health insurance program at amazing rates.

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

Schaefco Development, LLC Timothy Brown

612-802-6948

Two Inlets Mill Katie Kueber

TwoInletsMill.com | 218-732-7229

Wyndham Hills Development Roberta Sjodin

WyndhamHillsMN.com | 651-480-1170

ENROLL NOW LEARN MORE AT HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG

Roofing Siding Windows Tools Gutter

Serving the Professional Contractor

Accessories

ABC Supply is the largest wholesale distributor of roofing in the United States and one of the largest distributors of siding, windows, and select exterior and interior products. Founded in 1982, ABC currently has more than 760 locations nationwide. Specializing in select product lines and categories, ABC offers the professional contractor competitive pricing, superior service, and the highest quality building materials available.

Check us out online at abcsupply.com or visit us in: St Paul - Minneapolis - Coon Rapids - Savage - Maple Plain - Roseville - St Cloud - Rochester - Oronoco - Mankato

We specialize in:

THE MINNESOTA MULCH LOG

• Rough Cut Mowing • Silt Fence Installation • Hydro Seeding • Seed and Mulch • Tree and Safety Fence • Inlet Protection • Erosion Blanket

It is a 10” geotextile fabric sewn together and filled with recycled wood product. It’s reusable and can be easily moved to another location. The Minnesota Mulch Log is a very effective perimeter control device and is more aesthetically pleasing providing a great alternative to silt fence.

Exceptional Service. Always.

763-262-SILT (7458)

• Reusable • Low Maintenance • Ditch Checks • Cost Effective

• Inlet Protection • Perimeter Control • Easy to Install • Self Anchoring

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE WWW.EROSIONWORKS.NET JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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DISCOUNTS

Member Discounts

Business Operations

Save even more with National Purchasing Partners such as: 22% discount on monthly cell phone service with Verizon, up to 8% in rebates with Office Max, free nextday business delivery on office supplies from Staples, save up to 73% off retail pricing at Batteries Plus Bulbs plus more.

Housing First Minnesota has brought together an array of members-only benefits that positively impact your bottom line. We seek companies that thoroughly understand the building industry and provide products at rates generally not available on the street.

Give these folks a chance to see what they can do. We think you will find they can save you money and provide you better service.

HousingFirstMN.org/MemberBenefits

Product Discounts

Gas Discounts

HOMESPHERE

HOLIDAY

Learn how you can join over 2,000 builders receiving incentives and rebates from building product manufacturers.

Save 6 cents on every gallon of gas from Holiday Stationstores.

Special promotion for Housing First Minnesota members who are new applicants—10 cents off the first 90 days.

Melissa Wolf 331-431-7433 MWolf@HomeSphere.com Connecting new home builders to the top manufacturing brands nationwide

Don Keis

Get Started today!

HomeSphere 1/4 Ad.indd 1

6/6/17 2:48 PM

NPP 800-810-3909 CustomerService@MyNPP.com

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612-212-7496 Robert.Schafer@WEXInc.com Speedwayfleetcards.com

New Vehicle Discount

(331) 431-7433 | mwolf@homesphere.com North Central Local Contact Melissa Wolf - Regional Sales manager www.homesphere.com

Competitive and customizable pricing for members on architectural coatings, chemical coatings, industrial coatings, and paint supplies/rollers. Members also have the option of receiving a local quote on wall coverings, floor coverings, window treatments, and spray equipment.

Robert Schafer

952-830-8889 Don.Keis@HolidayCompanies.com

Learn how you can join over 2,000 builders receiving incentives / rebates from building product manufacturers

SHERWIN WILLIAMS

Speedway

Save 5 cents per gallon with a Speedway Fleet Card for your business.

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

JEFF BELZER’S

Save $750 from one of the most popular auto dealers in Minnesota when you purchase any NEW vehicle. Other great incentives include free service loaner vehicle, free pickup and drop-off for service work, and express commercial service.

Jarret Petsch 952-469-7063

SPONSORS

Elite Sponsors There is a generally accepted principal that the strength of an industry association is a great driver of success for the companies in that industry. Strong Association = Strong Members.

DI A MON D ∙ $ 6 5,000 & A B OV E

PL AT I N U M ∙ $ 45,000 -$ 6 4,9 9 9

A trade association is the face of an industry—it is the industry’s voice and leader. It creates value by achieving goals that protect and promote the industry. We work very hard to do that well here at Housing First Minnesota. Every program we offer must help us enhance our core purpose of providing the opportunity for homeownership for everyone, everywhere.

If you are a builder or remodeler in our membership, we have one simple ask. Please consider working with our Elite Partners. They care about our association, our industry, and about your success. Thank them for their support of our cause and let them know that you noticed.

Residential construction in Minnesota is fortunate to have the power and effectiveness of Housing First Minnesota. We are a model for other associations around the country. We have great volunteer leadership, an incredibly dedicated and experienced professional staff, and tremendous support from our Elite Partners. It’s quite a package. So, thank you to our Elite Partners.

We wish you great success in 2021.

GOL D ∙ $ 3 0 ,000 -$ 44,9 9 9

© 2019 Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.

Our Elite Partners are essential in helping us to protect, promote, and lead the industry. We simply could not do our work without their support. Certainly, their financial contributions to our association are vital. But it’s more than just their financial resources. Our Elite Partners believe in the work we do, and they serve as missionaries with their customers and community leaders.

They leverage their knowledge, resources, and connections to benefit Housing First Minnesota.

We are so very grateful for the long-standing and powerful support our Elite Partners provide us.

And we particularly appreciate their commitment even in the midst of COVID-19, which has challenged us all. Elite Partners, we thank you.

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Kolbe Windows & Doors leads the industry with innovative products that push the boundaries and defy the limits of function, performance and style. With numerous options and custom solutions, create Coal Black frames to showcase the views, while bringing a modern edge to a traditional style.

7545 Washington Ave. S | Edina, MN kolbegallerytwincities.com I 866.460.4403

Contact Kolbe Gallery Twin Cities to help bring your vision to life. Our extensive showroom and expert staff will help you select the right Kolbe products for your project.

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TODD POLIFKA

DAVID SIEGEL

2021 PRESIDENT, HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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MEMBER VOICES

Giving Back Caring for communities is at the heart of our industry. Throughout the challenges of 2020, we’ve continued to be amazed by the generous spirit of our members. Whether it’s organizing a fundraiser, collecting items for a drive, or donating time, materials, and labor, here are a few ways members are making a difference and giving back.

Denali Custom Homes Last year, a fire consumed a group home run by Opportunity Partners in New Hope. Denali Custom Homes and their subcontractors stepped up to rebuild this fourbedroom, three-bathroom home that will provide a safe space for vulnerable adults. For David Beiker, Denali’s president and founder, this project holds a special place in his heart. Beiker has an adult son with special needs and understands the difficulties of finding housing for vulnerable adults. The crew broke ground on the project this fall with the home expected to be complete in spring 2021 when four new residents will move in and make the space their home.

Ispiri The team at Ispiri collected stuffed animals and constructed tie blankets for the Fostering Love Project. The organization provides foster children with backpacks that are filled with items that are both practical and let children know they are important and not forgotten in the midst of this difficult journey.

Lyman Lumber Co. Custom One Homes Custom One Homes and Custom One Charities partnered with Bridging to collect blankets this holiday season. With a goal of donating more than 200 blankets, Custom One matched each donation by donating one pillow for each blanket contributed. Bridging serves over 80 Twin Cities families per week by providing quality furniture and household goods for those pursuing housing stability.

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Multiple branches of the Lyman team came together to support the local community in partnership with Habitat for Humanity – Twin Cities. “It is an awesome experience to see the results of our daily actions take shape on the job site,” the company shared on social media. “We are passionate about supporting our community and are blessed to work with a company that prioritizes affordable housing within the metro area.”

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M E M B E R S O N LY

See our latest homeownership campaign at HomeownershipMN.org

6 Ways Housing First Minnesota Will Shine in 2021 Homeownership Is All of It Campaign.

Your association staff and volunteer leaders have been working for the past year on the development of a powerful public relations campaign that highlights the tremendous benefits of homeownership and the challenges far too many Minnesotans have in achieving it. This groundbreaking campaign will reinforce the powerful societal value of homeownership for everyone, everywhere.

Equally as important, it will serve as the core message that integrates and unites all of the programs of Housing First Minnesota, from our comprehensive advocacy program to Parade of Homes, from Green Path to our awards.

Renewed Focus on Membership.

As the COVID-19 outbreak occurred, we rapidly produced highly consumed information on ensuring we were considered an essential service and providing insight to members on dealing with the crisis. Member engagement

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

DAVID SIEGEL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

has never been higher. We need to capitalize on that energy to renew our focus on retaining current members and recruiting the next generation of members. Even as our industry continues to adapt and change, we know there are businesses throughout the region that would benefit from the knowledge, marketing, advocacy, and connections that our association creates.

Deeper and More Sophisticated Educational Content.

We have some 20 courses online for Contractor University, as well as our prelicensure course for those seeking to pass the builder license exam. Members have been asking for more complex content. “We don’t need the 101 courses anymore; we need to go deeper.” We’ve heard you and we’re hard at work identifying speakers and putting together online content that will help you take your business to the next level. Much of that content will be delivered at the Northern Design Build Expo.

Northern Design Build Expo.

We’ve rebranded and reimagined the Builders and Remodelers Show (BRS) as the Northern Design Build Expo. This year, we’ll be launching it virtually with the goal of being back in person in 2022 in our new format. The Expo will showcase rich online educational content and effective virtual exhibits that will allow exhibitors and attendees to seamlessly connect to do business.

Join us as we walk together into the new world of technology and innovation in the meeting and trade show arena.

Continued Home Tour Innovation.

COVID-19 forced us to introduce more virtual capability for the Parade of Homes, Remodelers Showcase, and Artisan Home Tour. We’ll continue to expand on those digital initiatives with an eye toward providing greater connectivity between our members and their customers. We have launched a pilot print and digital neighborhood advertising opportunity that we believe will give our guidebook and website even more value. And we’ll think strategically about incorporating our homeownership is all of it campaign into our Parade of Homes.

The new Northern Design Build Expo will take place virtually on April 6 & 7.

Learn more at NorthernDesignBuildExpo.com.

Continued Growth of our Foundation.

Over the past two years, our Foundation has really gained strong footing with clarity on its vision to end homelessness in Minnesota and its mission to do so in partnership with others. We plan to continue building two homes every year to house transitional homeless veterans and to supplement that work with additional renovation projects. We’ll introduce a tiered sponsorship program and work diligently to meet with legends in our industry to share the Foundation story. Not only does our Foundation do great work in the community, it casts a wonderful halo over our entire industry demonstrating that our builders, remodelers, and trade partners care.

The latest Housing for Heroes project in North St. Paul is now housing formerly homeless veterans.

JANUARY–MARCH 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

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Advertisers ABC Supply Co., Inc............................................................................ 53 Arrow Building Center.......................................................................... 3 Caliber Home Loans............................................................................51 CenterPoint Energy.............................................................................. 5 Central Marble Products, Inc..............................................................60 Cityscape Painting Contractors, Inc.....................................................31

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Corporate 4 Insurance Agency, Inc......................................................60 Erosion Works................................................................................... 53 Ferguson Enterprises........................................................................ 27 In-Focus Systems.......................................................Inside Back Cover JL Schwieters Bldg. Supply/Const., Inc.............................................. 33 J & W Asphalt / Hamill Concrete......................................................... 57 Kolbe Gallery Twin Cities.......................................................Back Cover Lampert Lumber.................................................................................13 Lyman Lumber Co......................................................Inside Front Cover Norbord, Inc....................................................................................... 22 Northland Cabinets, Inc...................................................................... 49 Pella Windows & Doors.........................................................................9 Schwieters Companies, Inc.................................................................16 Shaw/Stewart Lumber Co...................................................................19

View our Elite Granite Series and Designer Edges at centralmarbleproducts.com 320-393-2085 | 800-422-0356 | Rice, MN

Want to advertise in the next Digest?

Contact Kori Meewes (Kori@HousingFirstMN.org | 612.801.9874) Brad Meewes (Brad@HousingFirstMN.org | 651.269.2399)

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HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JANUARY–MARCH 2021

WE MANUFACTURE AND INSTALL OUR PRODUCTS! OUTSTANDING QUALITY AND SERVICE SINCE 1976 MEMBER OF

Today is all about bringing families closer together and staying connected.

In-Focus Systems understands and listens to what is important, and then we make it FUN and easy.

In-Focus Systems is your premier low voltage dealer.

Our team can design, install, and service all your audio/video needs.

This includes smart home devices that control lighting, thermostats, and entertainment systems. We also provide security and camera technologies as well as central vacuum systems.

Come experience FUN in our customer experience showrooms in St. Louis Park or South St. Paul!

© 2021 Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co., Inc.

Kolbe Windows & Doors leads the industry with innovative products that push the boundaries and defy the limits of function, performance and style. Comprise a window wall with custom shapes and large expanses of glass to create a unique space with maximum views and minimal interruptions.

7545 Washington Ave. S | Edina, MN kolbegallerytwincities.com I 866.460.4403

From planning through installation, contact the experts at Kolbe Gallery Twin Cities for various resources to help bring your vision to life. Our extensive showroom and expert staff will help you specify the right Kolbe products for your next project.