March 2023 Building Connections

Why Ring’s End?

Darien (Flagship Yard)

Lewisboro,

Wilton

Bethel

Innovative Options and Designs to Complement Your Home

Pella’s Impervia® windows and doors provide unmatched strength, energy efficiency and lasting durability with proven performance. There’s never a need for painting or refinishing because with our powder-coat finish, our windows and doors resist chipping, chalking and fading. Rot and corrosion-free to naturally resist water and bugs.

Complement your home with Pella’s proprietary, low maintenance fiberglass that offers a sleek and timeless style. Our windows and patio doors have been tested to withstand some of the harshest conditions, including extreme heat and sub-zero cold, damaging UV rays and seacoast environments.

For more information, please contact Sabina Mortillaro

631-219-9258 or smortillaro@pellactny.com

Let the Countdown to Spring Begin!

I hope you are all doing well and looking forward to spring!

I would like to thank Christopher Pagliaro, George Pusser, Tina Anastasia and Anthony DeRosa for sitting on our Beyond on The Blueprint panel on March 1. It was a great evening, the panel was dynamic, and we all learned something.

We are looking forward to our next GMM on Thursday, April 6 at the new Interstate showroom in Westport! To see all the events we have to offer, please see our CALENDAR.

Be sure to keep our online membership directory in mind whenever you are looking for a business: www.buildfairfieldcounty.com/directory.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can do anything for you or your business. kerry@buildfairfieldcounty.com

Kind Regards,

Kerry Brunn Executive Officer Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Fairfield County

“ The mission of the HBRA is to help promote, protect & improve the building industry in Fairfield County. Our association is dedicated to promoting, strengthening, and informing our local home building market and those who work within it to ensure that we areindependently and collectively - a viable economic engine of growth now and in the future. ”

2023 OFFICERS

Immediate Past President

Kim DiMatteo Cross Insurance

President: John Hertz Hertz Construction

Senior VP: Rob Michaud Michaud Group

VP: Brian Kurtz Interstate Lumber

Treasurer: Steven Roth Elevator Service

Secretary: Karen Bradbury Closet & Storage Concepts

2023 DIRECTORS

Alex Shook Pella Windows

Bonnie Paige Bonnie Paige Interiors

Chris Shea Domus Constructors LLC

George Pusser Cornerstone Contracting

Lisa Heldwhite Breakwater Development

Stephen Gidley

Stephen C. Gidley Inc.

Tori McBrien McBrien Interiors

LIFE DIRECTORS

Joanne Carroll JMC Resources

Jerry Effren

The Greyrock Companies

Gary Fanali City Carting

Peter Fusaro

Preferred Builders

Michael Palumbo

ERI Building & Design

Peter Gaboriault Bear Paw Builders

Terrence Beaty

William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty

Chris Steiner Steiner, Inc.

Anthony DeRosa DeRosa Builders

AUTHENTIC TO YOUR DREAM

Andersen ® A-Series windows and doors are based on the style of home you want. Whether it’s a stately Queen Anne, a bold Modernist design or anything in between, you can now create it with the best-performing, most energy-efficient products Andersen has ever offered. Don’t just imagine your dream home, build it with Andersen.

Andersen is proud to support the Home Builders and Remodelers Assn. of Fairfield County and its members.

Beyond the BluePrint RECAP

Over 100 HBRA members and industry guests joined us at The Waters Edge at Giovanni’s on March 1st for our annual “Beyond the Blueprint” panel presentation.

The topic this year was “Building in the Modern Market”, and our panel of four leading industry professionals offered a behind the scenes look as to how they are building and designing in today’s unique market.

Topics discussed included market inventory and rising costs, the ongoing passive home trend, changes in both clientele desires and the clientele themselves caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of maintaining collaboration between builders, architects, and designers throughout the entire design/build process.

Many thanks to our amazing panelists:

George Pusser, Cornerstone Contracting

Christopher Pagliaro, Christopher Pagliaro Architects LLC

Tina Anastasia, Anastasia Interior Design

Anthony DeRosa, DeRosa Builders LLC

George Pusser President/Owner Cornerstone Contracting

Christopher Pagliaro Principal Christopher Pagliaro Architects

Tina Anastasia Principal Anastasia Interior Design

Anthony DeRosa Owner DeRosa Builders

A EVENING THROUGH THE EYES OF HBRA MEMBER GUEST- HEATHER ROGERS MEISTER

Since I come from an art & design background, I really enjoyed listening to interior designer, Tina Anastasia talk about navigating the trends we see on Instagram by talking directly to the vendors in order to cut through the noise and decipher what direction trends are truly taking. Be that in architectural trends, or construction materials all the way down to the tiles most often selected for the interior design of people’s homes. It brought to mind that we in the industry, are an ecosystem that can and should rely on one another for answers and sharing of ideas.

I think panel discussions like this are a fantastic way to keep our ears to the ground about what’s happening and what architectural trends are coming down the pipeline.

Panelist: Tina Anastasia Anastasia Interior Design

As Gatehouse Partners is a general contractor, I took note of what architect Chris Pagliaro had to say about the acceleration of construction costs and the impact on the market. Also, his point of how people think about curating their lifestyle post-pandemic was a big takeaway for me. He postulated that we will see more and more people moving to the CT area from NYC, wanting higher-end architecture and quality construction. Our company prides itself on quality over quantity so that prediction was music to our ears! We welcome the future of residential construction and are looking forward to seeing what shape it takes!

Overall, I loved the atmosphere of the entire evening. It was cozy in its simplicity but not boring in the least bit! Even the beautiful lighting is worth mentioning as it contributed to the cozy atmosphere! There was a nice blend of tradesmen, vendors, suppliers, builders and architects mingling and networking.

- Heather Rogers Meister Project & Marketing Manager Gatehouse Partners, LLC.

Panelist: Chris Pagliaro Christopher Pagliaro Architects

...It brought to mind that we in the industry, are an ecosystem that can and should rely on one another for answers and sharing of ideas.

OSHA10

RECAP

The HBRA hosted the OSHA 10-hour construction training course March 16th at 17th at the Ring’s End Educational Center in Stratford.

Occupational Safety Training Specialists from CT and Federal OSHA covered crucial safety modules designed to help attendees identify work site safety hazards and prevent accidents.

OSHA10 certification is required every 5 years by state law and is appropriate for any trade or construction worker on job sites in Connecticut. OSHA certification can also help your insurance program by securing a good carrier and helping to keep workers comp costs down.

Thank you to our host, Ring’s End Inc., and our breakfast and lunch sponsor Cross Insurance.

PWB MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Lisa is face of the Smarthome and Theater Systems, a smart technology company based in Milford, CT. The team at Smarthome designs and installs unique indoor and outdoor custom solutions for homeowners, builders, architects, designers, and businesses throughout Connecticut.

As the Director of Strategic Alliances, Lisa represents Smarthome in multiple ways. She grows the business by creating new opportunities and developing genuine relationships with members of the industry. Lisa has a natural flair for networking and makes connections with ease. She gives people a better understanding of how smart technology works and how it may benefit their projects.

Lisa also leads the marketing team and oversees the development and execution of marketing campaigns, company communications, print and online ad publications, website maintenance, and social media strategy. In addition, she provides operational support to keep the Smarthome team running smoothly.

Lisa values time with family and friends and loves to create new memories. She enjoys traveling, cooking, music, photography, flying and outdoor adventures. Lisa’s positivity is contagious.

If you’d like to meet Lisa and learn more about smart technology for your home or business, please reach out to her at 203-659-4734 or lisa@audiovideoct.com.

Lisa O’Mara Director of Strategic Alliances Smarthome and Theater Systems

PWB MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Michelle is responsible for cultivating and strengthening relationships with home builders, architects, and designers for Tile America locations in Stamford, Fairfield, and Brookfield. As an outside sales representative, she works closely with industry professionals and their clients to design and specify tile and stone installations.

Michelle has worked in a creative industry since college. She has had experience in the fashion industry for the majority of her career and most recently worked in business development for an auction house. Currently, her design aesthetic gravitates toward neutral, calming, color palettes with natural textures. As a tile specialist one of things she enjoys most is building relationships with so many talented people in the industry and helping to make their tile selection process seamless and rewarding Michelle, a resident of Darien, enjoys spending time with her husband, their 3 boys and family dogs. She loves traveling, boating, skiing, and cooking for friends and family.

Tile America is a 60-year-old CT based family business with seven locations servicing trade professionals throughout the State.

If you’d like to meet Michelle and learn more about Tile America, please reach out to her at 203-2236372 or mhughes@tileamerica.com.

Michelle Hughes Southern Connecticut Outside Sales Tile America

RING’S END

Since 1902

Bethel | Branford | Danbury

Darien | Fairfield | Lewisboro | Madison New Milford | Newtown | Niantic North Stamford | Norwalk | Orange Stamford | Stratford | Trumbull Westport | Wethersfield | Wilton

JOIN THE RING’S END TEAM!

Do you have a positive attitude that contributes to a high company morale? Are you goal-oriented and self-motivated? Can you connect with our customers and build strong relationships? Are you an effective communicator? Do you present yourself professionally? If so, you may be a perfect candidate for a career at Ring’s End!

Ring’s End is a Connecticut-based lumber and building materials retailer serving Connecticut, South County, Rhode Island, and Southern Westchester County, New York. We are a thirdgeneration, family owned and operated business with a rich history dating back to 1902. With 20 retail locations, Ring’s End continues to expand and evolve as an industry leader.

The positions at Ring’s End are as diverse as the employees who hold them. Discover your passionjoin the Ring’s End team today!

RING’S END COMPANY CULTURE

Strategic Vision

To be the premier resource in the building supply industry.

Mission Statement

To provide the very best products, industry knowledge, customer service, and shopping experience. We do this by employing the best team in the industry, ensuring we maintain a diverse, evolved work environment that values cooperation and teamwork. We look for innovation and continuous improvement in everything we do.

Our Values

• Integrity

• Passion

• Pride

• Accountability

• Community

Work Environment & Commitment to Safety

• Total commitment to safety and teamwork

• Zero tolerance for any form of discrimination or harassment

• On-the-job training/certifications

Compensation

• Weekly pay

• Direct deposit & electronic pay stubs (paperless)

• Competitive wages and overtime compensation

• Profit sharing

• Discretionary bonus program

Benefits

• Medical plans including HMO, POS, and HDHP (with HSA)

• Section 125 Flexible Spending Account & Dependent Care Accounts

• Employee Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance

• Long & Short Term Disability

• Paid holidays

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Workplace flexibility

• Education Assistance Program

• Employee Wellness Program

• Legal Consultation Program

“Gatehouse Partners has been advertising with New England Home Connecticut since 2017. Roberta and the rest of the team have been instrumental in helping to get our brand in front of our target audience: homeowners, architects, and interior designers. Working with the New England Home Connecticut team feels closer to a supportive friendship than a business agreement. We highly recommend them (and their networking events) to everyone in the home industry!”

KRISTEN SULLIVAN, GATEHOUSE PARTNERS

About Parksite

ASSOCIATE SPOTLIGHT

800.338.3355

800.338.3355 www.parksite.com

About Parksite

category leading building construction products and specialty building materials to within the commercial construction, residential construction, and remodeling Parksite is 100% employee owned. Along with our wholly owned subsidiary Plywood Corporation, we have 22 locations and over 750 employee-owners. Our mission develop solutions transforming the building industry. We have knowledge and skill demand directly among a product's end users via education, communicating future industry trends.

unique? Our Building Product Specialist Teams!

Parksite distributes category leading building construction products and specialty building materials to dealers and fabricators within the commercial construction, residential construction, and remodeling markets. Founded in 1971, Parksite is 100% employee owned. Along with our wholly owned subsidiary company, Atlantic Plywood Corporation, we have 22 locations and over 750 employee-owners. Our mission is to build brands and develop solutions transforming the building industry. We have knowledge and skill sets to create downstream demand directly among a product’s end users via education, communicating value, and demonstrating future industry trends.

What makes us unique? Our Building Product Specialist Teams!

trained individuals have in-depth knowledge of building envelope science, performance, are 100% focused to providing on-site guidance, training, and building science speci ers, builders, general contractors, and installers through the construction of Tyvek® Weatherization and Corian® Design products.

Product Specialists for:

Meetings

Support

Building Science Training

cation

Updates

Observations and Observation

Envelope Education

independent (third-party) Building Science experts

This group of highly trained individuals have in-depth knowledge of building envelope science, performance, and best practices. They are 100% focused to providing on-site guidance, training, and building science expertise to architects, specifiers, builders, general contractors, and installers through the construction process for the entire line of Tyvek® Weatherization and Corian® Design products.

Building Product Specialist for Tyvek® Weatherization Systems is:

Look to our Building Product Specialists for:

www.parksite.com

• Pre-Construction Meetings

• On-Site Technical Support

About Parksite

• Installation and Building Science Training

• Design Guidance

• Product Specification

• Building Code Updates

• Project Observations

Parksite distributes category leading dealers and fabricators within the commercial markets. Founded in 1971, Parksite is company, Atlantic Plywood Corporation, is to build brands and develop solutions sets to create downstream demand directly value, and demonstrating future industry

Parksite distributes category leading building construction products and specialty dealers and fabricators within the commercial construction, residential construction, markets. Founded in 1971, Parksite is 100% employee owned. Along with our wholly company, Atlantic Plywood Corporation, we have 22 locations and over 750 employee-owners. is to build brands and develop solutions transforming the building industry. We have sets to create downstream demand directly among a product's end users via education, value, and demonstrating future industry trends.

• Warranty Counsel and Observation

• AIA CEU Building Envelope Education

What makes us unique? Our Building Product Specialist Teams!

• Contacts to independent (third-party) Building Science experts

What makes us unique? Our This group of highly trained individuals and best practices. They are 100% focused expertise to architects, speciers, builders, process for the entire line of Tyvek®

This group of highly trained individuals have in-depth knowledge of building envelope and best practices. They are 100% focused to providing on-site guidance, training, expertise to architects, speciers, builders, general contractors, and installers through process for the entire line of Tyvek® Weatherization and Corian® Design products.

Look to our Building Product Specialists for:

Pre-Construction Meetings

On-Site Technical Support

Look to our Building Product Specialists

 Pre-Construction Meetings

 On-Site Technical Support

 Installation and Building Science

 Design Guidance

 Product Specication

Installation and Building Science Training

cation

Building Code Updates

Warranty Counsel and Observation

AIA CEU Building Envelope Education

 Building Code Updates

 Project Observations

 Warranty Counsel and Observation

 AIA CEU Building Envelope Education



Contacts to independent (third-party) Building Science experts

Your Local Parksite Building Product Specialist for Tyvek® Weatherization Systems

MEMBER MIXER SPONSORSHIPS

Weds. May 3 Weds. May 3 | | 6p-9p 6p-9p | |

Bar Bites Sponsor - $1300

Bar Bites from Gaetano's Italian Deli to feed the hungry crowd!

Premium signage at the food table

Logo on drink tickets guests will receive

upon arrival

5 attendee tickets to the event (for employees or customers)

10 Drink tickets

1 Bar Bingo Square

Featured & tagged in Instagram story

Top Hop Sponsor - $500

Table Display

Bar Bingo Square

Logo on all marketing materials

Logo on event banner

10 drink tickets to give out

2 attendees

Membership Raffle Sponsor - $300

Signage at the event & have a member of your team draw the winning raffle ticket to announce the lucky winner! (Attendance ticket sold separately).

Two Roads Brewery Two Roads Brewery

Imperial Sponsor - $1000

Premium table display!

Table to display literature and other marketing materials (prime placement)

Bar Bingo Square - with a tagged social media post

Opportunity to speak at the event

Logo on all marketing materials in first level position

Logo on event banner

10 drink tickets to hand out

3 attendees

A Keg Above the Rest Sponsor - $150

Logo on event banner

1 attendee

5 drink tickets to give out to prospective customers

is the ONLY event with table display opportunities - reserve

NEW MEMBERS

Cisco Heating And Cooling Pros, LLC | Francisco Poou

Family owned and operated HVAC contractor based out of West Haven serving Fairfield and New Haven counties. Read More

DeVore Construction | Ryan DeVore

DeVore Construction is entirely dedicated to transforming spaces of almost any scope, large or small, with the best quality and craftsmanship. From first consultation to final execution, we will work with you every step of the way to ensure a smooth and honest process. Read More

EDOS Manufacturers Reps | Roger Stolting

Since 1975 EDOS has represented only the finest manufacturers and marketing products available to the New York and New England plumbing and heating industry. We serve our customers through our plumbing products division, our heating products division, our commercial division and our showroom division. Read More

JWH Design & Cabinetry, LLC | Jennifer W. Howard

JWH Design & Cabinetry’s design expertise in space planning and custom millwork has been the inspiration behind fabulous kitchens, family spaces, libraries, mudrooms and baths in Westchester and Fairfield for almost 20 years. Read More

ORNARE | Mylene Del Nero

For over 35 years, Ornare has been producing top-quality cabinetry for kitchens, bathrooms, closets, and vanities. Ornare has continued to expand with the presence of its showrooms nationwide and worldwide. Read More

Prudence Home and Design, LLC | Prudence Bailey

Prudence Home and Design is an award winning interior design firm creating timeless and colorful interiors. With residential clients spanning the North East, we are best known for blending modern and traditonal styles. Read More

Schluter Systems L.P. | Stephen Verry II

Based on his extensive knowledge of tile assemblies, Werner Schlüter has consistently met the needs of a rapidly evolving industry by developing practical solutions to tile installation challenges. Read More

Landmark Design | Rocco Umbro

ORNARE | Daniela Rizzo

JOB BANK

AVAILABLE JOBS:

These opportunities are offered by the HBRA members listed in the specific advertisement. Please do not contact the HBRA regarding these listings.

DHD Windows And Doors

JOB TITLE: Delivery Project Coordinator

DEPARTMENT: Operations

EFFECTIVE DATE: 2/10/2022

SUMMARY: Initiates, coordinates, and executes administrative and other project support to Sales Manager/team including providing Customer Service to the Company’s Customers.

DHD Windows And Doors

JOB TITLE: Warehouse Supervisor

DEPARTMENT: Warehouse

EFFECTIVE DATE: 9/15/2022

SUMMARY: Directs the activities of warehouse personnel involved in the receiving of various products into the facility, movements of product within the facility, and the picking and loading of product shipping out of the facility; ensures that all policies and procedures are followed.

R.B. Benson & Company, Inc

JOB TITLE: Residential Construction Project Manager

SUMMARY: Plan, direct, and coordinate all activities concerned with the construction of new luxury single-family homes and/or renovation of singlefamily homes. Participate in the conceptual development of construction projects from acquisition through design and oversee their organization, scheduling and implementation through completion.

AVAILABLE JOBS (Continued):

BigHire, LLC

JOB TITLE: Heavy Equipment Operator - Construction

CONTACT PERSON: Vernita Tertullien

START DATE: Immediate

JOB DESCRIPTION: A Stamford-based company that specializes in residential and commercial concrete and excavation work would like to hire a heavy equipment operator to perform work in southwestern Connecticut.

BigHire, LLC

JOB TITLE: Drywall Technician

CONTACT PERSON: Kelly Hamlett

START DATE: July

JOB DESCRIPTION: A Norwalk-based company is looking to add a full time multi-skilled drywall repair technician. They are a well-established and expert Drywall Repair Company serving Fairfield County.

BigHire, LLC

JOB TITLE: Concrete Laborer

CONTACT PERSON: Kelly Hamlett

START DATE: July

JOB DESCRIPTION: A Stamford-based company that specializes in residential and commercial concrete and excavation work would like to hire two concrete laborers to perform work in southwestern Connecticut.

US 30-Year Mortgage Rates Retreat for First Time in Five Weeks

Bloomberg | March 15, 2023

US mortgage rates declined for the first time in five weeks, helping propel a measure of home-purchase applications to the highest in a month.

The contract rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage fell 8 basis points to 6.71%, according to Mortgage Bankers Association data released Wednesday. The group’s index of mortgage applications for the purchase of a home increased 7.3% to 165.6, the highest since the week ended Feb. 10.

The decline in mortgage rates coincided with a sharp drop in 10year Treasury yields as investors flocked to the safety of government securities on fears of contagion stemming from the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. That’s also prompted traders to bet the Federal Reserve will proceed with a 25-basis point hike next week as opposed to 50.

Read More

Act Now: Tell Congress to Repeal Biden’s WOTUS Rule

Congress will vote later this week to repeal President Biden’s onerous and costly “waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS) rule. The nation’s home builders and developers deserve a clear and cost-effective rule that creates a predictable permitting process while protecting the nation’s waterways and housing affordability.

Read More

Be Unstoppable with Help from UPS®

The world moves fast – and your NAHB UPS® Savings Program has the tools you need to help your small business move even faster. We’re here to help you push envelopes and ride the edge of what’s possible. We’ll be right by your side with everything you need to keep blazing forward.

Let UPS® help make your business unstoppable. Members enjoy the following savings every time you ship:

• 50% off Domestic Next Day / Deferred

• 30% off Ground Commercial / Residential

• 50% off International Exports & 40% off Imports

• Up to 50% off on additional services.

• Plus, UPS Smart Pickup® service is free.

Don’t Let Shipping Mishaps Slow You Down

A lot can go wrong in shipping – package loss, breakage, porch piracy theft. The good news is that you can mitigate the financial impact of some shipping mishaps with InsureShield® shipping coverage.

Through your NAHB UPS® Savings Program, you have access to insurance that can help keep your business moving despite the everyday risks of shipping.

All you have to do is enter the value of the goods in the declared value* field of your UPS® approved shipping system and you are on your way to better shipping experiences.

Start covering your shipments today: savewithups.com/nahb

Legal Disclaimer:

Insurance coverage is offered through UPS Capital Insurance Agency, Inc., a licensed insurance producer. If you elect protection for your shipment, it will be insured under a policy of insurance (the “Policy”), but you are not an insured under the Policy. In the event of a loss covered under such Policy, any resulting claim payment will be directed to you as a loss payee. All insurance-related information is provided by UPS Capital and does not in any way alter or amend the terms, conditions, or exclusions of the Policy. Insurance coverage is not available in all jurisdictions or on all shipments.

© 2023 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. UPS, UPS Capital, InsureShield, the UPS brandmark, and the color brown are trademarks of United Parcel Service of America, Inc. All rights reserved.

Pyramid Illustrates Housing Affordability Crisis

NAHB has updated its “housing affordability pyramid” for 2023, and the latest data show that 64.8 million households out of a total of 132.5 million are unable to afford a $250,000 home.

The pyramid is based on conventional underwriting standards that assume the cost of a mortgage, property taxes and property insurance should not exceed 28% of household income. Based on this methodology, NAHB economists have calculated how many households have enough income to afford a home at various price thresholds.

At the base of the pyramid are 39 million U.S. households with insufficient incomes to be able to afford a $150,000 home.

The pyramid’s second step consists of 25.8 million with enough income to afford a top price somewhere between $150,000 and $250,000. Adding up the bottom two rungs shows that there are 64.8 million households who cannot afford a $250,000 home.

Read More

Missing Middle Housing: How Localities Are Streamlining Efforts for ADUs and Other Building Types

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are being utilized across the country to support aging parents or children, to keep family close together and provide lower-cost housing alternatives. Also known as in-law suites or granny flats, ADUs can be detached, garage-style conversions or attached to main homes in basements or separate units. They can add subtle density and increase the number of housing units in a neighborhood while maintaining character.

NAHB has been promoting this type of housing as a way to provide a variety of housing choices at varying price points to meet the needs to a changing nation. ADU development is not allowed in many areas of the country, however, because of single-family zoning.

Read More

NAHB Announces Multifamily Pillars of the Industry Award Winners

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) honored outstanding work in multifamily development at the NAHB Multifamily Pillars of the Industry virtual awards ceremony held last week.

Read More

Funding for HBA Workforce Development Programs Available

The National Housing Endowment (NHE) wants to challenge the building industry to help build and grow new state and local partnerships and opportunities.

As part of this effort, NHE created the Challenge | Build | Grow Grant Initiative for NAHB state and local home builder associations (HBAs). The Endowment is offering eligible applicants up to $5,000 in matching challenge grant funds for programs and projects addressing NAHB’s highest priority areas, including education and worker training — focusing on building innovations and growing the future workforce.

NHE is currently accepting applications from HBAs and the deadline is March 31, 2023.

Read More

3 Strategies to Become Essential and Thrive in 2023

The panelists took an in-depth look at how to use these strategies in construction, vehicle parts and accessories, and real estate, and shared helpful tips about how to keep demand for your business high when consumers are spending less.

Read More

Built On Great Relationships

We are proud to work with the top builders, designers and remodelers in Connecticut. Your considerable talents enhance the lives of people – and we are thrilled to play a part in your success.

“To help us deliver our designs, we trust Bender and their amazing showrooms and consultants. They make the whole process come together seamlessly.”

Jonathan Gordon, Design by the Jonathans

X Design Consultation including on-site walk-throughs and Recessed lighting layouts

X Large offering and inventory of integrated LED Recessed Lighting

X Indoor and Outdoor Lighting for all applications

X Door, Cabinet & Bath Hardware

X Motorized & Manual Window Shades

X Lutron Lighting Controls

Standard Wallbox to HomeWorks

X Bath Ventilation Fans

X Builder programs

Builders Speak Out Against Proposed Transformer Rule

More than 65 builders and members of utility organizations took part in a March 14 energy roundtable teleconference hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy to air their strong concerns about the Department of Energy’s (DOE) proposed rule to regulate energy conservation standards for distribution transformers.

At a time when the home building industry is facing a severe shortage of electrical transformers, the proposed rule would dictate that manufacturers increase the efficiency of distribution transformers by a mere tenth of a percentage point.

Read More

Builder Confidence Edges Higher in March but Future Outlook

Uncertain

Although high construction costs and elevated interest rates continue to hamper housing affordability, builders expressed cautious optimism in March as a lack of existing inventory is shifting demand to the new home market.

Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes in March rose two points to 44, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today. This is the third straight monthly increase in builder sentiment levels.

Read More

Powerful New Videos Personalize Mental Health Issues in Construction

As part of its Member Mental Health and Wellness Initiative, NAHB has been partnered with Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas to conduct a pilot program with the North Carolina Home Builders Association called “Blueprint for Worker Well-Being.”

The goal of the pilot program, supported by a grant from the JobSite Safety Institute, is to develop a strategic plan for mental health awareness promotion and suicide prevention that can be replicated by other associations within the NAHB Federation.

A key component of that program involves storytelling. According to Dr. Spencer-Thomas, storytelling is our most powerful tool to reduce mental health stigma, which is arguably the biggest barrier in any construction mental health initiative.

Read More

60% of a Home’s Sales Price Goes to Construction Costs

NAHB’s latest Cost of Construction Survey reveals that 60.8% of the average home sales price consisted of construction costs in 2022, similar to the 61.1% breakdown posted in 2019. Since the inception of this series in 1998, this is just the fourth time construction costs represent over 60% of the total price of the home — it was 61.7% in 2013 and 61.8% in 2015.

Read More

How to Improve Your Marketing Strategy

Studies show that those who are in the market for a new home will research builders online for an average of nearly two years. However, after making initial contact with a builder, most customers will be under contract for their new home within just one month.

Courtney Stewart, vice president of client services for Denim Marketing and industry marketing expert, says maintaining an engaging company website and social media presence is the foundation for attracting new customers and generating more business.

“Marketing is necessary for home building because it helps consumers feel more confident in their choice,” Stewart said at an enrichment session hosted by NAHB Young Professionals at the International Builders’ Show last month. “People need to be aware of your brand, and they will make the purchasing decision much more quickly when they are more informed about your services.”

Read More

NAHB Leaders Make Housing Front and Center on Capitol Hill

Addressing a wide range of legislative and regulatory issues with serious repercussions for the nation’s supply of affordably priced housing, NAHB Chairman Alicia Huey and First Vice Chairman Carl Harris met with congressional leaders on Capitol Hill over the past 48 hours to pursue a strong national agenda for housing.

Read More