Building Connections is a monthly digital magazine produced and published by the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Fairfield County. Inside you will find the latest association news, legislative updates, upcoming events, and featured articles about the industry.
Architect: JBMP (Jones, Byrne, Margeotes and Partners) Architects
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Andersen is proud to support the Home Builders and Remodelers Assn. of Fairfield County and its members.
Closing Out 2024 With Awards and Casino Night!
Hello Members,
I hope you’re all doing well! On December 4, our Annual Awards and Casino Night will be held at Fairfield Theatre Company. This will be a great event to end the year. I hope to see you all there!
For those of you who don’t know, we have recently launched a new Young Professionals Recruitment Program. For nonmembers aged 45 years and under, their first year dues is now only $75! Please let nonmembers you know of this great deal!
As you may have already seen, we rolled out a new website. This website is designed to market you and your business! In conjunction with that, we have been doing a social media push to promote your businesses on our new website. We are always looking for new content- If you are interested in a spotlight or want to write an article, please let me know.
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. ”
Upcoming Events - Register Now!
Weds. Dec. 4: Annual HBRA Awards & Casino Night
Fairfield Theater Company, Fairfield | 6pm-9pm
Celebrate our 2024 award winners, then try your luck at the tables, and bring your highest bids for some great prizes at our Silent Auction!
Fri. Dec. 6: PWB Council Holiday Pizza Party
Rikos’s Pizza, Westport | 12pm-1:30pm
Join the Professional Women in Building Council members to celebrate the holiday season with family-style apps, salad, and delicious thin-crust pizza, plus open bar beer/wine/canned cocktails!
Tues. Jan. 14, 2025: Bowling Bash with the HBRA
Nutmeg Bowl, Fairfield | 6pm-8:30pm
Our bowling bash is back! Sponsorships and bowler registration now available!
Tues. Feb. 25 - Thurs. Feb. 27, 2025: International
Builder's
Show
Las Vegas, Nevada
Don’t miss the biggest event in building! The 2025 NAHB International Builder’s Show is back in Vegas. Registration open now!
And Stay Tuned in 2025 for our annual “Beyond the Blueprint” panel presentation in March, our Member Mixer with tabletop display opportunities in May, our annual Clambake in September, as always our September Golf Classic!
2024 OFFICERS
Immediate Past President John Hertz Hertz Construction Inc.
President: Rob Michaud Michaud Development Group
Senior VP: Brian Kurtz Interstate + Lakeland Lumber
VP & Treasurer: Chris Shea Domus Constructors, LLC
You are invited to join the HBRA for our 2024 Awards Dinner & Casino Night. Celebrate the accomplishments and wonderful work produced by your peers in the association this year, then try your luck at the tables and bring your highest bids for some great prizes at our Silent Auction!
All attendees will receive $200 of "funny money " to use at gaming tables including Blackjack, Roulette, Craps and Poker. Winners will receive a raffle ticket for some great prize items! Additional funny money will be available for purchase!
We'll also have a Silent Auction to benefit the HBRA's charitable endeavors with great prizes - bring your highest bids!
This fundraising event will help support our partnership with the Circle of Care, helping children and families dealing with pediatric cancer.
$225 per person
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
Membership Recruitment Program
l H B R A m e m b e r s , n e w o r c u r r e n t , u n d e r a g e 4 5
a r e a l s o e l i g i b l e t o j o i n o u r Y o u n g P r o f e s s i o n a l s
C o m m i t t e e , d e d i c a t e d t o f o s t e r i n g n e t w o r k i n g ,
g r o w t h a n d m e n t o r s h i p t o o u r i n d u s t r y
p r o f e s s i o n a l s t h a t a r e 4 5 a n d u n d e r .
E m a i l u s t o j o i n : h b r a @ b u i l d f a i r f i e l d c o u n t y . c o m
Awards Dinner
&
SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE
PRESENTING SPONSOR - $2500
- Exclusive headline sponsor noted on all event materials
- Opportunity to speak
- Large logo in first-place position on event banner
- Logo on Cocktail Napkins
- 5 attendees
- Tagged Instagram post
- Full page ad in Building Connections for three months
- Logo on email invitation, social media and website registration page
DESIGN SPONSOR - $1500
- 4 attendees
- Logo on event banner
- Logo on email invitation, social media and website registration page
- Full page ad in Building Connections
CASINO SPONSOR - $500
- Logo on EITHER one raffle item box OR one Casino game table – select when you register
- 1 attendee
- Logo on event banner
DINNER SPONSOR - $2000
- Opportunity to speak
- Large logo on event banner
- Additional sign with your logo at the buffet table
- 5 attendees
- Tagged Instagram post
- Full page ad in Building Connections for three months
- Logo on email invitation, social media and website registration page
DRINK SPONSOR - $1250
- Sign with your logo at the bar
- 3 attendees
- Logo on cups to be used at the bar
- Logo on event banner
- Logo on email invitation, social media and website registration page
EVENT SPONSOR - $300
- Company name on one bistro table
- 1 attendee
- Logo on event banner
NEW CIRCLE OF CARE PROJECT!
Meet Cayden
BOWL I N G BASH
Tues., Jan. 14, 2025
Nutmeg Bowl, Fairfield | 6pm-8:30pm
Lane Sponsor: $375
- Team of 6 with shoes & reserved lane for 2 games
- Food & 2 pitchers of beer
- 6 raffle tickets
- Company name on eblast & registration page
- Company name on TV screen at lane
Solo Bowler: $50 / Team of 6: $300
- 2 games of bowling with shoe rental (solo bowlers will be matched with other guests)
- 1 raffle ticket per guest
- Food & 2 pitchers of beer for your lane
THANK
BOWL I N G BASH SPONSORSHIPS
Tues., Jan. 14, 2025
Nutmeg Bowl, Fairfield | 6pm-8:30pm
SOLD OUT: Bowling Bites Sponsor: $750
Logo on napkins | Logo on screens at each lane
Logo on eblast & registration page | 12 raffle tickets
Team of 6 bowlers with shoe rental | Food & 2 pitchers of beer for your team
Dessert Sponsor: $425 - 1 available
Sponsor delicious cookies to enjoy after the tournament!
Signage at dessert table | Logo on eblast & registration page
1 ticket for a company rep to bowl & then hand out cookies to the teams
Awards Sponsor: $300 - 1 available
Logo on award certificates | Signage at the event
Logo on eblast & registration page
1 ticket for a company rep to bowl & then hand out awards to the winners
Lane Sponsor: $375
Includes a team of 6 bowlers with reserved lane for 2 games, shoes, company name on TV screen at lane and on eblast & registration page, food & 2 pitchers of beer, and 6 raffle tickets.
Event Sponsor: $250
Logo on eblast & registration page
Signage at the event
1 solo bowler ticket
Raffle Prize Donation
Donate a raffle prize & draw the winning ticket! Includes signage at the event. (Ticket sold separately)
FALL GMM RECAP
Our “Fall Fest” General Membership Meeting on October 23rd saw HBRA Members and industry guests gather at Ed’s Garage Doors/Garage Living in Norwalk. Attendees enjoyed the beautiful fall night outside around fire pits and enjoyed a delicious pizza spread from the Colony Pizza truck and a fan-favorite raw bar! Attendees were able to tour the two connected showrooms – the largest garage door showroom in New England!
FALL GMM RECAP CONT.
Thank you to Rich Cunningham and the teams at Ed's Garage Door and Garage Living for a great night!
To learn more about these two great companies, visit www.edsgaragedoor.com and www.garageliving.com.
Photos by Kirt Washington Photography.
RENOVATION ESSENTIALS:
How Decluttering Beforehand Can
Maximize the Impact of Any Remodel
Bridget Flynn, HBRA Member and Owner of Divine Organizing is here to share some insight on how decluttering before a renovation can ensure the success of your renovation project.
Renovating a home is an exciting opportunity to transform a space, but it’s not without its challenges. One often overlooked step that can make or break the success of a renovation is decluttering before the first hammer swing. Removing unnecessary items and organizing what remains can streamline the process, enhance design outcomes, and even reduce renovation costs. Here's why decluttering is an essential first step and how it can maximize the impact of any remodel.
WHY DECLUTTER BEFORE A RENOVATION?
Renovating a cluttered space is like painting on a messy canvas. Clutter complicates the process for everyone involved— homeowners, contractors, and designers. It creates unnecessary obstacles, hides the true potential of a space, and increases the time spent moving or protecting items during construction. Decluttering beforehand allows you to start with a clean slate, making it easier to visualize the finished product and focus on design priorities.
Bridget Flynn Divine Organizing
Moreover, decluttering helps homeowners identify what they truly need and want. Often, we accumulate items over time that no longer serve us, and renovation is the perfect moment to reevaluate these possessions. By discarding or donating what’s no longer necessary, homeowners can ensure that their newly renovated space is functional, beautiful, and aligned with their current lifestyle.
"Decluttering is a powerful yet often underestimated step in the renovation process."
THE BENEFITS OF DECLUTTERING BEFORE RENOVATION
1. IMPROVED WORKFLOW
Contractors and builders can work more efficiently in a clutter-free environment. They won’t need to navigate around excess items, which reduces delays and prevents accidents on the job site.
1 2 3
2. ENHANCED DESIGN IMPACT
Designers can better plan a space when they know exactly what needs to be accommodated. With fewer distractions, they can focus on creating layouts and storage solutions tailored to the homeowner’s specific needs.
3. COST SAVINGS
Renovating a space filled with clutter often requires additional labor and storage solutions, which can drive up costs. Decluttering before renovation minimizes these expenses.
HOW TO DECLUTTER BEFORE RENOVATION
The decluttering process can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start with an assessment: identify items you use regularly and those that hold sentimental value. From there, sort everything into three categories: keep, donate, or discard. Temporary storage solutions, such as renting a storage unit or designating a clutterfree zone in the house, can also help keep the renovation area clear.
If the task feels daunting, consider hiring a professional organizer to guide you through the process. They can provide objective advice, efficient systems, and emotional support to make the experience less stressful.
REAL-WORLD EXAMPLE: THE CAREY FAMILY'S KITCHEN TRANSFORMATION
The Carey family faced a significant challenge when renovating their outdated kitchen. Decades of accumulated cookware, gadgets, and sentimental items had turned the space into a storage nightmare. Before starting the renovation, they worked with a professional organizer to declutter and streamline their possessions.
The result? By the time their contractor arrived, the kitchen was a blank slate. Without the distraction of excess items, the design team could focus on optimizing the layout and incorporating smart storage solutions. The renovation finished ahead of schedule and under budget, and the Smiths were thrilled with their new, clutter-free kitchen.
CONCLUSION
Decluttering is a powerful yet often underestimated step in the renovation process. It clears the way for creativity, efficiency, and success, ensuring that your remodel achieves its full potential. So, before you start your next renovation, take the time to declutter—you’ll be glad you did.
Contact Divine Organizing before your next renovation project by visiting: www.bridgetflynn.com.
Follow Divine Organizing on social media:
Why Hiring the Right Real Estate Agent Matters: Insights
from a Market Expert
HBRA Member and Realtor, Antonio Stella, provides 5 insights into choosing the right Real Estate Agent for your next project.
In every industry, success often hinges on working with the right people.
Real estate is no exception.
The process of selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions a homeowner can make, and yet, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the majority of sellers—approximately 81%—interview only one real estate agent before deciding who to hire. Does this mean that 81% of sellers find the perfect agent on their first try? Or are sellers simply not
conducting thorough due diligence? Likely, it’s a combination of both. Regardless of how a homeowner selects an agent, certain critical attributes are essential to ensure a successful and smooth selling process. Below are the key considerations every seller should prioritize when choosing the right real estate professional.
1
Experience and Expertise
When selling a property, experience isn’t just valuable—it’s essential. An accomplished Realtor brings a deep understanding of market trends, pricing strategies, and the complexities of the sales process. They ensure your home is positioned to attract the right buyers and secure the best possible price. From preparing your home for listing to navigating negotiations, an experienced agent’s expertise minimizes stress and maximizes results.
Professionalism and Integrity
Selling a home is both a financial and emotional journey. A Realtor with professionalism and integrity acts as a trusted advisor, putting your best interests at the forefront. They provide honest advice, maintain transparent communication, and uphold ethical standards throughout the transaction. This trust is invaluable, giving you confidence in their commitment to achieving your goals.
Client-Centric Approach and Communication
Exceptional agents prioritize their clients’ needs. They listen attentively, understand your goals, and keep you informed at every step. Whether answering questions, discussing market updates, or reviewing offers, a client-focused Realtor ensures the process is seamless and stress-free. Effective communication builds trust and ensures that every decision aligns with your objectives.
4
PRICING AND NEGOTIATION EXPERTISE
Accurately pricing a home and skillfully negotiating offers are the cornerstones of a successful sale. A seasoned Realtor leverages market data to position your property competitively. Their negotiation expertise ensures you achieve the best possible outcome, balancing buyer demands with your financial objectives. A strong negotiator can mean the difference between a satisfactory sale and an exceptional one.
MARKETING AND ADVERTISING PROWESS
In today’s competitive real estate landscape, marketing is a critical differentiator. A top-tier Realtor employs a comprehensive strategy that includes professional photography, virtual tours, targeted social media campaigns, and traditional advertising. These tools highlight your property’s unique features and capture the attention of serious buyers. With a wellexecuted marketing plan, your home is positioned to stand out and sell quickly.
Bonus Tip: Ask About Their Unique Value Proposition
When hiring an agent, it’s crucial to understand what sets them apart. As a leading real estate professional in Fairfield County, I offer a proprietary Listing Launch Campaign—an innovative approach combining real estate expertise and cutting-edge marketing strategies. This system ensures your home sells for the highest price in the shortest time, all while making the process efficient and stress-free.
Partnering with eXp Realty provides an additional edge. The power of our brokerage, combined with the unparalleled resources of the eXp Luxury Brand, ensures your home receives worldclass representation that outpaces the competition.
The Right Realtor Makes All the Difference
Choosing the right real estate agent is the foundation of a successful home sale. With the perfect combination of experience, integrity, communication, selling expertise, tools and marketing know-how, a skilled agent can transform the selling experience. Your home deserves the best representation—partner with a Realtor who delivers results and exceeds expectations.
Ready to take the next step?
Let’s make your home sale an extraordinary success.
Contact: Antonio Stella, Realtor at eXp Realty | eXp Luxury antonio@stellahomesteam.com | Cell: 203-219-0839 | Follow me on: Social Media
COLD & FLU SEASON IS COMING!
Use your membership to save on what you
Use your membership to save on what you need to keep your team healthy this cold & need to keep your team healthy this cold & flu season! flu season!
Enroll your company today and save on:
Enroll your company today and save on: -Clorox wipes -Clorox wipes -Hand Sanitizer & Soap -Hand Sanitizer & Soap -Tissues -Tissues -First aid & safety supplies -First aid & safety supplies And much more! And much more!
The NPP Savings Program is free & included The NPP Savings Program is free & included with your HBRA membership! with your HBRA membership!
NAHB has launched a
matching campaign to support rebuilding efforts in communities impacted by natural disasters this year. NAHB will match donations made to the Home Building Industry Disaster Relief Fund (HBIDRF) from 11/1/24 to 3/1/25.
NEW MEMBERS
Chase Architectural Design | Gary Chase
Builder Circle | Dwayne H. Myers
Builder Circle is a lending company that provides independent home builders, rehabbers, developers, and real estate investors with a better, more practical, and more efficient approach to the loan underwriting and construction draw processes. Read More
Design Atelier Toncheva Inc. | Petya Toncheva
After ten years of designing under others in New York, Petya launched Design Atelier Toncheva, Inc. in 2020. Strongly committed to design excellence, sustainability, and social purpose, Petya is an NCIDQ certified interior designer and a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). Read More
Marjorie Brown Interiors | Marjorie Brown
Marjorie Brown Interiors is a full service bespoke interior design firm. At MBI, we believe that designing a home is an immersive journey we embark on together. Your tastes, preferences, and lifestyle are at the heart of our design philosophy. Read More
Sea-Dar Construction | Anthony DeVito
Sea-Dar Construction works with intelligent and interesting clients who are passionate about their projects; with the industry’s most creative, talented architects who design beautiful and complex projects to meet the clients’ desired form and function; and with superior subcontractors who pull it all together into a finished space that shouts quality and refinement. Read More
Titus Built | Derek Matthews
Founded in 1995, Titus Built LLC is a full-service residential design-build firm based in Fairfield County. For 29 years, Titus Built has focused on professionalism and integrity, paired with exemplary craftsmanship and unwavering business practices. Read More
Twin Forks Window Company | Mauricio Suarez
At TFWC, our mission is to provide you with window and door solutions of the highest standards. Our team of architectural representatives and project managers have the expertise and knowledge required for a successful project. We’ll make sure you get the right product for your design and budget. Read More
(Continued on next page)
AFFILIATES
Closet and Storage Concepts | Victoria Shea
Guiltec Development | Ramon Alvarado
Polcer Home, LLC | Jess Polcer
Titus Built | Jeffrey Titus
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.
SONERICA Capital
JOB TITLE: New Home Builder
SUMMARY:
Investor / Developer with large land / lots inventory seeks highly experienced New Home Builder for JV. Immediate construction in lower Fairfield County. You must have 7 figure equity to invest in my projects. I can self-finance 8 figure projects. I am looking for your construction expertise. Not your money.
CONTACT: Email detailed resume and contact information to hbsj7@yahoo.com
Domus Constructors, LLC
JOB TITLE: Residential Construction - Senior Project Manager (Fairfield County)
SUMMARY: In this role, you will have overall responsibility for construction of residential construction and remodeling projects including customer service, determining and purchasing required materials, reviewing scope of work, budgeting, scheduling, running sit meetings with Owners and Designers, generating project schedules, estimates, etc. For full job description and requirements click here.
CONTACT: Email chris@domusllc.com to apply
Visual Comfort & Co.
JOB TITLE: Sales Associate
SUMMARY: In this role you will interact directly with our trade and consumer clients to provide an exceptional customer experience including: driving sales to meet and exceed sales goals, new business development and account management, & showroom operations.
CONTACT: Click here to apply or Email detailed resume to dkelly@visualcomfort.com
Bear Paw Builders Inc.
JOB TITLE: Part Time Bookkeeper | Salary: $30-$35 per hour
SUMMARY: Experienced bookkeeper experienced in construction job costing with QuickBooks. CONTACT: peter@bpaw.com
SALES SHEET
GO BEYOND.
A subflooring panel with a built-in barrier for jobsite durability.
AdvanTech X-Factor panels are the latest innovation from the subflooring brand builders have trusted for more than 20 years for the FLAT OUT BEST™ start to a quiet, stiff floor. AdvanTech X-Factor is a new class of premium subflooring with a fade-resistant, watershedding surface on a high-performance engineered wood panel. With a built-in protective top layer, it takes the moisture resistance teams expect from an AdvanTech panel to the next level and pairs well with AdvanTech™ subfloor adhesive for a Squeak-Free Guarantee™1
The built-in, water-shedding top layer provides a distinctively smooth, even, premium subfloor surface that is marker friendly and easy to clean.
AdvanTech X-Factor Panels
AVAILABLE JOBS: (Continued)
Chloe Winston Lighting Design
JOB TITLE: Showroom Coordinator
RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist with showroom opening and closing duties, answer phones and make customer appointments, greet customers in showroom and make them feel welcomed, receive deliveries and help with in-store merchandise pick-ups, liaise with showroom, manufacturers, and designers, architects, builders and retail customers, and support sales team.
Email resume to hello@chloewinstonlighting.com
Lansing Building Products, LLC
JOB TITLE: Outside Sales - Norwalk, CT (lever.co)
SUMMARY: Full time - secures new business while building and maintaining relationships with customers.
CONTACT: (203) 831-0977 or george.harvey@lansingbp.com
Membership Discounts & Deals
Log in at www.nahb.org
Through agreements with more than 20 national companies, NAHB offers exclusive discounts on a variety of products and services that can benefit your business, employees and family. Members save big when they take advantage of these offers.
Steps to Access NAHB Discounts:
Please Note: Your nahb.org login is separate from your buildfairfieldcounty.com login.
If you do not have an NAHB account, select “Register” on the right side of the screen.
You will need the PIN you received when you first joined the HBRA – find yours by logging in to your account at buildfairfieldcounty.com, or contact the HBRA office and we would be happy to let you know!
After you log in, go to www.nahb.org/NAHB-Community/Member-Benefits/Savings Click on “Learn More” under the discount you want to use and follow the instructions.
See the NAHB "Member Savings Program at a Glance" handout for a full list of available discounts!
Steps to Access NPP Discounts:
Through the HBRA of Fairfield County’s partnership with NPP you can save on products for your business and employees. Membership is free. Visit www.mynpp.com/association/hbra-of-fairfieldcounty/
If you already have an account, select “Log In” at the top right to log in. If you do not currently have an NPP account, enter your information on the form on the right and follow the website prompts to create an account. Click on the discount you would like to sign up for and follow the instructions.
See the NPP handout for a full list of available discounts!
For a full list of all
Updated Water Certification Matrix Tool Spotlights Water Efficiency Programs
NAHB’s Sustainability & Green Building team has updated its Matrix of Water Efficiency Rating Systems to reflect developments over the past few years and provide more detail on water use planning. The matrix provides information on applicability, requirements, costs and scope for these certification programs. The new water matrix includes the addition of the Water Allocation Planning Tool. The update also depicts in more detail how the water rating index (WRI) can be pursued independently from ICC 700-National Green Building Standard® (NGBS) Green certification, if desired. Another change is the inclusion of the EPA’s WaterSense Version 2, which has replaced Version 1.
The new Water Allocation Planning Tool is intended for planners directed to suggest programs for adoption by jurisdictions facing water restrictions.
Read More
Podcast: NAHB Gears Up for an Exciting 2025
In the latest episode of NAHB’s podcast, Housing Developments, CEO Jim Tobin and COO Paul Lopez report from the road as they travel to New York City for the Housing Mortgage Roundtable and a full lineup of media interviews.
Listen Now
As Jan. 1 Deadline Nears for Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting, Beware of Scams
A Jan. 1, 2025, reporting requirement deadline under the Corporate Transparency Act that could affect many NAHB members is rapidly approaching. If you create or have created a corporation, limited liability company (LLC) or other similar entity by filing a document with a Secretary of State or similar office, you may be required to file beneficial ownership information with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN.)
You are subject to this beneficial ownership reporting if your company has 20 or fewer employees and did not file a federal income tax return reflecting more than $5 million in gross sales or receipts in the previous year.
Read More
National Labor Board Prohibits Captive Audience Meetings in New Ruling
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) last week ruled that an employer cannot require employees to attend meetings in which the employer expresses its views on and the potential impact of unionization.
The 3-1 ruling came in a case against Amazon.com Services LLC.
According to the NLRB, these meetings — known as captive audience meetings — violate the National Labor Relations Act because they have a reasonable tendency to interfere with and coerce employees in the exercise of their rights.
Read More
Framing Lumber Prices
The framing lumber composite price increased 1.4% for the week ending on Nov. 15, marking the seventh consecutive weekly increase and reaching its highest level since August of 2023. Lumber prices are now 19.8% higher than they were one year ago.
NAHB continually tracks the latest lumber prices and futures prices, and provides an overview of the behaviors within the U.S. framing lumber market. The information is sourced each week using the Random Lengths framing lumber composite price which is comprised using prices from the highest volume-producing regions of the U.S. and Canada. A summary of other wood prices, including plywood prices, is included below.
Prices and Trends in the U.S. Framing Lumber Market
Summary of the week-to-week lumber prices and plywood prices for the week ending Nov. 15, 2024:
• The Random Lengths framing lumber composite price increased 1.4%.
• Prices are 8.8% higher than last month, and 19.8% above where they were one year ago.
Read More
CONNECTICUT LIGHTING CENTERS
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
Higher Mortgage Interest Rates Slow Housing Production in October
Housing starts edged lower last month as average monthly mortgage rates increased a quarter-point from 6.18% to 6.43% between September and October, according to Freddie Mac.
Overall housing starts decreased 3.1% in October to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.31 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.
The October reading of 1.31 million starts is the number of housing units builders would begin if development kept this pace for the next 12 months. Within this overall number, single-family starts decreased 6.9% to a 970,000 seasonally adjusted annual rate. On a year-to-date basis, single-family construction is up 9.3%. The volatile multifamily sector, which includes apartment buildings and condos, increased 9.6% to an annualized 341,000 pace but are down 29.3% on a year-to-date basis.
Read More
Fannie and Freddie to Expand Support for Rental Housing
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced today that the 2025 multifamily loan purchase caps for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises) will be $73 billion for each Enterprise, for a combined total of $146 billion to support the multifamily market. The 2025 caps represent more than a 4% increase from 2024.
Read More
Entitlements
Master Planning
Scheduling
Contractor
Court Vacates New Overtime Rule in Major Win for NAHB
In a major win for NAHB members on Friday, the Eastern District of Texas issued a nationwide injunction in a coalition lawsuit NAHB filed challenging the Department of Labor’s 2024 Overtime Rule. As a result of the ruling, the salary level for determining overtime pay eligibility for salaried employees — categorized as executive, administrative or professional workers — has been lowered to the pre-2024 level of $35,568.
“This is a huge win for NAHB, home builders and remodelers, and associated subcontractors,” said NAHB Chairman Carl Harris. “The ruling means that bureaucrats in Washington cannot arbitrarily mandate salary levels when regulating how employees are paid and must abide by established labor laws.”
In late 2023, the DOL proposed a rule that would increase the current salary level for determining overtime pay requirements for executive, administrative, professional, outside sales and computer employees from $684 a week ($35,568 annualized) to $1,059 a week ($55,068 annualized) — a nearly 55% increase.
Read More
Builder Confidence Moves Higher as Election Uncertainty is Lifted
Builder sentiment improved for the third straight month and builders expect market conditions will continue to improve with Republicans winning control of the White House and Congress.
Builder confidence in the market for newly built singlefamily homes was 46 in November, up three points from October, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today.
Read More
How Green Building is Shaping the Future of Construction
As home builders construct new homes, keeping up with green building trends will ensure they can compete in the current housing market.
In February 2024, NAHB and Dodge Data & Analytics released a SmartMarket Brief that revealed a majority of builders are involved with green building. The brief, Building Sustainably: Green & Resilient Single-Family Homes 2024, is compiled from a survey of 250 home builders and remodelers.
Future Trends in Sustainable Building Practices
The 2024 SmartMarket Brief survey asked respondents to select the top three factors that would increase their engagement with green building in the future. Half of respondents listed increased home buyer demand for green homes. The second highest at 48% was availability of government or utility incentives. Third, at 37%, was available, affordable high-quality green products.
Resiliency building — the practice of developing building plans with environmental hazards in mind — is another trend in green building. Common natural hazards that green home builders take into account are earthquakes, extreme temperatures, flooding and fires. Resilience and green building practices that can reduce the impact of such events can also help mitigate the costs to recover from natural disasters.
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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
5 Ways to Maximize Your IBS 2025 Education Journey
The education sessions at the International Builders’ Show (IBS) always offer tons of fresh content from new perspectives. This year is no exception, with more than 120 sessions available to grow your knowledge — and your business. Here are the top five ways you can learn from the best, and connect with industry leaders and peers at the 2025 IBS, taking place Feb. 25-27 in Las Vegas.
1. Pre-Show Learning
Industry learning begins before IBS with pre-show learning opportunities. Get a head start at NAHB Courses, the Custom Building & Remodeling Symposium and the Building Science Symposium, taking place Feb. 23-24, and spend more time on the show floor and in IBS Education sessions during the show.
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How Zoning Regulations Affect Affordable Housing
As the country continues to grapple with housing affordability issues, zoning laws are under scrutiny as potential obstacles to building more accessible housing. Zoning and land use policies can either constrain or promote housing production, depending on how they are structured.
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“Gatehouse Partners has been advertising with New England Home Connecticut since 2017, which has 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
Multifamily Developer Sentiment Showed
Mixed Results in Third Quarter
Confidence in the market for new multifamily housing showed mixed results year-overyear in the third quarter, according to results from the Multifamily Market Survey (MMS) released today by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The MMS produces two separate indices. The Multifamily Production Index (MPI) had a reading of 40, up two points year-over-year, while the Multifamily Occupancy Index (MOI) had a reading of 75, down seven points year-overyear.
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Growth for Single-Family Built-forRent Construction
Single-family built-for-rent construction posted yearover-year gains for the third quarter of 2024, as builders sought to add additional rental housing in a market facing ongoing, elevated mortgage interest rates.
According to NAHB’s analysis of data from the Census Bureau’s Quarterly Starts and Completions by Purpose and Design, there were approximately 24,000 singlefamily built-for-rent (SFBFR) starts during the third quarter of 2024. This is 41% higher than the third quarter of 2023. Over the last four quarters, 92,000 such homes began construction, which is a more than 31% increase compared to the 70,000 estimated SFBFR starts in the four quarters prior to that period.
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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.
Pella. Perfectly Beautiful.
For more information, please contact Sabina Mortillaro 631-219-9258 or smortillaro@pellactny.com
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!
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
