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.
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Andersen is proud to support the Home Builders and Remodelers Assn. of Fairfield County and its members.
Congrats to Our Fairfield County HOBI Winners!
Dear Members,
I hope you’re all doing well!
Congratulations to all of our Fairfield County HOBI winners! Each and every one of you should be proud of your exceptional work. I look forward to seeing everyone at the HOBI awards on November 13th.
We have also 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. ” EXECUTIVE WELCOME LETTER
Upcoming Events - Register Now!
Tues. Nov. 5: Building Science Fall Educational Series -
“Peeling Back the Layers of a Residential Wall”
Ring's End Education Center | 9am-11am
Covering current building code requirements for residential wall assemblies. No charge to attend, continental breakfast provided. Eligible for 1 HSW credit.
Tues. Nov. 12: Building Science Fall Educational Series -
“Window Installation“
Ring's End Education Center | 9am-11am
Covering basic best practices for installation of Marvin and Andersen windows. No charge to attend, continental breakfast provided.
Weds. Nov. 13: HOBI Awards Dinner
Aqua Turf Club, Plantsville | 5pm-9:30pm
Presented by the HBRA of CT, join us to celebrate the winners of CT’s most prestigious housing awards!
Tues. Nov. 19: Building Science Fall Educational Series -
“Roofing“
Ring's End Education Center | 9am-11am
Covering how to construct and design a better performing sloped roof assembly. No charge to attend, continental breakfast provided. Eligible for 1 HSW credit.
Weds. Dec. 4: Annual HBRA Awards & Casino Night
Fairfield Theater Company, Fairfield | 6:30pm-10pm Awards nominations now open!
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!
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
Lisa Heldwhite Breakwater Renovation & Design, LLC
Geoff Knapp Tooher-Ferraris Insurance Group
Tori McBrien McBrien Interiors
Bepin Mgushi Fixitup Building and Remodeling
Kevin Polcer Polcer Home, LLC
George Pusser Cornerstone Contracting
Stephanie Rapp Stephanie Rapp Interiors, LLC
LIFE DIRECTORS
Joanne Carroll JMC Resources
Anthony DeRosa DeRosa Builders
Kim DiMatteo Cross Insurance
Jerry Effren
The Greyrock Companies
Gary Fanali City Carting
Peter Fusaro Preferred Builders
Michael Palumbo ERI Building & Design
Peter Gaboriault Bear Paw Builders
Chris Steiner Steiner, Inc.
6pm - 9pm Wednesday, Oct. 23rd
Everyone knows things. Rachel just knows more things.
Rachel Lindemann Director
Kitchen & Bath Design Showroom Operations
Rachel Lindemann is more than a director of design. She’s an expert’s, expert. See for yourself at Northeast Building & Home here
Studio Northeast. Living. Elevated.
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)
Award Nominations OPEN
The HBRA of Fairfield County wants to annually recognize members that have consistently dedicated themselves to the efforts that strengthen the residential construction industry in Fairfield County. We encourage you to nominate a member that you feel is deserving of this recognition.
DEADLINE:
The deadline for submission of nominations must be received by November 1st. Nominations received after that date will not be eligible for consideration for the awards
PROCEDURE:
Nominations may be accepted from any member of the HBRA, including the nominee. The FAIRFIELD COUNTY HBRA Board of Directors selects one nominee in each category. The winning nominees will be notified that an award will be presented at the 2024 Awards (NOTE: The FAIRFIELD COUNTY HBRA Board observes the right to abstain from awarding any particular category should it believe nominations are deficient or inadequate).
NOMINATION CRITERIA:
Nominee must be an HBRA member. A prior recipient of an award does not disqualify that person or company from receiving the same award again. Receipt of a specific award does not disqualify that person or company from receiving a different award in the same award year. No award must be granted on an annual basis. The Board of Directors may move an award applicant into a different category of award from the category for which the person or company has applied. With the exception of the President’s Award, The Hall of Fame, and the “John P. Rowins Meritorious Service” Award all award categories will be based on the information provided in the Nomination Form.
Nominations for the Following Awards Now Available! Deadline: Nov. 1
Builder of the Year
Remodeler of the Year
Member of the Year
Associate of the Year
New Member of the Year Woman of the Year
Business of the Year
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
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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
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS HAPPY HOUR
RECAP
HBRA Members and industry guests ages 45 and under joined us September 25th for our second Young Professionals Happy Hour at Elicit Brewing Co. in Fairfield.
We enjoyed delicious apps and drinks at the new brewery while networking with other professionals recently established in the industry.
The HBRA’s Young Professionals Committee is dedicated to fostering networking, growth and mentorship to our industry professionals that are 45 and under, with a special focus on networking, education, and mentorship.
If you are a current HBRA member age 45 or under, email hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com to join!
Not currently a member? Industry professionals aged 45 and under, from companies that are not already a member or have not been a member in the past two years can join the HBRA of Fairfield County for their first year for just $75!
PLUS, they’ll get a $300 discount on the membership when they renew in years 2-4.
Email hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com for information on how to join at the discounted rate!
*Normally $650 each year
Moving During A reMoDel
Tips for Builders & Homeowners
As property prices have shot up in recent years, more people than ever seem to be opting for home improvements rather than moving. A temporary move, however, is often necessary.
Though living on-site is treated as a smart cost-cutting decision, moving out often saves homeowners significant discomfort and allows builders to get on with their work more safely and quickly. If you’re considering moving out during your remodel, we’ve broken down the benefits, key tips and tricks, and everything else you need to know to ensure a smooth temporary move.
Why Move During a Remodel?
There are pros and cons to living on-site while renovating. Still, we’d argue that moving out offers significant benefits to both builders and homeowners and ultimately, allows projects to operate more smoothly:
• The Noise: There’s just no escaping renovation noise and it can get frustrating for both builders and homeowners to work around each other on this matter.
• It’s A Safety Issue (especially for kids and pets): We’ve all seen enough concrete steps with paw marks pressed into them to know that building sites do not mix well with kids and pets. There are also serious safety hazards that remodels can pose to child health.
• Privacy Concerns: Domestic routines and lives are inherently private. Unfortunately, it’s also a boundary that remodeling will inevitably erode which gets uncomfortable for both homeowners and builders.
• Outages: Water, electricity, and HVAC systems often need to be switched off while building work is happening. This can be extremely disruptive for anyone trying to live on-site and often can’t be avoided without delaying important renovation work.
• Reduces Delays: Every time a builder is forced to delay an outage or hold off on making noise for the sake of not inconveniencing whoever is living on-site, it ultimately creates delays across the project.
• It’s Better for Builders: When homeowners move out, it makes things so much easier and safer for building teams. They can focus more on getting their job done with fewer distractions and fewer safety concerns for any small humans or animals around.
Planning the Move: Key Considerations
Here’s what builders and homeowners need to take into account when planning a move:
• Budget: Questions like “What does it cost to move?” need to be answered early in the planning as the answer may have an impact on the rest of the renovation budget.
• Schedule in Advance: Ideally, moving should occur before renovations but it may not be possible. Either way, homeowners need to be clear with their builders on when they’ll be moving out so that the renovation work can be adjusted around this.
Best Packing Strategies for Temporary Moves
When it comes to a packing checklist, here are some of the best strategies to use when preparing for a temporary move:
• Declutter First: One of the best ways to simplify packing for a temporary move and indeed, an entire renovation project, is to embark on a strict decluttering mission at least a month or two in advance.
• Disassemble as Much as Possible: Disassembling will save packing space and allow you to transport things more easily.
• Label Everything: Temporary moves usually have a tight turnaround so take extra care to organize and label boxes appropriately. It will make unpacking that much speedier.
• Save Packing Materials: The thing about a temporary move is that you know you’ll be moving again within a few weeks or months so save as much of your packing materials as possible to re-use.
• Check What’s in the New Accommodation: This saves the hassle of accidentally packing unnecessary items.
Coordinating with Builders: Communication Tips
Clear communication between homeowners and builders can make the task of moving out during a renovation that much simpler:
• Clear up Timelines: Make sure there is a clear and agreed-upon timeline with important dates from both sides. If you as a homeowner have a specific date you need to move out or back in, let your builder know so that they can accommodate this as best as possible. They can also help set your expectations more realistically.
• Confirm Things in Writing: Emails and texts should be used to re-confirm plans discussed verbally so that all parties can go back and check information when needed.
• Check-in Regularly: Delays can happen on all sides so make sure to have regular check-ins with your builders.
Choosing a Temporary Living Space
The two most important factors when choosing a temporary living space during a remodel are:
• Proximity to The Build: The closer the better as it will allow homeowners to check in regularly. It also means less disruption to personal schedules, school runs, etc.
• Flexible Leasing: It’s not always possible but if homeowners can stay somewhere with a flexible lease, it means that they can stay on if there are building delays.
Logistics of Moving Back After the Remodel
Depending on the scale of the remodel, the space that homeowners moved out of likely looks quite different by the time they’re preparing to move back in. One of the main logistics to keep in mind is navigating these changes and where items need to be moved back.
Homeowners can work with their builders on this to draw up an updated floor plan so that movers then also have a better sense of where boxes or pieces of furniture need to go.
Move Out for a Smoother Move In
Moving out during a remodel can be a godsend for both homeowners and builders. Homeowners are saved from the struggle of living in dust and construction noise, and builders can get on with their work unhindered. Everybody wins.
If you’re looking for a trusted, full-service moving company who understands the challenges homeowners and builders face when they decide to renovate, visit www.ozmoving.com.
NEW CIRCLE OF CARE PROJECT!
Meet Cayden
PWB MEETING
RECAP
The Interstate Design Center in Westport hosted the October Professional Women in Building Council meeting on October 17th.
This meeting was the kickoff and launch of the new PWB Mentorship Program. As a supportive community dedicated to fostering collaboration, mindful mentorship, and collective growth by sharing experiences and empowering women in the construction industry, and specifically within the PWB organization, the aim of this program is to create a dynamic platform where PWB members can openly discuss topics relevant to them and to create opportunities to learn from one another as professionals and individuals.
Attendees gathered with like-minded women in small group sessions centered around “Work Hard/Play Hard”, “Market Yourself and Your Business”, and “Manage Your Money.”
Groups will meet quarterly throughout the year.
PWB membership is always open to any woman in the building industry – CLICK HERE to learn more!
2024 Exclusive PWB Partner Sponsor:
Smart Technology to Elevate
Your Home & Simplify Your
Lifestyle
With so many options for technology solutions, we went to HBRA member & technology expert, Jared O'Mara from Smarthome and Theater Systems for his inside tips on how to utilize technology to transform living spaces.
Elevate your home and lifestyle with innovative smart technology that transforms your living space into a haven of elegance and comfort. From custom home theaters to home security systems, you can create tailored solutions that enhance your home and simplify your life.
Collaboration between smart home technology experts and builders, architects, and designers is essential for success. The ideal time to involve us is during the planning phase of your build or renovation, ensuring every detail is executed seamlessly. Whether you're building or remodeling, we’re here to bring your vision to life!
Jared O’Mara Owner Smarthome and Theater Systems
Home Theaters & Media Rooms
Imagine transforming your home with the ultimate entertainment experience. With smart technology, we can create a home theater or media room that offers visually stunning images and exceptional sound quality tailored to your space.
Features like automated lighting, voice control, and custom seating elevate your viewing experience and make every movie night or game day unforgettable.
A smart home theater or media room brings family and friends together and enhances your lifestyle with a touch of luxury.
Home Automation
Enjoy a smart home that works seamlessly for you. Your favorite music wakes you up, the lights turn on at dusk, and the temperature in your living room is perfectly set before you arrive.
Home automation takes care of routine tasks without you lifting a finger. Whether you are home or away, you have full control over every system –lighting, audio, video, shading, climate, security, and more – all from one device.
Effortlessly adjust settings or create personalized scenes to match your lifestyle, making your home smarter, more comfortable, and more convenient.
Audio/Video Solutions
Bring your home to life with the power of music. Our custom home audio solutions let you enjoy your favorite tunes in any room, including outdoor spaces, all with convenient smart technology.
Access your personal music collection or stream from your favorite apps with ease. Imagine watching a movie in your media room while streaming music or shows throughout the rest of your home. Control all your audio and video with intuitive keypads and touchscreens, giving you seamless entertainment at your fingertips.
Shading Solutions
Let natural light shine into your home just the way you want it with the convenience of motorized shades. Whether you are adjusting a single shade or managing a group across different rooms, our shading solutions deliver precise, silent movement at the touch of a button.
Shading provides effortless control of indoor and outdoor lighting, protects your furniture and artwork from sun damage, and helps reduce energy costs while boosting your home security.
Lighting Solutions
Lighting creates the perfect ambiance inside your home and highlights your landscape. It enhances your mood and supports your well-being.
Effortlessly control individual fixtures or groups of lights from a stylish keypad or touch screen to set the mood for any occasion. You can activate preset scenes at the touch of a button.
Additionally, smart lighting reduces your energy consumption, allowing you to enjoy cost savings while maintaining the ambience you love.
Home Security
Ensure the safety of your loved ones and protect your property with a custom home security system. Personalized security solutions are designed to function intuitively, offering comprehensive protection that can be seamlessly integrated with your home automation system.
With convenient remote access, you can monitor and control your home even while you're away, receiving mobile notifications to stay informed of any activity. A secure home means peace of mind for you and your family, wherever you are.
Looking for a Smart Technology Solution?
Smarthome and Theater Systems specializes in smart technology and automation, custom home theaters and media rooms, audio, video, lighting control, motorized shades, Wi-Fi and networks, home offices, wellness rooms, home security, outdoor living, and more.
Reach out to learn how we can elevate your living experience. Book your consultation today!
Golden Gate Holdings LLC is a luxury residential real estate development company. We focus on creating wellness-oriented properties that balance design and comfort. As a developer, we oversee projects, collaborating with expert architects and builders to bring our vision to life. GGH will hold a property ownership, investments, and related ventures, all centered around enhancing the art of living.
UMI Stone | Karalyn Mikucionis
For over two decades, UMI’s mission has been to source the finest stone surfaces from around the globe. Our commitment to excellence has established us as a premier distributor for our curated selection of natural stone, quartz, porcelain, specialty slabs, and sinks. We meticulously select and import high-quality products from trusted quarries and manufacturers worldwide, ensuring that each piece meets our stringent standards for beauty and durability. Read More
C L I C K T O U S E Y O U R C L I C K T O U S E Y O U R
M E M B E R S H I P T O M E M B E R S H I P T O S A V E S A V E O N N F L O N N F L T I C K E T S ! T I C K E T S ! I T ’ S I T ’ S F O O T B A L L F O O T B A L L S E A S O N S E A S O N
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.
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
SONERICA Capital
JOB TITLE: New Home Builder
SUMMARY: Investor with large land inventory looking for highly experienced New Home Builder. You will be a paid consultant. Your main role is to prepare specs and inspect work. Must have built numerous homes. Intimate hands on experience in all facets of home building including foundation, framing, roofing, siding, sheetrock, interior and exterior trim, floors, HVAC, plumbing, electric, costs, scheduling etc.
CONTACT: Email detailed resume to hbsj7@yahoo.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!
With inflation gradually easing and builders anticipating mortgage rates will moderate in coming months, builder sentiment moved higher for a second consecutive month despite challenging affordability conditions.
Builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes was 43 in October, up two points from a reading of 41 in September, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today.
“While housing affordability remains low, builders are feeling more optimistic about 2025 market conditions,” said NAHB Chairman Carl Harris, a custom home builder from Wichita, Kan. “The wild card for the outlook remains the election, and with housing policy a top tier issue for candidates, policymakers should be focused on supply-side solutions to the housing crisis.”
Read More
How Builders Can Leverage Technology for Success
Monica Wheaton, vice president of customer success for residential home construction at ECI Software Solutions, brings a unique perspective to the field with more than 25 years of experience working in the construction and technology industries.
Read More
How Home Owners Can Use the Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit
As the nation’s housing stock rapidly ages, home owners are increasingly considering the installation of energy-efficient upgrades, which can offer both environmental and financial benefits.
However, only 1.7% of tax returns filed for tax year 2023 utilized the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (25C), according to IRS statistics.
Further analysis by NAHB of the tax credit highlights usage trends and potential opportunities for more taxpayers to take advantage of this home improvement incentive. Below are key takeaways from this analysis.
Read More
NAHB's State and Local Issue Fund Helps HBA Advocacy Efforts
Home builders associations continue to advocate for pro-housing policies to improve housing affordability for all. To help HBAs overcome local and state challenges to housing affordability, NAHB's State and Local Government Affairs Committee approved financial assistance for associations through the State and Local Issues Fund (SLIF). More than $96,000 in funds were approved during NAHB’s 2024 Fall Leadership Meeting in San Antonio.
Read More
How Much Did Home Owners in Each State Pay on Property Taxes in 2023?
The average annual real estate taxes paid in 2023 across 86 million owner-occupied homes nationwide was $4,112, according to NAHB analysis of the 2023 American Community Survey. Compared to 2022, every state saw increases in the average amount of real estate taxes paid. two full bathrooms, 23.8% had three full bathrooms, 6.9% had four or more full bathrooms, and only 4.6% had one full bathroom or less.
New Jersey continued to pay the highest real estate taxes, with an average of $9,572. That number is 30.6% higher than the second highest amount of $7,329 paid by New York home owners. The largest percentage increase was in Hawaii, up 21.1% from $2,541 to $3,078.
On the other end of the distribution, home owners in Alabama paid the lowest average amount of real estate taxes at $978. The smallest increase was in New Hampshire, up 1.1% from $6,385 to $6,453.
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
Remodeling Market Sentiment Dips in Third Quarter
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) released its NAHB/Westlake Royal Remodeling Market Index (RMI) for the third quarter, posting a reading of 63, down two points compared to the previous quarter.
The NAHB/Westlake Royal RMI survey asks remodelers to rate five components of the remodeling market as “good,” “fair” or “poor.” Each question is measured on a scale from 0 to 100, where an index number above 50 indicates that a higher share view conditions as good than poor.
The Current Conditions Index is an average of three components: the current market for large remodeling projects, moderately-sized projects and small projects. The Future Indicators Index is an average of two components: the current rate at which leads and inquiries are coming in and the current backlog of remodeling projects.
Read More
Labor Report Shows Dire Need for New Construction Workers
America will need thousands of new skilled construction workers to reduce the nation's housing deficit — a shortfall NAHB estimates to total 1.5 million homes — according to the latest Construction Labor Market Report from the Home Builders Institute (HBI).
Read More
Entitlements
Master Planning
Scheduling
Contractor
The Impact of MLS Changes and Buyer Broker Agreements
In March, an agreement was reached following the class-action lawsuit filed against the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and other large real estate companies. The fallout includes several changes and new regulations that will affect many in the home building space for years to come.
On Oct. 17, NAHB will host a webinar titled “The Impact of MLS Changes and Buyer Broker Agreement” to detail what builders need to know about these industry regulations, including how to advertise in the multiple listing service (MLS) system and leverage your own channels to stay competitive.
Speakers include Kimberly Mackey, founder of New Homes Solutions; Alaina Money-Garman, founder and CEO of Garman Homes; and Lance Lambert, co-founder and editor-in-chief of ResiClub.
“This webinar is essential for understanding how to turn industry changes into competitive advantages,” said Mackey. “Attendees will learn how the NAR ruling affects commissions, realtor programs and advertising practices, with perspectives from both large and small builders, and a Q&A session to address specific concerns.”
Read More
Podcast: How Appliance Suppliers Can Work with Home Builders
On the latest episode of NAHB’s podcast, Housing Developments, CEO Jim Tobin and COO Paul Lopez are on the road at the 2024 Fall Leadership Meeting in San Antonio with special guest Guy Minnix from LG Pro Builder.
Minnix provided insights on the evolution of the LG Pro Builder program, which covers all three LG brands, and how it can benefit NAHB members as a one-stop shop for various electronic needs.
Read More
NAHB Seeks Member Input on Modernizing the Mortgage Interest Deduction
With the 2017 tax cuts expiring at the end of 2025, one of NAHB’s key initiatives in the coming months will be fighting for our tax priorities as Congress addresses the upcoming tax cliff.
NAHB will host five online listening sessions with the membership to discuss next year’s federal tax debate. The listening sessions will provide an overview of NAHB’s 2025 tax strategy, with a focus on incentivizing homeownership.
We will seek input on modernizing the mortgage interest deduction by converting it into a tax credit, which could have a broad effect on the housing industry.
Members are welcome to attend the session specific for their region, which will include regional details, or the session that best suits their schedule. View NAHB’s regional leadership map to confirm your region.
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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
Energy Price Declines Lead the Way in September
Prices for inputs to new residential construction—excluding capital investment, labor, and imports—decreased 0.6% in September according to the most recent Producer Price Index (PPI) report published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Compared to a year ago, this index was down 0.1% in September after an increase of 1.0% in August.
The inputs to new residential construction price index can be broken into two components—one for goods and another for services. The goods component decreased 0.7% over the year, while services increased 1.0%. For comparison, the total final demand index increased 1.8% over the year in September, with final demand goods down 1.1% and final demand services up 3.1% over the year.
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Single-Family Permits Higher in August 2024
Over the first eight months of 2024, the total number of singlefamily permits issued year-todate (YTD) nationwide reached 685,923. On a year-over-year (YoY) basis, this is an increase of 11.5% over the August 2023 level of 615,453.
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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
Patios Continue to Crowd Out Decks on New Homes
While the share of new homes with patios continues to climb, the share with decks has hovered at a historic low of under 18%, according to NAHB tabulation of data from the HUD/Census Bureau Survey of Construction (SOC).
Every year from the re-design of the SOC in 2005 through 2018, over 22% of singlefamily homes started featured decks. After that, however, the share dropped significantly, reaching a low of 17.5% in 2021. Since then, the percentage has remained near that trough, at 17.7% in 2022 and 17.6% in 2023.
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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
