March Plains Builder by Home Builders Association of F-M

March 2019 • hbafm.com • Issue 2/6

PLAINS BUILDER

Raising Money TO SUPPORT OUR FUTURE WORKFORCE

FISH DINNER FUNDRAISER

N O R T H D A K O TA S T Y L E

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College Basketball Championship Game Tickets and Hotel in Minneapolis April 8, 2019

Registration will take place March 1-26, 2019 in store only. No purchase necessary. Only 1 registration per person. Winner will be drawn 3/29/19. Prize package includes two tickets and two night hotel stay for April 7 and 8, 2019.

Plains Builder March 2019

Help Us Raise $1 Million

Home Builders Association of F-M and Home Builders Care of F-M Foundation support North Dakota State College of Science in establishing a local Career Workforce Academy. Through our $1 million fundraising commitment, we will have a seat at the table in developing valuable, relevant trades curriculum. We can help create: â&#x20AC;˘ A way for kids to be introduced to trades careers at a young age. â&#x20AC;˘ A training system for kids led by industry members. Contact Summer Hammond at (701) 232-5846 or summer@hbcfm.com for details on how you can help!

$549,500 RAISED

$1 million goal $450,500 left to raise $100,000 donated by Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead $100,000 donated by Home Builders Care of Fargo-Moorhead Foundation $349,500 donated by generous members

Plains Builder March 2019

20 22

CHARITY

Raising Money To Support Our Future Workforce

WORKFORCE

Home Builders Care Scholarship, HBA Member Make Impact On Student

CONNECTIONS

Lienâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Positivity And Zest For Life Pay Off At HBA LeRoy Kurtyka: A Bridge Builder Like No Other

ASSOCIATION STAFF Chief Executive Officer Bryce Johnson Executive Vice President Krista Mund Director of Accounting & Records Amanda Ohlsen Senior Events & Marketing Coordinator Allison Weckman Communications Coordinator Chelsea Diederich Office Coordinator Tahra Doll

Membership & Marketing Coordinator Sami Eidenschink Education & Development Coordinator Summer Hammond Public Affairs Intern Mackenzie Ste. Marie

PLAINS BUILDER

22 ON THE COVER

A student works at the Herdina Academy for the Construction Trades. This event allows high school students to experience multiple areas of the trades in a hands-on environment.

Publisher Bryce Johnson Editor Krista Mund Coordination, Design and Production Chelsea Diederich Ad Sales Allison Weckman The HBA of F-M does not accept responsibility for or endorse any statements or claims made by advertisers or authors of any articles. Subscription rate is included in annual dues. Please address editorial inquiries to: Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead 1802 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, ND 58103 (701) 232-5846 â&#x20AC;˘ info@hbafm.com www.hbafm.com

Plains Builder March 2019

HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF FARGO-MOORHEAD

WELCOME

JOHN GUNKELMAN, DAKOTA CONSTRUCTION OF FARGO, INC.

Bringing Local Voices To Issues At State Legislature When your HBA of F-M heads to Bismarck, people notice. In February, several of us participated in the North Dakota Association of Builders’ Legislative Impact Day at the state capitol, and it was a rewarding experience. We enjoy connecting with our peers across the state, and our local legislators value our opinions and visiting with us during events like these. Thank you to NDAB for organizing it. One of the objectives at the top of our list was attending a meeting of the North Dakota Senate Education Committee to testify on behalf of Senate Bill 2341 that helps open up more opportunities for teenagers to gain hands-on experience at jobsites like yours! This legislation originated with the HBA, and we have been very engaged in seeing it through. The future of the home building industry relies on changes like this. The need for skilled workers is not only a request we frequently hear on the local level, but across North Dakota and Minnesota, and the nation. We also discussed with legislators the importance of state-based funding for the F-M Area Diversion. NDAB is monitoring over 50 other bills that affect our industry in many ways. Involvement and engagement from you are critical when you receive calls to action from the National Association of Home Builders, NDAB or your local HBA. As Associations, we can help organize messaging and organize a response from our members, but it comes down to you using your voice to connect with your elected representatives. They will listen to you! If you want to learn more about engaging with our public affairs activities, contact the HBA office at (701) 232-5846 or email Chelsea Diederich at chelsea@hbafm.com.

2019 Board of Directors

President John Gunkelman

President Elect Darrick Guthmiller Treasurer Kim Hochhalter Associate Vice President Dawn Cruff Secretary Scott Persoon 6

Directors Devin Gaard Ursula Hegvik Chad Johnson Kimberly Krueger Tehan Robert A. Leslie Tyrone Leslie Eric Miller Dan Parrow Todd Rasmussen David Reid Broc Roberson Tom Spaeth

Immediate Past President Dustin Murray

Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead 1802 32nd Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103 (701) 232-5846 • info@hbafm.com • hbafm.com

Ex Officios Jason Eid Don Dabbert, Jr. John Koerselman Dan Lindquist

Plains Builder March 2019

HOME BUILDERS CARE OF FARGO-MOORHEAD FOUNDATION

WELCOME

RANDY CRAMER, NAI NORTH CENTRAL

Home Builders Care Unveils Purpose Statement Priorities For 2019

Each year, Home Builders Care of F-M Foundation sets goals to proactively address the hurdles and challenges coming in the future. Our top two priorities this year are to support workforce development for our industry and provide scholarships to those interested in trades-related careers. These two things are critical to our community and industry and go hand-in-hand. Each year, the Foundation holds the annual Fish Dinner Fundraiser. This event is a prime example of our brand-new purpose statement: Impacting our community through building projects, empowering students and shaping the future workforce.

During this exciting evening of raffles, auctions, great food and good company, we find ourselves wrapping up the evening with a warm feeling in our hearts. The community, industry and students come out to raise funds to help our local community with future workforce advancements, scholarships and housing projects like construction of handicap-accessible ramps, plus more. All proceeds raised go to benefit Home Builders Care of F-M Foundation’s purpose. This industry is about educating our youth sooner and accelerating their time in school to increase the quality of our future workforce. Our goal is for students to graduate more quickly, with less debt. The workforce shortage is nothing new to any of you. By assisting the Foundation in its purpose, you’ll bring new heights for these students going into the trades. Tickets are on sale now! $20 will welcome you into the fun event with a North Pacific cod dinner and enters you into a $500 cash drawing. Make it an evening out with your friends or family: for $350 you can reserve a table of eight. Hurry there are only four left!

2019 Board of Trustees

President Randy Cramer

Vice President Carlita Dietz Secretary Sylvia Lunski Treasurer Ben Anderson

Trustees Dan Beecher Kristie Eid Perry Eidem Ryan Johnson Nancy Kelly Trevor Odden Dan Parrow Elliot Steinbrink Terry VanWatermulen

Home Builders Care of Fargo-Moorhead Foundation 1802 32nd Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103 (701) 232-5846 • info@hbcfm.com • hbcfm.com

Immediate Past President Monica Hart

Plains Builder March 2019

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

AllStar Construction

Contact: Adam Olson Category: Roofing Contractor Phone: (218) 329-2200

Eicholtz Masonry

Contact: Brett Saladin Category: Masonry, Brick, Glass Block & Stone Contractor Phone: (701) 277-9088

Inspire Away Holdings Inc Contact: Paula Boehm Category: Remodeler General Phone: (218) 850-0383

Lowe's

Mattress Firm

Nice Electric, LLC

Nordic Home Inspection

Northwest Excavating LLC

ProSource Professional Sourcing and Recruiting

Contact: Scott Brekke Category: Building Supplies Phone: (701) 433-2160

Contact: Tracy Kuznia Category: Inspections Phone: (701) 412-1849

Pulsar HALO

Contact: Dean Johnson Category: Security Phone: (701) 799-1737

Contact: Hannah Urban Category: Furnishings & Decorations Phone: (701) 751-8341

Contact: Jesse Soper Category: Excavating Phone: (701) 850-7083

Contact: Darren Neiss Category: Electrical Contractor Phone: (701) 200-4646

Contact: Austen Schauer Category: Employment & Temporary Services Phone: (701) 261-8587

Zerorez

Contact: Darin Trites Category: Flooring Phone: (701) 219-3592

Plains Builder March 2019

MARCH 14 March

AT A GLANCE

Chili Cook-Off

5:30 - 7:30 p.m. • Thursday, March 14 • S & S Landscaping Company, Inc., 2777 Fiechtner Dr S, Fargo

22 March

Home Builders Care Fish Dinner Fundraiser

5:30 p.m. • Friday, March 22 • Holiday Inn, 3803 13th Ave S, Fargo

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

MARCH 6 Home Builders Care

MARCH 13 Home Builders Care

MARCH 7

MARCH 18 Membership

Fundraising 10 - 11 a.m.

Education 8 - 9 a.m.

Fundraising 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.

Noon - 1 p.m.

MARCH 8 Events

MARCH 18 Parade of Homes

MARCH 12 Public Issues

MARCH 20 Home Builders Care

8:15 - 9: 15 a.m.

11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Fundraising All day

APRIL APRIL 4

Education 8 - 9 a.m.

APRIL 9 APRIL 12

MARCH 21 Remodelers Council

MARCH 26 Lunch Session - Want

8 - 9 a.m.

AT A GLANCE

APRIL 15

Membership Noon - 1 p.m.

Public Issues 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

APRIL 15

Parade of Homes 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Events 8:15 - 9: 15 a.m.

APRIL 23

To Save Money On Interest Rates? Check This Out! 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

MARCH 28 Home & Garden Show

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

8 - 9 a.m.

APRIL 25

Home & Garden Show 8 - 9 a.m.

Lunch Session Financial Strategizing for Small Volume Builders 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Home Bujlders Association of Fargo-Moorhead Event

Home Builders Care of Fargo-Moorhead Foundation Event

Plains Builder March 2019

CHARITY

Raising Money To Support Our Future Workforce

Every year, building industry members get together under one roof to support a cause important to their businesses and, for many, to them personally. The Home Builders Care Foundation Fish Dinner Fundraiser is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an evening out, while raising money to support students going into the building trades! See page 34 for a list of our generous sponsors. Last year the event raised over $20,000 that went directly towards working with students to get them interested in the trades. See below for a few examples of how Home Builders Care supports students and, to the right, get a sneak preview of live auction items that you can bid on at the Fish Dinner Fundraiser! Home Builders Care of FargoMoorhead Foundation volunteers interacted with students at the inaugural “Walk Into My Future” event. This event is part of a collaborative community program called “Seeds for Hope” and builds career awareness. This is one of many ways donations to Home Builders Care connects our industry with kids!

In early 2018, members raised money for West Fargo high school students (pictured left) to allow them to attend a national competition related to building trades! By fostering kids in multiple stages of life, our members are able to show them a glance into the building industry to see if it is the right fit for their future career! These students will be able to apply for scholarships funded by donations from the Fish Dinner Fundraiser.

Plains Builder March 2019

Bison Nation

Badlands Watford City Trip

The ultimate North Dakota State University Bison football experience. Start your day off at the Magic bus Tailgating extravaganza. Then make your way into the Fargodome (tickets for two) to cheer on the Bison to another win National Champion win! Donated by: Dan Beecher, Foam Doctor’s, LLC

This hidden gem sits on the northern edge of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Take in the breathtaking scenery, relaxing atmosphere and wildlife at your back door. Donated by: Kevin Christianson, Property Resources Group

Hand-Crafted Settee Bench

Skyline Dinner For Eight

This beautiful bench would be a perfect addition to any outdoor living space to take-in life’s memories. Space for two, with a convenient table in the middle, enjoy a comfortable evening with nature. Donated by: Bob Kochmann, Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc.

Enjoy a four-course meal with wine pairing while overlooking beautiful downtown Fargo from The Title Company’s penthouse. Enjoy a delicious meal, prepared by Dan Beecher, Holy Smokes ‘Que & Catering, and make memories to last with you and seven friends. Donated by: Holy Smokes ‘Que & Catering

Plains Builder March 2019

NORTH DAKOTA ASSOCIATION OF BUILDERS

STATE ADVOCACY UPDATE KIM SCHNEIDER, NORTH DAKOTA ASSOCIATION OF BUILDERS CEO

Feb. 22 is the start of crossover, which is when all bills introduced in either chamber (House or Senate) need to have full action taken on them. If a bill fails in the chamber vote, then it is done, no further action is taken. If a bill passes during a chamber vote, then the bill “crosses over” to the other chamber to start the process all over again. This process includes: 1. A committee being assigned a bill. 2. A hearing scheduled where the bill is introduced. • Those in favor are given an opportunity to speak as to why, • Those who oppose are given an opportunity to state their reasons, and • Those who are neutral can provide input as well. 3. The committee then votes on their stance of the bill as either a Do Pass Recommendation or a Do Not Pass Recommendation. 4. Once a committee has voted, it then is turned into the chamber for a full body vote. • If any changes or amendments are made to the bill after crossover, the bill must return to the original chamber for consideration and vote once again. Crossover is a very busy time as the clock is ticking on action to occur on bills and it also signals that the legislative session is halfway over! State Advocacy Update continued on page 29

2019 Board of Directors

President Bob Horab

State Representative: Don Dabbert, Jr.

First Vice President Nate Applegren

Associate National Director: Joe Stenvold

Second Vice President Phil Risbrudt

Alternate Associate National Director: John Koerselman

Treasurer Jeff Sattler Secretary Mike Jangula

BUILD-PAC Trustee: John Koerselman Alternate BUILD-PAC Trustee: Vance Vetter

Directors Rory Anderson Nate Applegren Pat Bailey Eric Brenden Don Dabbert, Jr Jason Eid John Gunkleman Darrick Guthmiller Kim Hochhalter Bob Horab Mike Jangula Arnold Karsky John Koerselman Gene Kruger Dustin Murray

Terry Olin Keith Ostlund Phil Risbrudt Jeff Sattler Tom Spaeth Vance Vetter Kasper Ziegler Immediate Past President Dan Lindquist

North Dakota Association of Builders 1701 Burnt Boat Drive Ste 201, Bismarck, ND 58503 (701) 222-2401 • kim@ndbuild.com • ndbuild.com 12

Plains Builder March 2019

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS

NATIONAL ADVOCACY UPDATE RANDY NOEL, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS CHAIRMAN

Headwinds Will Limit Single-Family Gains in 2019 February 19, 2019

Mounting housing affordability concerns coupled with supply-side constraints will limit single-family output to modest gains in 2019, according to economists speaking at the National Association of Home Builders International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas today. “Ongoing job creation and solid household formations will keep demand firm, but builders will continue to grapple with supplyside headwinds that will dampen more vigorous growth in the single-family sector,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. Specifically, builders are dealing with a chronic lack of construction workers; a shortage of buildable lots; onerous regulations; tariffs on lumber and other key building materials; and a slow growth in acquisition, development and construction loan activity that is failing to keep pace with demand. All of these factors, plus home price appreciation over the past year that has outpaced wage gains, are contributing to rising affordability woes in the housing sector. The NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index released last week shows that housing affordability continues to hover at a 10-year low, with 56 percent of households able to afford a median-priced home in the fourth quarter of 2018. But a closer look at the numbers reveals that the affordability rate fell to 35 percent when only factoring in newly-built homes. One bright spot is townhome construction, which can serve as a useful bridge for young buyers to transition to homeownership, is expanding at a robust 24 percent annualized growth rate.

The Forecast

Interest rates are anticipated to gradually rise, as NAHB expects 30-year fixed-rate mortgages will average 4.81 percent in 2019 and 5.08 percent next year. NAHB is projecting 1.26 million total housing starts in 2018, and expects overall production to inch up 0.8 percent this year to 1.27 million units. Single-family starts are expected to hit 876,000 units in 2018, and rise an additional 2 percent to 894,000 this year. That’s still well below the 1.1 to 1.2 million units that demographics would support. Some of this shortfall is being made up by increased use of accessory dwelling units. On the multifamily side, NAHB is expecting multifamily starts to hit 386,000 units in 2018 and level off two percentage points to 379,000 this year. This rate of production is considered sustainable due to demographics and the balance between supply and demand. Meanwhile, residential remodeling activity is projected to increase in the future, but at a softening rate of 4 percent growth in 2019 followed by a 2 percent gain in 2020. National Advocacy Update continued on page 28

National Association of Home Builders 1201 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 (800) 368-5242 • info@nahb.org • nahb.org

Plains Builder March 2019

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SUE COSGRIFF, President 35 4th St N, Ste 101 Fargo ND 58102 (701) 232-3341 • FAX: (701) 232-7851

Commercial and Residential Closing Services Title Insurance Escrow Services 35 4th St N, Ste 102, Fargo ND 58102 • (701) 241-928

Plains Builder March 2019

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BACK YOU R OFFER W I T H OU R $10,000* MORTGAGE GUA R A N T EE . Alerus backs your offer with serious support, which tells the seller they’ll have no surprises and fewer risks. We guarantee that your loan will close as approved, or we’ ll pay the seller $10,000. It’s another edge that makes the dif ference in a competitive market.

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Call 701.280.5000 or visit Alerus.com/mortgage. *$10,000 guarantee is paid to the seller if the loan does not close based on our approval letter. The approval letter lists the conditions that must be met for the guarantee to be valid. This guarantee is not valid if the property is deemed by Alerus Mortgage to be in a declining market or if the investor guidelines change prior to closing. The approval letter has an expiration date. The loan must close by the expiration date or the borrower must qualify for an extension. This guarantee is not valid if borrower or sellers choose not to close for reasons beyond our control.

Plains Builder March 2019

WORKFORCE

Home Builders Care Scholarship, HBA Member Make Impact On Student

by Summer Hammond, Education & Development Coordinator Conner Lubben was always interested in residential construction because it allowed him to use his imagination and creativity, not just in the finishes, but in the problem areas as well. Originally from Fulda, Minn., construction classes were never offered at the high school Lubben attended. He gained experience and a love of the trades from working with his dad and other family. After graduation, Lubben didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to attend post-secondary school. He wanted to start working right away. After a few years on the road, he found himself in the Fargo-Moorhead area and decided to attend Minnesota State Community and Technical College for construction management.

While he waited for school to start, Lubben knew he needed a job that would help pay for school. The plan was to work in the summer, saving money so he could focus on his education during the school year. After a quick search, he found himself working for Benjamin Custom Homes. Owner Ben Anderson mentored Lubben, sharing his own path to success and teaching techniques used in his company.

Conner Lubben, left, volunteers on a Habitat for Humanity build with employer Benjamin Custom Homes.

Plains Builder March 2019

“Conner was a great employee that wanted to learn and improve his craft. I am happy to be a part of an organization like the Home Builders Care Foundation that supports students going into the trades.” Upon beginning school at M State, Lubben got involved with the National Association of Home Builders’ Student Chapter. “I knew I wanted to take advantage of everything offered through the chapter in regard to experience, knowledge, mentorships, scholarships and much more,” he says. “This is where I found out about the scholarships offered from Home Builders Care Foundation for students going into the trades.” Meet Conner Lubben! Originally from Fulda, Minn., Lubben moved around after high school trying out different jobs. Eventually landing in the FargoMoorhead area, he worked for HBA member Benjamin Custom Homes the summer before starting classes at Minnesota State Community and Technical College.

Home Builders Care of F-M Foundation awarded $1,000 to Lubben, which he used for books and a much-needed updated laptop. Lubben says, “I want to stay in the F-M area as this community has grown on me tremendously. I couldn’t imagine leaving now and all the wonderful people I have met. Someday, I hope to own my own company in Fargo.”

Plains Builder March 2019

MARKETING & CONNECTIONS

Golf Sponsors Support HBA Mission, Gain Valuable Promotion by Allison Weckman, Senior Events & Marketing Coordinator They say the worst day of golf beats the best day of work. Who could argue with that? That’s why the HBA of F-M provides two opportunities each summer to hit the course with your fellow members to do a little networking that doesn’t feel like “networking.”

SECURE YOUR SPOT BEFORE THE GOLF OUTINGS SELL-OUT The HBA’s Golf Outings have been afforded great weather (most years) and back-toback successions of sold-out events. Want to ensure your team gets signed up? Be a sponsor and take advantage of early team registration. Options encompass all price points and include both event dates, July 9 and Aug. 20, maximizing your exposure to 288 golfers! First International Bank & Trust is a regular sponsor. 18

Joe Straus, east market mortgage manager says, “Ultimately, our success depends on the financial health and stability of our communities. Through supporting the men and women who are literally building our neighborhoods, and promoting policy to keep housing affordable, the HBA is a force that keeps families in our area physically safe and financially sound. We view sponsorship of these golf events as a great way to offer up support for the Association while also promoting our name and mortgage professionals!”

Plains Builder March 2019

Northland Truss Systems, Inc. “Our mission is to exceed customer expectations in pride, quality, reliability, service and creativity.”

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Plains Builder March 2019

CONNECTIONS

Lien’s Positivity And Zest For Life Pay Off At HBA

“WHEN YOU ARE A GOOD TEAMMATE, PEOPLE WANT TO HAVE YOU ON THE TEAM! MARLIN AND AVX OFFER QUALITY AND RESPONSIVE SERVICE, AS WELL AS A PROFESSIONAL AND ORGANIZED CLIENTFACING PROCESS.” DAVID REID RADIANT HOMES

by Krista Mund, Executive Vice President There’s a saying at the HBA of F-M that goes something like this: “members will get out of the Association what they put into it.” Simply put, those who engage themselves, one way or another, will see a return on investment.

devices under a single umbrella so everything can be controlled from one app: audio, video, lighting, thermostats, shades, intercom, video doorbells, locks, security, surveillance, essentially every smart-device you own now and into the future.”

Marlin Lien, who works in sales and design at Audio Video Extremes, understands that. He dove in headfirst upon moving to the area from central Minnesota to establish a store in West Fargo. He is naturally outgoing, enthusiastic and has a desire to give back to his industry and community.

Lien’s positive attitude and zest for life are contagious. HBA of F-M staff named him “Member of the Quarter” in recognition of his efforts to go above and beyond behind the scenes at member events, and his outstanding commitment to volunteerism.

Audio Video Extremes opened its doors in 2005 in central

He has been involved in all the HBA’s committees and has assisted in set-up and logistics at nearly all member events within the past year. AVX also exhibited at the Red River Valley Home & Garden Show last month, and Lien delivered a workshop covering smart-home technology each day of the show.

Minnesota and established its West Fargo store last year. “Audio Video Extremes is honored to bring our unique offerings to the Fargo-Moorhead market, and equally honored to have the number-one whole-home-automation system to serve our clients,” Lien says. “The Control4 ecosystem simplifies your life by bringing all your smart-

Plains Builder March 2019

Senior Events & Marketing Coordinator Allison Weckman says, “From the moment Marlin met the staff at the 2018 Home & Garden Show, he was asking how he could help, how he could get involved, and referred to us and other HBA members as family.” AVX sees the positives of homeowners having just one number to contact for questions and future upgrades, therefore it suggests that all technology come from one company for compatibility and reliability. AVX is unique in that it sells, installs, and services every product. Lien emphasizes that his company’s work is relational and never transactional. “For example, if the homeowner’s cable company-provided internet modem locks up, AVX’s 24/7 virtual technician can recycle the wall-power and get the internet modem

Lien’s Positivity And Zest For Life Pay Off At HBA continued on page 27

Plains Builder March 2019

CONNECTIONS

LeRoy Kurtyka: A Bridge Builder Like No Other

by Krista Mund, Executive Vice President LeRoy Kurtyka was special. Even in the face of a challenging 18-month fight with pancreatic cancer, he kept smiling, remained positive and was focused outward on everything happening with those he loved. And he loved a lot! HBA of F-M members knew Kurtyka through his job at Northern Plumbing Supply and his involvement in the North Dakota Association of Builders. Though based in Grand Forks, he kept strong connections across the state, and regularly visited the Fargo-Moorhead area and the Northern Plumbing branch here. He was a bridge builder like no other in the North Dakota Association world and in the homebuilding industry. NDAB CEO Kim Schneider says, “LeRoy served his term as NDAB president with pride, with respect and with enthusiasm. He was always so appreciative and grateful for those he worked with, without realizing how much he was appreciated himself. LeRoy always ensured the staff was doing well, that we had what we needed, and he made sure we knew he was always available whenever we needed him.”

Kurtyka lived in Grand Forks his entire life, graduating from Central High School in 1975. He and his wife, Jan, married in 1978 and have two children (Chad and Lindsey), and five grandchildren. He worked at Northern Plumbing for 42 years, holding multiple positions throughout the company. He was also active in the Forx Builders Association. HBA members Tom Spaeth, Accent Contracting, and John Gunkelman, Dakota Construction of Fargo, Inc., both served on the NDAB board with Kurtyka. Spaeth remembers his efforts to make everyone comfortable: “No matter what was going on, LeRoy always took the time to introduce himself, or you, to someone new. He was always upbeat and never had anything negative to say about anyone. He truly looked at the good in everyone!” Gunkelman points out that coming from the supplier side of the building industry worked out well in Kurtyka’s NDAB presidency because of all the connections he had across the trades.

Plains Builder March 2019

“Last summer, LeRoy made the effort to come down for our HBA of F-M picnic to say hi to all his close friends here in Fargo-Moorhead,” Gunkelman says. “Little did I know, it would be my last time talking with him. In one word, LeRoy was genuine. There was no front. What you saw was LeRoy, and I miss my old friend.” Even after a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in June of 2017, Kurtyka continued to live with his glasshalf-full personality. He spent his final 18 months loving big and charming even the most stoic doctors and nurses. He passed away Dec. 17. His obituary says, “The world became a little less fun. His family and friends will continue his legacy of love!” When asked to describe Kurtyka in one word, Schneider declared that to be too challenging, and provided four: gregarious, sincere, unassuming and courageous. “Everyone wanted to be around LeRoy and his infectious laughter, warm smiles and the way he welcomed all. LeRoy had a heart of gold and would do anything to help someone in need. He cared so deeply for his friends and his co-workers, but his heart belonged to his family, especially his grandchildren,” Schneider says. “He probably did not realize what an impact he made on so many people. He was courageous for the amazing life he lived, for the legacy he built and for the battle he faced.” Plains Builder March 2019

MARKETING

Members Turn Leads Into Projects Through Remodeled Home Tour

by Allison Weckman, Senior Events & Marketing Coordinator Is there any better advertising than homeowners sharing how well a project went and how happy they are with the final outcome? Those who have taken advantage of the Remodeled Home Tour find it to be one of the most valuable events the HBA of F-M has to offer. Targeting a very specific market of consumers looking to remodel, it’s the only event that allows people to see your product first-hand.

A STORY OF SUCCESS For the 2018 event, Fiske Construction LLP and Wood Specialists, Inc., entered a project that they had worked on together in north Fargo. While Gary Fiske has participated on the Parade of Homes events for new construction, neither he, nor the Wood Specialists’ crew, really knew what to expect of the Remodeled Home Tour. Both were pleasantly surprised. Fiske says, “I was extremely pleased with the number of people that came through the Remodeled Home Tour. The majority of the people were looking for ideas from kitchen design, 24

cabinets, counter tops, appliances and flooring, to a general contractor to help them with their own remodeling project. There was good feedback and I hope to showcase another project this fall.” Beth Kemmer, certified kitchen designer and certified lighting consultant at Wood Specialists says, “We were surprised by how many people attended. There was really good traffic and really good conversations with them. Some people weren’t planning to attend the event, but saw the signs and stopped by to check it out.”

Remodeled Home Tour continued on page 26

Plains Builder March 2019

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Plains Builder March 2019

Remodeled Home Tour continued from page 24 Steve Schall, part-owner at Wood Specialists, was also pleased with the turn out as it’s given them great leads, including a project they are currently working on. “One client came both days and stood there for a long time, just dreaming up his own ideas,“ he says. Getting homeowners on board can often be the biggest challenge. For this particular project, the homeowners are planning to remain in the home for only a few more years, so they were excited about the opportunity to show it off and get great pictures. Knowing that the teams from Fiske Construction and Wood Specialists would be in the home during the event made them feel very at- ease. The owners were in the home during the tour on its second day and enjoyed themselves. Schall and Kemmer were glad they were there, too. “It was great having them share how well the project went and how happy they were with the final outcome. That’s the best advertising we can get,” Schall says. Are you interested in entering a project on the Remodeled Home Tour? Contact Allison Weckman at (701) 232-5846 or allisonw@ hbafm.com for details.

Plains Builder March 2019

Lien’s Positivity And Zest For Life Pay Off At HBA continued from page 21 back up and working before the homeowner even knows it went down,” Lien says, “At AVX, we don’t point fingers, we just take care of our clients like they are a member of our family.” Also, being a Sony Diamond dealer allows AVX to buy at a national level, passing the savings to the homeowner. David Reid, Radiant Homes, is a custom home builder in the area who works with Lien regularly. He says, “When you are a good teammate, people want to have you on the team! Marlin and AVX offer quality and responsive service, as well as a professional and organized client-facing process. He serves on several HBA committees and has volunteered at so many HBA events over the last year. Now, when you show up to an HBA event, you just expect to see Marlin.” Heritage Homes has identified AVX as aligning with a group of floor plans called the Odyssey Collection that reaches a new audience looking for homes at $300,000 or less, including the home site. Troy Mattern, Heritage Homes, says, “We want to be able to provide our new homeowners the opportunity to make their home a smart home, and AVX provides this for us. We are excited to start this relationship with Marlin and AVX as their professionalism and expertise will provide our clients with a great experience. Plus, we know we are getting a great partner in Marlin as he is very involved in the HBA and community.” Outside of the HBA and AVX, Lien enjoys spending time with his wife of 28 years, Julie. They have one grown son, Jeff, who is an electrician. Lien grew up on a dairy farm in Jamestown, N.D., and enjoys anything with an engine, as well as being young-at-heart with kids.

Plains Builder March 2019

Local Council Takes Home National Award

by Sami Eidenschink, Membership & Marketing Coordinator Donating their specialty skills, time and ideas is something that just comes natural for the local HBA of F-M Remodelers Council. Last year, they undertook one of the largest projects they have ever done: remodeling the Dakota Boys & Girls Ranch Youth Home. From basement to kitchen, they took a space that was once industrial feeling and cold and created a bright, warm home for the residents. As a result of their work the council was nominated and chosen to receive the National Association of Home Builders Council Awards for Demonstrating Remodeling Excellence (CADRE). These awards are presented each year to local remodelers councils and individuals whose work at the local level exemplifies the best practices of the remodeling industry. At the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas, local chair, Trevor Odden, Stone Ridge Builders, Inc., accepted the award!

Trevor Odden accepts the CADRE award on behalf of the HBA of F-M Remodeler’s Council. Photo Credit: Josh Reed, Oscar & Associates.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS

National Advocacy Update continued from page 13

South And West Are Hot Spots

Delving beneath the national numbers, the South and West are the regions that will lead new-home growth in the year ahead, according to Frank Nothaft, chief economist at CoreLogic. “Metros with good affordability, good job growth and good weather have had the highest growth in new-home sales over the last year,” said Nothaft. New-home sales are rising fastest in the South. Leading the way are Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Phoenix and Austin, Texas, which all averaged more than 1,000 new-home sales per month between Nov. 2017 and Oct. 2018. Lafayette, La.; Ocala, Fla.; Wilmington, Del.; Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; and Lakeland, Fla. were the metropolitan areas that posted the highest new-home growth in terms of percentage increases over the 12-month period ending on Oct. 2018. Nothaft added that builders continue to be hampered by rising labor and construction costs.

Recession Not In The Cards

Looking at the big picture, David Berson, senior vice president and chief economist at Nationwide Insurance, said there is a low risk of a near-term recession. However, he said that economic growth is expected to slow modestly this year in response to trade/tariff issues, higher interest rates and diminishing fiscal stimulus from the 2017 passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Berson expects the Federal Reserve to tighten interest rates two or three times this year, with fewer moves in future years. This anticipated action, along with inflation edging higher, should result in a modest rise in 30-year mortgage rates in 2019. In a sign that a recession is not imminent, Berson observed that the spread between the 10-year and 1-year Treasury notes have narrowed and flattened significantly over the past year, but the yield curve is not inverted. An inverted yield curve means that the yields on bonds with a shorter duration are higher than the yields on bonds with a longer duration. Berson noted that the best leading indicator of a recession is a yield curve that fully inverts for about three months. Even then, there is usually a lag time of 12 to 18 months following an inverted yield curve before a recession hits. “The start date for the next recession is uncertain, but the odds rise as we look out two to three years,” Berson said. 28

Plains Builder March 2019

State Advocacy Update continued from page 12

Legislative Impact Day 2019 was a huge success for the North Dakota Association of Builders! For those of you who traveled out to Bismarck on a brisk February day, we thank you! HBA of F-M President John Gunkelman was one who made the trip and even took the opportunity to stand in front of the Senate Education Committee to testify in favor of Senate Bill 2341 which is relating to the apprenticeship training program. NDAB President Bob Horab also testified in support and at the end of the day, both did such a fantastic job that it passed out of committee in support and passed out of the Senate chamber overwhelmingly. While we are still working with the sponsors on some amendments to the bill, we are excited to see the opportunity for students ages 16+ to possibly be able to work on jobsites and gain experience. Please continue to watch your inboxes for call to action email requests where we ask that you reach out to committee members or the full chamber requesting favorable action on bills. Your voice matters! Have you been receiving the Legislative Bulletin? NDAB Lobbyist Sara Frank works hard at the Capitol and has been sending out bi-weekly updates. These updates help keep you in the loop on the various bills that we are tracking, shares any call to action requests and provides access to our tracking sheet that lists every bill we are following, the status and any notes. NDAB is working hard this session and we want to ensure you know what is occurring daily. If you are planning a trip to visit the North Dakota Capitol, please let our office know. We always welcome guests and enjoy having the opportunity to show you around the capitol building, introduce you to the legislators and share with you the various committee hearings that might interest you. In ND, we are very fortunate to have great accessibility to our Legislators and to be active in the legislative process.

Josh Haagenson, Bell Bank; Dustin Murray, Dustin Murray Construction and Darrick Guthmiller, Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc; talk with District 16 Representative Ben Koppelman.

Finally, if you want to be more involved, we invite you to reach out to your local office. NDAB Government Affairs Committee Chairman Jason Eid is a fellow HBA member and is always willing to update you on what is happening at the local, state and national political scene.

North Dakota Association of Builders held its Legislative Impact Day in conjunction with the North Dakota Association of Realtors.

Plains Builder March 2019

EXPLORE

THE WORLD OF CONSTRUCTION

INSPECTIONS

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Invited: Open House for Code Changes and New Online Systems

With spring approaching fast, everyone is gearing up for a successful season of building. Join the HBA of F-M and city of Fargo Inspections Department 3-6 p.m. April 11 at the new City Hall building. Visit with the inspectors on code changes, learn how to submit electronically for a permit and pick up the new code book.

JUNE 3-7 & 10-14 Minnesota State Community and Technical College, Moorhead Students age 15 and older $25

Earn college credit HBCFM.COM @tradesacademy

Some of the code changes that might affect you are: 1. Fire blocking 2. Decks 3. Tall wall and wall bracing 4. Flood proofing Stop by with your questions and have a treat while checking out the new building and these changes affecting your business. Please make sure to register for your new code book at a pre-order price of $115.

Date: Thursday, April 11 Time: 3-6 p.m.

Place: 225 4th St N, Fargo ND 58102

Plains Builder March 2019

HBA of F-M Lunch Session Want To Save Money On Interest Rates? Check This Out! Are you interested in learning how to manage your credit profile for your small business and save money on interest rates? Capital Credit Union Vice President Of Member Services East Region Jim Schaefbauer will teach you how to apply simple tools to ensure a brighter financial future. This session will: · Explain the importance of controlling your personal/small business finances and the effect this has on your credit profile · Help you understand your credit score

MARCH 26 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. HBA of F-M 1802 32nd Ave S, Fargo FIRST 20 REGISTRANTS:

FREE!

REGULAR COST:

$15

3 ways to register: · (701) 232-5846 · summer@hbafm.com · hbafm.com: Click Events - Calendar - March Want to Save Money on Interest Rates? Check This Out!