Granite State Builder Summer 2018

Granite State

HomeBuilders A S S O C I A T I O N

Official Magazine of The New Hampshire Home Builders Association

summer 2018

cover story

Building the Next Generation Workforce Millennials Leading the Growth of New Home Buyers The New Tax Codes and You Professionals committed to Excellence

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In This Issue

VOLUME 9 • NUMBER 3

Granite State

Official Magazine of The New Hampshire Home Builders Association

Building a future NHHBA members reach out to ensure a stronger workforce

119 Airport Road • Concord, NH 03301 Phone: (603) 228-0351 Fax: (603) 228-1877 NHHBA.com • info@nhhba.com

HomeBuilders A S S O C I A T I O N

nhhba Officers president

Lynette Rogers

PAGE 4

first vice president

Joe Harnois

second vice president/secretary

Christine Lamontagne

The New Tax Codes and You

treasurer

Tricia Morin vice president of associates

Jeff Semprini

immediate past president Paul Sullivan, cgp

Highlights regarding the new tax code that are expected to affect New Hampshire construction businesses

NAHB National Builder Director Greg Rehm, cgr, caps, cgp NAHB State Representative

Kurt Clason

PAGE 8

Associate National Director to NAHB

Will Infantine

Past President Council

Sandy Lamontagne

Housing and the economy Millennials are leading the growth of new home buyers sales

PAGE 12 2 President’s Letter

Remodeling confidence remains in strong territory despite three-point slip

Tricia Morin Sharron McCarthy Paul Morin, CGB Rob Pickett, CGP Bill Burke Dianne D. Beaton contributors

Lynette Rogers Paul Morin Crystal Ward Kent Liisa Rajala

14 GSB Buzz

A message from Lynette Rogers

3 Remodeling News

EDITORial Boar d

Out and about with our members

17 membership application Become a member and start enjoying the benefits

20 the finish nail Meet Madam President

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

Sharron R. McCarthy Art Director

John R. Goodwin Managing editor

Bill Burke Production Supervisor

Jodie Hall

find professionals quickly!

Scan the QR Code to take the NHHBA Member Directory with you.

Add the page to your home screen or visit: http://appk.me/NHHBA

Become a Member Annual NHHBA membership includes a one-year subscription to Granite State Builder.

Non-members may request a subscription for an annual fee of $27.80.

Contact us for more information (603) 228-0351 • info@nhhba.com • nhhba.com NHHBA.com

Granite State Builder is published four times a year by McLean Communications, Inc. and is distributed to NHHBA members.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the publisher’s written permission is prohibited. Statements and opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication or its officers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, McLean Communications, Inc. and Granite State Builder disclaims all responsibility for omissions and errors. Annual NHHBA membership includes a one year subscription to Granite State Builder. Non-members may request a subscription for an annual fee of $27.80.

© 2018 McLean Communications, Inc. granite state builder magazine

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president’s letter / Lynette Rogers

Dear members,

E

ven though we’ve had a cold and snowy start to Spring, our members are busier than ever.

I know many of you are putting proposals together for homeowners who attended our 51st Annual State Home Show at the Manchester Downtown Hotel & Expo Center. The aisles were packed and seminars filled with homeowners seeking insight around the home improvement project they’d like to get rolling.

I’m hoping you had a chance to check out the Junior Lego Build competition. After three years, I’m still amazed at watching those young minds work. I especially love how excited they get while explaining their project and how everything works together. There’s nothing like a child’s passion to reignite our own. If you’re pondering a mentor or sponsorship program, this is one that will not disappoint.

There’s nothing like a child’s passion to reignite our own.

In March, NHHBA Vice President Joe Harnois and I spent the day at a Middle School Career Day in Hudson, New Hampshire. There were over 45 eighth-grade students interested in the trade fields and exploring their opportunities going into high school CTE programs. I’d like to share a thank you note from one student that reminded me why it’s so important to share our work in the schools: “I have always liked Tech-Ed and have wanted to do it as a career, and you talking about it makes me want to do it even more. I also thought that it was cool that you were a girl, like me, and made it in this field so I know it can be done.”

We need skilled workers in the trades in the future, so the more active we are with these kids, the more encouraged they’ll be to enroll in the schools’ CTE programs. Many of you are reaching out in ways that fit your community. The Southern New Hampshire Region has conducted a mini trade show at Pinkerton Academy, while Greater Manchester/Nashua has met with Alvirne High School students, and the Lakes Region has been working closely with the Huot Technical School on building a tiny house with the students. I am so proud of our membership for creatively pursuing relationships with local youth.

The Hammers for Veterans Program conducted its annual fundraiser on April 28th and raised $5,000. The funds will help provide professional construction-related services to eligible New Hampshire veterans and their families. We’ve had a lot of success with this program and hope to help even more families in need this year with your help. If you are interested in helping work on a project or participating on the committee, your assistance is always appreciated.

There are many different opportunities for you to get involved with the association on both the state and local levels this year. Many of the local associations have various committees where they need volunteers. There is no greater way to network with fellow members than to become more involved with the association.

Yours truly,

Lynette Rogers 2017 / 2018 NHHBA President

HomeBuilders A S S O C I A T I O N

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summer 2018

Remodeling News / Courtesy of nahb

Remodeling Confidence Remains Strong

T

he National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Remodeling Market Index (RMI) posted a reading of 57 in the first quarter of 2018, down three points from the previous quarter and back to the same level as the third quarter of 2017. The RMI has been above 50—indicating that more remodelers report market activity is higher compared to the prior quarter rather than report it is lower—since the second quarter of 2013. The overall RMI averages ratings of current remodeling activity “Strong price apprewith indicators of future ciation, inventory remodeling activity.

“An RMI reading over 50 shortages of homes shows that consumers still for-sale and home remain engaged in home owners’ desire for improvement,” said NAHB updated amenities Remodelers Chair Joanne maintain the Theunissen, CGP, CGR, a remodeling industry remodeler from Mt. Pleasant, on solid footing.”

Mich. “However, higher prices for labor and materials like lumber continue to cause delays in project starts and higher overall project costs.”

NHHBA.com

Current market conditions decreased two points from the fourth quarter of 2017 to 58. Among its three major components, major additions and alterations waned four points to 56, minor additions and alterations increased one point to 60, and the home maintenance and repair component fell four points to 57.

The future market indicators index dipped four points from the previous quarter to 55. Calls for bids increased one point to 57, amount of work committed for the next three months decreased four points to 54, the backlog of remodeling jobs dropped nine points to 57 and appointments for proposals fell three points to 54.

“Strong price appreciation, inventory shortages of homes forsale and homeowners’ desire for updated amenities maintain the remodeling industry on solid footing,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “This quarter’s dip may be related to unusually cold weather in many parts of the country, but the forecast is for the remodeling market to grow in 2018.”

For the full RMI tables, please visit www.nahb.org/rmi. For more information about remodeling, visit www.nahb.org/remodel.

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cover story / Liisa Rajala

Building a Future

NHHBA Members Reach Out to Ensure a Stronger Workforce

T

he New Hampshire Home Builders Association and its regional chapters have been engaging with career and technical education (CTE) programs at high schools around the state to build the next generation of building industry professionals.

And if the association’s recent efforts are any indication, the future of the industry will continue to be guided by its current leaders.

On April 4, the association coordinated a mini trade show “We’re hoping to and career day at Pinkerton reach out to these Academy in Derry, where kids and tell them juniors and seniors in Pinkerit’s important to stay ton’s building, electrical and plumbing trades programs were focused, be good at introduced to career opportuniwhat you do and ties with NHHBA members. you can have a “[CTE students] kind of have very good career.” more background knowledge in the industry in general and seem to be focused a little bit better in what direction they’re heading,” says Joshua Manning, general manager of Lewis Builders Development in Atkinson.

Manning regularly attends career fairs at Pinkerton, Timberlane Regional High School in Plaistow and the Seacoast School of Technology in Exeter.

“We’ve been getting a lot of students coming by and showing interest in our company,” says Manning, who had been handing out job applications to fill positions in roles ranging from mechanics to laborers to equipment operators.

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“It’s very hard to find good help right now. There’s a lack of people coming into these fields and showing interest in them. So we’re trying to start looking at them at a young age,” he says.

That sentiment was shared among other members in attendance.

“We’re constantly hiring and we’re finding that— I mean everybody probably agrees — there’s a shortage of skilled labor coming in,” says Niles Erickson, marketing manager at Erickson Foundation Supportworks in Hudson. “A lot of guys that come in will jump from company to company. We’re hoping to reach out to these kids and tell them it’s important to stay focused, be good at what you do and you can have a very good career. We’re hoping to get more guys like that.”

In addition to companies manning their own information tables, a select group of students were part of the “reverse career fair,” where the students were approached by potential employers to learn more about their skills and background.

“This the first time they’ve done it at this event and I really liked it,” says Erickson. “You can see some of the students are sitting down, maybe they’re shy or don’t care to come talk to us, but going over there and engaging with them, you really get to see what they’ve been doing. I think there’s a good mix of guys that are ready to go into working and I think from the skills they have from a center like this, some of them would be ready.”

“I think it is good because they have to be able to speak to get a job, so that gets their feet wet, too, for when they go in for their interviews,” says Rachelle Ryan, kitchen and bath designer at East Coast Lumber in East Hampstead. “You get to meet them face to face, see their skills — for our industry, I think it’s perfect.”

summer 2018

The Greater Manchester/ Nashua Area Home Builders & “We’re constantly Remodelers Association held hiring and we’re a similar event at The Wilbur finding that — H. Palmer Vocational — TechI mean everybody nical Center at Alvirne High probably agrees — School in Hudson shortly after there’s a shortage the Pinkerton event. However, instead of a traditional career of skilled labor fair setup, representatives coming in.” from companies were placed at tables, with students rotating through every 15 minutes. Each table also had a basket of questions students might not typically ask to encourage conversation.

“It’s a good way for them to learn different career pathways in the building trades,” says Judy King, business and community liaison at Alvirne. “It’s sort of like speed dating.”

Likewise, at Pinkerton, NHHBA members acknowledged reverse career fairs made it easier for employers to seek out potential employees.

“You can cherry pick who could work for you,” says Tom Loosigian, owner of Birch Creek Building & Development in Pelham.

Seeing the economic pressure on homebuilders to fill positions, the NHHBA has plans in the works to further develop the connection between homebuilders, technical schools and students.

“We’re looking at doing work with the different CTE programs to help encourage kids to stay into the trades, to go into the fields, because we need workers now more than ever,” says NHHBA President Lynette Rogers.

NHHBA.com

Rogers says people in the industry are working 60 to 70 hours per week due to the employment shortage.

“And that’s tough because it’s just going to drive up the cost of everything we buy — all the construction, all the work getting done on your homes — and here, we have the oldest housing stock, so they need a lot of renovation on that side too.”

Rogers spoke with Pinkerton’s CTE Director Doug Cullen about working with Pinkerton’s existing internship program and developing job shadows to provide students with real world experience that could lead them to getting hired.

“Especially if they work a summer or vacations or part-time, I think that would be important. That’s something we’re talking about and putting together,” says Rogers, who would like to work with NHHBA members to incorporate young people into their businesses.

“We’ve actually been talking to Pinkerton to have some of their classes come out to our job sites to see the process outside of what they’re doing here in their classes,” says Manning, of Lewis Builders Development. “The real-life aspect of it is very important.”

Palmer Gas & Oil in Atkinson has been working closely with Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School in Haverhill, Mass., since Pinkerton does not have an HVAC program. Through Whittier’s co-op program, Palmer is able to have at least two students on-hand, 40 hours a week, as students alternate each week with either three days or work and two days of school or vice versa.

“It’s a real good program; I wish Pinkerton would do it because they’re closer, but we actually have a good relationship with Whittier,” says Paul Perry, service manager at Palmer. “We’ve been doing this for five years and over that time we’ve hired 10 kids full-time at the end of the season.” continued on next page >

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Career Fairs Bring Companies & Future Employees Together

Representative from Lewis Builders, East Coast Lumber, Milton Cat and Lakes Region Community College were amoung the participants at the mini trade show and career day at Pinkerton Academy in Derry, held in April.

Perry said not all of the employees have stayed on, but two of the company’s better employees came from Whittier Tech.

Rogers aims to maintain lines of communication with CTE centers and discuss how the association and schools can improve student career pathways.

Last summer, Alvirne High School renovated an “We’re looking at doing old space into a career cenwork with the different ter. Through a combination of school system funding CTE programs to help and a Perkins grant, Alvirne encourage kids to stay created a career counselor into the trades, to go into the fields, because position. Now, freshmen year, students must take a we need workers now resume-writing class and more than ever.” use career development software to explore different career pathways. “[Freshman year] students can do an assessment where they see real interviews of jobs to think about. It’s all about those things that get students thinking about what to do, and shaping their CTE direction,” says King, who encourages all Alvirne students to participate in CTE. Rogers agrees aptitude tests can help students recognize which career pathways best fit their strengths.

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“Math skills are important, especially in construction. The whole mantra is measure twice, cut once, so you’re not wasting money.

If you cut wrong, you can’t use the material,” says Rogers.

Students must have a basic understanding of geometry to calculate square footage as well as calculating inches and fractions for window sizes, she explained. And encouraging students to hone these required skills means NHHBA needs to reach out to even younger grades.

Rogers herself spoke to a class of eighth graders about the building trades and received a heartfelt thank you note that served as reminder of how small efforts can have a major impact.

“They all wrote thank you notes, but this one stood out from the rest. Her note said, ‘I wanted to thank you because I’m interested in the field, I’ve always liked Tech-Ed and I wanted to do it as a career and you talking about it made me want to do it even more,’” Rogers related from the note. “‘I thought that it was cool that you were a girl like me and made it in this field so I knew it could be done.’”

Liisa Rajala is the associate editor at New Hampshire Business Review, where she reports on workforce development efforts and industry-education partnerships to form career pipelines. Liisa previously covered industry trends for The Kiplinger Letter in Washington, D.C. She can be reached at lrajala@nhbr.com. summer 2018

special report / Brion O’Connor

The New Tax Codes and You

TAX T AXES PROFIT

“In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.”

— American founding father Benjamin Franklin, in a letter to Jean-Baptiste Leroy, 1789

O

f course, the great statesman Ben Franklin could have easily said “really complicated taxes,” and he would have been even more accurate. Consider the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, passed by Congress and signed by President Trump late last December, and its impact on the construction business, as a prime example.

Many saw the act as the most pervasive tax policy change in the United States in more than three decades, expanding opportunities to defer taxable income, free up cash flow and pay taxes at lower rates. At the same time, a number of traditional deductions were lost, and the dust is still settling on exactly what impact the act will have across the industry.

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According to the New Hampshire Society of Certified Public Accountants, many firms were hesitant, as of late April, to comment specifically on the impact of the tax code changes until final regulations and instructions, including the “qualified business income deduction,” were released. They’re not alone. Cord D. Armstrong, CPA, writing for the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA), said: “There is a lot to digest in the new tax bill.”

“CFMA’s Tax and Legislative Committee will continue to evaluate these changes and will monitor any technical corrections bills and IRS regulations that are surely to follow,” writes Armstrong, a managing director of CBIZ MHM, LLC and shareholder in Mayer Hoffman McCann in Phoenix, Ariz. summer 2018

Likewise, Michael DeSiato, a certified public accountant and partner with Cherry Bekaert LLP in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., says: “On balance, the new tax bill provides significant benefits to those in the construction industry. There are still many unanswered questions and ambiguities in the new law, which should be addressed in upcoming technical corrections bills and IRS regulations.”

Kurt Clason, president of K.A. Clason Fine Woodworking in Ossipee, N.H., predicts that the majority of New Hampshire-based contractors will “We are starting to not see much of an impact, see more reports though “the fact that customabout how our guys ers can still use a home equity will initially see a loan for renovations” is a plus. decrease in their tax, “Most of the builders but over the next few around here are under $2 years it will grow and million gross annually,” says exceed what they’re Clason. “They will not hit the major thresholds for gross paying now.” profit that this tax code was set up to benefit. We are starting to see more reports about how our guys will initially see a decrease in their tax, but over the next few years it will grow and exceed what they’re paying now.”

However, for those business owners who are affected, Kevin Bassett, CPA, and managing partner with Bassett & Associates in Raleigh, N.C., the new law represents substantial potential for maximizing profits.

“There are huge opportunities to save money under the 2017 Tax Act with a hybrid tax structure,” says Bassett, referring to businesses that are “divided between two or more legal entities.”

In summary, here are some general highlights regarding the new tax code that are expected to affect New Hampshire construction businesses.

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“Small” is a relative term. In terms of the tax code, the small contractor exemption was increased from $10 million (which was established in 1986, and never adjusted for inflation) to $25 million. This threshold identifies which contractors are allowed to use a method of accounting other than the percentage-of-completion method for their long-term contracts, provided the work is expected to be completed within two years. Effective Jan. 1, 2018, only those contractors with average gross receipts of more than $25 million are required to use the percentage-of-completion method.

“This is a pleasant surprise for small contractors and will allow those contractors with average gross receipts between $10 million

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and $25 million to account for their long-term contracts under their established exempt method,” writes Armstrong. “Exempt methods, for example, could include the completed-contract method or the contractor’s overall accounting method such as the cash, accrual or accrual-less-retention methods.”

Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax Owners of C-Corps saw the Alternative Minimum Tax, or AMT, repealed by the new law. That action accentuates the benefits of the accounting changes to long-term contracts, eliminating some of the more unpredictable swings in tax liability that can result from using the completed-contract method for regular tax and the percentage-completion method. However, the AMT remains for individual taxpayers, including owners of pass-through entities. On the positive side of that ledger, the AMT exemptions and phase-out limits were significantly increased, to $70,300 (single) and $109,400 (married filing jointly) from $55,400 and $86,200 respectively. The exemption amounts were reduced by 25 percent of the alternative minimum taxable income above $500,000 (single) and $1 million (married filing jointly), a notable increase from $123,100 and $164,100, respectively.

Expensing equipment, property The new law will also increase the 50 percent “bonus depreciation” to 100 percent for most property.

“A pleasant surprise in the bill is this provision will apply to property placed in service after Sept. 27, 2017,” writes Armstrong.

“So, some taxpayers will benefit from this additional deduction on their 2017 returns.”

Additionally, the 100 percent expensing now applies to used property as well as new, unlike prior bonus depreciation rules.

However, the law also stipulates that 100 percent expensing expires after Jan. 1, 2023, and will be reduced 20 percent per year over the next four years until being completely phased out in 2027.

Domestic Production Activities Deduction eliminated Previously, the Domestic Production Activities Deduction, or DPAD, permitted construction firms, specialty contractors, building product manufacturers, and engineering and architectural firms working on related projects to take a deduction equal to 9 percent of the taxable income from qualified activities performed in the United States. That deduction was repealed after the 2017 tax year “to help pay for the lower tax rates,” writes Armstrong. As a result, contractors and those related business owners are likely to take a hit to their taxable income. For pass-through entities, the qualified business income deduction is expected to offset the loss of DPAD. “Our advice to contractors is to sharpen their pencils when calculating this deduction for the last time for 2017,” says DeSiato.

Limits on losses, deductions Business losses for non-corporate taxpayers are now limited to $250,000 per year (single) and $500,000 (married filing jointly) for tax years beginning after Dec. 31, 2017 through Jan. 1, 2026.

“This limitation applies to all personal and pass-through losses for the year, so an individual is now prohibited from deducting 10

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losses from pass-through entities in excess of these levels,” writes Armstrong. “Any disallowed losses are added to the individual’s net operating loss carry forward.”

Furthermore, no portions of entertainment expenses are deductible. However, the 50 percent limitation for meals remains intact, with some minor adjustments. Bassett said he is telling his construction clients that they need to “look at how they are coding meals, travel, entertainment, advertising and charitable expenditures.”

A change in identity As a result of these changes, choosing your corporate “entity” has become more important, since the wrong designation, based on your company’s profile, could cost you money. Some accountants recommend that contractors have a construction accounting firm conduct a “choice of entity analysis” to evaluate these factors, including the cost of conversion. Clason said his accountant didn’t recommend any changes to his company’s S-Corp status.

“We’re too small for the tax changes to affect us,” he says. “Large corporations will benefit greatly.”

Changes at the state level In addition to the federal tax changes, the New Hampshire Senate recently agreed to reduce the real estate transfer tax, from 75 cents to 50 cents per $100 in valuation for two years. That, says Clason, can only help business.

“We’re primarily a remodeler for vacation homes,” he says.

“Hopefully this will translate into more people investing in second homes that will need an upgrade.”

Freelance writer Brion O’Connor is a product of New Hampshire schools — Manchester Central High School and the University of New Hampshire. He currently resides with his wife and two daughters on Boston’s North Shore.

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For private offer details, visit nahb.org/gm.

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geico.com/disc/nahb Available at participating dealers. Private offer amount varies by model. Retail and fleet deliveries for City Express receive a $250 offer. Retail deliveries for all other eligible vehicles receive a $500 offer. Fleet deliveries on the following vehicles receive a $1,000 offer: Buick Enclave; Chevrolet Traverse, Silverado, Express; GMC Acadia, Sierra, Savana. All other fleet deliveries will receive a $500 offer. Valid toward the purchase or lease of eligible 2015 and 2016 model-year vehicles. Customer must take delivery by 1/3/17. Not compatible with other private offers. Not valid on prior purchases.

Compatible with many current incentives. Incentives are subject to change without notice. Excludes Buick Regal, Cascada; Chevrolet Corvette, Impala Limited, Sonic, Spark, Trax, SS, Volt; all Cadillac 2 models. FAN required for fleet deliveries. See dealer for complete details.

Offer eligible for non3 CAP customers only through 12/31/16. See dealer for details.

To qualify, vehicle must be used in the day-to-day operations of your business and not solely for personal/non-business-related transportation purposes. Must provide proof of business. For complete program requirements, including information regarding offers, vehicles, equipment, options, warranties, and ordering, consult your dealer or visit gmbusinesschoice.com. Take delivery by 9/30/16. ©2016 General Motors.

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Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. Homeowners, renters, condo, boat and PWC coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary.

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granite state builder magazine

Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. Homeowners, renters, condo, boat and PWC coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary.

GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2015. © 2015 GEICO

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11

from the homefront / Courtesy of nahb

Housing and the Economy Millennials Leading the Growth of New Home Buyers

A

s the housing industry celebrates New Homes Month in April, recent data from the Census Bureau con firms that millennials are increasingly entering the housing market as first-time buyers.

The homeownership rate of millennials—now at 36 percent— registered the largest gains among all age groups in 2017. As the nation’s largest demographic group, more than 70 million millennials are poised to dominate the home buying market in the months and years ahead.

“Millennials are recognizing the benefits of homeownership and are eager to buy their first homes,” said National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Chairman Randy Noel, a custom home builder from LaPlace, La. “And contrary to conventional wisdom, this generation is in the market for single-family homes in the suburbs as they look ahead to raising their families.”

Home builders recognize the changing demographics and the increasing demand for entry-level homes. Yet rising construction costs and limited lot availability create significant challenges to building smaller, single-family detached homes that are both affordable to first-time buyers and cost-effective for builders.

With millennials willing to compromise on space, townhouses 12

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granite state builder magazine

are offering a more affordable option for younger buyers ready to purchase their first homes. After experiencing a drop during the Great Recession, the share of new townhome construction has been rising since 2009. According to NAHB analysis of Census data, townhome construction in 2017 was up seven percent from 2016.

Millennials also are looking for “Millennials are homes with three bedrooms and recognizing the two bathrooms, outdoor space, flexible areas that can be used for benefits of homea variety of purposes and more ownership and are luxurious finishes, like quartz eager to buy their countertops. first homes.”

Ongoing economic growth and rising wages are expected to continue boosting housing demand throughout 2018. NAHB analysis of the Census Bureau’s Housing Vacancy Survey shows that the number of home owner households increased by 1.5 million in 2017, while the number of renter households declined by 76,000.

Home buyers can access home buying and home building information and resources at NewHomesMonth.org. summer 2018

Housing Starts Rise 1.9 Percent on Multifamily Surge Gains in multifamily production pushed overall housing starts up 1.9 percent in March to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.32 million units, according to newly released data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Commerce Department.

Multifamily production rose 14.4 percent to a seasonally “Builders are optiadjusted annual rate of 452,000 mistic about future units—its highest reading since demand for housing December 2016. Meanwhile, and are ramping up single-family starts fell 3.7 production to meet percent to 867,000 units.

“Builders are optimistic about this demand.” future demand for housing and are ramping up production to meet this demand,” said Noel.

“Single-family starts dropped slightly this month, but singlefamily permits year-to-date are up 5 percent from their level over this same period in 2017.”

“The modest decline in single-family starts in March is still in line with our solid builder confidence readings and is largely attributable to lingering winter weather that is causing production delays in certain areas of the country,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “With ongoing job creation, wage increases and rising household formations, we can expect continued, gradual strengthening of the housing market in the coming months.”

Regionally in March, combined single and multifamily housing production increased 22.4 percent in the Midwest and ticked up 0.8 percent in the Northeast. Starts inched down 0.6 percent in the South and 1.5 percent in the West.

Multifamily strengthening pushed overall permit issuance up 2.5 percent in March to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.35 million units. Multifamily permits jumped 19 percent to 514,000 while single-family permits fell 5.5 percent to 840,000.

Permit issuance rose 9 percent in the Midwest, 3 percent in the West and 2.1 percent in the South. Permits declined 5.5 percent in the Northeast.

Contact the NHHBA at 603-228-0351, info@nhhba.com or apply online at www.nhhba.com

NAHB Members Save up to 36% With UPS® The National Association of Home Builders is proud to bring its members valuable discounts on the products and services you need. Make the most out of your membership and take advantage of competitive rates on UPS® shipping services.

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granite state builder magazine

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13

GSB Buzz

Out and About with Our Members Tiny House Project Progresses

T

he Lakes Region chapter hosted its second annual Tiny House All Day Build at the Huot Career and Technical Center building shop.

With 90 minutes each school day, the all-day build went a long way toward helping students work on tasks that needed completion so the May deadline could be met. Members were invited to join the build project to mentor, encourage or work side-by-side with the students. Members have donated materials, time and expertise to help the students gain invaluable knowledge and helped to define viable career paths for many of the participating students. Some of the training on the Tiny House project included: • Insulation techniques — the Tiny House was moved outdoors and the students got to see firsthand how spray foam is applied; initial air sealing measures on this project have once again proved to be superior. Andy Duncan from Lakes Region Community College worked with the classes on a blower door test.

• Dead River Company performed mock interviews with the students to help better prepare them for future interviewing.

• Pella Windows brought donuts and practice windows for the students to install.

• Ponders Hollow Custom Flooring instructed this year’s students at every step of the way about floor prep, laying of hardwood, sanding and finish work.

• Secondwind Water Systems spent a day with the different classes talking about how water quality is something to consider with build projects and the different products/ services that can be installed.

Students and Lakes Region chapter leaders continued work on the 2018 Tiny House project, built at the Huot Technical Center in Laconia. This year’s project – the second annual effort – will be for sale, and proceeds will go directly to the costs of building materials and workforce development for future builds, educational scholarships, quality tools and internships.

• A number of builders oversaw students do roofing and siding work.

• Every student in the building and HVAC program was encouraged to submit an application to the LRBRA scholarships for future education, or for the Tool-Belt Awards where the students going directly into the workforce can get quality tools to start them off right.

• The students have gotten to know our members, and members have gotten to know participating students. Our members have shared how they started out on their respective career paths. They acquired something very valuable to employees: hands-on skills – an often hard-to-find element.

Association members enjoyed some outstanding spring skiing during the NHHBA’s annual “NHHBA Ski Day” – a statewide event held at Cannon Mountain on March 15. From left: Jeff Lavoie of All-Ways Accessible; Kevin Eyring of Palmer Gas and Oil; Kevin Salemi of Lewis Builders Development; SNHHBRA Executive Officer Lisa Bowman; and Johnny Hawkes of Crossroads Contracting.

The 19th Annual Pinkerton Day and Mini Trade Show was held at Pinkerton Academy’s Shepard Auditorium recently. From left: SNHHBRA Executive Officer Lisa Bowman; town of Derry Economic Development Director Beverly Donovan; Pinkerton CTE Director Jennifer Haskins; and NHHBA President Lynette Rogers.

14

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granite state builder magazine

summer 2018

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• nhhba.com > Members > Discounts • nahb.org/MA

GA IN I NFLUENC E

Protect your business interests on Capitol Hill, at the state house and in the communities where you do business.

Your association is your strongest advocate for reducing regulations and keeping you prosperous. From the State House and regulatory agencies to Washington, DC, our influence and respect leads to your continued success.

A S S O C I A T I O N

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NHHBA A S S O C I A T ION

Your ongoing professional development through NHHBA membership enhances your credibility and marketability.

Earn your professional designations: • Certified Graduate Remodeler • Certified Graduate Builder • Certified Graduate Associate • Certified Graduate Aging in Place Specialist • and more!

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KE E P I N F O RM E D Make networking and business connections.

• Fast, free and reliable consultation from technical regulatory and building industry specialists.

• E-newsletters • Granite State Builder magazine • Member only access to nahb.org

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15

✁

✁

Become a Member Today!

Fill out this form, mail or fax it back and start to enjoy the benefits!

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

For office use only

New Hampshire Home Builders Association 119 Airport Road Concord, New Hampshire 03301 T: 603-228-0351 F: 603-228-1877 info@nhhba.com www.nhhba.com

Ck._____________________ Amount_________________ Date___________________ Entered_________________

MEMBER TYPE:

□ BUILDER

□ ASSOCIATE

□ AFFILIATE

Company Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Brief Description of Business: ___________________________________________________________________________ No. Years in Business _____________ First Name:____________________________________ Last Name:_______________________________________Title: ___________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________________City:_________________________State:_______Zip:____________ Telephone:_________________________________________Cell:_________________________________________Fax: __________________________________ E-mail:_____________________________________________________________________Web:__________________________________________________

Billing Contact & Address (if different from above):_________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: ____________________________________ Cell:______________________________________________ Fax: ________________

MEMBERSHIP PROFILE INFORMATION ON NEXT PAGE MUST BE COMPLETED CHOOSE LOCAL ASSOCIATION

□ Lakes Region............................ $515 □ Manchester/Nashua…………… $525 □ North Country ........................... $490 □ Seacoast…………………………$525 □ Southern………………………… $525 □ Southwestern............................ $490 □ White Mountain………………….$490 □ Affiliate Member………………....$ 80

An Affiliate member is an employee that can join under their company’s full-membership in the same Local. ___________________________________ Name of Primary Full Member to list Affiliate Member under (required)

NAHB COUNCILS

□ Remodelers Council…………….$ 80 □ Sales & Marketing Council……..$ 80 VOLUNTARY DONATIONS

PAYMENT $___________________

□ Cash

□ Check

Credit Card:

□ VISA □ MC □ AMEX □ DISCOVER

Card #____________________________________________________________________ Expiration Date:___________________________ CVV Code: _______________________ Issued to:__________________________________________________________________

□ Optional 3-Month Payment Plan (Builders & Associates only with valid credit/debit card) •

$200.00 due with application.

•

Balance spread equally over the next 2 months.

•

Membership will be “pending” until approval of application by local association.

•

Cancellation from this program by the applicant before final payment is received, or failure to make scheduled payments, will result in forfeiture of all amounts paid.

•

Cancellation from this program by the local association, NHHBA, or NAHB will result in a refund of monies paid to date.

My Sponsor:______________________________________________________________ List 2 Business References (Required) Name:________________________________________________ Phone:_______________________

□ NHHBA Build PAC Fund……….$ 25

Name:________________________________________________ Phone:_______________________

□ NHHBA LEGAL ACTION FUND $______

I understand that by providing my contact information I consent to receive all forms of communications sent on behalf of NHHBA (and its endorsed affiliates). I understand that the NHHBA will not share my contact information with other organizations. Full policy available upon request. All applications are "pending” until approved by the chosen local association. I understand that my membership dues entitle me to the benefits and services of the National Association of Home Builders, the State and Local Associations. I will abide by the By-laws and Code of Ethics of the Association and will promote the objectives of the Association to the best of my ability. .

Support state and local candidates for public office who support housing and small business related legislation and regulation in the Granite State.

Fund established to coordinate the membership’s efforts to address government imposed barriers including, but not limited to, growth moratoriums, code restrictions, impact fees, etc.

Signature_________________________________________________________Date________________

Be sure to fill out the other side!

Updated Oct. 2017

✁

✁

ATTENTION BUILDERS AND REMODELERS: Do you want to start getting money ATTENTION BUILDERS AND REMODELERS: for products you already use?

ATTENTION BUILDERS AND REMODELERS: want start getting money Do Do youyou want to to start getting money for products you already use? for products you already use?Program ATTENTION BUILDERS AND REMODELERS: The Member Rebate is a free member ATTENTION BUILDERS AND REMODELERS:

the Stategetting Home Builders Do benefit you togetting start money Do you wantwant to of start money

The Member Rebate Program is a free member benefit of the

Association

that is available to all active products you already use?

Member Rebate Program is a for free member for products you already use? Builder and The The Member Rebate Builders Program is a free member State thatRemodeler is availableMembers. to all active benefit of Home the State Home Association Builders Association benefit of the State Home Builders Association There are currently over 40 of the that is available Builder to all active Builder and Members. and Remodeler that The is available to all active and Member Rebate ProgramBuilder is a free member Remodeler Members. country's leading Manufacturer Remodeler The Member Program a free member There are currently overisThere 40 ofare the country’s leading benefit of Members. theRebate State Home Builders Association currently over 40 of the There are currently over 40 of the Brands participating in the Member benefit the State Home Builders Association thatof is available to all active Builder and leadinginManufacturer Manufacturer Brandscountry's participating the Members. country's leading thatRemodeler is available to all active Builder and Manufacturer Rebate Program.

Brands participating in the Member Member Rebate Program.

There are currently over of the Remodeler Members. Brands participating in the 40 Member Rebate Program. country's leading Manufacturer There are currently MOST THAT YOU PROBABLY ALREADY USE! over 40 of the Rebate Program.

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OVER 70% OF PARTICIPANTS RECEIVED “Like” us on Facebook for more information: 2) Submit a Rebate Claim “Like” us on Facebook for more information: MORE THAN THEIR ANNUAL DUES TO www.facebook.com/MemberRebateProgram “Like” on Facebook more information: “Like” us onusFacebook forfor more information: www.facebook.com/MemberRebateProgram THEIR ASSOCIATION LAST YEAR! www.facebook.com/MemberRebateProgram Call us Toll Free:

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granite state builder magazine

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19

the finish nail / Paul Morin

Madam President

H

ey folks. Sorry I missed you in the last issue. My condition tends to create unexpected little emergencies. The publisher used one of the previous stories and I appreciate it very much. In the meantime, I got a lot of time to think about what I can write about this go-round.

Many of you already know but for those who may not, our construction company is quickly undergoing major changes.

(Enter my new bride, stage left.) At the top of the heap is my wife and business partner Tricia. Take a bow, babe. She used to be Tricia Grahame and now she’s Tricia Morin.

She used to be the financial officer but now is officially the ship’s captain. She used to do much of the office/client work, now she does all of it. All of it. My company has a new madam president, bless her soul.

Then there’s our jobsite guy, Magic Manager Matt Heald (see previous article). On top of his regular role, which is huge, he is now putting in many more hours taking up tasks I used to do. I think he’s in triple overtime at this point. Bottom line, these two are working their pretty little tails off taking charge of this company.

And yes, I mean pretty tails both metaphorically and physically.

They’re both so cute.

So bear this in mind when you hire qualified people or when you ask someone to marry you. Either way, they will eventually become the top dogs. And in Tricia’s case, both apply, but hey. She has built more homes than me, done finer finish work, knows economic formulas I don’t know and has turned our biz into a well-oiled machine. Frankly, she should have taken charge long before now.

That leaves me in a new position with no clear title. I suggested Director Of Good Guidance & Internal Economics. Tric answered “Here DOGGIE, here boy!” At least she got my joke. But she also knows what makes sense. The medical issues with my brain turned me into a mistake-maker, like a BIG mistake maker in some cases.

So now I do whatever she asks me to do, with a good double check on anything I put together. Maybe that makes me a Senior Office Advisor to the President. Just call me SOAPy. My phone used to ring constantly. Now it’s her phone that gets all the work. When I get the rare call from a client, I say the same 20

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granite state builder magazine

thing each time: “This sounds very important and I think you need a good answer. Let me put you in touch with Tric. She knows all about what you are looking for.”

That’s a good thing, too, because I can’t even tell what the caller is asking about. Tric will cover it.

So I have the love of my life close to me every day with our office being attached to our home. She is also the most widely experienced person in the building business I’ve ever met. Her background includes selling (realtor for 15 years), builder/developer (built over 100 homes so far), fine craftsman (stair building partner for 10 years) and financial expert (five years working closely with a CPA). Damn, she knows her stuff!

I do feel bad that the days are so busy now, at least for her. Handling it all leaves me amazed and impressed. Besides running our company as president, she takes care of all my medical needs like an RN, cooks great meals like a true chef and attends Home Builder meetings as the state treasurer. Not enough? She also takes me to shows and fine restaurants to make life more interesting. And we have several hobbies that are large projects like maple syrup tapping, gardening and raising bees for delicious honey. Typical for her, she starts the morning with jeans and a work shirt, changes into afternoon business attire for client and association meetings, then slips on a gorgeously tight dress and makeup before we head out for a nice evening together. What else could anyone like me possibly want?

So while she’s enormously busy doing a million things with all those titles, my own title is still unclear. She makes me so happy and I never pout. But hmmm, there it is! Maybe I’m a POWT. Proud Of my Wife Tricia.

Paul Morin is president of Tarkka Homes Inc. in Weare, NH and a partner in The Abacus Group, a lobbying and consulting firm in Manchester, NH. In 2009, he was the first residential builder to receive the New Hampshire Construction Industry Ethics Award. He was asked to write a satirical article for The Finish Nail and directs all offended readers to the publisher for apologies. summer 2018

Don’t Lose Your Edge!

HomeBuilders A S S O C I A T I O N

Membership is Your License to Grow!

Save Money

Stay Smart

Member Advantage Discount & Rebate Program offers members money-saving discounts that benefit their businesses, employees and family.

Your ongoing professional development through NHHBA membership enhances your credibility and marketability.

Earn your professional designations: • Certified Graduate Remodeler • Certified Graduate Builder • Certified Graduate Associate • Certified Graduate Aging in Place Specialist • and more!

Participating companies include: Lowe’s Commercial Services, GM-Exclusive Offer, DELL, UPS, GEICO, Office Depot, Wireless/Mobile Solutions, Hertz, Avis, Budget, YRC Freight, Endless Vacation Rentals, Omaha Steaks, Wyndham Hotel Group, FTD and more.

• nhhba.com > Members > Discounts • nahb.org/MA

Gain Influence

Be Found

Protect your business interests on Capitol Hill, at the state house and in the communities where you do business.

Your association is your strongest advocate for reducing regulations and keeping you prosperous. From the state house and regulatory agencies to Washington, D.C., our influence and respect leads to your continued success.

Contact us for more information

Use your exclusive NHHBA branding.

• Advanced smart device directory • Use official Member Logo • Exhibit in NH State Home Show • Enter the Cornerstone Awards

Keep Informed

Make networking and business connections.

• Fast, free and reliable consultation from technical regulatory and building industry specialists.

• E-newsletters • Granite State Builder magazine • Member only access to nahb.org (603) 228 - 0351 • info@nhhba.com • nhhba.com

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