Keystone Builder - Sep/Oct 2006 by Pennsylvania Builders Association

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Pennsylvanian builders construct 11 Habitat for Humanity homes in a matter of days.

6 Builder Briefs

27 Premier Partners

Update on issues important to the industry.

Meet an elite group of businesses taking a leadership role in promoting the growth of the housing industry.

8 President’s Message To come.

28 Three Rivers Show

10 Builders to the Rescue

Get all the information you need for the upcoming Three Rivers Builders Show.

Local association members help area families in need.

38 Member Spotlight

21 A Friendly Debate

Warren Peter of Warren Peter Construction proves that the difference is in the details.

Candidates for governor debate issues important to the homebuilding industry.

Member Insider From the editor’s desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A Member news. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A On the hill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C Fundraiser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D

Correction: In the July/ August issue, the photo of Bernard Hankin on page 15 was incorrectly labeled Richard Hankin. We apologize for the error.

Keystone Builder

Volume 3 • Issue 1 • September/October 2006

Lending a Helping Hand

Builder Briefs

Nutrient credits available, DEP announces

Michigan study proves housing shows its way

The state Department of Environmental Protection recently announced it has certified nutrient credits available for purchase for the first time. These credits will allow builders to continue developing projects in areas where there is a shortage of sewage capacity. The purchased nutrient credits are part of the application process for a new sewage planning module. These credits count as an “offset” for the additional sewage generation that comes with development. This program has been stimulated by DEP efforts to meet federal guidelines for water quality supplying the Chesapeake Bay. DEP and a number of private entities are generating credits to sell to developers so that projects may continue. PBA is exploring opportunities to collect nutrient trading credits so that an adequate supply is available to members.

Researchers from the National Association of Home Builders found that new housing produces more revenue than expenses for local government and school districts in Michigan. The 2006 study, commissioned by the Michigan Association of Home Builders, found in the first year, 54,721 new homes generated $3.8 billion in revenue for state and local governments, while adding about $2.2 billion in costs of services and capital expenditures. After 15 years, these homes will generate $19 billion in revenues compared with slightly less than $12 million in costs.

Pennsylvania’s Residential Building Permits 2000-2005 Pennvest grants, low-interest loans aimed at boosting sewage-treatment capacity Gov. Ed Rendell announced July 18 that 20 counties will receive $73 million in Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority grants and lowinterest loans. A $3.8 million loan will pay for upgrades to the Towanda sewage facility, enabling it to comply with the nutrient levels allowed under the Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy. Communities in Berks, Clinton, Dauphin and Northumberland counties, all of which are within the watershed, will receive another $19 million for sewage-related projects. While these Pennvest grants will offset costs for these communities, this money is only a fraction of the total $750 million needed to upgrade or retrofit 184 sewage facilities within the watershed. This situation illustrates why PBA and other business groups question how the DEP’s Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy will affect the state’s economy. DEP officials underestimate the upgrade and retrofit costs for plants within Chesapeake watershed at $360 million.

I Keystone Builder • September/October 2006

60,000 60,000 50,000 50,000 40,000 40,000 30,000 30,000 20,000 20,000 10,000 10,000 00

2000 2000

2001 2001

2002

2003 2003

2004 2004

2005 2005

Total housing starts Total starts from fromreported reportedpermits permits Permits for for single-family single-family homes Permits homes

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Homeowners, builders may benefit from tax incentives during 2006 During 2006, homeowners can make energy-conscious purchases that will provide tax benefits when filling out their 2006 tax returns. The new law provides tax credits for making homes more energy efficient and for buying certain energy-efficient items. The law provides a 10-percent credit for buying qualified energy efficiency improvements. To qualify, a component must meet or exceed the criteria established by the 2000 International Energy Conservation Code (including supplements) and must be installed in the taxpayer’s main home in the United States. For more information go to www.irs.gov and search for keywords Energy Policy Act of 2005.

Construction code bill sent to governor, addresses coal boilers, lumber used in Amish homes Gov. Ed Rendell signed a bill, now Act 108 of 2006, July 7 that amends the state construction code as it relates to Amish residents. First, building inspectors are not required to stamp coal-fired boilers in Amish homes, as they must for all other homes. Boilers must still meet the standards set forth in the International Residential Code. Secondly, the law provides another exception to the code, which allows building homes for Amish residents without using pressure-treated lumber.

As this issue went to press, PBA was still waiting for the legislature to pass the â&#x20AC;&#x153;UCC fix-it billâ&#x20AC;? (House Bill 881), which provides for improvements to the enforcement and administration of the code.

PBA members voted to oppose such ordinances that disrupt the uniformity of the code and increase housing costs. North Strabane supervisors voted unanimously to require sprinklers in new homes within 25 feet of another home. The ordinance also requires biennial inspections. PBA will continue its challenge with the state Department of Labor and Industry. Members should contact PBA regarding the statewide standard found in the Uniform Construction Code. Contact Doug Meshaw at (800) 692-7339, ext. 3007. s

PBA members testify as township passes sprinkler ordinance Several PBA members appeared before officials at a hearing in North Strabane Township, Washington County, to discuss an ordinance that would exceed the International Residential Code by requiring fire sprinklers.

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pb SSOci te Vice preSident Rob Jones Central Susquehanna HBA Secret rY Ray Fertig York County BA tre Surer Kenneth L. Medina Lebanon County BA iMMedi te p St preSident James L. Conner Lawrence County BA editor Eric C. Wise ssistant editor/publication director Jennifer McDermitt dvertising Sales Jeff Pinwar graphic design Jason Gabel ddress correspondence to: Keystone Builder 600 North Twelfth Street Lemoyne, PA 17043 Phone: 800-692-7339 or 717-730-4380 Fax: 717-730-4396 Web: www.pabuilders.org Advertising does not imply acceptance or endorsement of the products contained in the publication.

For information on advertising in the Keystone Builder please contact Jeff Pinwar at 800-935-1592. Please support the advertisers who have made this publication possible.

President’s Message

Vice preSident Stephen D. Black BIA of Lancaster County

By Brad Elliott • PBA President

preSident Bradford H. Elliott HBA of Bucks and Montgomery Counties

As the faces change, we have a chance to educate

hen the General Assembly reconvenes in Harrisburg to begin its new term next year, new faces will abound. About one in five members will be a new office holder since the last term began two years ago, which challenges us to meet with and educate these new members. We will monitor changes in the Senate, where Republicans will replace two leaders, following the primary defeats of Sens. Robert Jubilirer and David Brightbill. With 50 or more new members since January 2005, both Senate and House committees affecting our industry will change dramatically. Many local associations met with candidates before the primary election, and they are continuing this process as we prepare for the November election. PBA provides a candidate questionnaire that helps them ask questions about issues our members ranked as most important. PBA offers the questionnaire as a guide to start a fruitful dialogue with candidates. It’s vital that we make the best use of these opportunities. The General Assembly will continue wrestling with school district property taxes. We need new lawmakers to understand that replacing property taxes with impact fees or realty transfer tax hikes is simply unfair. We need these new legislators to understand our support of keeping housing prices affordable for working Pennsylvanians, protecting private property rights and preserving the integrity of the Uniform Construction Code. Please take the time to contact your local builders association and volunteer to reach out to the General Assembly’s “Class of 2007.” s

publishing and advertising sales services provided by:

2929 Davison Rd. • Flint, MI 48506 Phone: 800-935-1592 • Fax: 810-239-2231 n exclusive publication of the pb Keystone Builder magazine is published six times a year by the Pennsylvania Builders Association®, Editorial Offices, 600 North Twelfth Street, Lemoyne, PA 17043. With the exception of official association announcements, the statements of fact and opinion that are made herein are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not reflect an opinion or philosophy of the officers or the membership of the PBA. Materials may not be reproduced without written permission from the PBA headquarters. KeYStOne builder is published six times per year by the Pennsylvania Builders Association, Editorial Offices, 600 North Twelfth Street, Lemoyne, PA 17043. pOStM Ster: Send address changes to Pennsylvania Builders Association, 600 North Twelfth Street, Lemoyne, PA 17043. SubScriptiOnS: Subscriptions available through membership to the Pennsylvania Builders Association.

I Keystone Builder • September/October 2006

Stay Connected TradeSecrets is the biweekly electronic newsletter of the Pennsylvania Builders Association. Use it to stay up to date on important industry information between issues of Keystone Builder. The PBA web site, online at www.pabuilders.org, provides a wealth of information for members. Members may login to view members’ only pages and to order construction code books at discount prices. PBA provides daily news clips of vital industry news through e-mail as a free service to members. Contact Chris Anderson at (800) 692-7339, ext. 3011 or by e-mail at canderson@ pabuilders.org to take advantage of these services.

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September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

Builders to the rescue Members of the Adams County BA built an addition onto the house where four-year-old David Fravel lives, a disabled boy whose parnets needed a first-floor bathroom and bedroom to make caring for him easier.

Local association members help area families in need

“

by Nikki Brand embers of local builders associations across the state have shown they are not too busy to donate time, money and supplies to the special needs of people in their communities. The Adams County Builders Association and Home Builders Association of Bucks and Montgomery Counties are two examples of associations that are making a difference in their counties.

Community, church and builders team up to help disabled child When the board of directors at the Idaville United Brethren Church found out about a local family in need of help with a building project, Adams County BA members and community supporters readily donated money, materials and time. An addition was needed to the home of four-year-old David Fravel, who was born with cerebral palsy, mental retardation, a heart murmur, cortical blindness and other physical challenges. He lived with his parents and grandparents in a home with no first-floor bedroom. The local fire 10

I Keystone Builder • September/October 2006

Every one of us makes a good living off this industry, so we feel like we should give back. — Joe Gartner, president of the Home Builders Association of Bucks and Montgomery Counties

”

department assisted the family in taking David upstairs to bed, and as he grew, he needed special facilities for his parents to bathe him. Dean Hoffman, chair of the steering committee for the “David Fravel Place” at Idaville United Brethren Church said the goal was to help the family build a 34-by-28-foot addition onto the home that would include two bedrooms and a handicapped-accessible bathroom. Larry Hess, manager of Keystone Lumber and Truss in Biglerville, volunteered to help after hearing about the need. “I helped line up a majority of the materials that were donated,” Hess said. “I contacted every vendor I knew and no one refused.” Hess went to the local

builders association board of directors to ask for help with labor. They made prefabricated walls and held a blitz build April 1, where 10 board members volunteered their time. Hess said he didn’t have to ask for help with all aspects of the project, because local builders contacted him to offer to get involved. “A local contractor asked what he could do to help and ended up building a deck before we started working on April 1,” Hess said. “I received another call after someone saw an article in the newspaper, and that company donated the heating and cooling for the house.” Hess said the Fravel family, church members and other community residents also helped complete the project. ”It’s hard to estimate how much the project is worth because of the donations, but if we had to pay for it, I estimate it would be $50,000-$75,000,” Hoffman said. “I think the community was amazed at how much everyone contributed with funds or labor.” Kelly Crist, executive officer of the Adams County BA, said the approximately 180 members of the association contribContinued on page 12

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September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

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builders to the rescue Continued from page 10

uted to such organizations as Habitat for Humanity and presented scholarships to students, but had never undertaken a project like this before. “It has been an awesome and rewarding project for us,” she said.

Bucks-Mont builders help accident victim, cancer patient

Bucks and Montgomery County builders showed the spirit of caring with two recent projects that helped families unable to afford home improvement projects for health care needs. Formed in 1993, the HBA of Bucks and Montgomery Counties’ charitable foundation contributes to about 10 projects per year, from building a shelter for the Red Cross in Levittown to helping a foster mother of eight rebuild her uninsured kitchen after a fire. In the fall of 2004, the foundation donated $25,000 to Renee Danielle and Mike Bowers so they could construct an addition onto their house to accom-

The HBA of Bucks and Montgomery Counties helped the Stanfield family provide for a suitable environment following cancer treatments for Abigail (center).

modate their daughter’s use of a wheelchair. Chelsea Bowers, an Otisville resident, was paralyzed from the waist down

as a result of a car accident when she was 16. She could no longer get to her second-floor bedroom in the home and

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I Keystone Builder • September/October 2006

had to sleep in the living room. Joe Gartner, president of the HBA of Bucks and Montgomery Counties, said the family couldn’t afford to build an addition onto their house after two years of paying for hospital bills. Gartner helped solicit supplies to build a 1,800-square-foot addition that includes a handicapped-accessible bathroom. Chelsea’s stepfather, Mike Bowers, who has building skills, and other family members and friends used the donations to construct the addition, which was completed in the fall of 2005. “Every one of us makes a good living off this industry, so we feel like we should give back,” Gartner said. Foundation members also decided to help a family who needed home improvements to properly care for their toddler. After two-and-a-half-year-old Abigail “Abba” Stanfield had a bone marrow transplant to treat acute myelogenous leukemia, a blood cancer, her parents learned that their home wouldn’t provide the germ-free environment she needed during her recovery. The foundation’s donation enabled the Stanfields to purchase the three

Reico Kitchens and Baths teamed up with the HBA of Bucks and Montogomery Counties to remediate mold and upgrade the Stanfields’ bathroom.

air purifying systems they needed for their home. Howard Cooper, executive vice president of HBA of Bucks and Montgomery Counties, said the association also offered to find members who could perform repair work to a bathroom that was necessary to improve air quality for Abba. Cooper contacted Reico Kitchens and Baths in King of Prussia, and the association split the cost of the project with the company. William Wynkoop, regional manager of Reico, said the company donated supplies and labor to remediate

black mold in a bathroom the child uses. Four employees and an independent contractor removed a bathtub that had caused the mold from a slow leak, removed a section of the wall, sprayed it with mildewcide, coated the walls with mildew-resistant paint, replaced the plumbing and the bathtub, and installed a new showerhead and faucet. Workers also completed drywall and trim and installed a ceiling fan. “We wanted to help this family and this child with cancer, and we are somewhat new to the area and wanted to get our name out,” Wynkoop said. s

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September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

I 13

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I Keystone Builder • September/October 2006

Builders help low-income families Pennsylvanian builders construct 11 Habitat for Humanity homes in a matter of days

by Nikki Brand abitat for Humanity affiliates and more than 1,000 building industry professionals joined forces to construct more than 400 houses in 130 communities across the country during Home Builders Blitz 2006, June 5-9.

Huntingdon association contributes generously, completes home Leaders from the Huntingdon County Builders Association joined forces with the county’s Habitat affiliate to complete a home on Water Street in

Mt. Union during the one-week blitz this year Six builders from the Huntingdon County BA and volunteers from outside the organization teamed up to complete a home on the land and foundation acquired by Habitat, said Toby Hood, a Continued on page 16

Bucks-Mont builders group constructs ADA-compliant house

Pictured from left are Howard Cooper, executive vice president of the Home Builders Association of Bucks Montgomery Counties, Dave DeLuca of Ryan Homes, Melissa Monser, new homeowner, and Michael Swerdloff, immediate past president of the Home Builders Association of Bucks and Montgomery Counties.

HBA of Bucks and Montgomery Counties built the Montgomery County Habitat affiliate’s first ADA-complaint house. In 10 days, builders constructed a three-bedroom, one-and-a-half bathroom house on Glendale Avenue in Glenside. They built the $190,000-home for a single mother who has Friedreich’s ataxia, a degenerative disease that requires her to be in a wheelchair, and her 11-year-old son. Howard Cooper, executive vice president of the Home Builders Association of Bucks and Montgomery Counties, said the association has a long-term relationship with the Habitat affiliates in both Montgomery and Bucks counties. The association’s charitable foundation donated $20,000 to the project, and members contributed supplies and labor. Cooper said Ryan Homes provided a substantial amount of help for the project. The association started excavation work on the property about two weeks before the blitz week and presented the keys to the homeowners at the end of the blitz week. “Our Habitat for Humanity usually renovates homes, and it typically takes one-and-a-half to two years using unskilled labor,” said Brenda Egolf-Fox, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County. “Building this house allowed us to be in a third part of the county. It was fun and gave us an intense week.” Egolf-Fox said another benefit of the project was that she was able to create good relationships with several builders, and the project allowed builders better understand Habitat’s projects. September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

I 15

Lebanon County BA gets cooperation from the city

builders help Continued from page 15

board member for Habitat and the builders association. “It was an incredible experience,” Jamie White, president of the board of directors for Huntingdon Area Habitat for Humanity, said. “We have a number of builders who have been a part of our association, but to have this many builders all working on it together was amazing.”

Delaware County Habitat for Humanity receives help from local builders

Gene Kreitzer, first vice president of the Lebanon County BA, and Frank Kocher, executive officer of the Lebanon County BA, both instrumental in this year’s successful blitz build, returned to the home Friday evening of the blitz week to welcome the family. (PBA Photo by Scott Elliott).

About 100 Lebanon County BA members pitched in, building a three-bedroom home in Lebanon during the blitz. Gene Kreitzer, first vice president of the Lebanon County Builders Association and chairman of the project’s committee, said building home didn’t require any money out of the association’s treasury because all money, materials and labor were donated. Frank Kocher, executive officer of the association, believes that based on the qualities of the home, it is worth between $110,000-120,000. ““It was a unique situation with competitors working side-by-side.,” Kreitzer said. “The homeAt the conclusion of Lebanon’s owner had two daughters, and when they weren’t project, Habitat received an at school, they watched the progress excitedly.” occupancy permit from the The group started about 6 a.m. on Monday and city. The new homeowners held a dedication ceremony at 7 p.m. Friday. Ko- celebrated by bringing cher said, “Amazingly, we got the city to issue the sleeping bags to stay in their occupancy permit in time for the dedication cere- new home. mony.” The homeowner and her daughters bought sleeping bags in hopes of staying that first night in their new home that night, and thanks to the fast work of the group, they were able to stay in the home. Pam Tricamo, executive officer of Habitat for Humanity of Lebanon County, said a nearby fire station parked their fire truck in the rain to allow volunteers to use their only bay for meals, and the city helped clear the street to provide parking for vehicles related to the project. Kocher hopes media coverage of the blitz will help the community see the builders’ charitable work.

Three local builders supported a fourhouse project in Chester, supporting the Delaware Habitat affiliate. Each of the homes near 10th and Madison streets in Chester has three bedrooms, one-and-ahalf bathrooms, full basements and offstreet parking. Professionals from Dewey Homes, J. Schwartz Fine Home Building and Mar-J Builders managed the building project, coordinating the work and materials donated by their subcontractors and suppliers. “We are very appreciative for all of the support of all of the local builders and contractors,” said Tom Tigani, board secretary for Delaware County Habitat. “The project went very well and has helped some low-income families realize their dream of having a home. It had a tremendous impact on the city and the county.” The HBA of Chester and Delaware Counties, while not formally involved in the Chester project, will sponsor its own Habitat blitz build Oct. 5-7. Ray Lacobucci and Dave England serve as co-chairmen for this project, in which members and suppliers will come together to build two single-family homes in Coatesville.

Lehigh Valley Builders Association surprises local Habitat for Humanity affiliate with four houses The Lehigh Valley Builders Association surprised the Habitat for Humanity of the Lehigh Valley by taking on the task of building four townhouses in Bethlehem. Continued on page 18

I Keystone Builder • September/October 2006

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September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

I 17

Sen. Lisa Boscola, D-Lehigh (right), gazes up at the four new town houses while chatting with the first-time homebuyers in Bethlehem.

builders help

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Continued from page 16

â&#x20AC;&#x153;They offered us several small singles, but it seemed to make more sense for us as professionals to take the hard project,â&#x20AC;? said Hersh Ruhmel, owner of Ruhmel Contracting and chairman of the committee that organized the project. Christopher Bennick, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of the Lehigh Valley, said Habitat raised about $100,000 to buy the property, and the builders association raised more than $400,000 for the project. Builders razed garages on the sloped lot to make way for the two-story townhouses. Ruhmel said the committee of Chris Birosik, Tina Green, Annie Haug, Reid Ruhmel, Ken Snyder, Pete Snik and Rebecca Williams was wonderful, and they raised enough money to cover all of the projectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expenses and lined up free or low-cost labor. The group had no problem getting donations of money, supplies or labor from its more than 1,100 members. In fact, members have indicated they would like to do another Habitat for Humanity project in the future. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the homeowners was a single mom with three children who had been living in a station wagon one year ago,â&#x20AC;? Ruhmel said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lifechanging experience, not just for the parents, but also for the children who will now have a yard to play in. I would recommend doing this to any association. It really brings people together.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;More than concrete, wood, and hammering nails, the Lehigh Valley Builders Association Habitat Project will help break the cycle of dependency and poverty, while building hope and dreams for families in need,â&#x20AC;? Bennick said. s

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I Keystone Builder â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2006

$EALER )NQUIRIES 7ELCOME

The new homeowners (left) meet with Tina Green of Broc Kitchens and Baths and Ken Snyder of Spectrum Homes, two of the associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many volunteers responsible for Lehigh Valley BAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four-home Habitat project.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

The Lehigh Valley Builders Association serves as the perfect example of how groups of committed individuals working together for a common cause can accomplish great things. More than concrete, wood, and hammering nails, the Lehigh Valley Builders Association Habitat Project will help break the cycle of dependency and poverty, while building hope and dreams for families in need. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Christopher Bennick, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of the Lehigh Valley

â&#x20AC;?

29 Styles of Aristokraft Cabinets in 1 Week or Less.

The Lumber Yard can say it—The Lumber Yard can do it. Call 888.388.5710 for The Lumber Yard serving your area. www.thelumberyard.com September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

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I Keystone Builder â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2006

MemberInsider September/October 2006

From the editor’s desk

Adjusting to your needs by Eric C. Wise arly this summer, we surveyed members of the association to learn about their reactions to PBA communication efforts, including Keystone Builder, TradeSecrets and the web site. Members responded, taking time to evaluate our efforts. We learned quite a bit about your reading habits and used this information to redesign the magazine. In addition to an updated look, the magazine will be tailored to help readers quickly find what they need. Most of us are busy people, so it’s difficult to find large blocks of time to read Keystone Builder. The magazine will use shorter articles, tip sheets, infographics and checklists. Finally, we understand that association publications must balance business tools and associa-

tion information. We will focus much of Keystone Builder on information relating to running your business, including topics specific to homebuilding and more general management issues. At the same time, we’re introducing a new feature, “Member Insider.” This exclusive four-page newsletter, available only to members, will appear in the center of Keystone Builder, providing essential information about your association, its government affairs initiatives and events. We hope that you like this new format, but keep in mind that it’s your association. If you have ideas to improve our communications, please contact your field service director or speak to your leaders during our fall regional meetings. s

Member news PBA supports amendment to mechanics’ lien, Rendell signs bill into law

PBA members now can receive daily builder news clips

Gov. Ed Rendell signed HB 1637, amending the Mechanics’ Lien law June 29. It is now Act 52 of 2006. This bill was amended with changes to which PBA agreed, and, as a result, PBA removed its opposition. The law eliminates the stipulation of liens now in the law for commercial contracts only. At PBA’s insistence, stipulations remain for all residential construction and development loans. With these stipulations, the law continues to protect builders and bankers from financing disruptions and added costs in applicable residential projects.

PBA is offering members a new service to help them stay up to date on building industry news throughout Pennsylvania. Members can now receive daily e-mail updates, containing stories from around the state that directly affect their businesses. The e-mail includes breaking news about issues such as impact fees, the UCC, building regulations, legislative proposals, contractor registration and more. If you or a member you know would like to receive these updates, please contact Chris Anderson at (800) 692-7339, ext. 3011 or via e-mail at canderson@pabuilders.org. This service is available only via e-mail.

Member Insider • Keystone Builder

Member news

Public speaking training available from PBA It’s no secret that most people are deathly afraid of public speaking. Yet the chance to speak in front of groups represents a great opportunity to promote your company and the entire homebuilding industry. PBA is offering, at no cost to members, an executive-level public speaking seminar to help participants overcome their presentation fears and gain ideas to make their public talks more effective. The length of the seminar is customizable to accommodate members’ schedules. Also, videotaping is available to help seminar attendees critique their presentation delivery. PBA will make this seminar available to any local or region able to gather at least 10 members. If you’re interested, please contact your local executive officer and ask him or her to contact PBA about scheduling this seminar in your area.

Send your customers to PBA’s web site for homeowner resources PBA publishes hundreds of pages of valuable information on its web site. Use the PBA web site as a marketing tool to offer enhanced service to your new and potential customers. Direct your customers to www.pabuilders.org for updated, helpful information about homeownership.

PBA store offers discounted code books Members may buy updated construction code books at discount prices through the PBA Online Store. New editions are available, featuring the 2006 International Residential Code. PBA expects the state Department of Labor to approve the switch to the new edition this year. To receive discount prices, you must login as a member at the PBA web site. If you do not have a username and password, contact Chris Anderson at (800) 692-87339, ext. 3011, or by e-mail.

Housing summit planned for Oct. 5 Community and business leaders will discuss ways to expand housing choices during the 2006 Lancaster County Housing Summit, Oct. 5 at the Eden Resort, Lancaster. Organizers stress that the event will address results and solutions that will promote affordable work force housing within

I Keystone Builder • Member Insider

the county. They also hope that the event will lead to the formation of an active housing coalition with broad community representation that will advocate for affordable housing for Lancaster County workers. Anyone interested in the summit may contact Kylee A. Bowman at the Housing Development Corporation of Lancaster at (717) 509-8028 or Richard Brown, executive officer of the BIA of Lancaster, at (717) 569-2674.

Visitability bill moves with strong Senate support SB 1158, the Residential Visitability Design Tax Credit Act, passed the Senate June 27, by a 50-0 vote. It moved to the House Local Government Committee. This bill will allow municipalities to provide tax credits for the construction of homes in which people with physical challenges can more easily live or visit. s

On the hill

Specter of impact fees looms Proponents have continued pushing impact fees to provide for public education costs of development. Under one proposal, builders would face costs of up to $26,000 for each new home in larger developments. Proposal: Rep. Rich Grucela, D-Northampton, and other legislators want to authorize school districts to collect impact fees on new homes. Grucela believes these fees are a fair way of helping school districts absorb costs from growing enrollments without raising property taxes for everyone. Reaction: PBA members oppose attempts to burden a select group of residents with rising educational costs. Housing development contributes to the local economy and generates millions in tax revenue. Update: Impact fee bills that would have changed the Municipalities Planning Code gained little support during the spring session. During the heated fury of state budget debate in the legislature, Grucela attempted to tack impact fee provisions onto bills amending the state school code. Other legislators did not let this happen because under the state constitution, legislators may not amend bills with items unrelated to the original bill. What builders are saying: “Chasing away new neighbors ensures existing residents will pay more for government in struggling, stagnant communities,” Brad Elliott, PBA president, said.

Tomlinson’s contractor registration bill reaches House Sen. Robert Tomlinson, R-Bucks, is the prime sponsor of a bill (Senate Bill 1000) that would require home improvement contractors to register with the state. The Senate passed this bill June 26, sending it to the state House of Representatives. Proposal: Under this bill, home improvement contractors must register with the state government once every two years. The statewide requirement eliminates all local registrations, except in certain areas where electricians and plumbers must demonstrate competency for local licensing. Reaction: PBA formed a task force to examine this bill. All initial concerns have been addressed, and the association does not oppose Tomlinson’s bill. PBA supports the exclusion for contractors who build only new homes. PBA members appreciate the cooperation of the attorney general and other interested parties who worked together to craft a bill that is fair to builders and consumers. Update: PBA will testify in support of Tomlinson’s bill before the House Consumer Affairs Committee. When the House returns from its summer break, it could pass the bill and have it to the governor in the fall. What builders are saying: “PBA members are willing to accept this process of state registration in alternating years because it relieves them of multiple local registrations,” Jim Hutchins, Centennial Homes, Pocono Builders Association, said.

UCC fix-it bill PBA members are eager for the state Senate to consider a bill that would update the state law controlling enforcement of the Uniform Construction Code. The bill addresses several issues with the administration of the code, including solutions for inspection delays and other problems that cost builders money. Proposal: PBA helped educate legislators about problems in the way local officials handle construction code issues that arise during building projects. As a result, Rep. Bob Allen, R-Schuylkill, introduced House Bill 881 to address the problems. Reaction: PBA members are encouraged by the money-saving solutions offered by Allen’s bill but cautious about unwanted amendments that would weaken it, which may result in higher housing costs. Update: The House passed this bill with an encouraging 187-15 vote. What builders are saying: “PBA continues to believe that the law needs to be amended to address the problem of excessive building permit fees. In no situation should building permit fees be a profit center for local municipalities,” Frank Thompson, Sweetwater Builders, BA of Metropolitan Pittsburgh, said.

Member Insider • Keystone Builder

Cruise to Margaritaville raises nearly $50,000 for PaCAH

Members enjoyed views of PNC Park, Pittsburgh’s famous bridges and skyline during the cruise.

PBA field service director Arlene Kerner (left) sells raffle tickets during the event.

BA members raised nearly $50,000 July 28 during the Cruise to Margaritavile, this year’s primary fundraiser for the Pennsylvania Coalition for Affordable Housing. About 350 members and guests enjoyed this year’s cruise around Pittsburgh, which featured live music, Karaoke and a few margaritas. s

PBA’s senior officers — Kenn Medina, Brad Elliott, Jim Conner and Stephen Black — took advantage of the Karaoke onboard the Majestic.

PBA Summer Board Meeting Herb Miller (left), Lancaster County Building Industry Association, accepts his plaque as a life director from Jim Conner, past president of PBA. The association designates life directors based on dedicated service of more than 10 years while attending two or more meetings each year.

I Keystone Builder • Member Insider

PBA appreciates the support of its major PaCAH sponsors for this year’s event. See also the PBA Premier Partners, listed on page 27.

Ken Kurtz (Left), Lackawanna Home Builders Association, accepts his small contractor of the year award from Jim Conner, past president of PBA. Kurtz demonstrated years of commitment to the industry through involvement in PBA and his local association and dedication to his community.

Squaring

off

he Pennsylvania Builders Association invited the two major-party candidates for governor to respond to six questions about building-related issues. Both incumbent Gov. Ed Rendell, the Democratic candidate, and Lynn Swann, the Republican candidate, took advantage of this opportunity to debate these issues important to PBA members.

The state Department of Environmental Protection developed its Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy to improve the quality of water flowing into the bay by 2010. Many groups, including the state’s homebuilders, are troubled by the staggering cost of implementing DEP’s plan, its economic ramifications for the state and its feasibility. How do you respond to these concerns? Rendell: More than half of Pennsylvania is within the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, so improving the quality of water that flows into the bay has a direct impact on making our own local water drinkable, fishable and safe for swimming. Our Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy protects our water while enabling economic growth. Improving the environment will stimulate development in Pennsylvania — as people are choosing to live in states with positive records of clean air and water.

Candidates for governor debate issues important to the homebuilding industry

Many of the programs and policies that will help Pennsylvania meet these goals were already underway and do not represent new costs. In addition, my administration has provided significant resources to implement the plan, including $250 million to upgrade sewer and water infrastructure and tens of millions of dollars of investments in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed through Growing Greener 2. Swann: As I share ideas with elected officials, farmers, homebuilders and others from central Pennsylvania, the issues concerning the Chesapeake Bay Tributary “strategy” has been raised as a major issue time and time again. I have serious reservations about this Rendell initiative. The costs associated with such a project over the next four years will be budget-busting. I am a believer and strong advocate of numerous environmental programs, but there must always be a balancing of costs versus outcomes. I do not believe that the state should enact regulations that are more restrictive than federal ones unless a compelling reason is outlined.

In government decisions affecting land use, how do you reconcile the difference of opinion between groups emphasizing environmental concerns and advocating slow- or nogrowth policies and those citing the

need for adequate family housing and the economic growth stimulated by building construction? Rendell: I have governed based on the belief that regulations must be reasonable and fair, and that we can craft forward-looking policies that satisfy the concerns of proponents of development and of land-use planning. Where there is a difference of opinion, I have made it standard practice to consult broadly and carefully consider the views of both sides. As a result, Pennsylvania is striking an effective balance between environmental protection and economic development. I am proud that we are accomplishing historic preservation of open space and farmland, along with reinvestment in our older communities, at the same time as we have helped make nearly 50,000 units of housing available for families and made major investments in water and sewer infrastructure. We look to the creativity and energy of the development community to improve the economy of our cities and towns, as well as our suburban areas. Swann: Congestion continues to be a hot-button issue in some parts of our Commonwealth. There is not a one-sizefits-all answer when dealing with growth issues. In many parts of Pennsylvania, the residents welcome new development Continued on page 24

September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

I 21

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I 23

We need the support of the development community to help ensure that there is affordable housing in communities where it is currently unavailable.

squaring off Continued from page 21

and construction. In others, gating the communities is not considered sufficient. We need considerable input from local officials when dealing with land use, but we need flexible and practicable state laws that recognize the philosophical and practical views of differing communities. We must do a more effective job of improving city blight in order to make some areas more desirable for development. But for those who live in our many suburbs, we need sound policies that offer true balance of sprawl and desired development.

Legislators introduced bills this session that would allow school districts to impose impact fees on people buying new homes to help cover new school construction costs. Do you believe impact fees are a fair way to help schools and local governments meet the costs associated with growth and development or do you propose different policies? Rendell: Several states have enacted impact fees to account for increased public costs that accompany development, and I would support modest school district impact fees that are set at a reasonable level and that do not impede development. The unfortunate reality is that in many cases, the new tax revenue from home construction does not fully compensate for the immediate added costs of school construction and other educational necessities. To combat this shortfall, I increased the state’s reimbursement rate for school construction projects by 20 percent — representing the first such increase in nearly two decades. Every budget that I have signed into law has also included dedicated funds for growing school districts — totaling more than $44 million over the last four years — to help communities meet the unique challenges that come with growth. Swann: I would be very hesitant to even consider impact fees. Impact fees are arbitrary and punitive. I have proposed a comprehensive property tax measure which can be viewed at length on my web site, www.swannforgovernor.com. We need to adequately and fairly fund our public schools. However, we must also put in place an enforceable measure that will manage school spending. 24

I Keystone Builder • September/October 2006

Gov. Ed Rendell speaks to a crowd during an event in July.

Our taxpayers simply cannot afford 15 percent, 20 percent, or more in annual property tax increases. Gov. Rendell promised in 2002 to reduce property taxes by 30 percent for every Pennsylvanian. It still has not occurred, and due to his inability to meet his campaign promise, the pressure on impact fees and similar taxes has escalated. My property tax plan will fundamentally reform our arbitrary assessment system and deliver fairness for all taxpayers.

PBA members support farmland and open space preservation but question the value of current programs. For instance, our members believe regular studies should be performed to determine the effectiveness of these preservation efforts. Would you commit to the implementation of such studies to determine whether our tax dollars spent on land preservation are being invested wisely? Rendell: I believe that all publicly funded investments should be evaluated for their effectiveness, and I strongly support regular studies to measure the impact of preservation programs. Indeed, I am confident that my administration’s farmland and open space preservation programs are improving the quality of

life of Pennsylvanians, and these programs are particularly important given that our state currently ranks second in land consumption per person and fifth in land area converted to development, despite being the second from the bottom of all states in population growth. My landmark Growing Greener 2 investment is helping to reinvest in our communities and preserve open space and farmland. I have already directed my administration to evaluate proposed projects based on criteria that include expanding housing opportunities, planning regionally, and equitably sharing the benefits and challenges of development. Swann: Yes. I think a study would be valuable. I plan to audit every major program in state government in the first year of my term to find inefficiencies and waste. That being said, I believe in open space and farmland preservation. I have outlined rigorous goals for these and related programs by 2010. Jim Matthews, my running mate, has extensive background in these issues, and he will help guide my policies as governor. I do not wish to fund these types of programs just to say that I did. Pennsylvanians are tired of short-term solutions for long-term problems. Open space initiatives, however, have been an effective tool for certain communities. Farmland Continued on page 26

September/October 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ Keystone Builder

I 25

squaring off Continued from page 24

preservation has also been a valuable alternative for residents in many counties.

Housing for people of various income levels is critical for vibrant, livable communities. Yet adequate work force housing is disappearing in some parts of the state. What is your plan for addressing this issue? Rendell: Additional work force housing is essential so more Pennsylvanians can achieve the dreams of homeownership and in order to reinvigorate our communities. I launched the Community Action Team to bolster anchor community economic development projects that promote residential housing, and my $2.3 billion economic stimulus package dramatically expanded the commonwealth’s ability to create new affordable homes as part of our strategy for revitalizing communities. Since I took office, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency has provided tax credits and support funding to make 11,212 affordable housing units available and has enabled nearly 20,000 mortgages worth $1.8 billion. These increases occurred in part because we redirected volume cap to housing. We have also doubled the amount of money available in the Homeownership Choice Programs and quadrupled the funding in the Housing and Redevelopment Assistance Program. We need the support of the development community to help ensure that there is affordable housing in communities where it is currently unavailable. Swann: Pennsylvanians want and need affordable housing. It is unrealistic and impractical to think everyone will be able to live in 3,000-square-foot residences. We must do a better job in Pennsylvania to build public-private partnerships to address the issue of work force housing in all regions of our state. Banks and other loan businesses have shown a willingness to develop products that make this kind of housing affordable for many Pennsylvanians. The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency must also continue to step up and offer aid and assistance to lower income individuals in order that they 26

I Keystone Builder • September/October 2006

Pennsylvanians want and need affordable housing. It is unrealistic and impractical to think everyone will be able to live in 3,000-square-foot residences.

Republican Lynn Swann speaks with voters during a summer campaign stop. (Photo by Scott Elliott, PBA)

may afford safe and vibrant residences. I will also look to the PBA to continue to develop alternatives to this difficult but solvable issue.

Why should our members in the homebuilding industry vote for you? Rendell: I have championed investments in communities, improvements in quality of life, and expansion of housing availability across the commonwealth. My administration invested $300 million more in housing than occurred during the prior four-year period, and I signed into law a historic property-tax relief plan that will reduce the tax burden on homeowners by $1 billion, making homeownership more affordable for Pennsylvania families. I have made economic development and affordable housing a clear priority for Pennsylvania, with unprecedented investment and attention — including $250 million in new grants and loans to upgrade sewer and water infrastructure, making Housing and Redevelopment Assistance funding a core compo-

nent of my economic stimulus package, and establishing the Office of Housing and Community Revitalization. We must continue to work together to fuel economic growth while protecting the environment and natural resources, and under my leadership, we will continue to strike the right balance to accomplish both. Swann: The homebuilding industry has had a difficult time over the past 12 months in state government. The leaders of your organization were assured that the Residential Construction Dispute Resolution Act would be signed in March, but Gov. Rendell vetoed it. This legislation was very carefully developed over several years. Your members deserve better results. I will be honest and accessible to your organization. I will work with your group to properly address Pennsylvanians’ concerns and needs. We may not agree on every issue, but there will be no surprises and no double-speak. I look forward to working with your members to make Pennsylvania a better place to live and raise our families. s

PBA Premier Partners

BA’s Premier Partners, an elite group of businesses taking a leadership role in promoting the growth of the housing industry, will be featured at the Three Rivers Builders Show. The Premier Partners will display their products and services in the exclusive “Premier Partners Pavilion.” The show will be held Sept. 28-29 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh. In the course of your business, please consider the following companies, Premier Partners of the Pennsylvania Builders Association.

Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency provides capital for affordable homes and apartments, conducts rental housing development initiatives, and educates future homebuyers. (717) 780-3800 s

GOLD LEVEL SPONSORS Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Wells Fargo & Company is a diversified financial services company with $500 billion in assets, providing banking, insurance, investments, mortgage and consumer finance to more than 23 million customers. (877) 937-9357 American Home Bank Our mortgage banking mission: “Helping people build, afford and enjoy the home of their dreams.” (877) BANK-AHB

SILVER LEVEL SPONSORS PBABT — USI Affinity USI Affinity is a leading distributor of insurance and financial products and services and a partner with the Pennsylvania Builders Association Benefits Trust. (570) 537-1380 Residential Warranty Corporation Residential Warranty Corporation is one of the nation’s oldest and largest providers of written insured warranties on new homes, providing homeowners with a strong foundation of security for their home. (717) 561-4480

BRONZE SPONSORS 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty offers warranty protection for new, pre-owned and manufactured homes, covering the home, systems and appliances. (609) 760-4669 (Southeast PA) (800) 488-8844 (Northeast & Central PA)

September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

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September/October 2006 â&#x20AC;¢ Keystone Builder

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THREE RIVERS BUILDERS SHOW SEPTEMBER 28-29, 2006 โ ข PITTSBURGH DAVID L. LAWRENCE CONVENTION CENTER

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I Keystone Builder โ ข September/October 2006

THREE RIVERS BUILDERS SHOW SEPTEMBER 28-29, 2006 โ ข PITTSBURGH DAVID L. LAWRENCE CONVENTION CENTER

The following exhibitors will be showcasing their latest products during the show: )FMMFS T (BT *OD )JMMNBO "QQMJBODF %JTUSJCVUPST )PNFT+VTU-JTUFE DPN )POFZXFMM *OD )3) "รถOJUZ .BSLFUJOH (SPVQ * -FWFM #Z 8FZFSIBFVTFS *OTVM 3JHIU 64 4QSBZ 4ZTUFNT *OUFHSB4QFD PG 8FTUFSO 1" *SXJO #VJMEFST 4VQQMZ +BNFT )BSEJF #VJMEJOH 1SPEVDUT ,JUDIFO $SBGU *OUFSOBUJPOBM

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/PWBHBSE 4PMVUJPOT 1BSLFS )VOUFS 1BSLTJUF 1MMVOLFUU 8FCTUFS 1FMMB 8JOEPX %PPS $P 1JOF 7JFX .BTPOSZ 1JUUTCVSHI (MBTT #MPDL $P 1JUUTCVSHI 1PTU (B[FUUF 1SFTUP 5BQF 1SJOU$PNN 1SPGFTTJPOBM (SBQIJD $PNNVOJDBUJPOT 1SPHSFTT -JHIUJOH *OD .PSF FYIJCJUPST PO OFYU QBHF

This list is current as of July 19, 2006. For the most up-to-date listing of exhibitors, please visit www.3RiversBuildersShow.com

September/October 2006 โ ข Keystone Builder

I 31

THREE RIVERS BUILDERS SHOW SEPTEMBER 28-29, 2006 â&#x20AC;¢ PITTSBURGH DAVID L. LAWRENCE CONVENTION CENTER

Sponsored by: Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh Allegheny County Department of Economic Development Pittsburgh Urban Redevelopment Authority

PRE-CONFERENCE EDUCATION AND BUSINESS PROGRAMS RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION SUPERINTENDENT DESIGNATION COURSES "ENJOJTUFSFE CZ UIF )PNF #VJMEFST *OTUJUVUF UIF FEVDBUJPOBM BSN PG UIF /BUJPOBM "TTPDJBUJPO PG )PNF #VJMEFST 5IF 3FTJEFOUJBM $POTUSVDUJPO 4VQFSJOUFOEFOU TFSJFT PG DPVSTFT BSF HFBSFE UPXBSE CVJMEJOH BOE DVSSFOU TJUF TVQFSJOUFOEFOUT XJTIJOH UP FYDFM JO UIJT QPTJUJPO 6QPO TVDDFTTGVM DPNQMFUJPO PG UIF FJHIU DPVSTFT o FBDI GPVS IPVST JO MFOHUI o DPWFSJOH JTTVFT BOE TVCKFDUT DSJUJDBM UP B TJUF TVQFSWJTPS B 3FTJEFOUJBM $POTUSVDUJPO 4VQFSJOUFOEFOU EFTJHOBUJPO JT BXBSEFE

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HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES IN AN URBAN ENVIRONMENT

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I Keystone Builder â&#x20AC;¢ September/October 2006

03617-NAHB-3Rivers-RegForm

7/19/06

12.23 pm

Page 1

Source Code

HBA1

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

First Name _______________________________________________ Last Name _______________________________________________________ Professional Designation ____________________________________ First or nickname to be printed on badge _______________________________ Company _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City ____________________________________________________ State ___________________________ Zip ____________________________ Telephone ____________________________ Fax _____________________________ E-mail ___________________________________________ Are you a member of a local home builders association? � Yes � No

If yes, enter local number ______________________________________

Spouse Registration: Please print your spouse’s name to register him/her. Spouse registration type will be equivalent to the primary registrant type. The spouse badge will automatically include your company name on the badge. Spouse’s Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

1. REGISTRATION OPTIONS

3. DEMOGRAPHICS

Ticketed Education Events. Purchase of an event includes an expo only pass to the show. For detailed event information, please visit www.3RiversBuildersShow.com.

IMPORTANT: Form cannot be processed without the following information. Indicate your company’s type of business by selecting up to three categories, in order of importance and placing the corresponding letters in the appropriate boxes.

Housing Opportunities in an Urban Environment Includes both Parts I & II HBI Construction Superintendents: Codes and Quality Control HBI Construction Superintendents: Safety and Security Registration Type (Please check) � Full Conference: Includes admittance to the educational seminars and exhibits on Thursday, September 28 and Friday, September 29, 2006. � Exhibits Only: Includes admittance to the exhibits on Thursday, September 28 and Friday, September 29, 2006. Subtotal

By 9/22/06 $95

FREE!

$ _______

$195 $95 $95 After 9/22/06 $95

$35

$ _______

2. PAYMENT INFORMATION Total the fees from Section 1. TOTAL $ _____________ Select your payment information: � Check enclosed (made payable to Three Rivers Builders Show in U.S. dollars and drawn on a U.S. bank) for the fee indicated above. � Visa � Mastercard � American Express CC No. _____________________________ Exp. Date (mo/yr) _____________ ________________________________________________________________ Name as it appears on card (please print) ________________________________________________________________ Authorized Signature

THREE WAYS TO REGISTER 1. Online: 2. Fax: 3. Mail:

www.3RiversBuildersShow.com 301-694-5124 (credit card payments only) Three Rivers Builders Show PO Box 590 Frederick, MD 21705-0590

Builder Classification A Builder-Single Family Spec B Builder-Single Family Custom C1 Builder-Multifamily for Sale C2 Builder-Multifamily for Rent D Builder-Manufactured Homes E Builder-Non-residential F Remodeler G General Contractor H Land Developer Associate Classification I Architect J Land Planning/Engineering K Interior Design L Legal Services M Computer Products & Services O Home Technologies P1 Project/Construction Lending P2 Mortgage Lending P3 Financial Services Q Insurance/Title R Marketing/Advertising/PR S Product Manufacturing/Rep T Property Management U Real Estate Broker/Agent V Dealer/Distributor Subcontractor/Specialty Trade W Carpentry X Electrical Y Flooring Z Landscaping 1 Plumbing/Heating/AC 2 Roofing & Siding 3 All Other Trades 4 All Other Occupations

Primary Secondary Tertiary

1. Indicate Your Business Title: � President & CEO � Owner, Principal or Partner � VP/General Manager � Construction Superintendent � Sales & Mktg. Mgr./Director � Architect, Designer, Engineer � Financial Manager/Director � Other (please specify): _________________________ 2. Indicate the Annual Volume of Business For Your Company: � Under $500,000 � $500,000 to $1 Million � $1 Million to $5 Million � $5 Million to $10 Million � $10 Million and over � No Construction Activity

Registration Questions? Call ExpoExchange at 301-694-5243. Cancellation/Substitution Policy: All cancellation/refund requests must be received in writing to ExpoExchange Three Rivers Builders Show, PO Box 590, Frederick, MD 21705-0590 no later than close of business Friday, September 22, 2006. An administrative fee of $25 will apply to each cancelled registration. Refunds will be issued after the show. Substitutions will not be permitted at anytime.

GENERAL SHOW INFORMATION For general show information, including special events and educational sessions, please visit www.3RiversBuildersShow.com or call the Builders Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh at 412-434-5690.

September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

I 33

I Keystone Builder â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2006

THREE RIVERS BUILDERS SHOW SEPTEMBER 28-29, 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ PITTSBURGH DAVID L. LAWRENCE CONVENTION CENTER

The following exhibitors will be showcasing their latest products during the show: 4UBOEBSE "JS -JUF $PSQ 5IF 'JSFQMBDF .BHOPUUJ 4PO *OD 5IF 7JOZM "OTXFS *OD 5JUBO 4USVDUVSBM 5/% PG 1JUUTCVSHI 5PUBM 1BOFM 4ZTUFN 4" 5SBEF 4PVSDF *OD 5SBOF 3FTJEFOUJBM 4ZTUFNT 5SFY $PNQBOZ *OD 5SPNCPME &RVJQNFOU $P *OD 5SV (VBSE 8BUFSQSPPmOH *OD

5ZDP 'JSF #VJMEJOH 1SPEVDUT 6 4 (ZQTVN 6OJWFSTBM 'PSFTU 1SPEVDUT 7FMVY 4LZMJHIUT BOE 4VOUVOOFMT 7FSTBUFY 5SJNCPBSET CZ 8PMGQBD 5FDIOPMPHJFT 8BMUFS .PSUHBHF $P 8JMMJBNT 4DPUTNBO 8PPEUPOF #VJMEJOH 1SPEVDUT

This list is current as of July 19, 2006. For the most up-to-date listing of exhibitors, please visit www.3RiversBuildersShow.com

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I 35

THREE RIVERS BUILDERS SHOW SEPTEMBER 28-29, 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ PITTSBURGH DAVID L. LAWRENCE CONVENTION CENTER

Need a reason to come? How about 10 .PSF UIBO CPPUIT GFBUVSJOH UIF MBUFTU CVJMEJOH QSPEVDUT BOE UFDIOPMPHJFT /FUXPSL XJUI UIPVTBOET PG UIF SFHJPO T CVJMEJOH JOEVTUSZ QSPGFTTJPOBMT &EVDBUJPO TFTTJPOT EFTJHOFE UP IFMQ ZPV UVSO CVJMEJOH JOEVTUSZ USFOET JOUP QSPmUT "O BQQFBSBODF CZ 5IF %VDU 5BQF (VZT 4QPVTFT BUUFOE GPS GSFF "UUFOE UIF 1JSBUFT 3FET HBNF 'SJEBZ OJHIU XJUI CVJMEFST BOE TUBZ GPS mSFXPSLT BGUFS UIF HBNF

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Yo u â&#x20AC;&#x2122; r e N o t J u s t B u i l d i n g D e c k s . Yo u â&#x20AC;&#x2122; r e B u i l d i n g Yo u r R e p u t a t i o n . Homeowners Homeowners prefer prefer high high quality quality pressure-treated pressure treated wood, and DuraPine OutdoorÂŽÂŽ Wood Wood Select Select isis right right on on the the mark. mark. DuraPineÂŽÂŽ Outdoor Produced Produced from from Premium Premium and and No. No. 11 and and better better grade grade marked marked lumber, lumber, DuraPine DuraPine Outdoor Outdoor Wood Wood Select Select has has been been re-dried re-dried after after treatment.This treatment.This additional additional step step in in the the production production process process assures assures the the user user that that most most of of treated treated woodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s woodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural natural shrinkage shrinkage takes takes place place before before itit reaches reaches the the job job site, site, not not after after itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s installed! installed! Because Because DuraPine DuraPine isis more more uniform uniform in in size size and and cleaner cleaner and and lighter lighter in in weight, weight, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much much easier easier to to work work with.And, with.And, unlike unlike regular regular treated treated wood wood that that isis still still wet, wet, DuraPine DuraPine can can be be coated, coated, stained stained or or painted painted without without waiting waiting for for weeks weeks or or months.When months.When you you build build with with DuraPine DuraPine Outdoor Outdoor Wood Wood Products Products by by Cox CoxÂŽÂŽ,,

I Keystone Builder â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2006

youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re giving giving your your customer customer an an advantage. advantage. Join Join the the Cox Cox Team Team in in proving proving the the highest highest quality quality in in treated treated wood wood products. products. For For information information about about the the DuraPine DuraPine Outdoor Outdoor Wood Wood dealer dealer nearest nearest you, you, call call Cox Cox Wood Wood Preserving: Preserving: 800.476.4401, 800.476.4401, E-mail: E-mail: sales1@coxwood.com. sales1@coxwood.com.

The Standard in Quality Treated Wood Products Since 1954 www.coxwood.com

May/June

2005

Builder Case Study ness and later attended Penns ylvania State University to furthe After graduating r his knowledge in this field. with a civil engin degree, he soon eering began to take over the busin for his father and was name ess d owner in 1979.

e 2005 May/Jun

Lending a Hel ping

Zimmer Gro ve Homes, In c. Owners build the

by Nikki Bra nd

American Drea m through busi ness

ventures, com munity

programs and oger Zimmer association and Bill Grove Born to Bui involvement. do not merely build homes, they build the Seven years ld American dream. After ago, Zimmer “One of the things decided that and Grove their clients have working all day to make sure their 90 years that sets us apart others is that the perfect house of combined rience would from each time and resou , they donate expebe a great servic rces house ourselves,” one of us could build an entire the industry, e to clients and one in the comm to programs that help every so they forme all of the trades Zimmer said. “We’ve learne unity have a nice d Zimmer Grov Homes, Inc. d and know every enjoy contributing home. They The e comp into building any focuses family home a home. We have thing that goes on singlefor people who to the construction of home s, but they also s tors and suppl great subcontracotherwise might construct commercial build iers afford them in not be able to ings the Habitat for understand what and our experience helps us remodeling end and are expanding the Humanity progr and helping peopl they need to do. of their busin am, always put the e ess. client first, and Our goal is to with disabilities in need — such as people some of the ways we help them — rehabilitate is by making or repair their homes in Chris sure tmas in most for their dollar and teach they get the “One of the aspec April projects. ing them about such subjects ts both of us as quality and about our jobs really like energy is Zimmer and dream,” Grov building the American Grove have almo efficiency.” e said. “I think predisposition st a genetic it’s to take a piece of land and build amazing to try. Both come entering the building indus lasts a lifetim from families a house that e. I began gathering of builders and has when they love to see the joy a famil experience at y move an Zimmer said his father was early age. The two owne into their new home.” started working a builder and he Inc. in Harrisburg rs of Zimmer Grove Hom with him when es, After he also was being devote a 15. intrigued about supporting the the industry as child, he attend industry. They lot of time to a ed Elizabethto presidents of are both past the wn became know ledgeable about College and of Metropolita Home Builders Associatio n practices and quality busin n Harrisburg ess , but the standards help the indus and procedures try prosper and their quest to operating a busin of stop there — grow doesn’t ess by earnin From (L to it includes invol business mana g a degree in R), Brian A. Hudson Sr., gement. Pennsylvania vement in the director/CEO execu Builders Asso of “I really enjoy Finance Agen the Pennsylvania Hous tive ciation and National Asso puttin g togeth cy ing ciation of Hom helps a family er a project that Pennsylvania presents a VisitAbility and the comm e Builders. in certificate of unity, ” Grove Zimm Zimmer ands service to Roge ’s father was er said. Bill Grove. a builder, r started helpin g his father when too, and he years old. He he quickly got “hook was just 14 ed” on the busi-

Han Zimmer and Grove are pione d VisitAblity in ers in the Pennsylvania Initiative — new program a organized by the Pennsylva Housing Finan nia ce Agency (PHF Pennsylvania Housing Resea A) and the rch Center (PHRC) to build homes that are people with acces sible to mobility “We were very limitations. excited to be The staff of this program,” a part of Zimmer Grov Zimmer said. Pennsylvania e Homes, Lieutenant Gove “The Inc. was proud program, and are Jeff Dani to to dedicate the rnor came to the ceremony els, RE/MAX also received assistance build a home for the home. We learn Chris Dani agent; Bill VisitAbility from RE/M els, dous amount Grove, co-ow in ed a tremenfrom John and Jean RE/MAX agent; Joy ner of Zimm AX agents. From (L to Dani er Grove Hom we had to expan this experience becau R) assistant and ne Motto; Gwen Arms els, RE/MAX agent; se es, Inc.; d our knowledge owners of trong Roger Zimm design a home the VisitAble of how to er, co-owner , Zimmer Grove Hom that meets the home, ing as president es, Inc. admi of Zimmer son with mobi needs of a perGrove Hom in nistrative lity es, Inc. 2005 Pennsylvan 2003, Zimmer was named ble’ way. When impairments in an ‘invis ia Build director of the ier of the you walk into highest honor PBA, said their you would never the home, for a builder memb Year — the build invol know ers veme assoc er in this was a home “It was a great nt in iations helps with special honor because the PBA. homeowners accommoda allows them bers voted for tions.” and the memto share know Zimmer Grov me ledge with other builders and shows their respe to receive this award; it learn from them builders acros e Homes, Inc. was one of six s the state to . “We are inter tion of my know ct for me and their appre participate in program. Jeann cialedge of home the homeowners, ested in helping future e issues,” said building and I believe chased the house and John Motto, who purZimmer, who them through we represent Zimmer Grov is currently the PBA regio were ecstatic our e nal completed, association vice president about their new ment,” Zimm involvefor the mid-e region. “It is er said. “The home. ast a great rewar current and future home d for my effort Zimmer and owne s.” Grove suppo regulation and rs are affected by overrt PBA projects cost increases. and don’t hesita numerous Owners Rec involved in in new progr te the association Being ognized for ams. In the 1980 to participate s also helps stay up-to-date NAHB found s, Association us on issues that ed the Certified when the Involvement hurt our busin could help or Builder progr Graduate ess.” Although they am, Zimmer Zimmer and was one of the graduates and work, their effort are humble about their hard first also became protect home Grove work tirelessly to s have not gone an instructor. Grove, who owners and years of contri serves on the the industry buting to the PBA, unnoticed. After getting invol tors for the HBA board of direc by ved in influ including servof encin Metro ment officials g governHarrisburg as past president about nume the representative rous issues. Grove said and is a lifetim he and Zimm e er have deve relationships loped with several legislators who help support the industry. “Many assoc iation members in fighting the got involved Realty Trans fer Tax. We also educated home owners on how them,” Grov it would affec e said. “Sinc t e many of those types of issue s affect home owners, we believ our involveme nt e offer our client in the associations helps us s the best. It makes a big ference when difgreater numb ers homeowners of builders and get islators about involved in influencing legproposed regul ations.” Whether it’s through their munity invol business, comveme tion, Grove and nt or association participaZimmer say they love what they do and look Bill Grove and in the industry. forward to many more years Homes, Inc. Roger Zimmer happily “Keeping up seven years combined on this everchanging indus their experienc ago. try is challenging e to form Zimm and I see our , but Roger er Grove jobs Grove said. “Neit as exciting and rewarding, ” her of us could being in any ever imagine other industry.”

September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

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Member Spotlight

Warren Peter Construction: The difference is in the details by Jennifer McDermitt s a child, Warren Peter says he spent hours just “studying how things were made.” Growing up on a farm and paying attention to detail helped him appreciate carpentry and construction. His fascination led him to a homebuilding career, where his fine detail work sets him apart. “Our company (Warren Peter Construction) earns a lot of respect from our peers, because we have a reputation for doing quality work,” Peter said. “Customers deal directly with me — not with salespeople or designers. I personally concentrate on the finish work, because I think the details of people’s home make all the difference.” Upon graduation from Williamsport Area Community College (now the Pennsylvania College of Technology) in 1974, where he received a two-year degree in carpentry and building construction, Peter found work as a carpenter for a large construction company in Central Pennsylvania. Later, Peter was promoted to superintendent, and it wasn’t long before he was ready to start his own business in the Indiana, Pa., area. “1981 was a really bad time to start a business, but I figured if I make it then, I’ll make it anytime,” Peter joked. Peter started out with small remodeling jobs, but eventually landed his first custom home contract with many more to follow. Over the past 25 years, the business has been split almost equally between remodeling and custom homebuilding, but in the last few years, homebuilding has taken over. Today Warren Peter Construction builds about 10 homes a year. Peter says that the transition of the business to homebuilding has been a welcome one. He enjoys seeing all the stages of the homebuilding process, and most of all, the

Business quick facts: Warren Peter Construction • Owner: Warren Peter • Years in business: 25 • Primary business area: Indiana County • Number of homes built per year: 10 • Number of employees: 10 • Local association: IndianaArmstrong Builders Association 38

• Association involvement: PBA life director, member of PBA Workforce Training and Education Committee, Indiana-Armstrong BA officer and board member • Specialty: Custom finish work • Company motto:“Quality work at an affordable price.”

Keystone Builder • September/October 2006

finished product. Although he can’t credit family influences for his career path, Peter is passing on his passion for homebuilding to his youngest son, Joe. Joe attends his father’s alma mater, Pennsylvania College of Technology, and works side-by-side with his father, learning the practical aspects of the business. Having a son in college, Peter is as passionate about education as he is about homebuilding. “I think it is really difficult to obtain qualified employees today,” he said. “I’ve been very fortunate to have competent and loyal employees who’ve been with me for more than 20 years. I couldn’t do that without my employees, though, because their dependability and desire for quality is really what makes us the business we are today.” To ensure that students are not only encouraged into the trades but also given a well-rounded education, Peter serves on the advisory board at Indiana County Technology Center as well as the carpentry division of Pennsylvania College of Technology. In addition to his involvement in the educational realm, Peter is an active member and a past president and board member of his local builders association, the Indiana Armstrong Builders Association. Peter is also a life director for the Pennsylvania Builders Association and serves on the PBA’s Work Force Training and Education committee. Peter says you can’t talk education without talking about association membership, because the two go hand-in-hand. “Membership offers you education in everything from new products to local government ordinances, and the benefits are truly priceless,” he said. Peter’s company motto, “Quality work at an affordable price,” is something he takes to heart. He said, “Whether it’s a small job or a million-dollar home, I always strive to get the most for my customer’s money.” s

“

Our company earns a lot of respect from our peers, because we have a reputation for doing quality work. Customers deal directly with me — not with salespeople or designers. i personally concentrate on the ﬁnish work, because i think the details of a home make all the difference. — Warren Peter

”

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September/October 2006 • Keystone Builder

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