Builders' Digest | Jan-Mar 2012

SALES WITH NATURAL GAS BECAUSE NATURAL GAS IS THE PREFERRED CUSTOMER CHOICE When you build in the benefits of natural gas, your customers will be more comfortable, have lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint than with electricity. Additionally, three out of four homeowners prefer natural gas over electricity. You will add money to your bottom line with sales and rebates.

Heating systems – Natural gas furnaces deliver air at a comfortable 120 to 125 degrees. Receive up to a $400 rebate on qualifying forced-air furnaces and up to a $500 rebate on qualifying natural gas boilers.

Water heaters – Natural gas water heaters recover twice as fast and have more hot water available than an electric model. Receive up to a $100 rebate on qualifying natural gas storage tank water heaters.

Fireplaces – Natural gas fireplaces can reduce, up to 99 percent of the amount of pollutants and particles emitted into the air compared to wood. Receive a $75 rebate when you install a direct vent fireplace, insert or free-standing stove with electronic ignition.

For more information Builders 800-234-5800 ext. 4386 David.Poretti@CenterpointEnergy.com CenterPointEnergy.com/Builders Trade Allies Kelly.Chase@CenterPointEnergy.com 800-234-5800 ext. 4484 CenterPointEnergy.com/RebateScoop

©2011 CenterPoint Energy 113195

Size matters

Our experienced Contract Sales team is supported by a 150,000-square-foot stocked warehouse, 34 in-house service vehicles, 7 showrooms and a customer service rep dedicated exclusively to our builders and their clients.

Call us today for special pricing and financing

*

(651) 726-1642 or www.WarnersStellian.com/page.corporate

&EJOB t 4U 1BVM t "QQMF 7BMMFZ t .BQMF (SPWF t 8PPECVSZ t .QMT 0VUMFU t 3PDIFTUFS *Pending approval.

2

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

table of contents

100 Plus Years of Staying Power

Builder of the Year Named {pg 32} 4 Executive Director Letter

{pg 24)

26 Public Policy Looking Ahead 2012 Legislative Session

46 Spike of the Year

6 News 8 Events 10

Welcome 2012 Board of Directors

12 PROFILE: Curt Christensen 14 MN Builder Show, Casino Night & BAM Convention

44 Welcome New BATC Members

30 What is an RSS Feed?

32 PROFILE: Builder of the Year

48 BATC Foundation News 54 Remodeler Q&A Hidden Challenges: Estimating A Remodeling Project

34 PROFILE: Associate of the Year 34 Reggie Award® and Trillium Award® Winners

56 Member News 60 BATC 2012 Partners

24 FEATURE: Lyman Lumber

Advertising Directory Andersen Windows...........................................2, 3 Bayer Built Woodworks, Inc. .........................Insert Brock White Company.........................................43 Brush Masters......................................................17 The Builders Group ..............................................53 CenterPoint Energy ....................Inside Front Cover Central Marble Products, Inc...............................41 Corporate 4 Insurance Agency............................39 Erosion Works ......................................................43 Gaslight Creative LLC ..........................................45 Hedberg Landscape & Masonry Supplies..........47 In-Focus Systems ...................................................9 Industrial Door Co., Inc. .......................................13 Installed Building Solutions, LLC ........................45 J&W Asphalt, Inc.................................................17 Kitchen Craft Cabinetry Store .............................19 Lampert Lumber...................................................55 Lyman Lumber Co.................................................31 Market Place Events............................................51 Marvin Windows & Doors ....................................5 NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

Merchants Bank...................................................59 Minnesota Department of Health.........................7 Molin Concrete Products Company....................57 Orion Home Systems...........................................23 Pella Windows & Doors......................................21 ProBuild.................................................................37 Sam’s Lawn & Landscaping, Inc. ........................33 Schwieters Companies, Inc. .........................17, 57 Shaw/Stewart Lumber Co.........Inside Back Cover Solar Midwest, Inc./Solatube.............................53 Southview Design................................................51 Stein Agency ........................................................41 SuperAmerica/SuperFleet...................................49 Synergy Products, LLC...........................Back Cover Thermo-Tech Windows, Inc. ...............................59 Trimpac, Inc. .........................................................53 Xcel Energy...........................................................35 Warners’ Stellian Co., Inc......................................1 Water Doctors Water Treatment........................29 Wells Fargo Home Mortgage .............................27 Woodmax, LLC .....................................................41

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

3

|| EXECUTIVE

DIRECTOR LETTER

ALL THEY WANT IS A CHANCE TO TALK

David Siegel BATC Executive Director

See the associates who are BATC Elite Partners.

Go To Page 60

4

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

We all know that the recovery of our Twin Cities home building industry is painfully slow – and yet our associates are investing heavily in the future of BATC. They tell us they are doing this for three major reasons: First, they just believe it's good business to support their industry's professional association. It's the right thing to do. We are grateful for their support.

Second, they believe that the members of BATC are not just the survivors, but the leaders of the future.

They understand that when we come out of this mess, it is the BATC members who are poised to charge ahead.

The BATC members have the knowledge, the expertise and the relationships to capitalize as the economy recovers. Our vendors are smart – they want to keep exposure in front of the leading builders and remodelers in this industry.

And finally, and most importantly, they want a chance to talk. They understand full well the power of past relationships and they respect it. After all, they don't want you to leave them if they become your vendor.

But they also know that circumstances change, that certain jobs might require a different vendor, that they may have a product or sys-

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

tem that others don't. They are confident that they can deliver to you an exceptional product and outstanding service and they'd just like a chance to talk.

This is what I ask of you in 2012: Our associates have stepped to the plate to deliver an incredible commitment in sponsorships and advertising. I ask that our builders and remodelers make a commitment to giving our sponsors and advertisers a shot. They know they might not win the business. In fact, many don't want all of your business. They'd like a piece of it. That way, they have a chance to prove to you that they can deliver on their promises.

On behalf of our Board of Directors and staff, BATC thanks our Associate sponsors and advertisers. We take very seriously their trust in us to provide them opportunities. When you see them at BATC dinners, mixers, banquets, on committees or councils and at various other get-togethers, please thank them. I'll give my personal thanks here. To all of our sponsors and advertisers, a hearty thank you for 2012.

And to our Elite Partners in particular, thank you for your trust in BATC and your desire to serve this industry.

We wish you great success in the year ahead.

WE HID IT. A nail is hidden somewhere in every issue of the Builders’ Digest, including the one you’re holding right now.

It could be anywhere – tucked into a photo or stuck in a drawing… in a margin… in the text body… even used as an exclamation point at the end of a headline. It resembles a real-life nail and looks something like this…

FIND THIS The nail above is just an example – it is not the real one hidden for this issue’s contest. We’ve concealed the real one elsewhere in this issue, and it could be a different color or size. Keep in mind, the Spike Club logo’s nail does not count.

Peter Hartmann from When ProBuild found the nail on page 32 memof the October - December bers 2011 issue of the find the Builders’ Digest nail, they can mail or fax a note to the Builders Association of the Twin Cities, telling what page it’s on. Participants will be entered into a drawing to win a business-card size ad in this publication or a set of member labels (non-electronic version). All other entries receive $20 in BATC Bucks. Entries must be received

by February 15, 2012.

found it!

Found the nail? Email the page number of your guess to casey@batc.org.

Or, mail or fax to: BATC Nail Hunt, 2960 Centre Pointe Dr., Roseville, MN 55113 Fax: 651.697.7575.

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

|| NEWS We “Like” Her Already

In the world of state government affairs, raising money for legislators who are favorably inclined toward our industry is vital. On December 15, Curt Christensen, Pamela Belz, Peter Coyle, Rick Kot, Jason McCarty, Kathe Ostrom, Pam Perri, Rich Riemersma,

Though you might not have gotten the opportunity to meet face to face, there’s a good chance that you’ve already met BATC’s new face of Communications.

Katy Ervin has come onboard as Communications Coordinator, meaning that she’s not just the new face in the office, she’s also the new voice behind our communications efforts including our Katy Ervin weekly newsletter and social media.

Katy graduated from Bethel University with a degree in English Literature and a minor in Communications & Marketing. She comes to us with significant experience in the publishing industry and has been published in several local magazines.

Katy managed administrative details at the American Craft Council, publisher of Craft Magazine. She was in charge of social media as the marketing intern for Minneapolis book publisher Graywolf Press and she supported the editorial department at Tiger Oak Publications. She has had over forty articles published online and in Edina and Woodbury Magazines.

Whether it be face-toface or over Facebook, be sure to say hi to Katy and welcome her to BATC!

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

David Siegel, Curt Swanson, James Vagle, John Zirbes hosted a private fundraiser for Rep. Joyce Peppin (R-Rogers) and Sen. Warren Limmer (RMaple Grove) at a Curt Swanson model.

Peppin and Limmer have both offered several bills that serve the inter-

est of the housing industry and have been key legislators on such issues as variances, land use and sprinkler mandates.

More than 25 local industry leaders participated and got a chance to visit in depth with both representatives.

Editor & Director of Marketing Wendy Danks Publishing Manager Dawnita Parmely Graphics Coordinator Casey Hafner Accounting Manager Ron DeCoux Administrative Assistant Heather Litchy Administrative Assistant/Publishing Linda Jacobson Advertising Sales Kori Meewes Brad Meewes BATC Foundation Executive Director Jan Berg Communications Coordinator Katy Ervin Director of Administrative Services Maxine Miller

From left: Rep. Joyce Peppin, Senator Warren Limmer and Executive Director David Siegel. BATC Treasurer Pam Belz is in the background.

Pilgrim Indicator Looking Up The forecast was downcast in dry cleaning for two years until the number of dress shirts brought to Pilgrim Dry Cleaners increased by 4 percent in the third quarter of 2011. pilgrimdrycleaners.com

www.batc.org

6

Executive Director David Siegel

Private Fundraiser Held for Peppin & Limmer

A Belated Welcome

Life Director

A special belated welcome to our receptionist Dawn Marka! Dawn joined the BATC front desk as a part-time receptionist this past June and has slowly picked up more hours and begun taking on a larger role in our office. She’s Dawn Marka the voice you hear when you give us a call and probably the first person to greet you when you stop on by.

Dawn comes to us from Northwest Airlines where she was a Prorate Officer and KLM liaison. After the airline merger, Dawn chose to stay in Minnesota rather than relocate her family to Atlanta. She continues to live in Oakdale with her husband and five children, all boys.

Even though she chose to stay in Minnesota, Dawn and her family are avid travelers and have visited many major world cities including: Hong Kong, London, and Paris (Dawn’s favorite). Though she’s not sure when she’ll jet-set next, Dawn hopes Sicily will be her next big destination since she has family roots in Italy

This is an honor bestowed to those who have met the NAHB requirements, including attending two or more meetings of the Board of Directors as a voting director for ten or more years. Congratulations Michael Noonan, who will be elected to the status of Life Director in February 2012.

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

Michael Noonan

EXECUTIVE BOARD President Curt Christensen Lee Lyn Construction LLC Builder Vice President Pamela Belz Senior Housing Partners Associate Vice President John Zirbes Lyman Lumber Co. Past Associate Vice President Jon Coty, The Builders Choice/A Fullerton Company Secretary Kerry Mulcrone Kerry & Co. Treasurer Shawn Nelson New Spaces Immeditate Past President Rich Riemersma Imperial Homes, Inc. Past President Council Representative Rick Kot R.A. Kot Homes, Inc.

Director of Public Policy & MN Green Path Executive Director James Vagle Educational Coordinator Beth Graham Marketing & Events Manager Nicole Coon Membership Representative Deb Earl Public Policy Assistant Mary Schweich Receptionist Dawn Marka

BOARD OF DIRECTORS BATC RemodelersSM Bob Michels, Bob Michels Construction, Inc. Large Volume Builders Chris Contreras Ryland Homes Membership Pattie Martin Glowing Hearth & Home Parade of Homes® Paul Donnay Donnay Homes, Inc. Public Policy Jason McCarty Westwood Professional Services, Inc. Small Volume Builders Larry Cramer, L. Cramer Designers & Builders NAHB Directors To Be Named* At-Large Member To Be Named* At-Large Member To Be Named* *Being appointed by the President after this issue has gone to press.

The BUILDERS’ DIGEST magazine is the official publication of the Builders Association of the Twin Cities (BATC). The BUILDERS’ DIGEST is published and distributed four times per year to its members and others associated with the building industry. Neither the advertisers, nor the BATC, will be responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc., herein contained. For advertising rates, resource file or address change information, contact the BATC. Suggestions, ideas and letters are welcome. If circumstances require, the BATC reserves the right to increase or decrease the number of BUILDERS’ DIGEST issues published on an annual basis.

Builders Association of the Twin Cities (BATC) 2960 Centre Pointe Drive Roseville, MN 55113-1182 Phone: 651-697-1954 • batc.org Fax: 651-697-7599 • Parade Fax: 651-697-7575

How the GOLD STANDARD can help sell more homes • Radon resistant homes are higher quality, with improved energy efficiency because of the state-of-the-art construction methods used. • Higher quality, radon resistant built homes attract more buyers, resulting in more sales and greater profits.

www.HEALTH.STATE.MN.US/GOLDSTANDARD To order a free radon resistant toolkit contact: Tom Standke - 651-201-5209 tom.standke@state.mn.us

|| EVENTS

COMING JAN.

UP

YP Social Night January 24, 2012 BATC Seminar Room, 5:30pm A networking hub for young professionals in the industry. Get connected and enjoy a few drinks on the house.

Contact Heather@batc.org

BATC University January 11 - April 17, 2012 Keeping industry professionals on top of building guidelines, trends, and programs through accredited education classes.

Contact Beth@batc.orgy

Reggie/Trillium Awards Victors agree that being an award winner sets them apart from their competition, is a useful marketing tool and helps with future sales.

Entries due January 20th; Trilliums due February 10.

Contact Nicole@batc.com

FEB. SMC: Back to ‘New Home’ School February 2, 2012 BATC Seminar Room Join the Sales & Marketing Council at Back to ‘New Home’ School on February 2nd. Study the art of goal setting, relationship building and sales tools with enough time to master each one prior to the Parade of Homes Spring Preview.SM Register at www.batc.org

find it all at www.batc.org 8

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

IBS Orlando February 8 - 11, 2012 This four day Builder’s Show draws in more than 50,000 attendees, 1,000 suppliers and hosts more than 200 education sessions.

Visit www.BuildersShow.com

How to ROMA February 14, 2012 BATC Seminar Room Learn how to make your ROMA entry shine above the rest with these helpful tips on photography, writing and navigating the new online entry process.

Register at www.batc.org

MBS Show February 23 - 24, 2012 Minneapolis Convention Center Join more than 1,000 builders, remodelers, architects and interior designers as they visit more than 200 booths at the Upper Midwest’s largest residential construction trade show (admission is free to the trade).

Former the BATC Product and Service show, we’re pleased to announce our new name – the Minnesota Builders Show (MBS) – which reflects an expanded statewide reach for this premier industry get-together. Show day begins with a new and special BATC Foundation Recognition Luncheon followed by our industry panel with NAHB Economist Eliot Eisenberg and Minnesota State Demographer Tom Gillsapy.

New this year, the show is being held in partnership with the Builders Association of Minnesota (BAM) Convention. The bridging event is the joint BAM/BATC Casino Night following the MBS. The following day BAM holds its convention. Attend these two days for three great events.

Visit www.MNBuildersShow.com

MARCH Parade of Homes March 3 - April 1, 2012 We love the inspiration that comes from touring a dream home, and the unique vision we gain from MN Green Path and energy tour houses.

Demographics and Aging Effects in Building March 22, 2012 Representing the growing housing market that’s concerned with 50+ demographics and aging effects in building. Come for lunch and join the conversation.

Contact Mary@batc.org

APRIL Members Luncheon April 5, 2012 Bringing members together for food, fun, and to inform and entertain. This luncheon features remarks on the State of our industry and a look ahead from Marvin Windows CEO Susan Marvin.

Register at www.batc.org

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

Welcome

2012 BATC

PRESIDENT

touch l a n so er p e th to ck a b Taking us e did business in vel and Skype. W

vel, automobile tra we built strong phones, airline tra ll ce re fo face to face. And be re ck we ns tio Think ba ac ns y. Our tra ed. r whom we work very personal wa r us, and folks fo this country in a fo rk wo d di o wh the vendors ntages relationships with chnological adva the wonderful te th wi , and ay aw do of President BATC suggesting that we ion in my year as iss m a I am by no means ve ha do But I the past century. we've created in e personal touch. th e and reinforc ht lig gh hi to is at th check our website You'll still want to n. tio cia e so As r d ou plete rebuild of th ails from me, an undertake a com to g in You'll still see em go the 're g in we year allocat ities. In fact, this o made the motion wh y gu e th s regularly for activ wa I d and uch. An I ® consumer website, to the personal to rn tu re a th wi y Parade of Homes ople the technolog TC – we bring pe intend to balance ial benefits of BA nt se resources. But I es e th of e g on me in celebratin individually. invite you to join at we cannot do wh y str du in r ou r in mplish fo together to acco ere is great value homebuyers. Th y m of e on th wi a ute to ce meeting is a weak substit lue in a face-to-fa Sometimes, email s. or There is great va ct tra ally at on on bc rs su together pe t with one of my t value in getting ea gr and lly eye-to-eye contac ua eq is er there one conv sation nversation. And ce to face, the ph fa e th ck ba simple phone co g in That we br y goal for 2012.

BATC. This is m nner. d together over di year to the breaking brea commitment this sociates, make a as d an rs s, ele er od nn d rem r member di ther. Builders an ge to come to ou ed pl – y Let's do this toge wa ific spec from each other and to do so in a n learn so much ca u yo ow kn u get active in BATC yo and partner to remodelers, valuable resource ts. Builders and a en be ev n d ca an u rs yo ixe m ve tes, you know long years. We ha s as well. Associa ing crises for five us ho is and our associate th in r ou en e be out from remodelers. We'v we need to come al our builders and is is the year that Th ry. wa year of the person e e ar th e e lean. W nals. This is sio es of pr ion fewer staff. We ar ct w constru gage with our fello foxholes and reen er in touch. pstone to my care is a humbling ca It r. de lea ur yo me as e it 100 percent. ur confidence in Thank you for yo d you know I'll giv an n tio cia so As t rve this grea this industry to se nstruction en, Lee-Lyn Co Curt Christens t BATC Presiden

10

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

Welcome

2012 BOARD OF

DIRECTORS PRESIDENT CURT CHRISTENSEN

BUILDER VICE PRESIDENT PAMELA BELZ

Lee Lyn Construction, LLC P.O. Box 249 Watertown, MN 55388 952-955-3219 Fax: 952-955-3388 leelyn729@aol.com

Senior Housing Partners 2845 North Hamline Avenue Roseville, MN 55113 651-631-6316 Fax: 651-631-6302 pbelz@seniorpartners.org

ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT JOHN ZIRBES

PAST ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT JON COTY

Lyman Lumber Co. P.O. Box 130 Chanhassen, MN 55317 952-470-4800 Fax: 952-470-4810 john_zirbes@lymanlumber.com

The Builders Choice/ A Fullerton Co. 13605 – 1st Avenue N., #200 Plymouth, MN 55441 612-369-2574 Fax: 763-226-2401 jon.coty@fullertontbc.com

SECRETARY KERRY MULCRONE

TREASURER SHAWN NELSON

Kerry & Co. 370 Andrews Bay Hudson, WI 54016 612-817-4089 Fax: 715-381-6518 Kerry@kerryandco.com

New Spaces 2105 – 143rd Street W. Burnsville, MN 55306 952-898-5300 Fax: 952-898-7198 shawn@newspaces.com

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT RICH RIEMERSMA

PAST PRESIDENTS’ ADVISORY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE RICK KOT

Imperial Homes, Inc. 1000 W. County Road E, #150 Shoreview, MN 55126 651-490-9792 Fax: 651-203-2903 rriemersma@royaloaksrealty.co

EXECUTIVE BOARD

COMMITTEE / COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES

BATC REMODELERSSM BOB MICHELS

LARGE VOLUME BUILDERS CHRIS CONTRERAS

Bob Michels Construction, Inc. 5959 Centerville Road, #250 North Oaks, MN 55127 651-653-1210 Fax: 651-653-1312 bob@bmichels-const.com

Ryland Homes 7599 Anagram Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55344 952-229-6000 Fax: 952-229-6024 ccontrer@ryland.com

MEMBERSHIP PATTIE MARTIN

PARADE OF HOMES® PAUL DONNAY

Glowing Hearth & Home 100 Eldorado Drive Jordan, MN 55352 952-492-9276 Fax: 952-492-6006 pattiem@glowinghearth.net

Donnay Homes, Inc. 9655 – 63rd Avenue N. Maple Grove, MN 55369 763-531-0714 Fax: 763-531-0601 paul@donnayhomes.com

PUBLIC POLICY JASON McCARTY

SMALL VOLUME BUILDERS LARRY CRAMER

Westwood Professional Services, Inc. 7699 Anagram Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55344 952-937-5150 Fax: 952-937-5822 jason.mccarty@westwoodps.com

L. Cramer Designers & Builders 5500 Lincoln Drive, #180 Edina, MN 55436 952-935-8482 Fax: 952-935-8468 lcramer@lcramer.com

NAHB DIRECTORS*

TO BE ASSIGNED

R.A. Kot Homes, Inc. 7694 – 128th Street W. Apple Valley, MN 55124 952-447-2806 Fax: 952-447-2814 rkot1184@aol.com

AT-LARGE MEMBER*

AT-LARGE MEMBER*

*Being appointed by the President after this issue has gone to press.

|| PROFILE The Lee Lyn Team accepting a Reggie® in October.

LtoR: Dana Christensen, Scott Dzuik, Deb & Curt Christensen.

Jessica Christensen not pictured.

Written by Katy Ervin

MEET OUR PRESIDENT CURT CHRISTENSEN You always know where you stand with Curt Christensen, President of BATC’s 2012 Board of Directors.

That’s because Curt believes that being a leader means always adding your personal touch, a philosophy that’s evident in every area of life that Curt has a hand in.

“If you ask anyone, they’ll probably say I don’t get out much,” Curt joked about his typical day. Though

What You Might Not Know

ABOUT CURT: 12

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

he may have a lighthearted spirit, the reality is that Curt’s schedule is anything but light. In addition to his role as President, Curt has been involved with BATC for more than five years where he’s served as the chair of Parade of Homes® Committee, Treasurer, and 2011 Vice President. Curt spent 21 years as a volunteer fireman, holding nearly every position (he retired as assistant chief),

and has owned and operated Lee Lyn Construction for over 31 years.

His company’s motto, “We Build Homes Not Houses,” is an important facet to the way Curt lives his life. “What our motto means to us is this,” explains Curt, “we want to build a relationship with everyone that we work with so that every customer ends up being a friend.”

On a day off...

What’s in a Name?

When he’s not working, which isn’t often, you’ll find Curt fishing or hunting at the family’s cabin near McGregor.

The company name was born when Curt decided to combine his middle name (Lee) with his wife’s middle name (Lyn). Even simpler than that, Curt took the advice of an old friend who said that a company name should be easy to find in the phone book. His advice: don’t use initials

Other hobbies include spending time with his wife and daughters. If he’s not with his family or at the cabin, check the local golf course.

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

See Curt on the 2012 BATC Buck

Curt’s most important relationships, however, are with his wife of 36 years, Debbie, and their two daughters: Dana and Jessica. Curt has always been involved in his girls’ activities, including coaching for Dana’s softball team and building the sets for Jessica’s theatre productions. More recently, Curt has spent time bonding with each of his daughters in Haiti. Last month Curt and Jessica traveled with a team to build school classrooms for children in Haiti. Part of the trip is “developing relationships with the Haitian people and teaching them how to build a new way,” says Curt. “They don’t want a handout, they want to work and build with us.”

Adding a personal touch and building a relationships with people will continue to fuel Curt’s philosophy. His goal as President is for everyone to associate with one another and emanate the message that “BATC is here for you as a member.”

I want people to “always know where they stand,” Curt explains, “I want people to know that if they need anything, they can always call.”

and choose a name that’s in the middle of the alphabet so that it’s easy to look up. Lee Lyn fit the description.

Who knew it was that easy?

Animal Instincts.

Curt was raised on a ranch. It was a hobby farm with horses and various animals. Who knew?

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

YOU GOTTA BE THERE!

i 2 Fun Days, d r MaGrales 3 Great Events! sty

MN BUILDERS SHOW ASSOCIATES!

The Largest Building Industry Tradeshow in the Upper Midwest.

This is YOUR day to shine!

Get a booth! Be a sponsor! If you would like to exhibit or sponsor at the MN Builders Show or BAM Convention…

CONTACT:

February 23, 2012

BATC, Nicole Coon 651-697-7571 nicole@batc.org BAM, Jenae Palewicz 651-646-7959 x 163 jenaep@bamn.org

BAM/BATC

casino night after the MBS!

Minneapolis Convention Center www.mnbuildersshow.com

www.mnbuildersshow.com www.bamn.org/convention

A N’ ROCKID GOO TIME!

● ● ● ●

Keynote Speaker, Economist Elliot Eisenberg Hospitality Suites State Awards Banquet Dance with Live Band “So Big”

February 24, 2012 Hyatt Regency www.bamn.org/convention

BUILDERS

ASSOCIATION OF MINNESOTA

WHO CAN ATTEND: Builders | Remodelers | Designers | Architects

THE NEW

Formerly the Builders and Remodelers Product & Service Show

minnesota builders show MN BUILDERS SHOW

sty

11:30am - 1:00pm BATC Foundation Recognition Luncheon 1:00 - 3:00pm Panel Discussion: What’s Up with 2012 and Beyond?

3:00 - 8:00pm Trade Show: FREE admission, FREE food 7:30 - 11:00pm Casino Night February 24th BAM Convention

For more information on the speakers, visit www.mnbuildersshow.com

Thank You to our Sponsors Grand Marshal Sponsors:

Royalty Sponsors:

February 23, 2012 See the newest and best products and services from more than 200 vendors. Discover new trends, build new relationships, and gain the tools you need to succeed. This is the Minnesota residential construction industry’s largest get-together. Our show floor features a new Demo Stage and a Green Path Pavilion.

F But wait, there’s more! Come early (1pm) and catch National Association of Home Builders’ economist Eliot Eisenberg and Minnesota demographer Tom Gillaspy. A little bit quirky, a little bit serious, a whole lot of information you can use to plan your business in 2012 and beyond.

FUN Where else can you hang with so many of your peeps? And, do it in Mardi Gras style? It’s where you can catch up with your old pals and check out what’s new in the industry.

It’s a super-charged, high-energy environment to get you revved up to maximize the spring selling season and the year ahead.

FREE The show is free to all licensed Minnesota builders, remodelers and subcontractors and for architects and interior designers. That’s not all.

Each firm will get up to four FREE dinner passes.

There are trinkets, games and prizes, too. Stay until the show floor closes when BATC will draw the name of one lucky attendee who will win $500 cash.

Juke Joint Bar Sponsors: Bayer Built Woodworks, Inc. Fireside Hearth & Home Industrial Door Co., Inc. J.J. Vanderson & Co. Lampert Yards, Inc. Lanyard Sponsor: Marvin Windows & Doors

Register at www.mnbuildersshow.com FREE Show. FREE Dinner, Don’t Miss Out!

Questions or to become a sponsor: Contact Nicole Coon at 651-697-7571 or nicole@batc.org

MN B UILD MN BU ER S ILDER HOW MN BUILDER SHOW SHOW MN BUILDER SHOW

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This is one BATC event you really can’t miss.

It’s informative. It’s fun. It’s free.

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$500 CASH GRAND PRIZE!

WHO CAN ATTEND: Builders | Remodelers | Designers | Architects | Exhibitors & Sponsors

AFTER MBS!

Co-presented by BATC and BAM

BUILDERS

ASSOCIATION OF MINNESOTA

bam/batc casino night Deal yourself in! Following up on the success of last year, Casino Night is back in town and ready to test your luck!

February 23 (after MBS!) After you’ve checked out the new products, enjoyed dinner and spent some time catching up with your pals, get that lucky charm out of your pocket and mosey on over to the BAM/BATC Casino Night in the convention center right next door to the show.

Thank You to our Casino Night Sponsors Doubloon Sponsorship:

The chips are on us, (you’ll get $5,000 at the door), and you can turn in your winnings for some exceptional prizes (like an iPod, Wii game set, hotel stays, a GPS system, and the $500 cash grand prize). You’ll also want to make it a point to visit our VIP sponsors’ booths on the MBS Show Floor (open 3-8pm) to find out how you could double your stake!

The professional dealers of Ace's High Casino Inc. will be offering Blackjack, Let It Ride, Bang (craps), the Money Wheel (roulette), Texas Hold-‘Em and Three-Way Poker tables, as well as Bingo and Horse Racing Windows.

Free snacks and a cash bar, too.

Bar Sponsors: Bayer Built Woodworks, Inc. Cambria Casino Table Sponsors: BrushMaster/Paint JW Asphalt Kitchen Craft/Cabinets Lyman Lumber/Lumber Marvin Windows & Doors Menards Minnesota Truss Manufacturers Association Pella Windows

Register at www.mnbuildersshow.com or www.bamn.org/convention Questions or to become a sponsor: BATC: Nicole Coon, 651-697-7571, nicole@batc.org BAM: Jenae Palewicz, 651-646-7959 x 163, jenaep@bamn.org

$500 CASH GRAND PRIZE!

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NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

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JANUARY/MARCH 2012

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

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WHO CAN ATTEND: All Minnesota Home Builders’ Association Members

STAY OVERT- !

NIGH

BUILDERS

Stay overnight with special hotel rates

ASSOCIATION OF MINNESOTA

bam convention Just like the Big Easy, the BAM Convention brings fun, celebration and a rockin’ good time together in one place.

Thank You to our Sponsors Grand Marshal Sponsors:

Royalty Sponsors:

rrdais a M G style

February 24, 2012 BAM’s Mardi Gras Convention is the place to be for inspiration, celebration and a rockin' good time. Join industry experts as they share current trends, best strategies, and the latest intel about your competition, vendors and clients.

Share your opinions while you network to gain and improve relations with your peers. Strengthen your relationship with your association, and learn how it’s working for your interests every day of the year.

From the awards and keynote speaker, to the food and the band, you won’t want to miss the 2012 BAM Convention. And, if you’ve already tried the Convention’s previous “flavor,” try it again with a little Cajun!

Register today to take advantage of early bird discounted registration!

French Quarter Sponsor: Minnesota Truss Manufacturers Association Fat Tuesday Sponsor: Larkin Hoffman Daly and Lindgren Bar Sponsors: The Builders Group Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. Wine Sponsor: Thermo-Tech Windows and Doors Coffee Break Sponsor: Lakes Gas Company

7:30am Registration Opens

2:00 - 5:00pm Hospitality Suites

7:30 - 8:30am Breakfast Buffet

5:00 - 6:00pm Cocktail Reception & BAM PAC Silent Auction

8:30 -11:30am BAM Board Meeting 11:30 - 1:00pm Lunch & Keynote Speakers 1:00 - 2:30pm Government Relations Meeting

6:00 - 9:00pm Dinner & Awards Banquet & Presidential Installation 9:00pm - 12:00am Dance and Live Band “So Big”

Register at www.bamn.org/convention Early bird discounted registration!

Questions or to become a sponsor: Contact Jenae Palewicz at

651-646-7959 x 163 or jenaep@bamn.org

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Minnetonka, MN 55305 952-544-0458 NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

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Sponsored by:

Enter your

Projects Remodelers, get recognized for your best work!

Enter the 2012 Remodeler of Merit Awards!

NISEYW EAR! TH

Enter online.

No more powerpoints or PDF’s just type your description and upload your photos and floor plans at www.batc.org.

FIND IT ALL AT WWW.BATC.ORG. ENTER BY APRIL 12, 2012 Questions: Contact Nicole Coon at 651-697-7571 or nicole@batc.org

T H AN K YO U T O O UR G RACIOUS SPO NSO RS

SAVE THE DATE! ROMA Banquet June 28, 2012

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Co-Presenting Sponsor:

Red Carpet Sponsor:

Glamour Sponsor:

Bling Sponsor: Lamperts Marvin Windows & Doors Pella Wells Fargo

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|| COMPANY PROFILE

ADVERTORIAL

The original Lyman operation in Excelsior around turn of the century.

Written by Fran Howard

100-PLUS YEARS OF STAYING POWER Little did Albert Lyman realize when he launched his small Excelsior lumberyard in 1897 that the company would still be going strong 114 years later.

And despite recently hitting a pothole (a short-lived Chapter 11) on its road to success, the Lyman Companies is now well positioned to take advantage of a rebound in the housing market.

Like others in the industry, Lyman Companies was caught in the worst decline to hit the housing market since the Great Depression.

“The downturn in the local housing market has certainly been deeper and longer than expected,” says 24

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

Dale Carlson, president of Lyman Companies. “The Twin Cities market peaked at over 20,000 housing units built in 2006, and 2011 will be the fourth year in a row with less than 6,000 units.”

When the housing bubble burst, so too did residential land values.

Lyman—like others who over the years expanded to include development services—has now refocused on its core businesses: building materials, carpentry services, and engineered building components.

In October Lyman joined US LBM Holdings, a collection of eight autonomous subsidiaries

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

specializing in building products. “US LBM is only two years old but already one of the top-10 building supply companies nationally,” says Carlson. “US LBM understands the needs of builders and values the customer, vendor, and employee relationships that we have built through the years.”

While the current market downturn, no doubt, has been difficult across the entire industry, Lyman’s core businesses have actually done quite well, says Tim Liester, Lyman Companies vice president.

“Shedding non-core businesses (land development and construction lending)

will allow us to focus even more energy and resources on our six Midwest operations and the customers they serve,” Liester notes.

Lyman’s relentless focus on serving customers over the years provided a solid foundation under its core businesses during the downturn, and is now helping Lyman transition to new ownership. “Our customers are the lifeblood of our company,” says John Zirbes, Lyman Lumber branch manager. “The loyalty shown by our customers has been incredible, and the vote of confidence they put in our company has been inspiring.”

Marty Gergen, vice president of construction at Pulte Homes of Minnesota, is one of Lyman’s loyal customers. “Partnering with

“The loyalty shown by our customers has been incredible, and the vote of confidence they put in our company has been inspiring.”

Lyman has been a positive experience,” says Gergen.

“Together we have discovered ways to improve each other’s businesses and help gain market share.”

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

Lyman’s core operations consist of full-service lumberyards located in Chanhassen and Eau Claire, carpentry services offered through its Carpentry Contractors division, and engineered components sold through Automated Building Components (ABC). These prefabricated building components can be purchased through ABC Truss, ABC Millwork, and ABC Kitchens. Besides a full range of products, ABC Kitchens also offers kitchen and bath design services to homebuilders.

“Long ago, the Lyman Companies identified the need to offer our customers true product expertise,” says Charlie Bradburn, sales manager for ABC Millwork.

“We do this by maintaining separate divisions—all with product-focused sales teams.”

Lyman’s dedicated and

Above: Charlie Bradburn, ABC Millwork Sales Manager; Tim Liester, Vice President; Collin Owens, Lyman Sales Manager; and John Zirbes, Branch Manager Right: Lyman’s state-of-the-art facility today

specialized sales teams begin each customer meeting intently listening to the needs of the customer, says Collin Owens, sales manager for Lyman. “Our sales teams have the experience and ability to be flexible enough to respond to real problems with real solutions,” Owens adds.

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

Lyman is also working to more fully integrate its divisions as a way drive consistency and costs and pass savings to customers as they weather what is hopefully the last stage of the housing downturn. And with the final nail of the Great Recession nearly pounded, the future for

Lyman and its customers is looking bright.

“We are excited to join a strong financial partner like US LBM Holdings,” says Carlson. “And we look forward to market improvement and the opportunity to grow with our customers.”

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|| PUBLIC

POLICY

Get News Now. Read all about public policy news on the blog at www.batc.org/blog

LOOKING AHEAD: 2012 LEGISLATIVE SESSION Since 2007, the Minnesota legislature has opened with a projected deficit for the state, hanging like a dark cloud over the Capitol throughout each session. This year, 2012, has broken the trend with the state budget out of the red and into the black, at least for now.

Budget leaders announced that state government will have an unexpected $876 million surplus for the remaining 19 months of the current two-year budget. While most everyone expected a steep deficit, the good news means that Minnesota is projected to have extra cash in the bank for the first time in almost five years.

Without a budget deficit to dominate the session, the focus at the Capitol will fall to the Capital Improvements bill and an assortment of policy measures. BATC expects to be involved in several policy discussions of its own in 2012

costly regulation that doesn’t increase safety in new homes in a meaningful way.

Last session the bill to prohibit any fire sprinkler mandates in the MN Building Code received strong bi-partisan support by the legislature, only to be vetoed by Governor Dayton in the days immediately following the session’s adjournment. In his veto message, Dayton cited a preference for this issue to be resolved within the administrative process in the building code update, and also expressed concerns about fire fighter safety in new construction. The building code adoption process is currently underway and could provide greater clarity on this issue from the code process, but it is very likely that sprinklers will emerge at some point in the legislative session

Fire Sprinkler Mandate

Land Use – Moratoria, Development Contracts, & Park Fees

No issue has grabbed the attention of the BATC membership more than the prospect that the building code, unless it is amended or pre-empted by the legislature, will require fire sprinklers in all newly built homes the next time it is updated, likely by 2013. At a time when regulatory costs make up 25-36 percent of the final price point of a home, there is simply no margin for a

Building on the momentum from the 2011 session, where BATC’s land use bill advanced to the Senate floor, we are gearing up for a continuance of the land use discussion. The importance of a balanced and fair land use approval process is more important now than ever.

Of the 25-36 percent of the final price point of a home attributable to regulation, the vast majority occurs during the

development process. The basics of the bill remain intact from previous years – with the potential of a new addition, park fees.

Moratoria Reform: Our builder-developer members spend considerable time and resources to bring a project from concept phase to the point continued to page 39 >

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BUILDERS’ DIGEST

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

Homeownership starts with a relationship We understand a mortgage is about having what’s really important – your home. When you work with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, the nation’s leading residential mortgage lender1 and the nation’s leading lender to buyers of newly constructed homes,2 you’ll have access to a variety of products and programs to suit your financial needs: • PriorityBuyer® preapproval – a quick and easy way to pinpoint your price range before you begin your home search • Wells Fargo Closing GuaranteeSM – Wells Fargo Home Mortgage will close your loan on or before the closing date stated in your original purchase contract, or we will write you a check equal to your first month’s principal-and-interest mortgage payment3 • Single Source® solutions – whatever your home financing needs, you only have to call one company to find home financing solutions to fit your current needs and future goals

Contact me today for details.

Charity Moreland Regional Builder Sales Manager 515-491-5777 charity.n.moreland@wellsfargo.com

1. Based on 2009 year-end statistics by Inside Mortgage Finance 1/29/10.

2. Based on 2009 year-end MarkeTrac® data.

3. Available on all qualified purchase transactions. Other terms and conditions apply. See a home mortgage consultant for details.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2011 Wells Fargo Bank. N.A. All rights reserved. AS513289 1/11-4/11

Thank You to Our 2012 Sponsors Pioneer Sponsor:

Guide Sponsors:

Advocate Sponsors:

Enthusiast Sponsors:

|| TECH

WHAT IS AN

RSS FEED?

By Justin Spoelstra Preferred Interactive/Your Personal Designer www.yourpersonaldesigner.com/

Just how do you keep up with all those websites you want to visit without spending all your time going to every one? The best way is to use an RSS feed. These nifty little tools allow you to access data from all over the internet using an “RSS reader” to get data sent directly to your computer.

Even better, you can set one up free!

An Analogy Imagine being able to get a magazine delivered to you with ONLY the information that you WANT. RSS readers do just that, letting you “subscribe” to your favorite websites or blogs.

Get Started Once you install your RSS Reader, just begin adding

feeds. And of course, you should start with BATC’s PLS blog. Log on to www.batc.org, click on the blog link (under quick links) and find the RSS icon and you’re on your way to staying on top of all things BATC. Don’t stop there.

Need the latest mortgage rates every morning? Try this site:http://www.mortga-

genewsdaily.com/mortgage_ rates/. Looking for the latest in home décor/design?

HGTV Blog has it at http://blog.hgtv.com/design/.

Share the best sites!

Here’s a final challenge.

Post your favorite sites to BATC’s facebook, twitter or linked-in groups.

WORTH NOTING

iPad Apps for RSS Reading fun: River of News for Google Reader Flipboard TweertMag Readerrific Reeder for iPad Spatik Evri Source: www.inspiredm.com

Must Follow RSS Feeds: batc.org/blog blog.paradeofhomes.org

Follow these steps to get started!

1.

1

Download and install any free RSS reader from this link: http://download.cnet.com/win dows/newsreadersand-rss-readers/

2.

2

Look for the following icon on any of the websites or blogs that you frequent:

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

3

Click on the icon and follow the directions on how to subscribe.

4.

4

Every morning check your RSS reader to find out everything you need in one visit.

remodeling.hw.net (Remodeling Magazine) bringmethenews.com

Visit batc.org/blog for the links to the sites mentioned above.

(If you’re already using google docs, analytics, etc. you can access google’s reader right from your login page.)

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3.

builderonline.com (Builder Magazine)

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

|| PROFILE Jeff & Nancy Schoenwetter accepting the Builder of the Year Award at the Gala in October

PAST BUILDER OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS 2011 JMS Custom Homes 2010 Swanson Homes 2009 John Kraemer & Sons 2008 Kathy Trimble Custom Homes 2007 Pratt Homes

Written by Katy Ervin

JMS CUSTOM HOMES IS TRULY A FAMILY For Jeff Schoenwetter, winning Builder of the Year is an honor that truly hits home. “JMS Custom Homes is a family business and we are very proud of it,” Jeff said of the company that has been a part of his family for 28 years. He credits his success to wife Nancy who has been a partner in business with Jeff for their entire married life and since the company’s start in 1985.

JMS is Awards of Excellence family owned Gala photos can be and family viewed at batc.org, click on photo gallery focused, which is why, See all the for Jeff and photos from Nancy, the the big night term family 32

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

truly extends to their workers and their clients. “This award is about my staff and my customers,” Jeff said in appreciation. “Without the commitment of staff and their loyal endeavors to fully satisfy the day-to-day needs of our customers we would not have won.”

According to Jeff, being a member of BATC’s family has also helped his company and staff gain a competitive advantage in the building industry. “We can stay on top of industry trends and remain keenly aware of market news and development which help us make key business decisions,” he explained. This strategy has

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

helped to guide JMS Custom Homes through a hard economic climate and continues to provide the company with

“Without the commitment of staff and their loyal endeavors to fully satisfy the day-to-day needs of our customers we would not have won.”

“We, and the members of BATC, hope to catch a wave forward and we have good reason to anticipate that now.”

From one family to another, we want to congratulate Jeff for achieving the Builder of the Year Award, the most prestigious honor given by the Builders Association each year since 1988.

~ JEFF SCHOENWETTER

a focus for the future. Looking forward to 2012, Jeff believes that there will continue to be more tangible signs of economic recovery.

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

|| PROFILE Jon Coty accepting the Associate of the Year Award at the Gala in October

PAST ASSOCIATE OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS 2011 Fullerton Company; The Builders Choice 2010 Ulteig Engineers 2009 Automatic Door and Fireplaces 2008 Designed Cabinets 2007 Builders Club

Written by Katy Ervin

A QUIET LEADER EARNS ITS DUE The Fullerton Company; The Builders Choice has reason to celebrate! The company, which is the longest running lumber yard in the metro area, is ushering in its 130th birthday in a big way. Jon Coty accepted the Associate of the Year honor for the firm at BATC’s Award of Excellence Gala in October. The award recognizes See “Jon Rivers” in trust, comaction in the Red munication, Carpet video loyalty and interviews at ethics in the batc.org. building View Red industry, and Carpet Videos is one of the

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BUILDERS’ DIGEST

highest honors given to a member of the Builders Association.

“Winning the highest award for an Associate company is a true testimony to the employees who make Fullerton Company; The Builders Choice, just that,” explains Jon Coty. “This award has given us more credibility since Fullerton has always been a quiet leader for 129 years.”

For a company that leads quietly, their reputation truly speaks loudly.

This is evident in the way that Fullerton Company; The Builders Choice, val-

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

ues customer interaction.

Jon expresses this sentiment when he said “We

“We are a family

company and will always treat the people we work alongside with the ‘warm fuzzy’ touch of an in-person connection.” ~ JON COTY

an in-person connection.”

As far as plans for the future? Fullerton Company; The Builders Choice, hopes to continue to celebrate its legacy while growing within the market. “We continue to nurture new and long term relationships, to work smarter, not harder, and to never stop listening and learning how to grow through profitable relations with our clients and our suppliers.”

are a family company and will always treat the people we work alongside with the ‘warm fuzzy’ touch of

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

Build in the best energy value by building with natural gas.

When you look at all of the energy choices, natural gas still stands alone as the best value. Natural gas is a long-term choice, with plentiful supply and positive forecasts. Plus, compared to fuel oil or propane, 95 percent of natural gas is from North America, which reduces our reliance on overseas imports. Natural gas. It’s an advantage you can build on.

Š 2011 XCEL ENERGY INC.

For more information, visit XcelEnergy.com/EnergyPartners today.

photo gallery

Past Directors Dinner

Del Wischmann (1986 Mpls. President) and Ollie Erickson (1964 Mpls. President)

Dale Johnson with Craig Plekkenpol (2002 President)

Jim Hansen and Roy Lund (1982 Mpls. President)

Constance Koopman, John Vandermyde, Al TeWinkel, Larry Laukka (1970 Mpls. President)

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BUILDERS’ DIGEST

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

Dean Flacke (1997 President)

Bob Bennett, Michael Noonan (2007 President), Rick Packer, Tim Hassett

Jason McCarty and Pamela Belz (2012 Builder Vice President)

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

photo gallery

Want More Pictures?

December Member Mixer / Food Drive

Visit www.batc.org, click on photo gallery

Kimberly Allen, BMO Harris Bank International Association; Bob Michels, Bob Michels Construction; Tim Lemke, Tim Lemke Construction; Andy Michels, Bob Michels Construction; and Shelby Allen, Gary Insurance

Andy Lau, ProBuild and Walt Perala, Lamperts Lumber

Santa Claus made an appearance. Be the first person to email mystery Santa’s identity to wendy@batc.org and win $50 in BATC Bucks.

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BUILDERS’ DIGEST

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

John Taylor, Marvin Windows; Justin Spoelstra, Preferred Interactive; Greg Wagner, Lampert Lumber; Brad Meewes, kori and more; and Brett Remme, In-Focus Systems.

Thanks to our wonderful members we were able to drop off 372 pounds of food to Second Harvest Heartland.

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

> PUBLIC POLICY {continued from page 26} of a completed application before a local government. The BATC initiative seeks to protect applications awaiting approvals from the effects of land use moratoria, which halts development while the local government studies and possibly re-draws the rules. This proposed protection does not affect the project’s approval, but it does allow for existing, completed applications to proceed forward for an up or down vote as a matter of fairness for those applicants who have expended resources and relied upon the existing rules put forth by the local government.

Development Agreements: Most developments use some type of development contract that spells out project timing, escrow requirements, fees and infrastructure matters. Both

parties benefit from a measure of project specificity as well as flexibility afforded by development contracts. However, reliance on development contracts has also produced many incidents of unfair requirements for fees and other improve-ments, which are not related to the project nor are they authorized by statute or law. BATC’s development contract initiative attempts to limit these instances.

Under the proposal, a local government could not place a term or condition in any agreement which is not authorized by statute or case law. This provision limits the inclusion of impact fees not authorized in Minnesota, such as traffic impact fees, which have been attempted by several municipalities under the umbrella of a

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

voluntary agreement between a local government and developer. The bill would also require that a copy of the development agreement be given to the developer at least five days prior to the hearing on the agreement.

Park Fees: As land values have contracted over the past five years, the law says that park fees should be contracting commensurately. That hasn’t been the case in many jurisdictions, leaving major implications for fairness and affordability. Currently, the law states that park fees must be established based on the average fair market value of unplatted land. Unfortunately this doesn’t appear to be the case in many municipalities.

BATC is looking into this issue closely to determine

whether or not greater clarification in the statue is necessary to carry out the policy – which is to ensure that the park fee paid by homeowners is fair and inline with the overall costs of building the home.

A common theme echoes in each of the three major portions of BATC’s land use bill: fairness and housing affordability. BATC has been a leader in land development policy for years, but the stakes are higher today as there is so little room for unnecessary regulatory costs in newly built homes.

Stay tuned to BATC’s weekly email and the PLS Blog (click on the link at batc.org) for updates throughout the session.

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Congratulations 2011 Reggie Award & Trillium Award Winners SM

$129,900-$179,999

SM

$355,000-$384,999

PARADE HOME #243 IN ANDOVER

PARADE HOME #72 IN LAKEVILLE

BlueStar Homes, LLC

Homes by Tradition LLC Trillium Winners: Aspen Electric Inc., Glowing Hearth & Home, Southern Lights

$180,000-$203,999 PARADE HOME #88 IN FARMINGTON Stone Cottage Construction, Inc.

$204,000-$244,999 PARADE HOME #157 IN COLOGNE Hans Hagen Homes, Inc.

$245,000-$269,999 PARADE HOME #91 IN NEW PRAGUE K.A. Witt Construction, Inc. Trillium Winner: Minnesota Exteriors, Inc.

$270,000-$284,999 PARADE HOME #117 IN SHAKOPEE Knoblauch Builders, L.L.C. Trillium Winner: Glowing Hearth & Home

$385,000-$419,999 PARADE HOME #32 IN HUDSON Hartman Homes, Inc. Trillium Winner: Warners’ Stellian Co., Inc.

$420,000-$474,999 PARADE HOME #18 IN LAKE ELMO Hartman Homes, Inc. Trillium Winner: Warners’ Stellian Co., Inc.

$475,000-$574,999 PARADE HOME #55 IN COTTAGE GROVE D.T. Carlson Co. Trillium Winners: Ferguson Kitchen, Bath & Lighting Gallery, Granite-Tops, L.L.C., MCI Paint & Drywall

$575,000-$749,999 PARADE HOME #73 IN LAKEVILLE

$285,000-$304,999 PARADE HOME #256 IN BLAINE TJB Homes, Inc. Trillium Winners: Minnesota Exteriors, Inc., Village Floor & Wall, Inc.

$305,000-$354,999 PARADE HOME #173 IN DELANO Lee Lyn Construction, L.L.C. Trillium Winners: Brock White Company, Brush Masters, Gallus Painting, Inc., Glowing Hearth & Home, Granite-Tops, L.L.C., Mayer Lumber Co., Inc., Southern Lights View past winners at www.batc.org

Homes by Tradition LLC Trillium Winners: Aspen Electric Inc., Glowing Hearth & Home, J.J. Vanderson & Co.

$750,000-$999,999 PARADE HOME #93 IN CREDIT RIVER TOWNSHIP J.B. Woodfitter & Associates, LLC Trillium Winners: Designed Cabinets, Inc., Granite-Tops, L.L.C.

$1,000,000-$1,999,999 PARADE HOME #128 IN EDINA Charles Cudd DeNovo, LLC Trillium Winners: Designed Cabinets, Inc., Martha O’Hara Interiors, Scherer Bros.

Lumber Co.

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

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photo gallery

Want More Pictures?

Pattie Martin, Glowing Hearth and Home shows off her new Keurig coffee maker

Dwight Deisting, All Aspects Enterprizes took home the Wii game package

Rick Echternacht, National Home Security took home some green 42

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

BATC Buck Auction

Visit www.batc.org, click on photo gallery

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

Steve Baker and Mike Tamasi, Marketplace Events (Minneapolis Home & Garden Show)

Pat Hegseth, Great Plains Millwork showing off his new Tomtom

Tina Combs, Eye 4 Image Internet Marketing knew she wanted the iPod nano

Becky Harasyn, Xcel Energy just waiting for the right item to bid on

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

We specialize in:

THE MINNESOTA MULCH LOG

• Rough Cut Mowing • Silt Fence Installation • Hydro Seeding • Seed and Mulch • Tree and Safety Fence • Inlet Protection • Erosion Blanket

It is a 10” geotextile fabric sewn together and filled with recycled wood product. It’s reusable and can be easily moved to another location. The Minnesota Mulch Log is a very effective perimeter control device and is more aesthetically pleasing providing a great alternative to silt fence.

• Reusable • Low Maintenance • Ditch Checks • Cost Effective

Professional & Complete 763-262-SILT (7458)

• Inlet Protection • Perimeter Control • Easy to Install • Self Anchoring

Call Roger for a Quote!

MORE STONE. MORE CHOICES.

With high-quality materials and a company-wide commitment to responsive, dependable service, Brock White can help ensure the most successful outcomes to your projects.

St. Cloud

Eagan

320-251-5060

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www.BrockWhite.com NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

43

Welcome New BATC Members Joining the Builders Association of the Twin Cities is the first step in becoming more active in your industry and in working to gain more business. The following companies have joined BATC over the last three months. Please take a moment to welcome the newest members of our association.

NEW MEMBERS Ace Midwest Moving and Storage 53 Woodlynn Avenue Little Canada, MN 55117 Scott Coyle 651-765-6098 scoyle@acemw.com www.acemw.com

All Sons’ Exteriors, Inc. P.O. Box 146 Lakeville, MN 55044 Kathy Espelien 952-469-5221 allsonsexteriors@gmail.com www.allsonsexteriors.com

City Cottages LLC 7200 Hudson Boulevard N., #165 Oakdale, MN 55128 Carrie Maurer 651-755-2722 carrie.maurer@citycottages.com www.citycottages.com

Clinton Company Builders, LLC 1645 Palace Avenue St. Paul, MN 55105 Michael Buelow 651-260-5528 mbuelow@clintoncompany.com www.clintoncompany.com

Crossroad Construction, Inc. 1232 – 171st Lane NE #200 Ham Lake, MN 55304 Greg Boelter 763-434-0202 greg@crossroadconstruction.com

Finance for L.L.C. 3600 Shady Oak Road Minnetonka, MN Scott Puchtel 612-709-5168 spuchtel@gmail.com

Royal Building Products

1797 Xenium Lane N. Plymouth, MN 55446 Lynn Chock 763-233-7070 lchock@mntile.com www.mntile.com

5027 Ewing Avenue S. Minneapolis, MN 55410 Cory Tamm 612-501-5137 tammc@royalbuildingproducts.com www.royalbuildingproducts.com

Peter A. Haack, LLC

Mueller Homes, LLC

886 – 138th Avenue NW Andover, MN 55304 Peter A. Haack 612-270-4049 peter@homestylebuilder.com www.homestylebuilder.com

1944 Safari Trail Eagan, MN 55122 Robert Mueller 612-701-7914 robmueller725@comcast.net

Sir Speedy Printing & Marketing Service

New Design Properties LLC

2516 W. 95th Street Bloomington, MN 55431 William Dusold 612-919-5329 bridgewater.construction@gmail.com www.bridgewater-construction.com

108 West Broadway Osseo, MN 55369 Kristin Pfaff 763-425-5333 fairfaxasphalt@gmail.com www.fairfaxasphalt.com

Minnesota Tile & Stone

805 Meander Court Medina, MN 55340 Bradley Ganzer 763-231-9623 bganzer@cardsupport1.com www.FFUSA.com

Hartman Custom Homes

Bridgewater Construction, LLC

Fairfax Asphalt, Inc.

First Financial

9622 Gander Lane Minnetrista, MN 55375 Timothy Hartman 612-501-1487 tim@hartmancustomhomes.com www.hartmancustomhomes.com

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

Stinson Builders Inc. 315 W. 48th Street Minneapolis, MN 55419 Jason Stinson 612-824-5100 jasonstinson@stinsonbuildersinc.com

Paxmar High Ground Construction LLC 3041 E. Minnehaha Parkway Minneapolis, MN 55417 Ryan Hochbrunn 612-845-8016 hocrya@hotmail.com www.archcontractor.com

4870 Viking Boulevard Anoka, MN 55303 Alan Roessler 763-753-6176 alan@paxmar.com www.paxmar.com

Uber Built, Inc. 4737 County Road 101, #221 Minnetonka, MN 55345 Jack Carter 952-380-9988 jack@uberbuilt.com www.uberbuilt.com

Referral BUZZ Home Media Innovations, Inc. 757 Wilfred Road Hudson, WI 54016 William Denzer 715-377-0606 bj@hmiav.com www.hmiav.com

6950 France Avenue S. Edina, MN 55345 Matt Reinan 952-500-9878 mreinan@referralbuzz.com www.referralbuzz.com

Wonderful Roofing & Siding, LLC 6186 Linda Lane Circle Pines, MN 55014 Aaron Perkins 763-245-3373 aperkins@gowonderful.com

Main Street Homes & Remodeling, LLC 442 – 15th Avenue SW New Brighton, MN 55112 Thomas Boigenzahn 612-770-4747 tom.mainstreet@comcast.net www.builtbymainstreet.com

Martin Joseph Design & Construction, Inc. 2154 Hastings Avenue, #200 Newport, MN 55055 Marty Vietoris 651-769-2828 marty@martinjoseph.net www.martinjoseph.net

MetroPlains, LLC 1600 University Avenue, #212 St. Paul, MN 55104 Randall Schold 651-523-1244 rschold@metroplains.com www.metroplains.com

If you’re aware of prospective BATC members, please let Member Representative, Deb Earl know; Deb@batc.org or 651-296-7562.

44

9183 – 190th Avenue NW Elk River, MN 55330 Jeff Genser 763-528-0872 jeff@newdesignproperties.com www.newdesignproperties.com

7793 Ranchers Road Fridley, MN 55432 Suzanne Dahm 763-571-4608 Suzanne@jrmprinting.com www.sirspeedy.com

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

Attend Events. Earn BATC Bucks.

Get FREE Stuff.

Collect them all year and bring them to the Auction in Nov. 2012 to Bid on great prizes and cash drawings. Earn more bucks by: • Attending a committee/council meeting • Attending any BATC meeting • Wearing your Spike jacket/sweater or BATC wearable to a BATC event

• Getting a delinquent member to pay their dues • Finding the Nail in the Builders’ Digest • Delivering a BATC manual to a new member

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

Marketing Marketing Str Strategy ategy X Adv Advertising ertising + Public RRelations elations X Direct Mail + Email Campaigns W ebsite Dev elopment X Publications X w Displa ys Website Development Publications X Video Pr Production oduction X Trade Trade Sho Show Displays

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JANUARY/MARCH 2012

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

45

|| SPIKE

{

MEET OUR SPIKE OF THE YEAR

PATTIE MARTIN

If you think Patti Martin is a recruiting powerhouse, then you’ve hit the nail on the head.

That’s because she is the 2011 Spike of the Year, an honor awarded annually for getting the highest number of new members to join BATC. Communications Coordinator, Katy Ervin, interviewed Pattie on her success.

Rich Riemersma, BATC 2011 President and Pattie Martin, 2011 Spike of the Year

Written by Katy Ervin

} KATY: What does it mean be Spike of the Year

} PATTIE: I was so shocked and honored! I have been on the Membership Committee for several years and to me, it is recognition of sticking with something and continuing to promote an organization I believe in. It means I have to be on my game for 2012 to continue the pace!

} KATY: You received this award for recruiting the most new members to BATC. What is your game plan for getting new members excited to join? Any secret strategies? } PATTIE: I am very active in BATC, and I think that is contagious. We need to continue to talk to potential members and convey why it is beneficial to be part of this trade group. We are working to revitalize the Spike program as a goal and the focus of the Membership Committee, so we will be counting on everyone to help grow and retain membership! When a new member joins, we need to engage them so they get value from their membership.

46

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

} KATY: Why do you feel it’s important to recruit new members? } PATTIE: I believe in BATC. Membership is the core to the association. Without members, you cease to exist. It is that simple. New members bring new ideas and more involvement. } KATY: Tell us about your family. How old are your kids?

} PATTIE: My husband, Steve, and I live in Hudson, WI and have two great kids: Joe is 11, LOVES sports (especially hockey) and is in sixth grade.

Averie is 6, in kindergarten and she has an obsession with sock monkeys and also started hockey this year. We are very blessed to have two beautiful, healthy kids!

} KATY: What do you do with your time off? Any interesting hobbies? } PATTIE: We have a lake place on Lake Miltona about 10 miles north of Alexandria. My hus-

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

band's family vacationed there every year from the time he was little, so it has special meaning to him as well as to me and our kids. We use it as much as possible from May until mid September. It is a great memory in the making for our family. I also enjoy playing golf...as frustrating as it can be, it always keeps me coming back for more! It is something that we do as a family as well.

Top 10 Spikers Last Quarter Al TeWinkel, .................5.5 On the Green Jon Coty, ..........................4 The Builders Choice/ A Fullerton Company Duane Meyer....................4 Emeritus Member

} KATY: What is the most interesting thing about you?

Jeff Schoenwetter .............3 JMS Custom Homes LLC

} PATTIE: I have changed a lot

Len Pratt ..........................3 Pratt Homes

in the past couple years. I have lost loved ones in the recent past which has made me take a step back and realize the relationships we grow are the most important and we need to cherish what we have - life can change on a dime! I have become more focused on family and those friendships that I know will be there for life. We have to learn from our mistakes, celebrate our wins, and enjoy the ride!

Warren Eck.......................2 Harkraft, Inc Chris Thompson ...............2 On the Level Marlin Grant .....................2 Emeritus Member Pam Belz .........................2 Senior Housing Partners Kathe Ostrom ................1.5 C.N. Ostrom & Son, Inc.

See complete list of spike points at www.batc.org

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

Masonry Selection Center: 975 Nathan Ln. N. Plymouth, MN 55441 Appointments: 763-225-0551 Masonry Warehouse: 1135 Nathan Ln. N. Phone: 763-225-0540

www.hedbergrocks.com

|| FOUNDATION

Thank you To those who provided products, labor and more to the Cureton project:

STEPPING UP TO A NEW YEAR The past year was a darned good one for the BATC Foundation. We completed several exciting projects, raised some dough, and forged some new partnerships. We couldn’t have done it without all our fabulous volunteers and donors, so thank you!

Our Big Three Fundraisers The Parade of Homes® was very good to us in 2011. Our

Dream Homes and Dream Remodeled Homes brought in more than $100,000 in contributions over the spring and fall, continuing to be our most valuable funding source.

Our third annual garage sale at the Midwest Home Show in November netted over $10,000. Thanks to the members (at right) who helped make this happen.

We added even more dollars to our kitty at our first ever Silent Auction, held at

BATC’s fall Gala Awards of Excellence.

December Finishes We were thrilled to finish our remodel for wounded Veteran, Wesley Cureton, in early December. And we joined Habitat for Humanity with a key ceremony on December 17th to welcome the Ahmed’s into their new home.

Now, we’re hard at work making plans for an even busier 2012. And, to start the year off right, we’re planning a special Recognition Luncheon on February 23rd. Look for your invitation soon.

For more information about our projects, fundraisers, or to donate, please contact Executive Director Jan Berg, 651-697-7562, jan@batc.org.

THE VANG PROJECT

{

48

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

Roche think that the project was a good way to give back to the community, he also saw a genuine need.

The Vang’s experienced a rough patch when injury, illness and a fleeting economy forced the family to relocate to a small rental property; tight quarters for a family of seven. “The Vangs were real people, JANUARY/MARCH 2012

with real problems. There was a genuine need and everybody thought that the project was a good one to move forward with,” Roche explained about the situation.

Last summer, Showcase Renovations, and the many trade partners who contributed to the project, unveiled a beautifully

Cleaning: John Zirbes, Katie Harms, Jon Cody and Bob Bennett

And to the Volunteers who helped out at the Garage Sale: Trace Mills Sara Anderson Katie Harms Dean Soderbeck Patrick Jacobson Pat Hegseth Dunwoody Students Cary Shaich Jerry Peterson Bob Bennett John Zirbes Scott Coyle

And these members who donated Garage Sale items:

BUILDING HOPE & GIVING BACK

When the BATC Foundation approached Stephen Roche of Showcase Renovations last July about an opportunity to help in the community, Roche didn’t hesitate to give back.

Becoming involved in the project, which entailed building a bathroom and two bedrooms for the Vang family, was an easy decision. Not only did

Krech Exteriors Southview Design Sportsman Electric Southern Lights Nu Heat Cree Installed Building Solutions Sedgwick Hirshfields Cambria Quartz Surfaces Donnely Tile labor RBC HDL Whirlpool All Inc.

remodeled basement for the deserving Vangs.

While the reveal was heartfelt and emotional, the journey to get there was equally so. The experience, according to Roche, “was positive for all of us. We all became friends. . . It was a great success.”

Deerbrooke Homes by Mark Bennett Gonyea Homes & Remodeling K. Hovnanian Homes of Minnesota Key Land Homes Lappin Lighting-JHLarson Nor-Son, Inc. Ryland Homes Dean Soderbeck Design & Construction Star-Supply TJB Homes, Inc. Warrners' Stellian Zawadski Homes

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

WWW.BATC.ORG | Check out the blog at www.batcpls.org

OCTOBER-NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2011 | BUILDERS’ DIGEST

49

Want More Pictures?

Visit www.batc.org, click on photo gallery

Kitchen Craft Showroom Mixer

1. Kevin Krueger, Kruger Financial Services making contacts

3. Curt Ostrom, CN Ostrom & Son with JoLynn Johnson, Crystal Kitchen Center

2. Tina Combs, Eye 4 Image Internet Marketing and Sandy Smith, Kate-Lo Tile enjoying the evening

4. Michael Fannon, Associated Bank deep in discussion with Bob Michels, Bob Michels Construction

5. Steve Baker, Kela Coldwell and Danielle Ottman, Marketplace Events (Minneapolis Home & Garden Show) 50

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

photo gallery

6. One of our hosts, Rick Roberts, Kitchen Craft

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

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JANUARY/MARCH 2012

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

51

photo gallery

Want More Pictures?

Awards of Excellence Gala

Visit www.batc.org, click on photo gallery

Jon “Rivers” Coty, Builders Choice/A Fullerton Company (at right) interviewed guests on the red carpet, Gail Ketter, Bob Cremers and Deb Hitchcock, Builders Club

Emcee, Lee Valsvik, Cities 97 and Kool 108

Reggie hanging around with Pat Hegseth, Great Plains Millwork 52

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

It was a night to remember

Bob Rohweder and Carla Warner, Warners Stellian with Cheryl Mann and Mike Rygh, Custom One Homes

Reggie made another appearance at the martini bar/ice sculpture

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES? To join over 320 BATC members who already write their Workers’ Compensation with The Builders Group (TBG).

Join the #1 Self-Insured Workers’ Compensation Fund for the Construction Industry of Minnesota! )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ RU WR ÀQG DQ DJHQW near you, contact Tina Morales at TBG: Phone: (651) 203-6793 Fax: (651) 389-1141 Email: WPRUDOHV#WEJPQ FRP Or visit us at www.tbgmn.com

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

53

|| REMODELING

JOIN THE BATC REMODELERS COUNCIL as we share remodeling tips and ideas in each issue in the Builders Digest. Don’t miss our round-tables in person, either.

REGISTER TO ATTEND the BATC Remodelers Round Table Discussions during 2012 – the first will be held on March 1st at 3:30pm. Reserve your spot online at www.batc.org.

Q&A

HIDDEN CHALLENGES: ESTIMATING A REMODELING PROJECT BOB: We provide allowances for the areas that contain unknowns and hidden, but

What is the biggest estimating challenge you see?

What kind of disclaimer do you include in your initial bid?

anticipated work. This would include items such as hidden wires and duct work when removing a wall to open up the interior of the home.

ALI: We have a standard “concealed conditions” clause. We have found that it is more important to have the conversation with the homeowner.

BOB: Matching the crews we sub-

AMY: Our master contract has a section specifically for hidden conditions. It says

contract with to the type/scope of work to be done.

that we have the right during construction to stop work if we find something unexpected (something that an experienced contractor or subcontractor couldn’t have initially seen or expected) and negotiate a change order to deal with the discovery.

We also write many disclosures in our pricing specifications under different trade headings such as rough framing, for example, that says “we assume existing subfloor is sufficient for reuse, if it is not, we will add cost time and material basis to contract.” We add things for each contract depending on the scope of the work. If we are uncertain how long it will take to do something because we don’t know what is in a wall, we will include an allowance and reconcile the cost at the end of a project, crediting or adding cost (example is electrical demo, re-feed allowance).

ALI: Charging enough to stay in business.

AMY: Not every job is the same.

The age of the house and original construction methods and mechanical systems and finishes as well as the client’s desires are always different. Every parameter that goes into an estimate is different, which makes it hard to do a per-squarefoot cost. We often have to just look back at similar projects we’ve done in order to give a good, rough ball park estimate. Another big problem is that you often don’t know how previous work was done.

You don’t know if joists were cut through or the wiring or plumbing was done correctly, or the condition of the subfloor until you really start to dig into a project.

Describe the most expensive hidden problem you’ve ever encountered?

BOB: On an extensive remodeling project that included a large addition to the home, we had to demolish a utility room on the main floor. The electrical service, cable tv, gas service, water and sewer were all located in this room. After setting up temporary electrical, cable and gas service, the demolition began. Immediately we found asbestos flooring and ceiling tiles hidden under a previous remodel of the room's finishes. Work was stopped and a crew was brought in to deal with the hidden treasure. After the area was contained, asbestos removed and disposed of by a firm licensed to do this work, we began anew to demolish the room. After we started in on the roof, several layers of roofing were found to hold carpenter ants that were attacking the house from this location and required additional demolition of the adjoining roof area to rid the home of the wet ant farm.

ALI: Foundation replacement. We had a recent project to add a room above an existing Love this format, Let us know.

Shoot an email to Wendy@batc.org

We Want Your Opinion.

54

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

Our Panel:

sunroom. The existing room appeared to have a full frost footing foundation. The homeowner had excavated at one corner to confirm, and it did meet frost depth. During excavation we discovered that frost depth was met only at that one corner. The remaining foundation was unusable, resulting in the replacement of the foundation and floor cap. This became an opportunity for the homeowner to get a full basement instead of a crawl space.

Ali Awad Co-Owner of Awad + Koontz Architects Builders

Bob Michels Owner of Bob Michels Construction

AMY: We were doing a porch in south Minneapolis and the city required us to complete a soil test and get engineering to properly size the footings due to the location of the house and soil conditions, which we weren’t anticipating. Engineering and deeper footings ended up adding about $5K to the project.

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

Amy Hinck Designer/Project Manager of Orfield Design and Construction

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

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|| MEMBER

NEWS

STAYING CONNECTED Welcome to Member News. This is the place to learn about what's happening in the lives of BATC members. We feature awards, births, marriages, condolences, promotions, new hires, and all sorts of other milestones. So remember to send us all your important news!

Awards/Honors

Real Estate at St. Thomas University. Other winners included:

Qualified Remodeler Magazine Recognizes James Barton DesignBuild Congratulations to JBDB for making the Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 and Remodeling JAMES BARTON DEMagazine’s SIGN BUILD Top 550 list.

Each year, the Qualified Remodeler Top 500 Award recognizes remodelers for significant and sustained success in terms of Years in Business, Industry Certification, Dollar Volume, Industry Awards and Community Service. The Top 500 is the longest ongoing recognition program in the remodeling industry and for 2011 JBDB ranked #287 nationwide. The Remodeling Magazine 550 Award recognizes the largest remodeling and home improvement companies in the nation based on Residential Remodeling Revenue. For 2011 JBDB ranked an impressive #99.

Way to go!

• Bernard Rice, leader of the Minneapolis Real Estate Board • Darrel Holt, Towle Co. leader the Dayton family • Emma Rovick, founder of Edina Realty (1955) and the very first female inductee According to Shenehon Center director Herb Tousley, “This is like the lifetime achievement award for real estate.” Congratulations on achieving such a high honor! www.stthomas.edu

Robert Hoffman, founder Larkin Hoffman Law firm was named one of just five inductees into the Minnesota Real Estate Hall of Fame this year. The Hall of Fame is presented by the Shenehon Center for 56

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

the COTY Awards are hosted by the Minnesota chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).

www.uponorpro.com/radiantready.

MILESTONES AND COOL STUFF

Martha O’Hara Interiors Brings Home Three Awards of Excellence Congratulations to Interior Design firm Martha O’Hara Interiors for another fabulous showing at the November ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) awards gala.

The firm brought home Three

Uponor’s Radiant Ready 30E™ Wins AHR Innovation Award The AHR Expo and its co-sponsors, ASHRAE and AHRI, recognized Uponor’s Radiant Ready 30E™ with an Honorable Mention in the Heating category. The Radi-

COTY AWARD awards of excellence including two first place awards and one honorable mention. Congratulations to Martha O’Hara Interiors and its builder partners: Stonewood LLC and Great Neighborhood Homes.

www.jbdb.biz

Minnesota Exteriors Makeover Minnesota Exteriors invites you to see its new expanded showroom in Osseo. The company has made its showroom more customer-friendly by changing the room’s layout, adding new product displays, brightly colored walls and accomodating seating areas. Homeowners can now see and feel the products that they have spoken to their builder or salesperson about. They can see how their new windows will operate, match the color of their siding to their roofing or soffit/fascia and watch videos showcasing the products MEI has to offer. Go check it out!

www.oharainteriors.com

James Barton Design Build Takes Home COTY Award

www.jbdb.biz

Minnesota Real Estate Hall of Fame Honors New Inductees

booth at the AHR Expo Jan. 23-25, 2012 in Chicago, which is expected to draw in its largest crowds to date with more than 2,000 exhibitors from over 30 countries.

ant Ready 30E is Uponor’s complete radiant mechanical room package that includes all the components for a radiant mechanical room in a preassembled, prewired, easy-to-install panel. The Radiant Ready 30E will be one of several products featured in the Uponor

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

Congratulations to JBDB, who recently received two 2011 Contractor of the Year (COTY) awards for outstanding achievements in the Residential Kitchen $60,000 $75,000 category and Residential Bathroom $30,000-$60,000 category. A celebration of the best in Twin Cities residential remodeling,

EXPANDED SHOWROOM Located at 8600 Jefferson Highway in Osseo, Monday-Friday 7:30am to 5:00pm. www.minnesotaexteriors.com

Corporate Four Redesign Launches Corporate Four (formerly Corporate 4) is keeping current with a newly launched website and logo re-

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

design. While their personal service has not changed, the fresh update and image has generated new energy to carry Corporate Four into the next quarter century. Special thanks to the clients who partnered with Corporate Four and utilized the professional services that Corporate Four offers.

Check out the new logo and website at www.corporatefour.com

VAST Enterprises and AZEK Building Products Form Strategic Alliance AZEK, a leading manufacturer of low-maintenance exterior building products, and VAST Enterprizes, inventor of Composite Masonry, announce a strategic alliance.

VAST Enterprizes, whose composite of scrap tires and plastics are made of 95 percent Recycled material, is recognized as a significant green paving company.

Learn more about VAST Enterprises at www.vastpavers.com

Got News?

Send it on over!

Watch Schrader & Companies on the TODAY’S BUILDER TV SHOW! Tune in to TODAY’S BUILDER TV SHOW to see Schrader & Companies in a special eight week spring series! The TODAY’S BUILDER TV SHOW is an award-winning series that showcases the top builders throughout the country and the communities they service. The half-hour show will feature segments on the Twin Cities metro area and showcase some of Schrader & Companies’ recently completed projects and interviews with its more recent clients.

Watch Saturday mornings on FOX KSTP-TV 9 (Stay tuned for exact dates) www.schradercompanies.com

ON THE MOVE Blackeagle Partners and Lyman Lumber Join Forces BlackEagle Partners, owner of US LBM Holdings, acquired the Midwest operations of Lyman Lumber, including its Chanhassen location, Automated Building Components, Carpentry Contractors Corp., and Lyman Lumber of Wisconsin.

Lyman will join the family of US LBM companies and will continue to operate under the same trade names with its same workforce and base of locations.

Read more on page 24. www.lymanlumber.com, www.blackeaglepartners.com

Moving On Up! After another year of successful growth, Iron River Construction ushered in the new year with plans to relocate offices. The company collaborated with SKD Architects

NEW FACILITY for the buildout and expects to move into its new headquarters, located in Chaska, this January. www.ironriverco.com

Lakeside Cabinets Triples their Facility Minnesota’s only Woman Centric cabinet builder and designer, Lakeside Cabinets and Woodworking, relocated to Nowthen MN. The new facility is triple the size of Lakeside’s previous space. Lakeside Cabinets debuted its new 4,975 sq foot production floor in December and plans to reveal its new 2,625 sq foot showroom, large conference room and internet meeting space this February.

Visit the new space, located at 8209 199th Ave NW, Nowthen, MN, at its spring open house. www.tbinc.net

Structural Precast Concrete For 2-Level Garages Finish Carpentry Millwork Cabinetry

Sport Court Under Garage

What What Would Wou uld You You Put Put Under YOUR Garage??

U d Y OU UR G

www.molin.com

Exterior Doors Windows

Prefinish Hardware Design Studio

Product/Service Description: Convenient one Call 100% delivery & install simplifies the process & keeps you on schedule. Our experienced & professional team, along with state of the art millwork & prefinish equipment, allow for a quality experience from start to finish. Visit our web sites for additional photos, equipment capabilities & more information.

13925 Fenway Blvd. N. Hugo, MN 55038 office 651-407-1618 www.finishcarpenters.com www.schwietersmillwork.com

Phone: 651-786-7722 Email: sales@molin.com P NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

BUILDERS’ DIGEST

57

Mingle Cabinetry Relocates Mingle Cabinetry, Furnishings & Design will be relocating its showroom from Eden Prairie to 12955 Highway 55 & Industrial Park Blvd. in Plymouth in April 2012. The new location will provide 21,000 square feet of showroom including over 70 cabinet displays, lighting, flooring, hardware, furnishings, accessories and Interior Design Services. Visit them online, too, at www.mingleteam.com.

Rubble Tile Has a New Home It’s FUN. It’s FORWARD. It’s FUNKY. It’s FASHION. It’s FABULOUS! That’s what you’ll see at the new Rubble Tile. Visit them at the new location in St. Louis Park and experience a new world of tile and stone. The address is 7003 W. Lake Street, Suite 150, St. Louis Park, MN 55426. www.rubletile.com.

NEW PEOPLE & PROMOTIONS Hellmuth & Johnson Welcomes Two New Attorneys Hellmuth & Johnson continue to grow with the addition of two attorneys.

Russell RUSSELL “Mick” SPENCE, JR. Spence, Jr. joined the firm as a partner in the Business & Corporate practice group and JOSHUA Joshua WARD Ward as an associate and member of the firm’s IT & eCommerce and Business & Corporate practice groups. www.hjlawfirm.com

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BUILDERS’ DIGEST

RLK Welcomes New Survey Operations Manager PRLK Incorporated is pleased to welcome Henry Nelson to its Land Survey team.

HENRY NELSON As a Professional Land Surveyor, Henry comes to RLK with 34 years of experience in survey projects for commercial and residential developments throughout the Twin Cities area and brings a wide range of experience from his previous work as survey director at two prominent Twin Cities land survey firms. In addition to this, Henry is currently president of the Minnesota Society of Professional Surveyors.

wood, created to establish focus on the enhancement of company-wide processes and technologies.

Baumbach will lead the effort from Westwood’s corporate office in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. www.westwoodps.com

Welcome Back, Marcia Gibson Hedberg Landscape & Masonry Supplies is pleased to announce that Marcia Gibson has joined the company as its MARCIA GIBSON Chief Sales Officer. Marcia has a wealth of local and national experience in the

building products industry. Over the last 14 years Marcia has been with Oldcastle Architectural Products Group. Oldcastle is the largest concrete products manufacturer in the country and owns the Belgard brand along with many others.

Marcia was the National Sales Manager for Anchor Wall Systems in Minneapolis from 1989-1997.

Please help us give Marcia a warm welcome back to the Twin Cities! www.hedbergrocks.com

Ryan Blyhm Joins Westwood’s Growing Land Group Westwood Professional Services is excited to announce the addition of Ryan Bluhm, PE, LEED AP, to the firm’s land group. Bluhm joined

www.rlkinc.com

ABC Millwork Welcomes Tom Metzger ABC Millwork is pleased to announce the hiring of Tom Metzger who will join the company’s experienced sales team. Tom comes to ABC Millwork with more than 10 years of millwork specific sales experience in the Twin Cities. Tom looks forward to bringing his millwork expertise to Metro Area building professionals and joining a local industry leader in interior millwork, windows and exterior doors. Excited to have you, Tom!

ADVERTISE HERE.

ABCMillwork.com

Westwood Announces Corporate Development VP Westwood Professional Services, one of the nation’s leading land and energy development conMARK BAUMsultants, has BACH announced the addition of Mark Baumbach to its management team. Baumbach joined the firm as the vice president of corporate development.

This is a new position at West-

JANUARY/MARCH 2012

NEWS EVERYDAY ON THE BLOG: WWW.BATC.ORG/BLOG

the company as a Senior Project Manager based in their Eden Prairie office.

Bluhm has 15 RYAN years of experiBLYHM ence and was brought on to support continued growth in Westwood’s residential and commercial markets. www.westwoodps.com

Larkin Hoffman Introduces Four Instrumental Additions to their Team Welcome JosĂŠ, Patrick, Ryan and Susan!

JosÊ W. Jimenez works in Larkin Hoffman’s Intellectual Property Department. He has been practicing law since 1982, is a registered patent attorney with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.

Patrick Cole joined the Health Law Department.

He is a business lawyer focusing his RYAN SHANpractice on NON representing health care providers. He received his J.D. from Creighton University of Law, magna cum SUSAN laude, and his TEGT B.A. from the University of Minnesota.

Ryan T. Shannon is a part of the Franchise and Distribution Practice. Shannon advises franchisors in registration, disclosure, and contractual matters. He received his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School in 2005 and his B.A. from St. Cloud State University in 1998.

ceived her B.S. in Political Science and International Relations from the University of Wisconsin and her J.D., cum laude, from the Hamline University School of Law. She holds a certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution and is a certified mediator in the state of Minnesota.

FRESH NEWS ON THE BLOG.

www.larkinhoffman.com

RBC Tile & Stone Introduces Kelli Ann Thompson

www.batc.org

Kelli Ann Thompson joined the RBC team as their new Showroom Consultant at the Roseville location. We are thrilled to welcome her to the neighborhood! www.rbctile.com

FOR NEWS & SEMINAR UPDATES,

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Susan E. Tegt joined the Business Litigation Department. Tegt re-

Search for Builders Association of the TC

Contact Ann for Your Construction or Home Financing Needs Ann Vanderloo -ORTGAGE ,OAN /FlCER

AMVANDERLOO MERCHANTSBANK COM MERCHANTSBANK COM AVANDERLOO

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The Bank that Service Built *OPLIN !VENUE s ,AKEVILLE -. s www.merchantsbank.com/avanderloo

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59

Building STRONGER Together

2012 BATC PARTNERS DIAMOND LEVEL PAR PARTNER P ARTNER

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Meander through the Upper Midwest’s exclusive Marvin Design Gallery while perusing the latest offerings from Marvin Windows and Doors in a series of more than 65 window and door displays.

Visit us at mdgbyss.com for more showroom photos and product updates.

For a tour, contact Ron Smith: 612.238.4244

rsmith@shawstewartlumberco.com

www.shawstewartlumberco.com

Today, tomorrow & year after year, Synergy Products will work with you to create a successful completion to all of your building needs.

CABINETRY • WINDOWS • DOORS • WINE CELLARS

Proud Member of the

Synergy Products, based in St. Louis Park; our people represent over 100+ years in the building products industry.

We’ve worked for the big companies and big names; knowing that success is not about how big you are or how many ads you run. It is about how well you perform, the quality of your products, the level of service before AND after the sale. Synergy Products is focused on not trying to be everything to everybody. This mindset insures that our customer’s expectations are exceeded and our performance in making every sale a success is unmatched.

ST. LOUIS PARK, MN OFFICE & SHOWROOM 7003 W Lake St. Suite 300 • St. Louis Park, MN 55426 Phone: 952-224-2202 • Fax: 952-224-2203

ROCHESTER, MN OFFICE & SHOWROOM 1115 7th Street NW • Rochester, MN 55901 Phone: 507-288-0712 • Fax: 507-289-0832

W W W . S Y N E R G Y- T R T. C O M