February 2014 Building Buzz

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Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association

Building Buzz Building the Future of Bismarck-Mandan Since 1958.

February 2014 Permit Report: Dec. 2013 Page 2 President’s Letter: Greetings From Las Vegas Page 3 What You Need to Know About Home Financing Changes Page 5 Home Show Set to be Big Event for BMHBA Page 6 Association Adds 73 Members in 2013 Page 9 Major Housing Deficiency in Morton County Page 11 Farm Bill Benefits Members in Rural Areas Page 12 NDAB News Pages 14-15

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BMHBA Building Buzz

Feb. 2014

Building Buzz Publisher: Dot Frank Editor: Chelsea Gleich Building Buzz is a publication of the Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association 2600 Gateway Ave., Suite 1 Bismarck, ND 58503 Phone: 701.222.2400 Fax: 701.250.9730

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Professionals building our community through promotion of home ownership, education and legislation since 1958.

Bismarck-Mandan Permit Reports Through December 2013 BISMARCK - monthly/yearly permit reports can be found at www.bismarck.org Permit Type

YTD 2013

YTD 2012

New Residential

Single Family Detached

Single Family Attached Duplex

3 or 4 Unit

5+ Unit Residential Garages New Commercial Alter Public

646/$145.26M 413/$74.88M 204/$30.45M 9/$1.71M 4/$2.51M 16/$35.71M 92/$0.90M 64/$19.28M 19/$43.37M

585/$154.82M 419/$76.64M 114/$18.71M 18/$4.01M 19/$9.11M 15/$46.35M 85/$0.78M 66/$17.25M 3/$.048M

MANDAN - monthly/yearly permit reports can be found at www.cityofmandan.com Permit Type

YTD 2013

New Residential

Single Family

Two Family Condos Apartments Remodel and Additions New Commercial Alter Commercial

208/$83.35M 156/$44.28M 0/$0M 44/$9.67M 8/$29.40M 136/$2.62M 18/$10.3M 26/$8.5M

YTD 2012

278/$58.78M 179/$42.73M 4/$.793M 91/$10.37M 4/$4.89M 109/$1.91M 24/$43.54M 32/$6.29M

Feb. 2014

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BMHBA Building Buzz

A Word from Our President: Greetings from Las Vegas Greetings from Las Vegas! I’m writing this as I attend the 2014 International Builders’ Show. I’d like to start my column by sharing that our association is off to a great start. We ushered in the New Year with an incredible Annual Banquet. Thanks to all of our sponsors, members and Events Committee members for pulling off such a spectacular event.

Vance Vetter With your help, more 2014 Board President than 183 meals were served, nearly $1500 was raised for our BSC Scholarships, and $156 was raised for PAC. February will bring our membership together again at the Annual February Fun Night. Jerome Distributing will be hosting us for beer samples and a Board of Directors chili cook-off. If you haven’t RSVP’d for this entertaining evening, please do so online at www.bmhba.com, by calling 222-2400 or emailing info@bmhba.com.

Although it feels like the frigid winter is neverending, we are gearing up for building season. Local municipalities are already public noticing bids for construction work and I’m sure many of you are planning for the day when you can start moving dirt.

The BMHBA is working behind the scenes with our

Cities to ensure a smooth construction season. As we engage in conversations with department heads and elected officials, we encourage you to reach out to Dot Frank, our new executive officer, to share any concerns or ideas that will keep building on an upward trend.

Speaking of upward trends, the Home Show, which is scheduled for March 14-16 is on target to surpass previous numbers when it comes to vendors and exhibits. I’m confident that the show has sold out by the time you’re reading this. Again, thank you to all of our members and non-members for investing in this event with a display and thank you to Greg Zenker and the Home Show Committee for pulling it all together.

Stay warm this February and I’ll see you at Fun Night.

Vance Vetter, 2014 President BMHBA Board of Directors

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BMHBA Building Buzz

Calendar of Events Feb. 4-6: International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas Feb. 5: Membership Committee Meeting Feb. 12: Home Show Committee Meeting Feb. 13: February Fun Night at Jerome Distributing Feb. 25: BMHBA Board Meeting March 14-16: Home Show at the Civic Center *All Board/Committee Meetings held at the BMHBA office*

2014 New Members We would like to thank these new members for joining us and welcome them to the association. If you work with any of these members, please take a moment to personally welcome them to the association and invite them to attend BMHBA functions with you.

First Community Credit Union kbv Dynamic Cabinet Design

Award Roofing & Construction Huntwood Fettig Millwork and Windows Redi-Rock of ND (Division of Weisz & Sons)

Feb. 2014

2014 Board of Directors PRESIDENT Vance Vetter Vance Vetter Homes Phone: (701) 751-8218

PAST PRESIDENT Eric Brenden Northwest Contracting Phone: (701) 255-7727

SECRETARY/TREASURER Lynn Klein Gate City Bank Phone: (701) 355-7633

Paula Haider Haider Glass Specialties

1ST VICE PRESIDENT Drew Knutson Knutson Homes, Inc. Phone: (701) 258-3464

Nathan Jones Tollberg Homes Phone: (763) 205-2037 Scott Moran Hallmark Homes Phone: (701) 471-8796 Bill Schmid Townsquare Media Phone: (701) 250-6602

2ND VICE PRESIDENT Greg Zenker Ferguson Enterprises Phone: (701) 663-2446 Phone: (701) 250-6787 Chad Moldenhauer K & L Homes, Inc. Phone: (701) 258-4584 Shannon Reichenberg Diversity Homes Phone: (701) 400-5758 C.J. Schorsch Fleck’s Furniture & Appliance Phone: (701) 323-0891

Feb. 2014

BMHBA Building Buzz

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What Members Need to Know Regarding Changes to the Home Financing Process Several new regulations that went into effect at the beginning of this year could delay loan closings. In some cases, creditworthy borrowers could be denied access to affordable mortgages, which would harm home sales.

NAHB is working with regulators and lawmakers to avert such a scenario and ensure a sufficient flow of credit for the industry.

Here’s what home builders need to know about the new lending rules for 2014:

Ability-to-Repay Rule and the Qualified Mortgage (QM) Now in Effect The ability-to-repay rule, which stipulates that borrowers must be able to repay home loans issued to them, went into effect on Jan. 10 as required under the Dodd-Frank Act. This rule applies to all mortgages and will define the mortgage markets for years to come.

The ability-to-repay rule, which includes the definition of a qualified mortgage (QM), establishes underwriting as well as product criteria for mortgage originations and provides consumer protections to ensure that lenders determine that a borrower has the means to repay a loan. In the event of a default, consumers will have some ability to challenge a lender’s underwriting in a defense against foreclosure.

The QM, as defined by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), sets specific parameters that lenders can use to demonstrate that they have complied with the ability-to-repay rule and provides some protections from liability in the case of a borrower default.

Lenders can continue to offer products that do not meet the QM criteria, but may be subject to increased legal liabilities in the event of a borrower default.

The CFPB’s new QM standard: • Includes many of today’s sound mortgage products, including fixed-rate and adjustable mortgages.

• Caps loan origination fees at 3% of the loan amount.

• Requires borrowers to have a debt-to-income ratio less than or equal to 43%.

• Has no downpayment restrictions.

• Creates a separate QM safe harbor for small community banks that provide loans in rural and underserved areas.

While the ability-to-repay regulation applies to

all mortgage lending, it does include a few noted exceptions such as construction-to-permanent loans of 12 months or less and loans provided by state housing finance agencies.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has released a separate QM definition for loans insured or guaranteed by the agency, such as Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans.

The HUD QM definition imposes a 3% cap on points and fees, but otherwise does not change FHA singlefamily mortgage requirements. Lenders must follow current FHA underwriting criteria. Importantly, the HUD QM rule does not include the 43% debt-to-income limit.

Loans provided through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs are deemed to be qualified mortgages and these agencies are under the same mandate as HUD to develop their own QM rules.

Loans that are eligible for purchase by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are also considered qualified mortgages. This classification will remain in effect for seven years or until Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are no longer in conservatorship.

NAHB Works to Keep Credit Flowing Through comment letters, congressional testimony, meetings with CFPB officials and coordinating with industry partners, NAHB worked with regulators to ensure that the ability-to-repay rule provides home buyers access to affordable mortgages, contains adequate consumer protections and provides lenders proper incentives to make home loans to creditworthy borrowers.

NAHB worked extensively to get as broad a QM definition as possible, and was able to get several provisions in the rule to help keep credit flowing during this transition period. The fact that loans eligible for purchase by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are considered qualified mortgages, including loans with a debt-to-income ratio greater than 43%, provides greater flexibility for prospective home buyers. A safety net is also provided through the broader QM definition for FHA-insured mortgage loans.

NAHB is hopeful that lenders eventually will expand the mortgage menu and underwriting box as they adjust to the rule.

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BMHBA Building Buzz

Feb. 2014

Home Show Sells Out, Promises to be Big Event for BMHBA The 37th Annual Home Show has sold out of exhibit space. The event, which will take place March 14-16 at the Bismarck Civic Center, will feature more than 350 booths from over 150 vendors.

“This year’s show has sold out at an impressive rate,” said Home Show Committee Chairman and Board of Directors Member Greg Zenger of Ferguson Enterprises.

“We were excited to see our ‘regulars’ take out their booths along with range of newcomers.”

The Home Show provides builders and associates a venue to showcase their products and services in front of more than 6,000 people who file through the show over the course of three days.

“There really is no better way to get your business in front of people in a short time span,” Zenker said.

The Home Show will open to the public from 3 - 9 p.m. on Friday, March 14, will run from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturday and from noon - 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $5 per person with free admission for youth 18 and younger.

Discount coupons for $2 off admission will be available online at www.bmhba.com.

The Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association is participating in the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) National Designation Month.

National Designation Month is intended to promote ongoing education in the housing industry, recognize designee achievements and educate the public on the value of professionals with NAHB designations. As the housing market improves, baby boomers retire and green building grows, designations give housing professionals the special skills and industry knowledge clients want.

“My designations have provided me a more unique status than my competition as potential customers are testing the waters for a professional remodeling contractor,” says NAHB 2013 Remodeler of the Year Tim Swafford, CGR, CAPS, CGP, of Swafford Construction in Chattanooga, Tenn.

NAHB offers educational opportunities to obtain 13 different designations including: Certified AgingIn-Place Specialist (CAPS); Certified Graduate Associate (CGA); Certified Graduate Builder (CGB); Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR); Certified Green Professional (CGP); Certified New Home Marketing Professional (CMP); Certified New Home Sales Professional (CSP); Graduate Master Builder (GMB); Graduate Master Remodeler (GMR); Housing Credit Certified Professional (HCCP); Master Certified Green Professional; Master Certified New Home Sales Professional (Master CSP); and Master in Residential Marketing (MIRM).

To learn more about the 13 designations visit www. nahb.org. Watch for recognition of the BMHBA members with designations in the March issue of Building Buzz.

BMHBA members throughout the years have contributed money to fund three scholarships through Bismarck State College’s technical programs. Events like the Annual Banquet contribute heavily to the pool to create learning opportunities for area youth entering the building trades.

This year’s recipients were: • Levi Hollinger, Lefor — BMHBA 50th Anniversary Carpentry Scholarship • Andew Kylm, Belfield — BMHBA Carpentry Scholarship • Kyle Redmann, Jamestown — BMHBA HVAC Scholarship The association recently received a letter from each recipient detailing how the scholarship is helping them reach their goals to become experts in the building industry. Visit the BMHBA Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bmhba to read each letter.

March is National Designation Month

HOME SHOW

Scholarship Recipients Share Gratitude

HBA Rebate Deadline Looms

The deadline to submit your fourth quarter rebate requests through HBARebates.com is Feb. 21, 2014.

Participants are reminded to submit for any residential addresses completed from July - December 2013 that used any of the program’s 40+ participating manufacturers.

Feb. 2014

BMHBA Building Buzz

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Home Builders Finish Strong in 2013 Year End Data Indicates 5 Percent Increase in Single Family Permits Data from the cities of Bismarck, Mandan and Lincoln showcase strong growth by area home builders in 2013. Permit numbers grew in key categories including single family homes, multifamily homes, additions and remodels.

“You hear a lot about North Dakota as a state and there is a focus on Western communities when it comes to housing; however, BismarckMandan growth is another attention grabber,” said Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association (BMHBA) President Vance Vetter.

On top of impressive year-end permit data, an increase in BMHBA membership is an indicator of a healthy building environment.

“We picked up 33 new builder members and 31 new affiliate members in 2013,” said Vetter. “That’s

a 6.6 percent increase in membership from 2012.”

Residential home building permits for Bismarck added more than $145 million in value to the community; Mandan’s permits added more than $102 million; and Lincoln building added more than $12.7 million.

Additions and remodels contributed heavily to home valuations in 2013 as well. Throughout all three cities, the addition of garages, finished basements, patios and fireplaces came to $7.1 million.

“All factors point to another excellent year for area builders,” Vetter said. “Interest rates remain attractive, consumer confidence continues to rise and our community has positioned itself as an attractive choice for people looking to relocate.”

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BMHBA Building Buzz

Feb. 2014

Annual Banquet Attracts Crowd The 2014 Annual Banquet attracted more than 180 people to the Ramkota on Jan. 24. The event, which featured the induction of our 2014 Board of Directors, the recognition of our Builder and Associate of the Year and updates from the North Dakota Association of Builders, was not only well attended but well received.

“I fielded plenty of positive comments regarding the Annual Banquet,” said BMHBA Board President Vance Vetter.

“Attendees were shocked at the The new Board of Directors was sworn in by NDAB President Ken Callahan at number of people who turned the Annual Banquet. out and were happy with the program, auctions, meal and Ramkota’s famous popovers. In addition to a hearty entertainment.” meal, participants were treated to the musical Members were treated to a choice of walleye, talents of Ben Suchy and accompaniments. prime rib or chicken cordon bleu along with the North Dakota Association of Builders (NDAB) President Ken Callahan served as the events emcee and also provided comments about the state of building from the state’s perspective.

NDAB Executive Officer Kim Schneider educated guests about the importance of PAC contributions and BMHBA Executive Officer Dot Frank shared insights from the 2013 building season.

The association extends tremendous thanks to the Events Committee, under the direction of Chairwoman Minda Lloyd, for making the evening possible. We also thank the event sponsors, which included: Platinum Sponsors – Bismarck Title Company, Cornerstone Bank, Fireside Custom Homes, Kirkwood Bank & Trust and Northwest Contracting; Gold Sponsors – Ferguson Enterprises and Haider Glass Specialties; Silver Sponsors – Diversity Homes and Security First Bank; Bronze Sponsors – Armor Interactive and Edgewood Development; Brick & Mortar Sponsor – Regal Home Solutions; and Program Sponsor – American Bank Center.

Donations from the silent auction generated nearly $1500 in contributions to the Bismarck State College Scholarship Fund and the fish bowl donations raised more than $150 in contributions to PAC.

Feb. 2014

BMHBA Building Buzz

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Association Adds 73 New Members in 2013 The Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association added 73 new members in 2013. Factoring renewals and cancellations, 2013 saw an overall increase in membership by 10.2 percent.

“We continue to attract and retain active members in our association,” says 2014 BMHBA President Vance Vetter.

Statistics from 2013 indicate an increase in the number of local builders.

Of the 73 new members, 45 percent were builder members. New member composition for 2013 included 33 builders, 31 associates and nine affiliates.

“Diversity within our association really drives our success,” Vetter said. “It leads to rapport between builders, bankers, insurance agents, plumbers, electricians and more.”

That diversity has led to some new scenery on the board of directors including the appointment of an associate to the rank of second vice-president. Greg Zenker of Ferguson Enterprises is third in line to lead the association.

An interesting trend in membership is the seasonality of join dates. February is the top month, besting the second highest, which is March, by 205 percent.

“The Home Show is a great membership draw. It provides excellent exposure to our association and the membership-exclusive discounts attract sign-ups,” said Vetter.

The 2014 board of directors expect membership to continue to climb as the area attracts new families and entrepreneurs. “This is going to be a great year for the Home Builders. We have an incredible economy and a reinvigorated staff and membership committee, which should yield more membership gains,” Vetter said.

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BMHBA Building Buzz

Feb. 2014

Most Wanted: Features that Elders and Boomers Look for in a Home 50+ Housing Magazine, NAHB Buying a house has always meant choosing the one with the collection of features that best meets the buyer’s needs. NAHB economists, in their recent national survey of home buyers, asked respondents to identify which features of a home were important to have, which didn’t matter to them, and which would stand in the way of a purchase.

The two charts highlight the features that are essential or desirable to the two age groups — boomers and elders — that make up the mature market.

Energy-efficiency is a high priority for the age 55to-64 cohort — boomers — with four energy-related categories making it into their top 10 choices. Boomers considering retirement are looking hard at features that will save them money in the long run — features that they can afford to pay more for now, but will result in lower monthly expenses in retirement.

Energy efficiency also is important to the oldest age group. That group, however, is less likely than boomers to insist on an Energy-Star rated home or one that has Energy-Star rated windows. They put a higher value on laundry rooms and ceiling fans, as well as having table space for eating.

The complete consumer preference survey, “What Home Buyers Really Want,” is available from BuilderBooks.com.

Don’t Miss February Fun Night!

The association’s annual February Fun Night is on Thursday, Feb. 13 at Jerome Distributing. Don’t miss out on beer samples and a chili feed from 5 to 7 p.m. Board members will square off in a chili cookoff competition in which members are the judge.

In addition to the food and fun, February Fun Night is an excellent event to reconnect with associates prior to the construction season. Each member gets one free ticket and additional tickets are $15. Register online at www.bmhba.com, email info@bmhba.com or call 222-2400 by Feb. 10.

Feb. 2014

BMHBA Building Buzz

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County Beat: Major Housing Deficiency in Morton County

By Dustin White, Editor A recent study of Morton County has shown a major deficiency in the area’s housing, while also showing an excellent economic outlook for the next five years.

A consultant for the Morton County Housing Authority, Hanna:Keelan Associates, based in Lincoln, Neb., attributed this deficiency to population growth that is outpacing housing development. This has caused many families to live either in undesirable housing units, or outside of Morton County while commuting to work.

Currently it is estimated that 1.4 percent of the housing units in Morton County are considered to have overcrowded conditions. This percentage is thought to increase by 2018, if additional housing, which can accommodate larger families, isn’t provided. In addition, 14.1 percent of housing units are considered cost burden, creating a need for more affordable housing in the county.

To fulfill the needs of the county, it is expected that the estimated cost for development will demand $229.8 million, with Mandan requiring $197 million. In Mandan, this development is expected to need 311 acres of land for 75 owner and 486 rental units: a total of 1242 units.

For Morton County as a whole, this would consist of 876 owner and 534 rental units, totaling 1,410 units.

Part of this proposed development would be the rehabilitation of 730 units, with a cost of $27.6 million, and the demolishing of 189 units. In Mandan, that would include 493 units for rehabilitation at $18.6 million, and 125 units for demolishing.

Chairman of the Morton County Commission, Bruce Strinden, said that the county is encouraging development of affordable housing while also providing some degree of assistance to entities that are looking to build housing for the elderly, including the use of county funds. “In terms of opinion of the county commission, there is a focus on low income housing for the elderly and those in need of assisted living.”

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The Morton County Commission renewed its contract with the Housing and Urban Development agency for a group of apartments located on the same block as the Law Enforcement Center. (photo by Ken Rogers)

The study did find that the majority of the county’s housing was in good condition.

Economic Growth By 2018, in Morton County, the per capita income is projected to increase an estimated 17.2 percent. The median income for all households in Morton County is also thought to increase by 12.7 percent in the same time frame.

A factor in this growth is the counties low employment rate, which is expected to remain steady. This has been partially influenced by the unique position Morton County has within the Bismarck-Mandan Development Association.

With approximately 94 percent of job seekers having at least a high school diploma, and 25 percent with a college degree, there is a potential for additional economic growth in the area.

As the population diversifies, and jobs expand, the county will have additional economic opportunities.

This article reprinted with permission from Mandan News.

BMHBA Building Buzz

Feb. 2014

National News

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Farm Bill a $1.2 Billion Boon for Members in Rural Areas In a major victory for National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and housing, the House passed a Farm Bill that includes an important provision championed

by NAHB that will help members living and working in rural areas across the nation. The Senate is expected to approve the bill as of this publish date.

The legislation allows more than 900 communities nationwide to retain their status as “rural” areas where residents have access to important rural housing programs that help low- and very-low income households obtain homeownership or suitable rental housing. This will enable millions of Americans to maintain access to critical rural housing programs.

NAHB estimates that this will generate $1.2 billion more investment in housing in these areas, including

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new single-family and multifamily construction and remodeling.

One NAHB member summed up the legislation this way: “The Farm Bill alone will keep many small builders in business.”

The USDA redraws its maps defining rural areas following every census, and the maps drawn after the 2010 census would have removed these communities from the program due to their population.

NAHB’s action to insert the rural housing provision into the Farm Bill provides a long-term solution because the legislation keeps the current maps and extends the population definition of a rural area to 35,000 until after the 2020 census.

“NAHB commends the House and Senate conferees for their work on the Farm Bill and is urging Congress to move swiftly to pass this legislation. The bill includes an important provision regarding the definition of a rural community that will allow more than 900 communities to maintain access to important rural housing loan programs targeted to helping low- and very-low income households obtain homeownership or suitable rental housing. These housing programs are vital for families living in rural areas.”

- Rick Judson, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder and developer from Charlotte, N.C. on Jan. 28, 2014

UPS Savings Program Now Available to NAHB Members

NAHB is pleased to announce that our members can now participate in the UPS Savings Program and save up to 36%. Whether you need your documents or packages to arrive the next day or are looking for the most affordable shipping option, UPS understands the importance of reliability, speed and cost.

The UPS Savings Program offers NAHB members some of the most competitive rates available on shipping services along with more service options, superior ground-delivery coverage and overnight delivery by 10:30 a.m. to more ZIP Codes than any other carrier. Plus, with the convenience of more drop-off locations and innovative UPS technology to help streamline shipment processing, members can receive value that goes beyond cost and on-time delivery.

Through the program NAHB members can now save up to 36% on a broad portfolio of UPS shipping services, including; • Up to 36% on UPS Air letters*

• Up to 32% on UPS Air packages (1 lb.+)* • Up to 34% on UPS International imports and exports • Up to 24% on UPS Ground shipments • Savings begin at 70% on UPS Freight® shipments over 150 lbs.

NAHB Members interested in enrolling in the new UPS Savings Program can visit savewithups.com/nahb to start saving.

Feb. 2014

BMHBA Building Buzz

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National News NAHB Chairman Speaks to President Obama’s State of the Union Address Rick Judson, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder from Charlotte, N.C. “NAHB agrees with President Obama that ‘the most important investment many families make is their home.’

Homeownership is an important part of the American Dream, but too many creditworthy borrowers are still unable to purchase a home of their own.

“Nothing packs a bigger economic punch than home building. Building 100,000 homes creates more than 300,000 full-time jobs and $8.9 billion in tax revenues that are essential to help local communities build schools, hire police and firefighters, and fix roads.

“With the right policies in place, housing can lead

the economy to higher ground. Tonight, the President called on Congress to send him legislation that will avoid another housing crisis and ‘keeps the dream of homeownership alive for future generations.’

“NAHB looks forward to working with the Administration and members of Congress in a bipartisan spirit to enact meaningful housing finance reform that will ensure a consistent flow of credit for qualified home buyers and offer affordable rental housing opportunities.

Such a plan must provide proper federal support that will protect 30-year mortgages, limit taxpayer exposure, encourage increased participation from the private sector, and ensure liquidity and stability for homeownership and rental housing.”

National Housing Numbers Released for December

New-Home Sales Down 7 Percent in December; Up 16.4 Percent for the Year Sales of newly built, single-family homes fell 7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 414,000 units in December, according to newly released figures from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau. Despite the monthly drop, home sales in 2013 were up 16.4 percent over the previous year.

“December’s decline in new-home sales follows elevated levels in the previous two months and means the fourth quarter was still much stronger than the third,” said Rick Judson, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder from Charlotte, N.C. “While we expect sales to gain strength in 2014, builders still face considerable constraints, including tight credit conditions for home buyers, and a

limited supply of labor and buildable lots.”

“Consumers are getting used to more realistic mortgage rates, which still remain favorable on a historical basis,” said NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe. “As household formations and pent-up demand continue to emerge, we anticipate that 2014 will be a strong year for housing.”

Regionally, new-home sales activity fell 36.4 percent in the weather-battered Northeast, 7.3 percent in the South and 8.8 percent in the West. The Midwest posted a gain of 17.6 percent.

The inventory of new homes fell to 171,000 units in February, which is a five-month supply at the current sales pace. Although this is an increase over the previous month, it is due to the slower sales pace in December.

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BMHBA Building Buzz

Feb. 2014

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BMHBA Building Buzz

Feb. 2014

Around the State Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Assoc.

Dot Frank, Executive Officer 701-222-2400 bmhba.com

 Dot Frank was hired as the BMHBA executive officer. Frank was formerly employed by the BismarckMandan Chamber of Commerce as the director of public affairs and marketing.

Home Builders Assoc. of Fargo-Moorhead Bryce Johnson, Executive Vice President hbafm.com 701-232-5846  The HBA of F-M’s lunch

seminar this month will be on proper flashing techniques Feb. 11.We will hold Minnesota building contractor continuing education Feb. 3 and 21. Power limited technician training will be March 7. We will also host EPA certified renovator trainingMarch 19 and a free OSHA 30-Hour Construction Course March 25-28 for members.

 Close to 200 members attended the 55th Annual Banquet hosted by BMHBA at the Ramkota on Jan. 24.  Vance Vetter was inducted as the 2014 BMHBA president at the Annual Banquet.

 The Red River Valley Home &

Garden Show will be Feb. 2123 at the Fargodome. Featured speaker is HGTV’s Design on a Dime host David Sheinkopf.

 Mike Hopfauf, Hopfauf Custom Builders, was awarded the 2013 Builder of the Year and Minda Lloyd, Quality Title, was awarded the 2013 Associate of the Year.  Planning is underway for the 2014 Home Show. 185 exhibitors have registered to date and more than 6,000 people are expected to attend the event, which runs from March 1416 at the Bismarck Civic Center.

Dickinson Area Builders Assoc.

Irene Schafer, Executive Officer 701-483-0044 dickinsonareabuilders.com  Our first GMM of 2014 was held

at the Elks Club on January 8. Home Show 2014 is sold out. We are looking forward to another great show.

Our “Chilly” Cook-Off will be 57 p.m. March 13 at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Showroom.

Feb. 11th general membership meeting will be hosted by Quality Concrete and Moore Engineering.

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March 11th general membership meeting will be hosted by Dakota Granite and Stone.

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39th Annual MAB Home & Garden Show will be March 15-16 at the North Dakota State Fair Center.

Williston Area Builders Association Beth Sundheim, Executive Officer 701-572-5744 willistonbuilders.com

Forx Builders Association Betty McDonald, Executive Officer 701-746-4536 forxbuilders.com

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Congratulations to the new 2014 Board of Directors that were installed at the January General Membership Meeting. The 2014 Board will be led

by President Chip Shea, Tim Shea’s Nursery; President Elect Bill Knipe, Circle K Builders, Inc. and Secretary/ Treasurer Stacy Schumacher. A huge thank you to Past President LeRoy Kurtyka for leading the Forx Builders as President for the past 1 ¾ years.

Our next regular membership meeting will be at the Eagles Club on February 12.

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www.ndbuild.com

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Minot Association of Builders Vicky Flagstad, Executive Officer 701-852-0496 minotab.com

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We will have double the floor space for Home Show 2015. The new extension of the REC Center will be ready for us. Plan ahead and let us know if you want to be in our show in 2015.

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Ramada.

The 2014 Home Design and Garden Show is scheduled for March 28, 29 & 30 at the Alerus Center.

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Feb. 4th & 6th NAHB International Builders’ Show – Las Vegas Feb. 1th Williston Area Builders Association Board Meeting Feb. 13th GMM Meeting Feb14th Government Affairs Meeting - Dakota Farms Restaurant 7:30am

PS Doors will host Builders after Hours on February 26th.

Congratulations to PS Doors on their 40th anniversary in business!

February 27th the Forx Builders Association will sponsor their annual Contractor’s Education Day at the

North Dakota Association of Builders

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February 2014

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

PAID Permit #72 Bismarck, ND 58501

2600 Gateway Avenue Suite 1 Bismarck, ND 58503

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