July 2016 Building Buzz

Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association

BUILDING uzz B July 2016

ANNUAL PAC GOLF TOURNAMENT Prairie West Golf Course - July 12th page 5

Text Your Inspections page 7

Securing Your Home page 9

May Housing Production page 11

BUILDING Buzz 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 Like Us! www.facebook.com/bmhba Follow Us! www.twitter.com/bmhba

Publisher/Editor: Dot Frank Layout Editor: Michael L. Quinn Contributor: Tracy DeForest

New Members & Anniversaries May 2016 New Members Morton County | Natalie Pierce www.co.morton.nd.us Planner or Designer

Venture Homes LLC | Claire Schlabsz www.venturehomesnd.com Single Family Spec/Tract Building | Single Family General Contracting Single Family Custom Building

Time to Renew!

Members with July Anniversaries. Renew by July 31, 2016.

Designer Kitchen & Bath, LLC | Matthew Chap DKandB.biz Remodeling-Residential | Planner or Designer Building Materials Lumber (Retail Dealership) Menards | Bryan Frank www.menards.com Building Materials Lumber (Retail Dealership)

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Your membership is three-in-one: BMHBA, NDAB and NAHB

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

2016 Board of Directors PRESIDENT Greg Zenker Northern Plains Plumbing, Heating & Air Phone: (701) 222-2155 1ST VICE PRESIDENT Shannon Reichenberg Diversity Homes Phone: (701) 220-8177 2ND VICE PRESIDENT Lynn Klein Gate City Bank Phone: (701) 355-7633 Nathan Jones Tollberg Homes Phone: (763) 205-2037

Wade Vogel Premier Homes, Inc. Phone: (701) 226-1809 Brian Eiseman Stoneshire Builders Phone: (701) 471-6935

PAST PRESIDENT Drew Knutson Knutson Homes, Inc. Phone: (701) 258-3464

SECRETARY/TREASURER Susie Franklin Choice Financial Phone: (701) 250-1904 Paula Haider Haider Glass Specialties Phone: (701) 250-6787 Chad Moldenhauer K & L Homes, Inc. Phone: (701) 258-4584 Jeff Sattler Sattler Homes Phone: (701) 255-7628

Bill Schmid Townsquare Media Phone: (701) 250-6602

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage - Michael Gregory NMLSR ID 1298553 Northland Concrete & Excavation | Sommer Jacob www.northlandce.com Masonry/Stone Work/Tile Setting/Plaster | Concrete Work Excavation Work Superior Insurance | Heidi Rue www.afewgoodagents.com | Insurance or Title Company

The Home Depot | Jared Ross www.homedepot.com Appliances (Retail Dealership) | Building Materials Lumber (Retail Dealership) | Flooring Coverings (Retail Dealership)

Building Buzz | July 2016

BIANCO REALTY SALES AWARDS Bianco Realty has named SHIRLEY THOMAS and TORI MATHERN “REALTORS® of the Month”! Shirley and Tori had the most closed sales at Bianco Realty for the month of May 2016. Shirley has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2001 and Tori has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2011.

Shirley Thomas

Tori Mathern

Bismarck-Mandan Permit Reports

through May 31, 2016

BISMARCK PERMITS 700

MANDAN PERMITS 400

615

600

541 532

484

500 400

200

240

152

150

200

147

102

86

0

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

80

52

50

80

36 33

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Bismarck Single Family

Bismarck Multi-Family Units

Mandan Single Family

Mandan Multi-Family Units

Linear (Bismarck Single Family)

Linear (Bismarck Multi-Family Units)

Linear (Mandan Single Family)

Linear (Mandan Multi-Family Units)

LINCOLN PERMITS

COUNTY PERMITS

76

60

70

70

50

54

50

37

40

42

30

36

40

55

50

62

60

30

20

20

10

0

74

2

0

2016

132

121

100

54

80

10

303

277

250 297 295

100

319

300

400 300

357

350

519 484

24

9 0

0

2010

2011

2012

2013

Lincoln Single Family

0

0

2014

2015

2

0

14

12

10

2010

2011

2016

Lincoln Multi-Family Units

2012

2013

2014

2015

Burleigh County

Morton County

Linear (Burleigh County)

Linear (Morton County)

2016

SINGLE FAMILY HOME PERMITS (ATTACHED & DETACHED) Bismarck Single Family

Lincoln Single Family

Mandan Single Family

Burleigh County

Morton County

Total Housing Units

3500

3000

2500

2000

1500

1000

500

0

-500

2010

Change

2011

Change

2012

Change

2013

Change

2014

Change

2015

Change

2016

Total Housing Units

400

90.00%

760

116.18%

1643

15.70%

1901

-17.67%

1565

-39.68%

944

-66.74%

314

Morton County

10

40.00%

14

107.14%

29

-13.79%

25

16.00%

29

17.24%

34

-44.12%

19

Burleigh County

10

20.00%

12

100.00%

24

54.17%

37

48.65%

55

-9.09%

50

-72.00%

14

Mandan Single Family

52

192.31%

152

109.87%

319

-13.17%

277

-56.32%

121

9.09%

132

-75.00%

33

Lincoln Single Family

0

76

-7.89%

70

-22.86%

54

14.81%

62

-85.48%

9

541

13.68%

615

-21.30%

484

-38.64%

297

-50.51%

147

Bismarck Single Family

240

0 66.67%

400

35.25%

July 2016 | Building Buzz

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President’s Letter

I

t’s hard to believe that the 4th of July is already behind us. At this point in the season, we’re seeing permits hit their stride and shoppers contemplate new construction.

The association is excited to see that permits are keeping pace with last year, interest rates are the lowest they’ve been in a handful of years, and the existing home market is experiencing price appreciation and listing movement.

We all agree that the local market is primed for impressive sales yet we continue to hear that buyers are gun shy about purchase agreements. The association took a shot at equipping builders with selling skills to close deals when they hosted the “Get it Sold” event last month. They also work to educate consumers about the benefits of buying now, through our monthly radio show on SuperTalk 1270. As staff continues to encourage residents to take the lead into homeownership, I’d like to ask for your help.

Share encouraging stats about the strength of our local economy, educate people on the financial benefits of homeownership and showcase your craftsmanship by participating in the Fall Parade of Homes.

We’ve got a lot in store for our members before summer winds down. This month, we’re teaming up with the Bismarck-Mandan Board of Realtors for the 29th Annual PAC Golf Tournament. Dust off those clubs and join us on July 12 at Prairie West Golf Course in Mandan. Proceeds from the event will benefit our advocacy efforts, which are in full steam as I write this letter.

Greg Zenker Board President

The association is working to ease regulatory burdens by testifying at the 2015 IRC hearings that the North Dakota Codes Council is considering. In addition to advocating for the exceptions that NAHB recommends, the local office is rallying members to make an impact on the requirement to sheetrock the lids of unfinished basements.

Additionally, we’re working to maintain the property tax exemption on new construction in Mandan and are communicating builder needs as the City of Bismarck rewrites their stormwater management plan.

The Government Affairs Committee isn’t the only active group within our association. Members of the Events Committee are hosting the Golf Tournament on the 12th, prepping for the Sporting Clay Shoot on Aug. 25 and preparing for the Fall Awards Mixer & GMM on Oct. 25.

The Parade of Homes Committee gets back to work this month on the Fall Parade of Homes, which will take place Sept.

28 through Oct. 2.

The Home Show Committee meets this month as well to begin work on the 2017 Home Show that is slated for Feb. 17 and 18.

Get in on the action of your HBA by calling the office at 222-2400. The toughest part is making the commitment, but once you’re engaged, I guarantee you’ll enjoy the relationships you build with peers, brand your business and pick up some referrals and potential clients.

See you on the links,

Greg Zenker President

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Building Buzz | July 2016

FORE a Good Cause July 12, 2016 Prairie West Golf Course Registration: 11am | Golf Start: 12pm The BMHBA and BMBOR are joining forces to host the Annual PAC Golf Tournament on July 12 at Prairie West Golf Course in Mandan. Registration begins at 11 am, carts will be available at 11:30 am with a shot-gun start at noon.

Eligible proceeds benefit BMHBA’s BUILD-PAC and the Bismarck Mandan Board of REALTORS RPAC or accounts to ensure effective advocacy that benefits the building and real estate industries.

Registration includes boxed lunch, driving range, 18 holes of golf with cart, and dinner. Golfers can try their hand and a hole-in-one, putting and chipping contests, and the chance to drive a custom golf cart for the day.

While you are enjoying the food and golf, be sure to

thank our sponsors: Bismarck Title Company, Starion Financial, Advanced Mechanical, Inc., Montana Dakota Utilities Co., Gate City Bank, BNC National Bank ,North Dakota Guaranty & Title, Kirkwood Bank & Trust Co., Huntington Homes, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, ProBuild, BlackRidge Mortgage, Miller Insulation Company, Inc. SPS Companies, Inc., Ferguson Enterprises, First Community Credit Union, Northern Plains Plumbing, Heating & Air, Capital Credit Union, Simonson’s Station Store, Metro Golf Carts, Pathways Chiropractic and Wellness, and Security First Bank.

Golfer registration is still open, so hurry to secure your spot!

July 2016 | Building Buzz

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CITY & COUNTY “HOUSIE” PHOTO CONTEST BRINGS ATTENTION TO HOMEOWNERSHIP Contest highlights June as National Homeownership Month The Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association (BMHBA) partnered with the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) to bring awareness to National Homeownership Month in June.

Homeowners in the Bismarck-Mandan area were encouraged to show their pride in homeownership by sharing their ‘Housie’- essentially, a selfie in front of their home during the month of June.

The idea behind the “Housie” campaign is to celebrate homeownership and start a discussion about owning during National Homeownership Month. In addition to the fun created by the social media contest, participants had the chance to win prizes valued up to $300.

Participating prize sponsors were Haider Glass Specialties, Pacific Sound and Video, and Interiors by France. The contest ran June 1 through June 30 on the BMHBA Facebook page.

The BMHBA uses National Homeownership Month to remind people that the American dream of homeownership is still within reach.

Historically low interest rates and reduced down payment options from lenders are making home purchasing a reality for an increasing amount of first time home buyers. In addition, housing related tax benefits, such as the deduction of mortgage interest and property tax deductions, help to lower the cost of homeownership.

For more information on homeownership visit nahb.org/homeownership.

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Building Buzz | July 2016

MORTON COUNTY FUTURE LAND USE PLAN Morton County, in partnership with the Bismarck/Mandan Metropolitan Planning Organization and SRF Consulting Group, are currently engaged in the development of a Future Land Use Plan (FLUP) for the 140 miles of Morton County that surround the City of Mandan.

Why is a FLUP important? The plan will serve as a “roadmap” for what types of development should be encouraged and where they should be encouraged, within the planning area. The plan will aid county and regional decision makers as they review development applications and plan future road networks, from now through the planning horizon year of 2045.

The first public meeting was held on May 17th at the Mandan Middle School.

Approximately 45 attendees engaged in two public input opportunities. The second public meeting will be held July 12th from 6-8pm at the Mandan High School gym. The meeting will focus on zoning districts within Morton County. The planning process will continue through the remainder of 2016. There will be three more meetings where members of the public will have an opportunity to provide input into the FLUP. Meaningful public input is critical to the development of an actionable plan. Please visit the project website for meeting schedule and more information: mortonfuturelanduse.com

CITY & COUNTY Reprinted from the BPZ Bulletin.

TEXT YOUR INSPECTIONS!

We are adding a new feature to the Burleigh County Building/ Planning/Zoning department! After working through several obstacles and skepticism, we are now offering TEXTING to our line of services.

Talking with different contractors who work in the county, one thing was dominant with every single contractor. They use texting all the time. They contact their workers, their office staff and even their clients by text. Texting offers the chance to get the information relayed without leaving a voice mail and hoping for an answer

back. One contractor even stated that all of his crews use texting.

They text him everything from material orders to questions, usually accompanied with pictures. After talking with Marvin Dahle, Code Enforcement Officer, he agreed that on the jobsite it would be easier for the contractors to be able to text in their inspections and get a confirmation text back.

According to Ray Ziegler, he feels this program will take off. After listening to contractors and his office staff, he backs this program 100%. “With the talk of budget cuts and not wanting to spend the over $200,000 for a software program to fully automate the process, this is a great compromise. Now contractors can e-mail their applications in, get their permit e-mail back to them when it is completed and text in for inspections. Those contractors that don’t text or e-mail can still call in for inspections and drop their permit applications at the office. It is my plan to work with the contractors and work in a way they prefer. Sometimes it is not the right environment to call in.”

As of May 1, you can now text in your inspections to the office.

Just leave the type of inspection, and address: we will text you back to confirm you are on the schedule. If you have a pour you need for footings, foundations or slabs, just give us the ready time and pour time.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING A KEY CONSIDERATION When making decisions about the future, having access to affordable housing is a key consideration for everyone from community and business leaders to workers and consumers.

“Without affordable housing, it is challenging for businesses to recruit and retain employees,” says Jolene Kline, North Dakota Housing Finance Agency executive director. “And, seniors and disabled individuals need safe, suitable options to be able to remain in a community.”

Through the support of state taxpayers, NDHFA’s Housing Incentive Fund has proven to be an excellent resource in addressing the state’s most critical housing needs. The program provides low-cost financing to developers of affordable housing.

“Since HIF’s inception, we have allocated over $89.6 million to 78 projects,” said Kline. “These dollars have leveraged more than $425 million in construction financing to support the development of 2,450 new housing units statewide.”

NDHFA is currently focused on fully capitalizing the program so it can honor commitments made to projects in Bismarck, Bowman, Devils Lake, Dickinson, Fargo, Gwinner, Minot, Valley City and Williston. The agency has until Dec. 31, 2016, to raise the $3 million needed.

HIF contributors receive a dollar-fordollar state income tax credit and can target contributions to a specific project or community. Learn more online at www.ndhousingincentivefund.org or by contacting NDHFA at (800) 292-8621 or hfainfo@nd.gov.

www.century21morrison.com

July 2016 | Building Buzz

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BMHBA NEWS MEMBERS PARTY AT THE POST Sweltering heat didn’t deter members from coming out to connect with each other and to support the BSC scholarship fund. The sun was hot, and so was the competition as board members raised funds for a chance at the inaugural Lumberjack Challenge Title. Jeff Sattler was the fasted draw in the west with the VersAttach, courtesy of Open Road Honda. Jeff Sattler of Sattler Homes was also the lucky winner of the patio heater, and Dalton Stein with CS Doors, Inc. took the 50/50 cash prize.

The silent auction was a hit, raising over $1800! Thanks to all who donated the wonderful variety of items for auction!

Thanks to the Harvest Grill for keeping the food warm and the beer cold, and many thanks to these Sponsors for their continued support.

Kupper Chevrolet, First International Bank, Anyleaks, Inc., Starion financial, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, Diversity Homes, Northland Financial, Probuild, Superior Insurance, Meridian Land Survey.

If you didn’t get a change to make it to the picnic or take home one of the exciting silent auction items, there is still a chance to support the future of the building industry. Contact the BMHBA office to make a contribution to the BSC Scholarship fund. You could be the one to help us reach out goal!

GET ‘ER SOLD Nine builder members gathered at the Juniper Workantile on Tuesday June 21 for July’s lunch & learn, Get it Sold. Randy Schwarts with Prime Partners, a Bismarck-based coaching and consulting firm, facilitated the 90 minute sales discussion.

The goal of the lunch & learn was to draw on the experiences from the Spring Parade of Homes to develop a plan for best sales practices in the upcoming Fall Parade of Homes.

Through self-evaluation and focus on established sales principles, participants were able to pinpoint their own strengths and weaknesses and create strategies to improve revenue.

Feedback from participants of the event was positive, many pointing out areas of sales that would call for deeper discussion. BMHBA is dedicated to providing valuable tools and information relevant to the positive growth of our members. Please visit our website and take advantage of our upcoming opportunities for education and training.

Thank you to all who attended!

BISMARCK ROADS FORUM 7/21/16 11:30 am – 1:00 pm The BMHBA is co-hosting a Bismarck Infrastructure forum with the Bismarck-Mandan Board of Realtors on Thursday, July 21. The event is free and will take place from 11:30 - 1 p.m. at the Ramkota in Bismarck.

The objective of the town hall forums is to examine and discuss the issue of road infrastructure needs in Bismarck. The meeting will begin with a presentation of infrastructure needs, priorities, and possible funding options, and will be followed by a Q&A session. While the conversation will include the one-cent sales tax proposal, identifying and reviewing potential funding alternatives and discussing information on existing infrastructure funding is to be included.

For planning purposes, we ask you to register for one or more of the forums at http://bmda.org/ forums. In an effort to address the infrastructure questions of our memberships, we also ask you to submit questions. With limited time available, not all questions will be used. If your question is not presented during the town hall, it will help refine existing questions during the selection process.

Please submit your infrastructure funding questions at https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/GSQJRH7 or when registering.

The town halls are open to association members and the general public.

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Building Buzz | July 2016

Securing Your Home: Do Your Research!

Continuously evolving technology has brought us from the cell phones to smart phones and now, to Smart Houses.

In addition to providing elaborate entertainment features, home automation systems can work through apps and devices to allow homeowners to remotely control temperatures, lights, and locks. Being able to confirm that alarms are engaged and lights are on at night, all from a cell phone, is a feature that more homeowners are demanding.

As with most technology, home automation systems are not immune to hacking. A recent study from researchers at the University of Michigan has exposed design flaws in a leading home automation system that leaves home-owners vulnerable to potential break-ins. Since many of these systems are in the early stages of development and more testing needs to be done to prevent hacking.

BMHBA member Cameron Fleck of New Vision Security suggests looking into a security system that is separate from your home automation system, and offers advice on what to look for when researching your options.

- Do not rely simply on a smart home system for security. Home automation

system run off a different technology that sensors and communicators do with a security system.

- Contact a reputable security company that focuses on specific systems and are familiar with all features. These companies and the systems they use are more likely to keep up with industry advances.

- Don’t be fooled by companies that offer security in addition to their main services like cell phone companies, audio/video companies, cable companies, or computer companies.

The NAHB urges builders and contractors to thoroughly scrutinize the home automation products that they are considering installing for their clients.

They have created an assessment guide to help builders evaluate product. Visit http://goo.gl/DKLxj5 to learn more.

HBA THANKS THOSE WHO SERVE In Celebration of the 4th of July, the BMHBA donated 100 flags to those serving, or veterans of the United States Armed Forces.

Mark Fischer, the FAC Coordinator of the Military Service Center accepted the flags and distributed them Veterans, Servicemen and Women, and their families living in Bismarck and Mandan.

“On behalf of the Service Members, Veterans, Retirees, and Family Members that received flag sets, the Bismarck Military Service Center would like to thank the Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association for their heartfelt generosity and support for the Military Family”.

The Family Assistance Centers (FAC’s) operate throughout North Dakota to provide support and assistance to Service Members and their families by connecting them with military, federal, state and local resources. The BMHBA is privileged to have to opportunity to work with the Bismarck FAC to say thank you to our military for all they do!

The HBA Board of Directors will be available on July 26th to install the flags on the houses of anyone in need of assistance.

Please contact Tracy at 701-222-2400 or tracy@bmhba.com.

INSPIRING YOUNG BUILDERS The BMHBA is teaming up with the Mandan Park District for a fun day of hands on learning that will focus on the building trades. 4th and 5th grade students participating in the MAC summer program will be given an introduction to home building through hands-on team activities.

They will also get a first-hand account of the industry thought site visits.

The BMHBA is providing this service through a grant awarded by the National Housing Endowment. If you or your organization would like join our efforts in getting young members of our community excited about building, please contact Tracy at tracy@bmhba.com.

9TH ANNUAL SPORTING CLAY SHOOT 8/25/16 4:00 pm – 8:30 pm The BMHBA will host its 9th Annual Sporting Clay Shoot on Thursday, Aug. 25.

We are sticking with the “red-neck” theme, but you will now know what to expect when participants show up for this one!

Come in character and showcase your sharp-shooting skills!

The $75 Registration Fee includes 10 shooting stations, target fees, shells, earplugs, dinner and door prizes. Shooters need only bring their own gun and eye protection. Each team will consist of six shooters. Registration opens at 3:30 p.m. and shooting begins at 4.

July 2016 | Building Buzz

9

NATIONAL NEWS

HOUSE VOTES ON NAHBSUPPORTED HEALTH CARE BILL The House Ways and Means Committee on June 15 unanimously approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Reps. Charles Boustany (R-La.) and Mike Thompson (D-Calif.) that would allow small business owners to help their employees pay for health insurance.

NAHB has urged the full House to act promptly on this bill and the chamber is expected to vote on the measure during the week of June 20.

NATIONAL NEWS

The Small Business Healthcare Relief Act of 2015 (H.R. 5447) would allow home building firms and other small businesses to provide Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), which let employers contribute something to their employee health costs. Specifically, HRAs allow small businesses to offer pre-tax dollars to insured employees to help pay premiums and/or other out-of-pocket costs associated with medical care and services.

HRAs are very flexible and affordable, allowing employers to design their plan to meet the unique needs of their company. All employer contributions to the plan are 100% deductible to the employer, and tax-free to the employee, making this a great benefit to help workers to obtain health insurance.

NATIONAL NEWS

Unfortunately, the Internal Revenue Service issued guidance in 2013 stating that employers are no longer able to use HRAs because they don’t meet the requirements of the Affordable Care Act. Not only did the IRS make HRAs illegal, the agency decreed that all employers can face fines of $100 per day per employee if they offer this benefit to their workers. That can add up to $36,500 per employee over the course of a year and up to $500,000 per company. This $100 per day penalty went into effect on July 1, 2015.

NAHB has led the charge working independently and with a coalition of other business organizations to remedy this injustice by calling on the IRS to revoke its ruling on the use of HRAs and pushing for a congressional solution. The Small Business Healthcare Relief Act would reinstate the use of HRAs and rescind the punitive IRS penalties associated with them.

$500 NEW VEHICLE ALLOWANCE With the FCA US LLC new vehicle allowance, members, their employees and household family members, are eligible for a $500 cash allowance toward the purchase or lease of a new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram or FIAT brand vehicle.

A longtime supporter of the skilled trades, FCA US LLC offers highly capable, builtfor-work vehicles like the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel and Ram 3500 Chassis Cab. Members of NAHB can now leverage their memberships into significant savings on the Ram Commercial lineup and other vehicles from FCA US, including the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler 200 and Dodge Durango. Even family members and employees are eligible for the $500 incentive.

The $500 member, employee and family incentives are stackable with most other national and local offers, further increasing your ability to save. Visit the FCA page nahb.org/fca to learn more about this program and to access your Proof of Membership Form. Please note that only named NAHB members of record are able to access and print eligibility forms for their employees and family.

HOW TO COMPLY WITH SILICA RULE The final rule on crystalline silica issued by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration goes into effect June 23, and the construction industry has exactly one year to comply.

Bradford Hammock, a partner at Jackson Lewis P.C., whose practice focuses exclusively on safety and health issues, recently recorded a free webinar—OSHA’s New Final Rule on Crystalline Silica: What You Need to Know— to help home building industry professionals better understand the final rule and how it will affect their business.

Specifically, it provides information about performing construction work on silica-containing materials, details on how the rule will affect construction job sites, what is necessary to comply with the final rule, key compliance dates and the rule’s historical significance.

The webinar is sponsored by the Construction Industry Safety Coalition, composed of 25 trade associations representing every construction trade, task and activity of the member associations. For more information, visit buildingsafely.org.

[Please note that while the webinar session is open to the public, a password—CSC4—is required to view it.]

10

Building Buzz | July 2016

NATIONAL NEWS

Housing Production Holds Steady in May Nationwide housing starts were virtually unchanged in May, inching down 0.3% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.16 million, according to newly released data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Commerce Department.

Overall permit issuance edged up 0.7% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.14 million.

“Despite May’s relatively flat report, our builders are telling us that the market is improving and consumers are more ready and willing to make a home purchase,” said NAHB Chairman Ed Brady.

Single-family housing starts inched up 0.3% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 764,000 units in May while multifamily production edged down 1.2% to 400,000 units.

Combined single- and multifamily starts were mixed in May, rising 14.4% in the West and 1.5% in the South.

The Midwest posted a 2.5% loss and the Northeast registered a 33.3% loss. However, single-family production rose in three out of the four regions — the Northeast, South and West.

NATIONAL NEWS

“Builder confidence rose this month and singlefamily housing starts are up roughly 10% from a year ago — two indicators that we can expect further growth in housing production this year,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “However, builders continue to face supply-side constraints, such as shortages of buildable lots and labor.”

Single-family permits fell 2% to a rate of 726,000 while multifamily permits rose 5.9% to 412,000.

Permit issuance increased 15.3% in the West.

Meanwhile, the South, Northeast and Midwest posted respective losses of 1.4%, 7.8% and 9.2%.

NATIONAL NEWS July 2016 | Building Buzz

11

TINY HOUSES COMING TO BISMARCK-MANDAN? Reprinted from the BPZ Bulletin.

“Tiny Houses” are receiving a lot of attention. They even have a television show on building tiny houses. Some are designed as trailers and other are designed to be placed on piers. My definition of a “tiny House” is one that ranges from about 100 to 500 square feet. I have had requests for permits to place homes from 300 to 495 square feet on lots in the county.

functionality, they offer families the chance to have elderly family members maintain their sense of independence while being close to their family in case of emergency. Placed in a backyard, these homes have all the amenities of a single family house, just at a smaller size.

The size of a tiny house does not permit them on a residential lot, but they can be placed on a lot zoned agricultural. The North Dakota Century Code and the Burleigh County Ordinance do not prohibit them when placed on a 40 acre or more lot. They must be placed on a permanent foundation and have access to water, sewer, electricity and gas.

Burleigh County at this time does not allow placement of a Tiny House on a single family lot when used as an additional residence. It is my thought that this might be an option that Burleigh County will be looking at and exploring as our population ages and the adult children start moving back home to take care of their parents. We are already getting requests from citizen in the county to split lots so that family members can build a house and be close to their parents. In some instances, the elderly parent would not be able to stay on their land if family doesn’t live on the property to assist them, but, sharing a home is not the best situation. Sometimes the elderly parent no longer wants to live in the large home because care and upkeep is to physically tasking, having a family member take over the family home, while the elderly parent live in a tiny home.

A minimum sized house in Burleigh County is 965 square feet. It is on a permanent foundation and has access to water, sewer, electricity and gas. The size of tiny house prohibit them from being places on a single family lots zoned Residential. Also, if they have a chassis with wheels, they are considered mobile homes and prohibited from being placed on a residential lot.

Tiny Houses, even though small in size must meet the standard building code for our area. Since they are usually built off site, certification from the factory is required.

Burleigh County also requires inspections of piers, and hookups. They are treated just like any other modular home brought into the county.

Tiny House popularity is growing, especially with the housing concerns and the aging populations. Many people refer to tiny houses as Granny Suites. Because of their size and

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Starting at $20. Email info@bmhba.com.

Federal Tax Credits Available for Affordable Housing Development North Dakota Housing Finance Agency is currently accepting applications for federal Low Income Housing Tax Credits to support the development or rehabilitation of affordable rental housing.

“The Low Income Housing Tax Credit program addresses the needs of North Dakota’s lowest income households, ensuring that they are able to find a safe and affordable place to call home,” said Jolene Kline, NDHFA executive director.

The credits are offered annually through a competitive application process. Evidence must be shown that there is a need for the housing proposed, that the community supports the development, and that construction costs are reasonable. Only developments that meet both federal and state priorities receive credits and only the amount of credits needed to make a project viable are allocated.

The program allocation plan and application are available online at www. ndhfa.org or by contacting NDHFA at (800) 292-8621. The deadline for submission is Sept. 30, 2016.

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12

Building Buzz | July 2016

HOOK, LINE AND KEEPER At a recent Spike Club meeting at the HBA of Winston-Salem, N.C., longtime member Jerry Cowan told a great story about the hook he uses to get prospective members to see the value in becoming a member.

While waiting to catch up with a coworker in a subdivision, he noticed a granite truck. A contractor, the truck’s driver, had been talking to a home owner in the subdivision.

Once the conversation was over, Cowan trotted over to the truck. He and the contractor introduced themselves and exchanged business cards. Because Cowan’s business card lists his employer, Builders Mutual Insurance Company, “I always mention that I’m not there to sell insurance before they run off!” he said.

Cowan proudly told the contractor that he is Membership Chair of the North Carolina HBA and asked him if he was a member of his local, the High Point Area Builders Association. Though the contractor had attended a meeting long ago, he said he has so much business these days, he would not have time to be a member and attend meetings.

But Cowan was clearly ready with an answer.

“Now is the time to make contacts and build a network for the future,” Cowan said, reminding him that if the bottom drops out of the market again, he would already have plenty of contacts from the relationships he had formed at the HBA.

“When things are bad, you are too late, and usually can’t afford to build your network then,” Cowan pointed out. After all, most of the survivors from the downturn had been visible and active during the good times: activities, goodwill and involvement that benefited them later.

Cowan told him, “You need to invest now for the future.” The contractor agreed and attended the local housing forecast presentation the next week.

Get Quick Answers to Code Questions A new reference guide by NAHB and the International Code Council provides critical answers to the most frequently asked residential construction jobsite code questions.

Available at BuilderBooks.com, the 2015 Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes, is a convenient field guide to the 2015 International Residential Code and a quick reference for providing the codes on the most commonly needed aspects of residential construction.

“Pretty sure he will join,” Cowan said.

Cowan is an active member of multiple local associations in North and South Carolina. He has 2,291 Spike Credits, making him an All Time Big Spike. The Spike Club consists of valued NAHB members who recruit new members. To learn more about the Spike Club, talk to Tracy DeForest at the BMHBA or browse nahb.org/spikeclub.

Millennial Membership Research performed by Sarah Sladek, CEO of XYZ University, provides insight into how Millennials view their careers: 72% want a job where they can make an impact, 71% seek meaningful relationships at work and 60% want personal fulfillment at their job.

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The guide, which features illustrations, tables and figures, is meant to be of practical use on the job site for quick reference and not as a substitute for the complete codes.

• safe and healthy living environments

It’s Not Just Business.

It’s Personal.

The 2015 Home Builders’ Jobsite Codes is available in both print and e-book formats. For more information, visit BuilderBooks.com or ebooks. builderbooks.com.

July 2016 | Building Buzz

13

NDAB NEWS

Volume XXIII, Issue 6

Monthly News from the North Dakota Association of Builders

Participation is Key To all of those that were able to make it to Fargo for our NDAB Meetings, I would like to take this time to thank you for attending, and to thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule. It is truly great to see the attendance growing at NDAB Meetings. I can see how passionate our group is about our industry and how we are trying to make a difference.

June 2016

They Answered the Challenge You will often read about, or hear us talking about, NDAB-PAC and BUILD-PAC. NDAB-PAC is the North Dakota Association of Builders’ Political Action Committee. It is a non-partisan political action committee which provides support for candidates who are friends of the building industry.

NDAB-PAC recognizes there is strength in numbers. People who show they care and are conKim Schneider Arnold Karsky cerned about the future of the building industry NDAB Executive Officer NDAB President make contributions to NDAB-PAC because they believe that cooperation equals strength. You Our Summer Event in Fargo was a great alone can’t influence the Legislature or Congress on issues that can success. We had representation from all 6 locals and many devastate your business. NDAB-PAC is your front line of defense. It elected officials. It was amazing to talk with our elected officials about the building industry. The one thing that I have noticed over monitors legislative issues and works to protect and promote the building industry. NDAB-PAC’s ability to defend and promote your business the last year is that our officials are talking with us and looking to us for input. We need for them to understand our industry and the rests squarely on the financial support it receives from you and other members. By pooling contributions from NDAB members, NDAB-PAC importance it has on the economy at the local, state, and national is able to help elect legislators who understand and support the issues levels. and concerns of builders and associate members. You can also choose to contribute to BUILD-PAC, the National Association of Home On June 14th we had our primary, and many local Builders’ Political Action Committee, one of the most recognized and elections, and we will have one more go around in November. As well-respected PACs in Washington.

a Builder Association we need to reach out to all elected officials, as well as to all those that are on the ballot in November, and make sure we are in the discussions when it comes to the building industry. When November rolls around we need to make sure we are voting for the people on the ballot that are for the building industry.

August 8-11, NAHB is having the midyear Board of Directors Meeting in Miami, FL. Hopefully we can get all of our local HBAs, along with NDAB, to have representation attend. I encourage you to make the trip and see what it is all about. Get involved in all three memberships, your Local, NDAB, and NAHB. The more we get involved, the more our voices are heard.

Arnold NDAB 2016 President, Arnold Karsky and NDAB BUILD-PAC Trustee, John Koerselman in front of our Banner Wall of Fame featuring the Event Sponsors and 2016 Annual Partners

Recently we offered up a challenge to our NDAB-PAC Trustees to educate our members on the importance and value of PAC. Those that contributed at a level of Century Club ($100) or higher were gifted a set of NDAB-Pilsner glasses. The number of glasses received was based on the level of contribution. Our valued volunteer PAC Trustees stepped up to the challenge and blew us away! We had many new supporters step up, some supporters raised their contribution level and others renewed their contribution. If anyone is interested in learning more, please contact our office or reach out to your local association to speak to your local EO or trustee.

November will be here shortly and that also means election time once again. These PAC funds will go toward local legislative candidates and other statewide office holders just as donations went out for city commission and Mayoral candidates during the June election. Many of our members had an opportunity to speak with some of these candidates at our Birdie with the Builders legislative social held last month at the Fargo Air Museum. With over 150 people in attendance, good conversation was had, delicious food was consumed and new friends were made. Once again, we would like to thank all of our sponsors for their continued support:

A view of the fantastic crowd at our NDAB Summer Event a Legislative Social. Over 150 people attended, including over 20 legislators and elected officials

Back your PAC … your PAC backs you! NDAB-PAC is the North Dakota Association of Builders’ Political Action Committee. It is a non-partisan political action committee that provides support for candidates who are friends of the building industry. Contact NDAB at (800) 326-4746, (701) 222-2401 or info@ndbuild.com to contribute or learn more!

North Dakota Association of Builders 1720 Burnt Boat Drive, Suite 207, Bismarck, ND 58503-0801 701/222-2401 or 800/326-4746 www.ndbuild.com

14

Building Buzz | July 2016

her 18th anniversary working for the HBA of F-M, we appreciate everything you do for the Association.



WABA is sad to say goodbye to Jackie Weig and Luke Rasmussen. Jackie has done a great job for WABA this past Forx Builders Association as our Executive Director in charge AROUND THEyear STATE Betty McDonald, Executive Officer of Sales and Marketing, particularly with herAssociation work on of our 2016 Home & Garden 701-746-4536 forxbuilders.com Dickinson Area Builders Assoc.

Minot Builders Tiffaney Dolechek, Executive Officer Elysha Head, Executive Officer Show.

After stepping off the board, the State  Northland Woodworking Around and 701-483-0044Custom | dickinsonareabuilders.com 701-852-0496 | minotab.com to be a committed Bismarck/Mandan HBA for donating a Decorating Services, TopLuke Recruiter;continued Ken Tim Shea’s Nursery & Landscaping Our Candidate Meet and computer Greet in June wasnew a huge success! Many for our Executive!

Krajsa, State Bank• & Trust, Top • DotWe hadExecutive our first Parade and Bell things Frank, Officer of Homes committee meeting, volunteer as our PAC Trustee and Spike; George Cross Blue candidates came outHome to speak to booths our association topics are offseparate to a great start.Builders We have bmhba.com five confirmed homes so far, and Fraza, Bluearea show are beingabout sold now! hosted after Hours.

701-222-2400 Shield of ND, Top New Spike; Ken Krajsa important to them National and us.

Our event was at theThank Bricks Alternative Director. you January 8th is theheld deadline for our Event are working hard on getting more. We are excited to bring this Cornerstone Award. HBC granted $12,500 There was fun at both events. preferred vendors.

Home is April 15 Space downtown. The association is happy to haveshow supported  new The BMHBA hasmembers been busyand following event togreat our the community. in scholarships to local high school both for your time and to the –as17, 2016 - dedication ordinance updates in Bismarck and is attending the downtown local political contenders.

• Executive officer Tiffaney Dolechek Associate students and college students in or Minot as wellcontact Northland Custom Woodworking proudly Jackie@willistonbuilders.com Mandan, Burleigh Morton Counties.

First International Bank is hosting our July 12th Builders Afterfor association!

You will be missed!

Leadership Instituteand next month.

This is a great educational planning on enrolling in• the construction questions.

All are reviewing and updating dated gaveprogram tours ofwill their new addition and programs.

Hours! Come out at 5 PM to connect with other members! that help improve key association functions and codes. Eyes are currently on permit cost  Our General  a• PAC RAFFLE on This sale Our annual golftickets tournamentare isDecember nearing. yearMembership it’s August 15th The HBA Social with new otherShea’s executive officers and of F-M held theirdevelop new showroom.

Tim changes andrelationships developmentwith standards. meeting will be held on the 17th special guest Jerry Howardattothe talkVardon about Golf Club. We’ve already had some players sign up so NAHB employees.  A housing analysis conducted by Bismarck now!!

Some great prizes are up for issues NAHB in D.C. and Nursery & Landscaping greenhouse sure to hand in your registration!

• We areMandan planning our Summer Picnic and our Golfis working onmake and outlines a need for an on August 10thhow they tie in locally. • Thegrabs event was a Our Parade-ofget Homes is wellyou underway!

Ourto committee had a good them upsountil our Thank much ourAugust Annual We haveasome fun ideas to add tofor both additional 7,786 18th. owner-occupied homes was Scramble still inAugust bloom and great setting success with 75 members in attendance. first brainstorming session.

October 1st is approaching quickly Banquet Sponsors!

Your support by 2030. working on a the taskgolf scramble from 9 holes events thisThe year,HBA andishave changed 18th Shoot/Member Picnic! under 20 members attended aClay Lunch Builders after Thank two to exploreHours. implementation of the you toJust and there is lots to be done before helped us to then! put on a great event! We toforce 18 holes!

Session with local building officials to talk study’s recommendations. had a great crowd and aor fun evening Contact Janna at the office very active member companies! about the latest issues in residential Williston Area Builders Association  Members elected a new board celebrating the year end and Home Builders Assoc. ofBuilder Fargo-Moorhead construction. email janna@willistonbuilders.com.

Janna Lutz, Executive Directors all our amazing Award at Executive the Fall GMM on Nov. 24 to fill recognizing Bryce member Johnson, Vice President  Closing was held for the 2016 Project  The New Year Celebration & City Night is Past President Vance Vetter’s seat. The winners. We are already looking 701-572-5744 | willistonbuilders.com 701-232-5846 | hbafm.com on Jan. 28 at the  Radisson in Fargo.

Our 2nd Annual Scramble is set 2016The board of directors will be sworn in at forwardGolf to doing it all again next year for House.

Forx Builders Association Mayors from Fargo, Moorhead, West • WABA is sad to say goodbye to Jackie Weig and Luke Rasmussen. theHBA Annual Banquet Jan. conference 14.

• The of F-M held aonpress where the mayors from in Bismarck!

29tha great at Eagle Ridge willas be Dilworth & Oxbow August will be inhas done job for WABA this and past year our builds aBMHBA house each year the Fargo, trade  Dilworth, The welcomes all members to Fargo, Moorhead and West with Fargo declared June as and participateJackie attendance on a mayoral Executive Director in charge of Sales and Marketing, particularly attend a Lead Renovator and Lead in conjunction with Williston Economic Homeownership Month. panel. We will also have special guest Al students at Northland Community & Renovator and Refresher course with her work on our 2016 Home & Garden Show. After stepping Jaeger, If you would • The HerdinaInitial Academy for the Construction Trades had 18 Secretary of State.

Development’s Summit and Trade on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, respectively. off events the board, Luke continued to be a committed volunteer Show as our Technical College.

Bid packages were likehappen to attend, please visit the students graduate.

Over 60 members made this event Visit bmhba.com/events to register. calendar at www.hbafm.com.

PAC Trustee and Alternative National Director.

Thank you both for (WEST) event. through sponsorships, donating materials donating time. letDickinson and opened already for theand2017 your time and dedication to the association! You will be missed!

Builders • The HBA’s Area July Golf Outing isAssoc. almost sold out, we will Builders be holding Association Forx RAFFLE tickets on sale now!!

Some greatwith prizes are up for grabs  • WABA is are working closely our Project House.

With the retirement of Platinum Sponsors—Kuntz Builders, Irene Schafer, Executive Officer a second Golf Outing Sept. 13.

Betty McDonald, Executive Officer - get them up untilInc. our and August 18thConstruction, Clay Shoot/Member Winn Inc. Picnic!

701-483-0044 dickinsonareabuilders.com • The Fall Parade of Homes will run Sept.

17-18 & 24-25, with the 701-746-4536 forxbuilders.com Loren Abel after 30 years as residential neighboring members to Contact Janna at the Watford office or email City janna@willistonbuilders.com.

Remodeled Home Tour running the last weekend only.  Our regular GMM was held new at the Eagles • Our 2nd Annual Golf Scramble is set for August 29th at Eagle Ridge Silver Sponsor—ProBuild carpentry instructor, instructor Chris grow membership.

We are looking at There awas good attendance at Slate • InClub celebration of its 60th Anniversary, the HBAis holding on November 11 with a moment of and will beafter in conjunction with Williston Economic Development’s Interior Design’s November Builders Showroom Tour for the month of October. duties.

Visit hbafm.com to Swenby taking over those a Sub-Chapter would silenceis honoring our veterans.

NDAB-PAC Sponsor—Bosch Summit and Trade Show (WEST)Reception event.which Hours. Thank you Alissa. starting find out more.  Our Home Show committee is busy Lumber Co. • allow WABA isWatford working closely with neighboring  The December Hours will be Congratulations toExecutive both Loren and Chris City toourhave theirWatford own City • Congratulations to our Mund on Builders after planning our Home Show in April,Vice President Krista grow membership. We are looking at starting a hosted by the Membershipmembers Committeetoand celebrating her 18th anniversary working for the HBA of F-M, we adding new features. in theupdating new and changes with their careers. identity and name.

Sponsor—Roers LLC own the Board of Directors at Keith’s Security Sub-Chapter whichBanner would allow Watford City toWest, have their you is doon for the Association. World. Jim Bisson owner ofidentity  appreciate Our main everything focus right now Keith’s and Lockname. &  Our Annual Golfhere Outing is We on the Key will be retiringthe • endWABA’s fall Parade ofslated Homes is slated of December the State Meeting in Dickinson.

WABA’s fall Parade of Homes is for September 24th Forx Builders and we will be helping him celebrate this are looking Association forward to making this a Also, Thank you to the NDAB 2015 weekend. calendar at themilestone. for September 24th weekend. special for night September for Arnold Karsky as 15th he is Betty McDonald, Executive Officer Partners! We truly appreciate your installed as| our State President.  Our Home Design and Garden Show will 701-746-4536 forxbuilders.com support and we have enjoyed serving Grand Forks Country Club.  Following that, we also busy planning our be held April 1, 2 & 3 at the Alerus Center.

• Northland Custom Woodworking and Tim Shea’s Nursery & annual Christmas Party. Newly elected

Minot Association of Builders Landscaping hosted Builders There was Vice President, Val separate Voelkering is busy after with Hours.

Minot Association of Builders Executive Officer her committee touches Custom to a great fun at bothputting events.final Northland Woodworking Elysha Head, veryExecutive special evening at thenew Elksaddition Club. and their 701-852-0496 minotab.com proudly gave tours ofOfficer their new  We would Tim like to take this opportunity to showroom.

Shea’s Nursery & Landscaping greenhouse was 701-852-0496 minotab.com  We are having a “Holiday Open House” for extend an invitation to Kim and Heather still in bloom and a great setting for Builders after Hours. Thank





you throughout the entire year!

our members here at the office December

and other associations to attend our

you to two very active member companies!

15th from noon-7pm with food and Our Candidate Christmas party. Meet and Greet in June Gold Partner - Montana Dakota Utilities • Closing was held for the 2016 Project House. The Forx Builders beverage.  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to a house each year with the trade students at was Association aeveryone! hugebuilds success!

Many area Silver Partners - Bismarck-Mandan Area Builders Association Northland Community & Technical College. BidWilliston packages were Home Builders Association, Dickinson candidates came out to speak to our Janna Lutz, Executive Officer let and opened already for the 2017 Project House. With the Area Builders Association, Home Builders 701-572-5744 retirement Loren Abel after 30 years as residential Bryce Johnson,ofExecutive Vice President association about topics important tocarpentry willistonbuilders.com Association of Fargo-Moorhead, & instructor, Swenby is taking those 6 new instructor Chris hbafm.com 701-232-584 Northern Plumbing Supply  over WABA welcomes new incoming board them and us.

Our event was held at the duties. Congratulations to both Loren and Chris in the new Lance Bevier of Tractor and members:  changes Thank you everyone whodowntown. attended our NDAB "Thank You" to all- and BUILD-PAC and Bricks Event Space The withtotheir careers.

Bronze Partners Bell State BankDonors! & Equipment Co., Joan NDAB Mainwaring of says,says, “Thank You” to all BUILD-PAC NDAB-PAC Awards Gala & Annual Meeting. The HBA American State Bank2015-2016 and Trust Co., andLevel Trust, Forx BuildersClub Association, Minot • Our Annual Golf Outing is on the calendar for September 15th at NDAB-PAC Donors!

2015-2016 Club Level DoClub Donors of Century ($100) and higher of F-M celebrated award winners and association is Country happy to have supported Bob Radermacher of Bakken Contracting.

Association NDPilsner Guaranty & the Grand Forks Club. are eligible to receiveClub a free($100) gift of of Builders, NDAB-PAC Glasses. scholarship recipients with over 200 of its nors of Century and higher are eligible Mark Schneider, LJA,Claim was sworn in as ourinstructions Title Co.,will ND be Housing Finance Agency, downtown aswentwell as local political members.Minot The awards to Clay forms and sent to all those who are to receive a freeProBuild, gift of NDAB-PAC Pilsner Glassincoming WABA President at ourCentury Annual RDO Equipment Co.,you & Williston Dietrich, Dietrich Homes, Inc., Builder of currently Club Level and higher as a thank for your contenders.

Meeting in November. es. Claim formsArea Association the Year; Paul Krabbenhoft, Coldwell andBuilders instructions will be sent to all continued support!

Banker First Realty, Associate of the Year;  Top Spikes were also recognized: Bill are currently Century Club Level and those who First International Bank is hosting our Heritage Homes, BEAM; Dan Beecher, Murphy and Dave Nordenstrom became Foam Doctor’s LLC, Extra Mile; John Koerselman, Red River Drywall &



Life Spikes in 2015! higher as Special thanks to Dot Frank and the

a thank you for your continued support!

Northwww.ndbuild.com Dakota Association North of Builders Dakota Association  of Builders

June 2016 

December 2015

July 2016 | Building Buzz

15

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Annual PAC Golf Tournament - July 12 at Noon Bismarck Roads Forum - July 21 at 11:30am 9th Annual Sporting Clay Shoot - August 25 at 4pm How to Identify & Qualify Your Best Customers - Sept. 14

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