June 2015 Building Buzz

BB BUILDING BUZZ J U N E

2 0 1 5

President’s Letter

All Signs Pointing to Strong Summer | page 3

City/County Beat

Burleigh County Website Updates | page 5

BMHBA News

Parade of Homes Recap| Annual Picnic | Spring GMM Award Winners | pages 6-9

National News

EPA & Lead Test Kits | page 10

NDAB News

Advocacy on the Hill | page 14

Page 2

BMHBA Building Buzz

June 2015

Building Buzz Publisher/Editor: Dot Frank Layout Editor: Michael L. Quinn 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

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

Scan to visit www.bmhba.com

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

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

Bismarck-Mandan Permit Reports Through April 2015 BISMARCK

- monthly/yearly permit reports can be found at www.bismarck.org

Permit Type

YTD 2015

YTD 2014

Single Family Multi-Family Commercial

52/$9.11M 3/$0.20M 18/$8.06M

54/$5.49M 3/$0.20M 12/$0.28M

MANDAN

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

Permit Type

YTD 2015

YTD 2014

Single Family Multi-Family Commercial

14/$2.87M 0/$0M 1/$0.60M

13/$13.7M 0/$0M 1/$0.47M

LINCOLN

- monthly/yearly permit reports can be found at www.cityoflincolnnd.com

Permit Type

YTD 2015

YTD 2014

Single Family Multi-Family Commercial

18/$2.57M 0/$0M 1/$0.82M

5/$0.14M 0/$0M 0/$0M

BURLEIGH COUNTY

- monthly/yearly permit reports can be found at www.co.burleigh.nd.us

Permit Type

YTD 2015

YTD 2014

Single Family Multi-Family Commercial

7/$2.69M 0/$0M 1/$0.21M

10/$2.90M 0/$0M 0/$0M

MORTON COUNTY

- monthly/yearly permit reports can be found at www.co.morton.nd.us

Permit Type

YTD 2015

YTD 2014

Single Family Multi-Family Commercial

7/$2.60M 0/$0M 1/$0.13M

2/$0.93M 0/$0M 1/$0.028M

BMHBA Building Buzz

June 2015

Page 3

A Word from Our President

T

Drew Knutson Board President

ime flies when you’re busy building. It’s hard to believe that we’re halfway through 2015. According to permit reports, our numbers are on par with last construction season and in some municipalities, slightly ahead. All signs are pointing to a strong summer season that should position us well for winter work.

I think we’re all appreciative of the temperate spring. This year many of us were able to drop in basements a full month ahead of last year’s start. Despite the April showers, we should construct more than 700 single family homes

by the end of 2015.

According to NAHB research, the typical one-year economic impact of building 700 homes includes: • $112 million in local income • $12.6 million in taxes and other revenue for local governments • 1,988 local jobs These impacts represent income and jobs for residents of the typical metropolitan area, and taxes (and other sources of revenue, including permit and hook-up fees) for all local jurisdictions within the area. They include both the direct impact of the construction activity (Phase I), and the impact of local residents who earn money from the construction activity spending part of it within the metro area (Phase II).

What you do for the community is applaudable and I encourage you to take time to consider the daily impact you have on our community. In addition to the economic impact the housing industry provides, builders are impacting the lives of the people who reside in our homes.

A study titled Effects of Homeownership on Children by Joseph M. Harkness and Sandra J. Newman, commissioned by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in 2003, provides interesting statistics on homeownership that show children

of homeowners have fewer teen births, are less likely to be idle at age 20, have higher graduation rates, attend postsecondary school at a higher rate and earn more.

As a member of the Home Builders Association, you are held to the highest standards. Safety and codes are of upmost concern and so is customer service. As we throttle through the summer construction season, remember that with great economic and life-impacting power, comes great responsibility. Listen to and respond to customer concerns and encourage those you work with to exercise empathy.

Our actions can serve as an advertisement for the industry.

Goodwill goes along way at generating referrals and enticing consumers to consider new home construction.

The BMHBA offers lots of opportunities to use your membership as an edge-up on competitors. I encourage you to check out the online events calendar at bmhba.com/events and read about upcoming webinars on page 9.

I look forward to seeing you at the Annual Picnic, Drew Knutson

President

THANK YOU! TO OUR MANY BUILDERS, CONTRACTORS & SUBS. IT’S THE END OF AN ERA For nearly 80 years, we’ve worked with the area’s builders providing what we felt were the best brands, innovative products and support services designed to provide you and your customers the best options for their new home. Well, it’s the end of an era. The Whittey family has reached that age where we would like to enjoy our retirement a little more, so we’ve decided close our doors forever.

We’ve made friends with so many of you over the years.

We’ve watched the area grow and grow.

Frankly, we’re more than a little sad to be saying goodbye, but that time is now here. From all of our family, thank you to all of you. It was truly a pleasure to know and work with you.

Online @ ccappliance.com

223-1173 • 309 N. 3rd St. Bismarck

Page 4

BMHBA Building Buzz April 2015 New Members

Alpha Construction, Inc. | Romio Baranets Home Builders (Custom) Big River Builders, Inc. | Jordan Anderson Exercise Equipment Center | Sue Blair | www.exerciseequipmentnd.com Plain View Design Co. | Blake Preszler | plainviewnd.com | Architecture Squix, Inc. | Kelly Jeannotte

TIME TO RENEW! Members with June Anniversaries Be Sure to Renew by June 30, 2015

Advanced Audio and Video | Scott Maslowski Audio/Video | Electronic Technology | Home Theaters America’s Home Loans | Darin Ketterling www.americashomeloans.com | Mortgages B & B Roofing | Lonnie Barth | Roofing Bianco Realty | Kathy Feist | www.biancorealty.com Real Estate/Developers Bismarck Title Co. | Howard Malloy | www.bismarcktitle.com Titles/Closings | Insurance | Abstracting Brendel’s Lawn Sprinkling, Inc. | Bryan Brendel www.brendelslawnsprinkling.com | Lawn Sprinkler Systems | Landscaping Crazy D’s Construction | Dustin Fischer crazydsconstruction.com | Remodeling Dakota Filtration Solutions | Tanya Long | Water Systems Dakota Staffing Solutions | Amy Azure www.dakotastaffingsolutions.com | Employment Services Dakota Wall Systems | Phil Birnbaum | www.dakotawall.com Retaining Walls | Wall Systems Edgewood Development Group. LLC | Dave Heilman www.edgewoodbismarck.com | General Contractor | Land Development Extreme Sales, Inc. | Vern Vetter | www.extremesales.biz Trailer Sales/Service Century 21 Morrison Realty - Greg Larson | Real Estate/Developers GTG Homes | Troy Olson | www.gtghomes.com Carpentry | General Contractor | Home Builders (Custom) Herner Homes, LLC | Dave Herner | Home Builders (Custom)

2015 Board of Directors PRESIDENT Drew Knutson Knutson Homes, Inc. Phone: (701) 258-3464

PAST PRESIDENT Vance Vetter Vance Vetter Homes Phone: (701) 751-8218

2ND VICE PRESIDENT Shannon Reichenberg Diversity Homes Phone: (701) 220-8177

Paula Haider Haider Glass Specialties Phone: (701) 250-6787

1ST VICE PRESIDENT Greg Zenker Ferguson Enterprises Phone: (701) 663-2446

Susie Franklin Capital Credit Union Phone: (701) 255-0042 Nathan Jones Tollberg Homes Phone: (763) 205-2037 Parker Pladson Venture Building Co. Phone: (701) 290-6734

Komfort Homes, Inc. | John Kulluk | komforthomes.com Carpentry | Framers | General Contractor Leingang Home Center | Mark Dettling | www.leingang.com Cabinets | Countertops | Doors MSM Realty, Inc. | Mary Shelkey-Miller | www.msmrealtynd.com Real Estate/Developers Myhre Concrete Design | Clayton Myhre | www.myhreconcrete.com Concrete Contractor | Concrete Decorative Oaktree Realtors | Crystal Neumann | www.oaktree-realtors.com Real Estate/Developers Point CPA, PC | Thomas Ault | www.pointcpa.com | Mortgages Prairie View Landscaping & Nursery, Inc. | Kelly Johnson Landscape Products | Landscaping | Lawn & Garden Equipment Ramada Bismarck Hotel | Laurie Schumacker www.rawww.gang/hospitality.com | Hotels & Restaurants RLP Services, LLC | Lance Raatsi | www.rlpservicesllc.com Terry Richter - State Farm Insurance | www.terryrichter.com | Insurance United Erosion Control | Jamie Malarkey www.UnitedErosionControl.com | Erosion Control Services Waco Scaffolding & Equipment Co., LLC | Greg Schettler www.wacodenver.com | Equipment

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

How Fast Can You Move?

10-Min Home Loan Application.

24-Hr Approval.

Jordan’s Plumbing | Jordan Ziniel | Plumbing Contractor K & L Homes, Inc. | Chad Moldenhauer | www.k-lhomes.com Home Builders (Custom)

June 2015

Apply online at www.capcu.org and know within one business day how much you prequalify for.

*

Home loan services now also at our Mandan Branch!

June 2015

BMHBA Building Buzz

Page 5

City/County Beat David Bowe Music and the Burleigh County Building/Planning/Zoning Department Take a few minutes of your day and explore our website changes.

CH-CH-Changes, just like the David Bowe song from 1971, the Burleigh County Building/Planning/ Zoning website has changed. If you haven’t browsed the Burleigh County website now is a great time.

We have started as of April 1, collecting zoning ordinance from the townships that are organized and have their own zoning ordinance. You can access them by going to the zoning section of our website. These zoning ordinances will act as a guide when you have questions about zoning in your township. You will, of course, have to contact your township supervisor with questions, but these zoning ordinance should give you start.

We have also added a new section titled Burleigh County Plats with Addresses. This section is just what it states; all the subdivision and township plats that we have in our office have been scanned and uploaded to the Burleigh County website. A big thank you to Greg Carlson from Burleigh County GIS for scanning the documents for us.

Another addition the Burleigh County Building/Planning/ Zoning Department has added is a new e-mail address. burleighcobuilding@nd.gov . This e-mail can be accessed by anyone in the BPZ office. It is a central location to send your request, questions and comments. We check it twice a day for any e-mail request or comments, so it is not the best place for emergencies, but a great place to get information you might need.

Find all the county’s new features online at www.co.burleigh.nd.us

Take a few minutes of your day and explore our website changes. You might find the information you were looking for. Maybe after exploring the website you have an idea on what else you would like to have or what would be helpful for you, just send us an e-mail or even give us a call. We are here to offer assistance to the residents of Burleigh County. Any feedback, good or bad, is ALWAYS welcome!

Did you know? According to NAHB analysis of government data, the month of

March experienced the third highest number of open construction jobs since the end of the recession, as builders cite access to labor as an ongoing challenge. For more analysis, the Eye On Housing blog provides members with data on economic and housing related topics.

Visit eyeonhousing.org.

Page 6

BMHBA Building Buzz

June 2015

Thousands Ushered Through New Construction The Spring Parade of Homes attracted more than 3,500 adults to 43 homes over the course of two weekends.

Spectators took in homes that ranged in price from $189,900 to $697,400. The average home price was $429,680.

“The majority of participating builders (64%) were very satisfied with the traffic to their home this year,” said Parade Chairwoman Lindsey Matter of Starion Financial. “Not only were they happy with the traffic, but 23% reported the overall traffic as busy and another 68% cited steady traffic.”

The event, which was created to showcase the craftsmanship of member builders and subcontractors, also has been shown to lead to sales.

“The Parade of Homes remains unmatched as an event that draws attention to new construction. We can infer that the Parade leads to future purchases, but we can confirm through our builder survey that three builders sold their Parade home

during the event, and five builders sold other homes as a result of the Parade,” Matter said.

The committee continued to promote the smartphone app that was launched at the 2014 Fall Parade of Homes. More than 700 apps were downloaded last year and an additional 800 downloads were recorded this spring.

“The committee is attune with the needs and wants of current consumers. Providing the app helps us cater to young and old adopters of technology. In addition to navigation, the app features interior photos of the Parade homes and allows consumers to contact the builder,” said Matter.

Community members are encouraged to download the “ParadeSmart” app even after the Parade to take a virtual tour of the featured homes. Builders also are reminded to upload interior phones and change the status of their homes from “For Sale” to “Sold” as necessary.

Be Prepared: What Builders Must Know by Aug. 1 The association is partnering with First Dakota Title to host an NAHB event specific to builders about new mortgage disclosure requirements on Wednesday, June 24 at Broadway Centre in Bismarck.

On Aug. 1, the Good Faith Estimate, Truth in Lending and HUD-1 Settlement Statements are being replaced by the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau’s new integrated disclosure forms, the “Loan Estimate” and the “Closing Disclosure.” This webinar is designed to prepare builders for the impending changes and how to work proactively with lenders and settlement stakeholders to avoid unnecessary closing delays.

LIKE US ON

Don’t get caught off-guard or jeopardize a closing. Register for this free, one-hour lunch event to find out what you need to know about the new mortgage disclosures.

Registration is free and open online at bmhba.com/events.

The event includes lunch catered by Broadway Grill & Tavern.

BMHBA Building Buzz

June 2015

Page 7

Association’s Annual Picnic Promises a Good Time The association’s highly anticipated Annual Picnic is scheduled for June 11 at The Post south of Mandan. Members are encouraged to register online at bmhba.com/events so the committee can ensure our caterer gets an accurate count.

This year’s event will feature the culinary skills of the Harvest Brazilian Grill. Recognized for their wood charcoal fired meats, the Brazilian will prepare and serve the Farmer’s Buffet, which features BBQ and spicy shredded beef sandwiches with shredded Gouda cheese. Sides include potato chips, green and potato salads, fresh fruit and dessert.

In addition to a mouthwatering meal and cold drinks, the event features a large silent auction and additional fundraisers whose proceeds benefit the association’s three $1000 BSC scholarships.

Celebrate the home building industry, enjoy each other’s company and treat your entire crew to North Dakota beef by attending this event. Each member receives two tickets to attend. Additional tickets are $10 each.

The Annual Picnic is a member favorite.

Join us and hundreds of your peers on June 11.

Members Learn the Keys to Happy Customers The BMHBA hosted the NAHB webinar, “The Remodeler’s Guide to Happy Customers” on May 6. Participants logged into the live, national event led by David Lupberger of David Lupberger & Associates of Boulder, Colo.

The Homeowner’s Emotional Roller Coaster Windows

Roof Deck

Rough Framing

Footings

Design

100

Demolition

125 FINAL HIGH & MOVE IN! Rough-ins

Working Drawings

Bills for Extras

“Last Door Knob”

MOOD LEVEL %

Plumbing Heating

Finished Electrical

Electrical

50

Flooring

PARTY

75

Plumbing Fixtures

Insulation

Bids

Painting Siding

Contract

Tile

Drywall Hung

25

Trim & Cabinets

6 th

5 th

4 th

3rd

1-6 Months Pre-Construction

2nd

0

1st

Drywall Sanding

Months of Construction

TIMELINE

Lupberger shared insight honed from two decades of experience in residential remodeling. He reminded remodelers to put themselves in the shoes of their clients and recognize that remodeling is a time of high anxiety that includes financial stress, emotional stress, dependency and marital stress.

Lupberger equipped participants with the four elements of trust: consistency, honesty, promise keeping and reassurance. He is an advocate for managing the remodeling process and communicating consistently with clients.

Read about and register for upcoming webinars at bmhba.com/events.

Page 8

BMHBA Building Buzz

June 2015

Spring GMM Celebrates Award-Winning Builders The Spring General Membership Meeting (GMM) and Awards Ceremony was held at the Baymont Inn & Suites on May 12. The event shared Parade stats and recognized the Judges’ and People’s Choice Award winners.

Nearly 100 members attended the evening event that featured a served dinner, short program and Advocacy Fund 50/50 raffle. Tom Haider of Haider Glass Specialties was the lucky recipient of the raffle split, which amounted to $355.

The association thanks those who attended, especially our event sponsors that included: Gold Sponsors: Bismarck Title Company, Diversity Homes, One Source Lighting, Puklich Chevrolet and Quality Title; Silver Sponsors: Acme Tools, D&M Industries, Front Street Millwork & Lumber and Haider Glass Specialties; and Bronze Sponsors: American Bank Center and TK Homes.

Congratulations to the following build ers:

BMHBA Board President Drew Knutson address the audience at the Spring GMM on May 12.

Judges’ Choice Award Winners $189,000-$220,000 $249,000-$275,000 $280,000-$310,000 $334,000-$395,000 $427,000-$450,000 $459,000-$500,000 $519,000-$563,000 $629,000-$698,000

Kinnebrew Contracting LifeScapes Homes Premier Homes, Inc. Paramount Builders, Inc. K & L Homes, Inc. Visionary Homes, LLC Patriot Homes Hallmark Homes

$189,000-$220,000 $249,000-$275,000 $280,000-$310,000 $334,000-$395,000 $427,000-$450,000 $459,000-$500,000 $519,000-$563,000 $629,000-$698,000

Kinnebrew Contracting LifeScapes Homes Diversity Homes, SL Diversity Homes, Inc. K & L Homes, Inc. K & L Homes, Inc. K & L Homes, Inc. Hallmark Homes

People’s Choice Award Winners

WIN A 7-DAY

Caribbean Cruise and get a $50 Gift Certificate When you do your closing with Quality Title, Inc.

Contact your Realtor or lender for details!

Due to the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) Lenders, Realtors and Contractors are excluded from this promotion

Participating Vendors Blarney Stone, Gee WilLiquors, Bistro, A&B Pizza, Ace Hardware

June 2015

Page 9

BMHBA Building Buzz

Upcoming Webinars The BMHBA invites you to join us for Webinar Wednesdays. Registration is open online at bmhba.com/events. The cost to participate is $15 per person, per webinar and includes lunch.

7 Key Numbers to a Thriving Business Wednesday, June 10, 1-2 p.m.

Why, in any given market, do only a handful of businesses thrive while so many similar businesses fail? It’s not just good management; it’s managing the right things. Master the 7 Key Numbers that drive all revenue, cash flow, growth and success, and your business will be unsinkable.

Are We Ready for Renewables?

Wednesday, June 17, 1-2 p.m.

Considering solar for your next home? What are the options, key design criteria and other issues when including renewable energy strategies? This session will explore design considerations for solar when trying to get to “zero,” HERs modeling and how it considers solar inputs compared to other enclosure and electrical elements, and how to make being solar-ready easy, including roof details and planning for the electrical requirements. In addition, learn about control and monitoring options to make best use of the renewables.

Be Prepared - What the New Mortgage Disclosures Mean for Builders Wednesday, June 24, 1-2 p.m.

On Aug. 1, the Good Faith Estimate, Truth in Lending and HUD-1 Settlement Statements are being replaced by the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau’s new integrated disclosure forms, the “Loan Estimate” and the “Closing Disclosure.” This webinar is designed to prepare builders for the impending changes and teach them how to work proactively with lenders and settlement stakeholders to avoid unnecessary closing delays.

Let’s Build Together.

When it comes to building a home, there are a lot of decisions to be made; counter-tops, flooring, lights!

But when it comes to your closing, we’ve got you covered.

We deliver the peace of mind you need to allow you to focus on what really matters - your new home.

Our mission is to provide the best service in every market in which we participate.

So give us a call - We'll take care of the rest.

701.223.6835 | TheTitleTeam.com Bismarck | Mandan | Minot | Williston Dickinson | Watford City | Washburn Killdeer | Mohall | Sidney, MT

Page 10

BMHBA Building Buzz

June 2015

National News EPA to Revisit Lead Test Kits At long last – and after constant pressure from NAHB – the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been told to get to the bottom of the issue of faulty lead paint test kits with a series of public meetings that will start in early June.

As remodelers well know, the Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule requires them to use expensive lead-safe work practices in all homes built before 1978 unless the homes have been tested to be lead-free.

The catch: Even though the introduction of an accurate, inexpensive lead paint test kit was part of the rule when it was written in 2008, that test kit never appeared when the rule became law in 2010.

Now, the choices are to either conduct an expensive, time consuming test or instead do the work under the presumption that lead-based paint is there. And that often triggers additional compliance costs and unneeded record-keeping requirements, costing remodelers and consumers time and money.

This has resulted in textbook examples of reverse incentives all over the country. Too many home owners who didn’t want to pay the additional costs of working with an EPA-certified renovator chose to work with fly-by-night operators who slid under the regulatory radar – and who possibly put the home owners at risk with their work practices.

This lose-lose situation is now changing.

On April 28, NAHB co-hosted with the National Center for

Healthy Housing the first in a new series of meetings with regulators to see what is working and what needs to be fixed.

Also in attendance: officials from the Small Business Administration and representatives from industry, lobbyists, local government, and volunteer organizations.

At this meeting, EPA announced plans for the June event: the opening round of ongoing conversations in response to a congressional mandate that EPA step up the pace and figure out a test kit to meet the criteria within the 2008 rule.

And that congressional directive is a direct result of NAHB’s persistent – and successful – advocacy efforts.

If no solution is reached by Oct. 1, Congress has directed EPA to revisit the test kit criteria in the 2008 rule and solicit public comment on alternatives. And if a reliable and affordable test kit is not possible, then it’s back to square one for the economic analysis EPA did in advance of the rules and ensure that the costs reflect actual experience.

Learn more about the EPA Lead Paint rule at nahb.org/ leadpaint.

Latest Industry Legal and Litigation Issues Highlighted Now available to members on nahb.org, the latest Construction Liability and Risk Management Update includes reports on legal issues that can have a direct impact on home builders’ business operations.

The Update summarizes legal actions to date and provides a link to resources that NAHB has compiled to help builders and remodelers become knowledgeable about issues.

Other items in the Update: • Mechanics liens • Construction defect legislation

• OSHA proposals and enforcement guidance • Product recalls The Update is published by the Construction Liability, Risk Management and Building Materials Committee for the educational and information use of NAHB members. You must be logged in to nahb.org to access the publication.

June 2015

BMHBA Building Buzz

Page 11

National News Housing Recovery Continues at Gradual Pace

Markets in 68 of the approximately 350 metro areas nationwide returned to or exceeded their last normal levels of economic and housing activity in the first quarter of 2015, according to the NAHB/First American Leading Markets Index (LMI), released today. This represents a year-over-year net gain of seven markets.

Looking at smaller metros, both Midland and Odessa, Texas, have LMI scores of 2.0 or better, meaning their markets are now at double their strength prior to the recession. Also leading the list of smaller metros are Grand Forks, N.D; Casper, Wyo.; and Bismarck, N.D, respectively.

NAHB Discusses Labor Shortages at Democratic Attorneys General Conference NAHB Chairman Tom Woods shared the federation’s views on immigration reform and workforce shortages during a panel discussion at the Democratic Attorneys General Association Spring Policy Conference on May 7.

NAHB has been an active proponent of strengthening border security, requiring employers to use e-Verify, and reforming the visa system.

Workforce shortages, Woods said, are becoming more prevalent as housing production continues to recover from the Great Recession. A market-based guest worker system can let more immigrants legally enter the construction industry and fill labor gaps. He emphasized that the legal visa program must match market demand, which has shown that 68 new immigrants are needed for every 1,000 housing starts.

Woods added that NAHB is deeply invested in cultivating the American-born construction workforce through training, mentoring and job placement.

With enough workers in place, builders can continue to do what they do best — developing homes for America’s families.

“We build homes, and we build communities,” Woods said.

NAHB Chairman Tom Woods, second from right, at the Democratic Attorneys General conference.

Page 12

BMHBA Building Buzz

June 2015

NAHB Legal Services Need free legal information or support on land use, environmental or construction liability issues?

Your Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association membership automatically makes you a member of the North Dakota Association of Builders and the National Association of Home Builders. That gives you special access to NAHB’s legal services.

The National Association of Home Builders’ NAHB Legal Research Program provides free legal research assistance and information on building industry-related issues to all members

and staff of affiliated home builder associations. While the NAHB staff counsel cannot replace your local attorney, they offer legal research, litigation funding, and/or litigation strategy, depending on the situation and the issues involved.

This is just one more way that membership in your local home builders association can directly help you and your business.

To find out more, give us a call at 222-2400, contact us at info@bmhba.com or visit www.nahb.org/en/research/legalissues.

Many members are eligible for top-tier pricing with Verizon through NPP. Here are some of the latest promotions that may be available to you:

Internet and Tablet Devices. Verizon Jetpack 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot MiFi 6620 for only $29.99. You can also get the LG G Pad 10.1 for $99.99. (New 2-year activation or renewal on $24.99 or higher plan.)

New Verizon Promotions through NPP

Smartphone offers when you activate or renew a two-year voice with data plan: • Samsung Galaxy S5 (16GB) for $49.99 • Motorola Droid Turbo for $99.99 (32GB) and $149.99 (64GB) • Motorola Droid Maxx for $0.

• Brigadier by Kyocera for $24.99 • Blackberry Classic and LG G3 for $49.99.

For more details on these and other offers, visit www.mynpp.com.

Bill Incentive Credits. $150 when you activate a 4G LTE smartphone or 3G iPhone 4s ($34.99 or higher plan). $50 when you any Basic phone.

Why Ask for an NDHFA Loan?

NDHFA’s low-cost financing, and down payment and closing cost assistance has helped 40,000 North Dakotans achieve their homeownership dreams. Request a supply of Affordable Home Financing brochures from NDHFA’s homeownership division and set your customers on a path to successful ownership. Email jferderer@nd.gov.

BMHBA Building Buzz

June 2015

Page 13

Go Mobile or Google Will Make You Pay Search engine giant Google recently changed the way its system pulls up websites for mobile users. Companies that have a mobile-optimized website will show up in search results ahead of those that do not.

The new algorithm will not affect searches on desktop and laptop computers, but with more and more consumers using mobile devices to surf the web, shop and do business, this change could have significant impacts on small businesses.

For many home builders, it could mean less consumer traffic, diminishing page views and fewer leads.

Companies that want to hold on to their ranking in search need to design their websites so that they load quickly and are easy to navigate on mobile devices. Test your website to see if it’s mobile-friendly enough for Google by visiting www.google.com/webmasters/tools/mobile-friendly.

Bianco Realty Sales Awards Bianco Realty has named SHIRLEY THOMAS and HEIDI HILZENDEGER Associates of the Month! Shirley and Heidi had the most closed sales at Bianco Realty for the month of April 2015. Shirley has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2001 and Heidi has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2012.

Did you know?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau and NAHB analysis, single-family construction spending is up 7.8% on a year-over-year basis, while multifamily spending is up 23.4%. For more analysis, the Eye On Housing blog provides members with data on economic and housing related topics.

Visit eyeonhousing.org.

Page 14

BMHBA Building Buzz

NDAB NEWS

Volume XXII, Issue 6

Monthly News from the North Dakota Association of Builders

We kicked off June with our annual visit to Washington D.C. for NAHB meetings as well as our annual meetings with our national delegates Senator Heitkamp and Senator Hoeven. Typically we meet with Congressman Cramer too, but the House was on break during our time there. One of the topics we covered with our legislators was highlighted LeRoy Kurtyka

by NAHB recently and I want to draw attention NDAB President to it here. Visit www.nahb.org for more information and I'll look forward to keeping you all up to date on more issues affecting our industry.

May 13, 2015 - The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) today commended the House for passing legislation that would prevent the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from vastly increasing federal jurisdiction over the nation’s waterways and wetlands without going through the proper rulemaking process.

“This legislation would prevent a federal land grab that would raise housing costs and harm conservation, water quality, job growth and economic development,” said NAHB Chairman Tom Woods, a home builder from Blue Springs, Mo. Approved by a bipartisan vote of 261 to155, H.R. 1732, the Regulatory Integrity Protection Act, would require EPA and the Corps to withdraw their proposed rule and develop a new plan in consultation with state and local governments and other affected stakeholders, including the small business community. The bill also stipulates that such a plan must be based on sound economic and scientific analysis.

By proposing to dramatically enlarge the definition of “waters of the United States” to include almost any water body, such as ditches, mudflats, isolated ponds and other water features, the agencies would vastly increase federal regulatory power over private property. “The proposed rule would not add any meaningful environmental protections but it would exacerbate regulatory uncertainty by significantly extending the areas in which home builders are required to get permits,” said Woods. “In turn, this would lead to bureaucratic delays, additional costs and more expensive homes.”

The agencies failed to consult with state and local governments before unveiling their plan last year, prompting 34 states to formally request that the proposed rule be withdrawn. Moreover, EPA and the Corps did not adhere to the Regulatory Flexibility Act, which requires an assessment on how the proposal would affect America’s small businesses.

NAHB is urging the Senate to pass companion legislation S. 1140, the Federal Water Quality Protection Act, sponsored by Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.).

June 2015

Advocacy

NDAB Looks Nationally

LeRoy

June 2015

Kim Schneider NDAB Executive Officer

Advocacy is a big piece of your membership at the local, state and national levels. We advocate for what is best for the building industry at city commission meetings, during the Legislative session and with members of Congress. We work closely with our members and the advocates at NAHB to ensure that our voices are being heard on the issues that are of importance to the home building industry.

BuilderLink is a great national grassroots program through NAHB that connects members of Congress to their constituents. Your voice is the strongest and holds the most impact when it comes to those who represent you. As NAHB reminds us, if you have a state in home building, then you know that every day Congress makes decisions that affect the home building industry and your bottom line.

Another way to support the advocacy work is donate to NDAB-PAC or BUILD-PAC. If you haven’t yet, it may be because you aren’t aware of exactly what a PAC is and what your contribution really is used for.

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.

BUILD-PAC stands for Builders United in Legislative Decisions Political Action Committee. Just like NDAB-PAC, Build-PAC disburses money to candidates and committees – both Republican and Democrat- and works hand-in-hand with NAHB’s advocacy team to be your voice at the national level and on Capitol Hill. Both PAC’s believe there is strength in numbers and act as a front line of defense for the industry monitoring legislative issues, supporting pro-housing, pro-business candidates. Matters that are critical to the industry that are currently being monitored include tax, housing finance and immigration reform, preserving the mortgage interest deduction, flood insurance, and energy efficiency and environmental issues.

NDAB-PAC has representatives from each of the six local associations with each having a Trustee and Alternate Trustee representing across the state. BUILD-PAC has over 150+ Trustees that represent from across the nation, including a Trustee from North Dakota and are made up of members who understand the issues impacting their home states. According to NAHB, BUILD-PAC has raised over $1.88 million and disbursed more than $1.5 million to congressional candidates and committees in the 2013-2014 election cycle. BUILD-PAC is one of the most recognized and well-respected PACs in Washington and NDAB is proud to be a part of their team.

All levels of contributions are welcomed and appreciated and can be given in the form of personal check, cash or credit card. BUILD-PAC has levels ranging from Delegate up to Capitol Club. If interested in learning more about donating, please call our office or visit www.ndbuild.com/ndab-pac/ or www,nahb.org/buildpac.

Warm wishes to you and yours, Kim Schneider

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

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BMHBA Building Buzz

June 2015

Around the State

Dot Frank, Executive Officer 701-222-2400

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701-746-4536 bmhba.com

The Spring Parade of Homes attracted more than 3,500 adults attendees. The Parade featured 43 homes in Bismarck, Mandan and Lincoln with an average price of $429,680.

The association hosted NAHB’s webinar “The Remodeler’s Guide to Happy Customers.” The event was held in the association board room and included lunch and discussion.

The Spring GMM & Awards Ceremony was held at the Baymont Inn & Suites on May 12. More than 100 members enjoyed a meal, association updates and congratulated Parade of Homes award winners.

The Annual Membership Picnic will take place June 11 at the Post in Mandan.

Free beer, a catered BBQ and cash bar serve as event staples.

Dickinson Area Builders Assoc.

Irene Schafer, Executive Officer 701-483-0044 dickinsonareabuilders.com

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Dickinson builders are looking forward to a very busy summer.

We wrapped up our Home Show and are busy working on Home Show 2016.

We are 25-30% booked for next year.

The annual picnic and golf scramble will be booked in August. Watch for more details.

Bryce Johnson, Executive Vice President hbafm.com 701-232-5846

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The HBA of F-M had a great Spring Parade of Homes and raised just under $10,000 for Home Builders Care of Fargo-Moorhead Foundation.

The Parade of Homes Celebration was a success with over 150 members in attendance.

Director of Accounting & Records Amanda Ohlsen celebrated her 10-year -anniversary with the HBA of F-M. A new database and website are in the works, scheduled to be completed by the end of the summer.

The HBA of F-M held two basement construction classes to cover floodproof basement requirements in Fargo.

The HBA of F-M’s golf outings will be June 16 and July 14, sponsorships are almost sold out.

Forx Builders Association Betty McDonald, Executive Officer www.ndbuild.com

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forxbuilders.com

Our annual Sporting Clay Shoot was held at the Dakota Hunting Club. Thank you to Andersen Windows & Doors for sponsoring the event. It was a great day for the everyone. Thank you to all the station sponsors and shooters.

The welcome mat it out for those coming to Grand Forks for the June NDAB Board of Directors Meeting and the Birdie with the Builders Golf Outing June 17th and 18th.

The 2015 Project House is completed and we are proud to announce that we have a buyer. Graduation for the Northland Community & Technical College students that worked on the house was May 15th. Scholarships were presented to the residential carpentry students.

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

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Annual MAB Trap Shoot Night and Fun Night is set for June 22nd @ 5:00. Steak Fry sponsored by Real Builders

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Annual Past Presidents' Golf Tournament is scheduled for August 17th with registration starting at noon.

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September Builders After Hours will be hosted by Verendrye Electric at their Minot office.

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

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On 2015 5th Annual Home & Garden Show was a great success with increased booths and attendance.

Miss North Dakota and Miss Williston State College were present for pictures and sign autographs. A Community Booth was filled overflowing with the Police Department, Fire Department, Williston State College, Catholic Health and The Rotary Club. The food drive for Salvation Army brought in 323 pounds of food. WABA donated $500 to Salvation Army.

May General Membership Meeting sponsored by The City of Williston

North Dakota Association of Builders

Building Department and Montana Dakota Utilities. We invite all contractors and members of the Williston area Builders Assoc. Updates on building codes will be provided along with and Association news. We encourage you to be a part of the active networking in the building industry. Location is the ARC at 6:30pm.

Thank you to the NDAB 2015 Partners! We truly appreciate your support and we are very excited to serve you throughout the entire year!

Gold Partner - Montana Dakota Utilities Silver Partners - Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association, Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead and Northern Plumbing Supply Bronze Partners - Bell State Bank & Trust, Forx Builders Association, Minot Association of Builders, ND Guaranty & Title Co., ND Housing Finance Agency, ProBuild, RDO Equipment Co., and Williston Area Builders Association Thanks to our 2015 ND Professional Builders! We appreciate your commitment to continuing educations and staying up to date with the newest industry standards!

Visit www.ndbuild.com for more info or to apply!

Eric Berg, Eric Berg Construction, Fargo Charles Bon, C’est Bon Construction, Robinson Michael Bullinger, Western Products Inc., Fargo Don Dabbert, Dabbert Custom Homes, Fargo Jason Eid, Eid-Co Buildings, Inc., Fargo Arthur Goldammer, Verity Homes, Bismarck/ Fargo John Gunkelman, Dakota Construction, Fargo Todd Halle, T & S Custom Homes, Harwood Vern Hanson, Hanson Bros., Inc., Fargo Robert Kochmann, Kochmann Brothers Homes, Fargo Greg Krueger, Krueger Construction, Fargo Tyrone Leslie, Heritage Homes, Fargo Gary Orth, Cornerstone Specialties, Fargo Jarred Roloff, Paramount Builders, Bismarck Jamie Schmidt, Triton Homes, Bismarck Tom Spaeth, Accent Contracting, Fargo Mike Workman, Jordahl Custom Homes, Fargo Charlie Zach, Zach Construction, Wahpeton

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June 2015

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

PAID Permit #72 Bismarck, ND 58501

2600 Gateway Ave., Ste. 1 Bismarck, ND 58503

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