April 2018 Building Connections Magazine

T H E E - M AG A Z I N E O F T H E H B R A O F FA I R F I E L D CO U N TY

APRIL 2018

Features HBID April General Membership Meeting NAHB Conference PWB Meeting

UPCOMING APRIL 27, 2018 - Energy Code Changes MAY 2, 2018 - Architect & GMM Night MAY 10-11, 2018 - OSHA10 MAY 16, 2018 - Member Mixer JUNE 6, 2018 Annual Meeting

2017-18 OFFICERS President Chris Steiner Steiner, Inc.

Sr. Vice-President Anthony DeRosa DeRosa Builders

Vice-President Kim DiMatteo DiMatteo Group

Secretary John Hertz

Hertz Construction

Immediate Past President Peter Gaboriault Bear Paw Builders

2017-18 DIRECTORS Peter Battaglio Hocon Gas

Max Bender Bender Supply

Steve Berko

Four Square Build & Design

Michael Church

William Pitt Sotheby’s

Ken DeLeo

Doherty & DeLeo

Brian Kurtz

Interstate Lumber

Rob Michaud

The Michaud Group

Steven Roth

gas

Elevator Service Company

Alex Shook

Pella Commercial

Michael Wood Wood Builders

LIFE DIRECTORS Joanne Carroll JMC Resources

Peter Fusaro Preferred Builders

Jerry Effren The Greyrock Companies

Maureen Hanley United Bank

Gary Fanali City Carting

Michael Palumbo ERI Building & Design

MEDIA SPONSOR

Thank you to the following VIP Associate Members for their support in 2018. Due to their generosity the Association greatly benefits - from developing new events and educational opportunities for the membership, to keeping our lights on!

Building Connections is a monthly digital magazine produced and published by the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Fairfield County. Inside you will find the latest association news, legislative updates, upcoming events, and featured articles about the industry.

Editorial Staff

Find Us On Social Media

Jackie Bertolone Executive Officer Sarah Iannarone Membership & Events Coordinator

hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com www.buildfairfieldcounty.com

Clare Michalak Marketing & Graphics Coordinator

Subscribe

Advertise

Got News?

Sign up here to subscribe to have Building Connections Magazine delivered to your inbox every month

Advertise your business to a list of over +1200 recipients! Click HERE for more information and opportunities

Exciting news to share? Send your press release or article to hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com to be featured in the next issue

IN THIS ISSUE

9

HBID

10

APRIL GMM

12

Legislative Alert

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Upcoming Events Message from the Executive Officer April General Membership Meeting Legislative Day at the Capitol NAHB EO Conference Professional Women in Building Meeting New Members Legislative Alerts Murphy Brothers Win Town Vibe Green Award Fifty Shades of Different Town-home Sprinkler Rule Universal Design Features Millennials Leading Growth Diversifying the Industry’s Workforce Steady Gains in Construction Employment Empowering the Industry’s Future Leaders NAHB Census Younger Households More Likely...

Housing Starts Rise 1.9% HBRA Job Bank Dear Sandler Coach Annual Meeting Award Nominations Energy Codes Training OSHA10 Member Benefits

p. 6 p. 8 p. 8 p. 10 p. 10 p. 12 p. 14 p. 18 p. 19 p. 19 p. 20 p. 20 p. 22 p. 22 p. 22 p. 23 p. 25 p. 24 p. 24 p. 25 p. 25 p. 27 p. 28 p. 29 p. 30

Advertisers: Acadia Interstate Lumber Ridgefield Supply Tooher Ferraris Ed’s Garage Doors County TV & Appliance Hocon Gas United Bank Fairfield County Bank Marlin Electric Brothers that Just Do Gutters Bender DiMatteo Group Elevator Service Company CTC&G Ring’s End

p. 2 p. 15 p. 16 p. 19 p. 20 p. 21 p. 23 p. 24 p. 26 p. 30 p. 31 p. 31 p.32 p. 37 p. 38 p. 39

MARK YOUR CALENDARS UPCOMING EVENTS

APRIL 27, 2018

May 16, 2018

1

Energy Code Changes

New Member Event

Stratford, CT

Stratford CT 06615, US

Click Here to Register

Click Here to Register

May 2, 2018

MAY 30, 2018

Rings End Educational Facility 160 Avon St.

GMM & Architect Night Clarke Distributors 64 South Main Street

South Norwalk, CT 06854

Two Roads Brewery 1700 Stratford Ave.

Trades Roundtable JM Wright Technical High School 120 Bridge St, Stamford, CT 06905

Click Here to Register

SAVE THE DATE

May 10-11, 2018

JUNE 6, 2018

OSHA10

Rings End Educational Facility 160 Avon St. Stratford, CT

Annual Meeting Italian Center

SEE SPONSORSHIPS

Click Here to Register

UPCOMING MEETINGS

Associate Council Meeting - May 8 Membership Committee - May 16 Professional Women in Building- May 17 Golf Committee- May 22 6 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dear Members, I spent the last two days at a conference for new Executive Officers at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) where I learned more about the vast resources NAHB provides not only to EOs to help make our association great, but also countless benefits provided directly to members. In addition to the discount and rebate programs we already advertise, here are a few worth noting:

• Video production and ads at a significantly reduced cost

• Access to funding for builder related law suits

• Information on housing data specific to CT Click here

• NAHB has 12 economists that compile data nationwide. Subscribe to HousingEconomics.com

• The NAHB Housing Finance team has 5 experts that can assist members with questions or problems on builder financing, capital markets, affordable housing financing and much more

• NAHB estimates 25% of the cost of building a home is regulatory compliance. Their regulatory advocacy team can help navigate red tape through compliance advice, answers to questions on specific issues. They also put together a land use tool kit 101 • Information to help you run your business Click Here We have a robust association with over 450 members who are working every day building up our beautiful state. As of January 2018, you are among 139,740 members nationwide from 648 local HBA’s that average 244 members.

I have walked away from this conference with several ideas on services we can provide and new events & trainings I think you will find useful.

Our mission is to help promote, protect and improve the building industry here in Connecticut. I would love to speak with you or visit your business and learn more about how the HBRA can better serve you. Please don’t hesitate to contact me at any time.

All the best,

Jackie L Bertolone Executive Officer

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 7

H B RA E V E N TS

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING AT AITORO APPLIANCE On April 4th, HBRA members and guests met at Aitoro Appliance & Electronics in Norwalk for the April General Membership Meeting. With over 35 new faces in the crowd, members and guests had a great time networking and learning about new products in the industry. Thank you to Tony, Lora, and the entire Aitoro staff for the hospitality, delicious food and raffle prizes. Congratulations to Ken DeLeo for winning this month’s membership raffle prize of $500! Look out for next month’s meeting and Architect Night at Clarke Distributors in South Norwalk. Congratulations to Kim DiMatteo of The DiMatteo Group and Jon Small of Marlin Electric for their Spike Awards.

Acadia Insurance Group presented the HBRA of Fairfield County with a check for over $17,000 as part of the insurance royalty program. Thank you Acadia and to all of our insurance representatives.

8 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 9

H B RA E V E N TS Legislative Day At The Capitol Home builders across the state met on April 3rd for Home Building Industry day at the Capitol. Builders, some associates and HBRA staff met for breakfast and a discussion session with local legislators. Issues discussed included building regulations and several bills that could have a real impact on our industry and our member’s bottom line. Thanks to the builders who took time out of their busy schedules to advocate on behalf of our industry and to the legislators who took time to listen. The legislative session ends on May 9th and we will continue to send out alerts on important bills.

NAHB EO CONFERENCE Our executive officer attended the NAHB EO Orientation in Washington DC on April 23rd and 24th. A new resource the staff at NAHB compiled is state specific housing data. You can also break down the information by congressional district.

(L-R) Sheila Leach (Northwestern), Jackie Bertolone (Fairfield County), Rick Burt (Director of Executive Officers Council at NAHB), Theresa Mullin (Eastern) Eric Person (Central) and Jim Perras (State )

Click here to see information about Connecticut.

10 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

(L-R) Eric Person (Central), Sheila Leach (Northwestern), Jackie Bertolone (Fairfield County), Greg Ugalde (Vice Chairman for NAHB), Theresa Mullin (Eastern) and Jim Perras (State )

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 11

H B RA E V E N TS

PWB MEETING AT LILLIAN AUGUST On April 19th, the Professional Women in Building Council held its monthly meeting at Lillian August in Norwalk. This new council in the HBRA invites women in the building industry to come together to learn from each other and network. Second in a series of monthly presentations was a presentation and discussion on Sales Techniques, followed by group networking on specific topics. Thank you to Lillian August for hosting our April meeting.

The PWB currently consists of 32 members on the council from a variety of backgrounds including building, project management, architecture, staging, and marketing, among many others. The PWB was established late in 2017 and has evolved into a very active council. If you are interested in joining the Professional Women in Building Council please call the office at 203-335-7008 or email hbra@ buildfairfieldcounty.com.

“Women who invest in themselves go further.

Our group is focused on education and how to maximize our business efforts to be successful in our highly competitive industry.�

- Amber Wilder, CGP, CAP, Chair of the PWB

12 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

Aleighan Bunkers of DeRosa Builders (L) and Amber Wilder CAPS, CGP of Elevator Service Company (R) gave a brief presentation about Sales Techniques.

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 13

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome to the newest members of HBRA of Fairfield County!

Go to www.buildfairfieldcounty.com for their contact info.

Jason McBride

Anthony & Sylvan Pools Over 70 years ago, Anthony Pools began offering swimming pools on the west coast and, through inspiration and achievements, spread eastward.

Sylvan Pools, a family owned swimming pool company on the east coast, was also founded over 70 years ago and expanded to become an industry leader across the U.S. Both of these companies were innovators in service, design and installation. In 1996, Anthony Pools and Sylvan Pools merged operations and is known today throughout the nation as Anthony & Sylvan Pools.

John May

hibu We’ve been helping small businesses succeed for over 80 years. We’ve seen what works — and we’re continually updating the solutions we offer — from our website designs to our social media marketing, our search campaigns to reviews management — to adapt to new technologies and opportunities. We’ve developed a proven 3-step process designed to grow your business online.

Tori McBrien

McBrien Interiors LLC Tori enjoys working with each of her clients to take on their unique design challenges, and loves nothing more than to help them achieve their vision.

“Doing research on various styles, creating a furniture plan for a tricky space, or even using new color combinations are just a few of the aspects of interior design that I love and find so interesting,” Tori says. She’s proud to have clients “with a range of needs. It keeps my creativity flowing!”

Eugene P. Schreiner Patriot Bank

From an added level of convenience to better banking options, faster answers and innovative solutions that simplify your day, our goal is to deliver a superior banking experience that also benefits our communities.

Since we opened our doors in 1994, our mission has been to serve our local communities by helping our neighbors and neighborhood businesses thrive.

14 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

Cassondra Stevenson

Redwood Construction & Consulting, LLC Redwood Construction & Consulting LLC of Bethel, CT focuses not only on premium construction and remodeling but also on you (the customer’s) needs and satisfaction. We’re not happy until you’re happy. We strive to cover all bases on every job to simplify the process for you and let you handle other important things in your life. We’ll deliver on promises and build with highquality materials and workmanship so you can rely on dependable products that will last.

Welcome to our Newest Affiliates!

Pavel Ignatovich

Lori Ellis

Woodwell Construction Corps.

Anthony & Sylvan Pools

Mindy Gerhardt

Tooher Ferraris Insurance Services

5 3/4"

7 1/4"

Cornerstone Contracting

RK Russell

13/16"

3/4"

ILINE 1902

ILINE 1903

ILINE 1901S

ILINE 1903S

The ILINE Collection is a comprehensive moulding program that offers a fresh pallet of new and vibrant profiles that will be an enhancement to any interior space. These profiles are divided into categories based upon their specific application. To ensure that the proper mouldings are specified in the project, simply write the corresponding ILINE moulding number in your specifications, or architectural plans.

View and download profiles at interstatelumber.com

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 15

LEGISLATIVE

ALERT hartford, CT

RESOURCES

If you don’t know who your State Representative or State Senator are, please click below.

FIND MY LEGISLATOR For the best resource to keep you up to date on news from the State Capitol, visit CT Capitol Report.

CT CAPITOL REPORT

Dear HBRA Members, You may have heard that the Connecticut Finance, Revenue & Bonding Committee passed a bill in support of the implementation of tolls in Connecticut. The vote tally can be viewed here. Now that they have voted it out of committee, the Speaker of the House indicated he would call it for a vote on the House floor before the legislative session ends on May 9th.

What does this mean for you?

The bill would give the Department of Transportation the authority to install tolls throughout the state. Contrary to public perception, it is illegal in Connecticut to place tolls only on the borders.

One study suggested putting up electronic toll gantries at 12 places along I-95 between New Haven and the New York line, with ten tolling spots along the Merritt Parkway. At 50 cents per station on I-95, a one-way, peak hour trip from New Haven to New York would cost a driver $6.

Call or write your legislator and let them know how you feel about tolls. It is critical they hear from you now before they cast a vote which could be as soon as next week!

READ MORE

The Connecticut Transportation Finance Panel estimates it will cost $373 million to install the tolls, and that does not include the environmental impact studies, and studies of traffic diversion and economic impacts.

Another study said that 71% of the toll revenue would come from residents while only 29% would come from out of state drivers. Undoubtedly, the cost of doing business will go up and this legislation will have a direct impact on Fairfield County. It's unclear the final package the legislature will be voting on at this time, but it's imperative lawmakers understand how their constituents feel.

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 17

MEMBER NEWS Murphy Brothers Win Town Vibe Green Award

M

(l-r: Oliver Koehler, Suntegra, Michael Murphy, Murphy Brothers Contracting, Andrew Nuzzi, AIA)

urphy Brothers Contracting, HBRA-CT members, were recent recipients of a Town Vibe Green Award in the category of “Businesses or non-profit organizations that have significantly incorporated green practices or products into their culture and operations”. Murphy Brothers believe that building green is simply building smart which is why they incorporated Suntegra Solar roof Shingles into their Stamford renovation project. On hand to accept the award with Michael Murphy from Murphy Brothers Contracting were Suntegra CEO, Oliver Koehler and Andrew Nuzzi, AIA. “Award-winning projects are always the result of teamwork and good decisions by our client”, said Murphy, “We are delighted to share this honor with Suntegra and the project architect, Andrew Nuzzi”. The Green Awards recognize businesses, non-profits, and individuals who are leading the local fight to protect the environment while also creating a sustainable social and economic community. All the winners were honored at a reception and ceremony at Hotel Zero Degrees in Danbury, CT. For more information on the event, visit http://www.townvibe.com/Wilton/ March-April-2018/Fifth-Annual-Green-Award-Winners/ . Murphy Brothers Contracting, owned by Greenwich, Ct residents Sean & Chris Murphy, also received a 2017 HOBI Award for this same Stamford, CT renovation project in the category of “Best Exterior Green Feature”.

Fifty Shades Of Different In This Modern Westport Industrial Home

M

any newly constructed houses in Fairfield County have a sleek, sophisticated industrial line with a monochromatic gray palette; some people referring to them as “fifty shades of gray.”

The listing agent for the modern industrial colonial farmhouse at 5 Ridgewood Lane in Westport’s Old Hill neighborhood calls this new construction spec house “fifty shades of different.”

Apparently, industry experts think so, too. This Energy Starrated house received the HOBI Award (Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Connecticut) for Outstanding Spec Home Remodel at the November 2017 awards ceremony.

It was built in 2017 by Fairfield-based Tiago Building Group. The team “reinvented new construction” with one-of-a-kind modern industrial elements. Throughout the house there are reclaimed and re-purposed materials - glass, tile, concrete, antique wood, marble, metal and more. The materials meld together to create a tapestry of eclectic finishes.

The design of this 4,800-square-foot house was inspired by reclaimed metal cabinetry that came from a factory, the agent said. Raw metals were used as design features. Piping was repurposed to serve as functional elements as in the support structure for benches and shelving, and for the hanging mechanisms in the master bedroom closet.

Read More 18 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 19

BUILDER NEWS Townhome-sprinkler rule has builders feeling hosed Universal Design Features Top Kitchen And Bath ew townhouses built in Connecticut could become more expensive — and Trends

N

I

safer in a fire — if the state co-signs a recently embraced building standard requiring installation of sprinkler systems in these attached living units.

Designed and built like apartments and condominiums, but typically sold to owner-occupants, townhomes occupy a relatively small niche in the state’s housing inventory.

On April 11, the state’s Codes and Standards Committee, responsible for setting building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing and energy code requirements for all residential and commercial structures, voted 11-1, with two abstentions, to require new townhomes be equipped with overhead water sprinklers that would automatically activate in a fire.

Next step is for the state Legislative Regulation Review Committee to decide, within 45 days of formal notification of the committee’s vote, whether the measure proceeds toward a July 1 implementation. Or, the regulation review panel could direct the measure back to the Codes and Standards Committee for more discussion and/or public hearings, authorities say.

Connecticut’s homebuilders are upset about the new requirement, which they say would add at least $10,000 per unit to build new townhouses. That, in turn, says Tolland homebuilder Liz Koivo means she would have to price her units higher, to recover sprinkler-installation costs from buyers.

Read More

nstead of purchasing a new home, homeowners are still opting to make additions and alterations to their current home, or incorporate new kitchen and bathroom features that will aid aging-in-place, according to the quarterly AIA Home Design Trends Survey released this week. This iteration of the survey delves into kitchen and bath design activity during the fourth quarter of 2017, based on responses from more than 500 residential architecture firms.

Homeowners are placing less importance on the number of bathrooms in homes, and placing more importance on size. At the end of 2017, 25% of firms reported increased demand for larger bathrooms, a one point increase from a year prior.

Read More

B E A U T Y. ELEGANCE. STRENGTH. Our Aluminum Doors Will Surprise You. Ed’s Garage Doors offers a broad selection of aluminum doors that are the perfect complement to your home.

Visit our showroom to see many exclusive aluminum doors on display, and talk with a design expert about our countless in-stock and custom options.

Showroom Hours: Mon. – Fri.: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Evenings: Sunday:

By appointment Closed 136 Water Street, Norwalk, CT 06854 203-847-1284 edsgaragedoors.com

®

20 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

BUILD WITH US

County Has All Your Appliance & Smart Home Needs

APPLIANCES

AUDIO

SMART HOME & NETWORKING

HDTVS...and more

BEST SERVICE AT THE GUARANTEED BEST PRICE In-Store And Online

2770 Summer Street • Stamford, CT 06905 • 203-327-2630

STORE HOURS: MON & THURS: 9AM-9PM TUES, WED, FRI & SAT: 9AM-6PM SUN: 11AM-5PM

www.countytv.com APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 21

NAHB NEWS Millennials Leading Growth Of New Home Buyers

A

s the housing industry celebrates New Homes Month in April, recent data from the Census Bureau confirms that millennials are increasingly entering the housing market as first-time buyers.

The homeownership rate of millennials—now at 36 percent—registered the largest gains among all age groups in 2017. As the nation’s largest demographic group, more than 70 million millennials are poised to dominate the home buying market in the months and years ahead.

“Millennials are recognizing the benefits of homeownership and are eager to buy their first homes,” said National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Chairman Randy Noel, a custom home builder from LaPlace, La. “And contrary to conventional wisdom, this generation is in the market for single-family homes in the suburbs as they look ahead to raising their families.”

Home builders recognize the changing demographics and the increasing demand for entry-level homes. Yet rising construction costs and limited lot availability create significant challenges to building smaller, single-family detached homes that are both affordable to first-time buyers and cost-effective for builders.

With millennials willing to compromise on space, townhouses are offering a more affordable option for younger buyers ready to purchase their first homes. After experiencing a drop during the Great Recession, the share of new townhome construction has been rising since 2009. According to NAHB analysis of Census data, townhome construction in 2017 was up seven percent from 2016.

Millennials also are looking for homes with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, outdoor space, flexible areas that can be used for a variety of purposes and more luxurious finishes, like quartz countertops.

Read More

Diversifying the Industry’s Workforce to Address the Labor Shortage

A

s the residential construction industry continues to grapple with a severe labor shortage, one solution is clear to many industry leaders.

“You have a potential labor force that is underutilized – women,” said NAHB’s former Professional Women in Building (PWB) Council Chair Juli Bacon during a roundtable discussion at the 2018 International Builders’ Show in Orlando.

While the industry is making progress in reintroducing the trades in schools, it’s time to also think about how to expand the type of students being recruited.

Women continue to make up a small percentage of the overall number of workers in the construction industry — about 9%, according to National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) — prompting some industry leaders to examine what can be done to remove obstacles that are preventing more women from pursuing careers in residential construction.

“I think some of it has to do with being able to tell a story to women in a way that might be a little bit different than telling that story to young men,” said panelist Heather Stafford Gay, CAPS, MPA, Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis Read More 22 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

NAHB Study Shows Steady Gains In Construction Employment, But Levels Remain Below Peak

A

new construction employment analysis from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) shows that 9.8 million people worked in construction in 2016, and more than 3.8 million of them worked in residential construction. These numbers reflect modest but steady job gains since 2011, when construction employment bottomed out. However, employment levels remain below the peaks reached during the housing boom in 2006, when more than 11 million worked in construction, and home building employed more than 5 million people.

“While it is promising to see that residential construction employment is on the rise, it is still far below where we need to be to meet the increasing demand for housing,” said NAHB Chairman Randy Noel, a custom home builder from LaPlace, La. “We will continue to push for programs and policies that address the labor shortage, such as workforce development initiatives and comprehensive immigration reform.”

NAHB’s analysis also shows the number of home building jobs across states and congressional districts.

California tops the nation in employment of residential construction workers—more than half a million residents worked in home building in 2016. This number is still down significantly from the 2006 peak of 788,000, though. Despite being one of the states most severely affected by the housing downturn, Florida comes in second with 361,000 residential construction workers.

Read More

Keys to Empowering the Industry’s Future Leaders

A

growing group of women leaders are challenging the status quo and making their mark in residential construction.

NAHB’s Professional Women in Building (PWB) Council and Students Chapters program are supporting a new generation of women in the building and construction trades. Through mentoring and scholarship programs, along with the opportunity to gain real-world experience in the field, emerging leaders are receiving the tools they need to build a solid career in the industry.

Case in point: the prestigious NAHB Student Competition held annually at the International Builders’ Show.

The shifting demographics of the competitors could be one indicator of the industry’s future. Celebrating its 28th anniversary at this year’s IBS, the competition’s award winners for the first time included teams with predominantly female competitors and team leaders.

The team from Shadow Ridge High School in Surprise, Ariz., placed first in the secondary program competition. Two of the team’s competitors returned this year after being part of the first all-female team in the 2017 competition.

Who are NAHB’s Builder Members?

E

very year the National Association of Home Builders conducts a member census in order to better understand the composition and characteristics of the people who belong to its organization. In 2017, 32 percent of NAHB’s members were builders— those directly involved in home building. The remaining 68 percent were associate members—those involved in supportive industries and professions, such as trade contractors, manufacturers, retailers/distributors, designers, and architects.

Read More

The predominantly all-female third place team from Rockville High School in Vernon, Conn., was featured in their local news station’s Stories of Hope series. The impact of competing at IBS gave many of these aspiring builders the confidence they need to continue in the field.

Read More

HBRA_BldgConnectionsMag_HlfPg_Ad_8x5.25.indd 1

12/28/17 4:27 PM

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 23

NAHB NEWS Younger Households More Likely to Have Auto Loans Housing Starts Rise 1.9 than Mortgages Percent on Multifamily Surge

H

omeownership provides a distinct advantage for wealth accumulation.

Although many households desire to purchase a home, the share of households living in owner-occupied housing remains low, following a steep decline associated with the Great Recession. Younger households, those under the age of 35, experienced the biggest declines in homeownership, although recent evidence suggests that the homeownership rate among these households is rising.

In contrast, analysis of the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF) indicates that younger households are more likely to take out auto loans to purchase cars, leading to a faster recovery in auto ownership than homeownership. This is also reflective of the relative ease of obtaining auto debt relative to mortgage debt.

While the incidence of auto loan debt among younger households has returned to more normal levels through 2016, the share of younger households with home mortgage debt remained low.

Across all households in 2016, the share of families with home mortgage debt (42%) exceeded the percentage of households with auto loan debt (34%). As illustrated by the figure above, while this difference held true for age categories 35 and above, families where the head was under the age of 35 were more likely to have auto loans than home mortgage debt.

G

ains in multifamily production pushed overall housing starts up 1.9 percent in March to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.32 million units, according to newly released data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Commerce Department Multifamily production rose 14.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 452,000 units—its highest reading since December 2016. Meanwhile, singlefamily starts fell 3.7 percent to 867,000 units.

Read More

Read More

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE. Deep community roots.

Unrivaled market knowledge.

Unmatched customer service.

When a bank builds its commercial banking team around the values that truly make a difference in helping your business grow and prosper, that’s more than banking. That’s changing the way you bank.

Talk to us today.

Visit bankatunited.com/commercial

24 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

From left to right: Lisa Stuard, Mark Hubina, Maureen Hanley, Gregory Pastor, Kim Karl and Kathryn Eren.

Proud to support the HBRA. 866.959.BANK (2265) | bankatunited.com

NMLS# 430007 | Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

DEAR SANDLER COACH Dear Sandler Coach,

HBRA JOB BANK The HBRA JOB BANK is a FREE service for HBRA Members. If you would like to have a job posted, please use the Job Posting form to submit the information.

The fee for Non-members is $50.

Please contact the HBRA office at 203-3357008 or email us for more information, FREE Resume Posting (Open to the public) E-mail your resume in Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat PDF format.

Subject line: JOB BANK. Do not include your resume as body copy in an e-mail. Include a short paragraph summary of your skills or what type of job you are seeking.

The HBRA of Fairfield County is not an employment agency nor will the HBRA recommend or refer any person seeking employment. It is up to the Member to contact an applicant directly and make employment decisions.

I’m sick of chasing prospects, I send emails, I leave messages but they never get back to me. What am I doing wrong? Chris B, New Fairfield Hi Chris, First I feel your pain, I think everyone that sells anything can echo that frustration. Lots to unpack here but we can start with what exactly are you saying in your emails or messages? We tend to hear sales people use phrases like “I’m just checking in” or “I’m interested in learning more about your business” or even “I have a great offer I want to discuss with you” All these statements are very much on the salesperson side, as in it’s about them not the prospect. Don’t “just check in” have a real reason to reach out, maybe it’s an article you came across that reminded you of them or something you had previously discussed.

For prospecting make sure you are talking about an issue in their world and how your product or service can possible help that go away as opposed to how great it is or how long your company has been around for. Bottom line in sales is generally people care about themselves, if you solve their personal pain then they will listen to you, if you are just another typical salesperson with the same story as everyone else then there is no reason to call you back. One more thing and this may not be easy to hear but not everyone is going to be a good candidate for you. Some people are just not qualified. Make sure you have more than enough prospects so that if one is not returning your calls its not as impactful. Sales is not easy but practice makes perfect and perfect.. makes.. money!

Happy Selling!

- John Fazio

John J. Fazio, Jr.

John’s clients include the single entrepreneur all the way up to Fortune 500 companies in the areas of sales, leadership, management and customer service.

Have a training question for John? Send your questions to hbra@ buildfairfieldcounty.com

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 25

FREE ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITY The HBRA of Fairfield County is offering a VALUEADDED membership opportunity to promote your business in our digital monthly magazine Building Connections!

A S S O C I AT E S P O T L I G H T

generation with the addition of Brian. This rich and vibrant tradition continues to grow as the company enters its 96th year in business. Brian joined the company in 2008 eager to continue its great success, and has played Since 1922 Interstate + Lakeland key role in helping chart the future course of Interstate Lumber has been dedicated + Lakeland Lumber. As an outside salesman for the past to servicing the needs of the five years he has managed to grow existing customer area’s finest builders throughout relationships as well as develop new ones with some of the Westchester and Fairfield counties.

Brian Kurtz top builders in the area. He brings passion and enthusiasm Committed to providing the every day to his work and is constantly looking for ways to highest quality of service and materials in the area with competitive pricing, Interstate + Lakeland Lumber improve customer satisfaction.

Over the next five years Brian plans to continue his has established itself as one of the leaders in product growth in all aspects of the company and focus on bringing knowledge and representation. From framing lumber, both dimensional and engineered, to windows, siding, in the next generation of dedicated IL employees to help Interstate flourish. and trim, Interstate + Lakeland Lumber can supply Please stop into Interstate + Lakeland Lumber’s award the full array of building materials to suit any type of winning Window and Door showroom in Greenwich project. We are most proud of our molding program CT, or any one of the 5 locations to speak with our with over 300 molding profiles in stock that make up knowledgeable and friendly staff that represent the the IL Greenwich Collection. Interstate + Lakeland Lumber just recently launched 40 additional profiles to Interstate and Lakeland Lumber family. We look forward to supplying your next job.” make up their new “ILINE Collection”.

With our 100,000 sq ft millwork manufacturing and distribution center located in Bethel CT, we are leading the industry on the custom mill work side of the Interstate+Lakeland Lumber Corp. business for both interior and exterior production.

184 South Water Street Interstate + Lakeland Lumber is proud to be one of Greenwich CT 06830 the few and remaining successful family owned and www.interstatelumber.com operated businesses that has entered into its fourth Interstate+Lakeland Lumber Corp.

26 HBRA of Fairfield County | JUNE 2017

The Monthly Spotlight includes: • 1 FREE Full Page in the Building Connections Magazine • Space for company contact information and logos, linked to your website • Opportunity to display homes for sale, listing information, and notable homes • Opportunity to display awards and recognitions • See Pages 24 and 26 for examples.

CONTACT clare@buildfairfieldcounty.com to reserve your space today!

Financing some of the top builders in Fairfield County.

People you trust, service you expect, and products to fit your financial needs.

• Construction Financing • Commercial Mortgages • Term Loans • Revolving Lines of Credit

877.431.7431 • www.fairfieldcountybank.com 26 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

NMLS ID #516624

EQUAL HOUSING

LENDER

MEMBER F D IC

A N N U A L A W A R D N O M I N AT I O N S

Now Accepting Nominations!

It’s almost time for the HBRA Annual Meeting where we recognize members that have consistently dedicated themselves to the efforts that strengthen the residential construction industry in Fairfield County.

We encourage you to nominate a member that you feel is deserving of this recognition. Please click below to fill out a nomination form.

Nominations Due: May 1st Annual Meeting and Awards: June 6, 2018

CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE

Interested in Sponsorship Opportunities? Click Here

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE: CONTACT OUR OFFICE TODAY

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 27

TRAINING & SEMINARS

Friday, April 27, 2018 8:00AM - 9:30AM Registration begins at 7:45AM

Ring’s End Educational Facility 160 Avon Street Stratford, CT

REGISTER HERE Learn more about the 2015 IRC and the 2015 IECC. The training will cover the residential requirements of the new 2018 CT State Building Code, including: • • •

2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) residential requirements (which are the same requirements as Chapter 11 of the 2015 International Residential Code (IRC)).

Sample project showing compliance with the 2015 IECC. REScheck for the sample project.

A continental breakfast will be provided.

HBRA Members: $10.00

Non-Members: $25.00

Presenter: Fred Wajcs Fred Wajcs is an Energy Code Consultant located in South Windsor, Connecticut and is a licensed Professional Engineer. He has over 45 years of experience in public works administration, engineering, economic development and customer relations with electric and gas utilities. He has previously served on ASHRAE committees and is a current member of Connecticut’s Codes and Standards Committee. He is an active member of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Institute of Architects and the Connecticut Chapter of ASHRAE. Sponsored by:

28 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

OSHA10 CONSTRUCTION

Thursday, MAY 10 & Friday, MAY 11, 2018 8:00am-2:00pm Registration starts at 7:30AM

Ring’s End Educational Facility 160 Avon Street Stratford, CT

REGISTER HERE OSHA is coming to FINE you!

Get ahead of them & learn what you need to know for your business and your employees.

The OSHA 10-hour construction training course is designed for anyone in the construction industry. Upon completion, participants will receive an OSHA construction safety and health 10-hour course completion card from the Department of Labor.

HBRA Members: $35.00 Non-Members: $75.00 *Must attend both dates in order to receive OSHA card-per federal regulation.

Continental Breakfast & Lunch included both days.

Payment must be received by May 4th to reserve your spot.

Walk-Ins will not be accepted at this course due to limited seating.

(Fees include registration, continental breakfast, lunch, and OSHA card) Sponsored by:

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 29

CLASSIFIEDS The HBRA members classified sections is where members can post requests, offers, services, and a variety of other materials for HBRA members.

LOT FOR SALE PRIVATE SALE:

740 Mill Hill Terrace, Southport, CT • Fantastic opportunity to build in desirable Mill Hill/Southport • House is a teardown/not habitable • 1.32 acre lot provides privacy- yet within walking distance to Mill Hill Elementary School • Easy access to Post Rd and 95 • Quick drive to Train station(Southport or Fairfield) and downtown Fairfield • Town water and sewer • Offered at $445,000.00 Please contact Laszlo@trldg.com or tricia@trldg.com of TRL Development Group, LLC.

30 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

REQUEST GENTLY USED CABINETRY

A member is looking for gently used cabinetry, potentially from one of the remodeling or builder members. Please contact Maureen Hanley at mhanley@bankatunited.com or (203) 974- 6260

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD Please Email The Office HBRA@Buildfairfieldcounty.com Or Call 203-335-7008

M E M B E R B E N E F I TS

FREE SUBSCRIPTION As an HBRA member you receive a free subscription to New England Home Connecticut Magazine.

decorative plumbing | bath & kitchen cabinetry | lighting | tile & stone

visit us at BenderShowrooms.com

Bridgeport | Hartford | New Haven | Norwalk | Torrington | Waterbury

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 31

No time to check your email?

Too busy on the jobsite?

Sign up to receive the latest news and updates from the HBRA right to your cellphone. You can register for meetings, see the latest events, and receive text alerts about important legislative changes.

Texting and data rates may apply.

You can unsubscribe at any time by replying STOP.

Email hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com Look no further for an insurance agent who can work with you to design an insurance portfolio just right for your business.

If you engage in construction or remodeling of one or two family residences in CT then I want to talk to you.

Our construction insurance program includes: •

General Liability

•

Workers Compensation

•

Property

•

Umbrella

•

Business Auto

•

Builders Risk

•

Inland Marine

Kim Marie DiMatteo, CIC, MWCA

I have been in the construction insurance business since 1992. I know the markets, the products, and what’s right for you.

Call me today to schedule a convenient appointment.

79 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton, CT 06484 | 203.924.5429 | www.dimatteogrp.com 32 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

Learn more at HingedPro.com

The tools you need to improve sales and cut costs for only $29.99/mo.

FREE For HBRA New Members

Get Paid 3x Faster

Online Scheduling, 24/7

Credit Card Processing

Improve Customer Satisfaction

Send estimates and invoices with HingedPro’s easy one click accept and pay now features.

Accept payments online and receive funds quicker, as soon as the next business day.

Customers can book appointments from Facebook or your business’ website, based on your availability.

Automated notifications, reminders and order details to enhance your customer’s overall experience.

Take your business to the next level with more profits and less hassle.

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 33

HBRA of Fairfield County members

Save money with NPP Membership is free.

Join today at mynpp.com/hbra-of-fairfield-county

mynpp.com 800.810.3909 customerservice@mynpp.com 34 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

© 2018 National Purchasing Partners

NEW MEMBER BENEFIT PROGRAM MunnCo, LLC is a Business Membership Organization (BMO) startup that aggregates the buying power of businesses to give them access to top-tier business vendors with pre-negotiated programs that optimize our members’ growth. Our innovative portfolio of vendors provides numerous services to

Grow your business with a 25% discount on ADP services

Lower healthcare costs by $1,000/employee/year

50% off ($75 value) first sponsored job posting on world's #1 career site

increase efficiency, grow your business and boost profits.

30% off rentals + Avis Preferred® membership – avoid lines and paperwork

10% Rebate ($180 - $600 value) on PC Mag's #1 HR Management Software

The best payroll for small business.

Lower payroll expenses by 70% ($2,400/year/employee)

Exclusive 26% off over 100,000+ hotels

Improve sales, customer care and save 8% ($400 value)/year with a live-US based receptionist

35% discount on employment screening and background check services

ACTIVATE YOUR FREE MEMBERSHIP WWW.MUNNCO.COM/ASSOCIATIONS MunnCo has partnered with HBRA of Fairfield County to empower their members to grow and prosper.

For any questions, please contact info@munnco.com or call (360) 342-4908.

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 35

A free Member Benefit of HBRACT www.HBRACTrebates.com

WANT TO START GETTING MONEY FOR PRODUCTS YOU ALREADY USE? If you use any of these

EASY to participate!

Then it’s

The average rebate

36 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

WE ARE NEW TECHNOLOGIES

IN MOTION As the elevator and lift industry experts, Elevator Service Company is dedicated to finding the prefect product for your application. We offer the most reliable and efficient lift solutions in the industry. Our products come in every finish and option imaginable, so you can add your personal touch.

203-757-5000 www.ElevatorServiceCo.com CT Lic.# ELV. 400105 R1 ~ RI Lic. # 21 MA Lic.# EC-000093 Providing not one, but all Major Manufacturers Equipment

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 37

n ew york co ttag es & g ar d

en s o ct o be r 20 17

h am pt tt on s co

New York C ot

ag es

tages

rden & ga

COT

s ju ly 1, 20 17

connecticut cottages & gardens

ens Gard d n a s ttage ns Co o t p Ham

and G arden s

C PAREKNTRAL NORT SOUT H REDH SHORE H O TRIBE OK CA U EASPTPER SIDE SG TA G E

ARD

E N S .C

JU LY OM |

17 1, 20

COTTA

february 2018

COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | FEBRUARY 2018

cott

Color UR BA & SN S T Play S I T ARO TOR ag es g

ar den

s. com

cott ag es ga rd en s.c

ASES

om

C E L COL

cottagesgardens.com

38 HBRA of Fairfield County | APRIL 2018

GESG

ARDE

NS.C

OM | OCTO

BER

2017

RElove YOUR HOME

RingsEnd.com

800 390 1000

APRIL 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 39