Issuu

BUILDING CONNECTIONS

Your Monthly Newsletter

2026 OFFICERS

Immediate Past President: John Hertz

Hertz Construction Inc.

President: Rob Michaud

Michaud Development Group

Senior Vice President: Brian Kurtz Interstate

Vice President & Treasurer: Chris Shea

Domus Contructors, LLC

Secretary: Karen Bradbury

Closet & Storage Concepts

2026 DIRECTORS

Bepin Mgushi

Fixitup Building and Remodeling

Geoff Knapp

Tooher-Ferraris Insurance Group

George Pusser Cornerstone Contracting

Kevin Polcer Polcer Home, LLC

Lisa Heldwhite Breakwater Renovation & Design, LLC

Stephanie Rapp

Stephanie Rapp Interiors, LLC

Tori McBrien McBrien Interiors

LifeDirectors:

AnthonyDeRosa,DeRosaBuilders

ChrisSteiner,SteinerInc.

GaryFanali,CompleteDismantlingServices,LLC

JerryEffren,TheGreyrockCompanies

JoanneCarroll,JMCResources,LLC

KimDiMatteo,CrossInsurance

MichaelPalumbo,ERIBuilding&Design

PeterFusaro,PreferredBuilders

PeterGaboriault,BearPawBuilders

EXECUTIVE OFFICER WELCOME LETTER

Dear Members,

Welcome to the April edition of Building Connections. As spring takes hold across Fairfield County, our industry is buzzing with activity, opportunity, and renewed energy. This season is always a reminder of growth both in the projects we build and the relationships we strengthen along the way.

Spring is an exciting time for our association as we continue to offer valuable opportunities for connection, education, and collaboration. From engaging networking events to informative educational programs, there are many ways to stay involved, expand your knowledge, and build meaningful relationships with fellow members.

In this issue, you’ll find updates on recent events, upcoming programs, and highlights that showcase the strength and innovation of our membership. Our industry continues to evolve, and it is through shared ideas, professional development, and strong partnerships that we all move forward together. We look forward to seeing you at upcoming events and working together throughout this busy and productive spring season.

Kind Regards,

Kerry Brunn Executive Officer

Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Fairfield County

M I S S I O N

The mission of the HBRA is to help promote, protect & improve the building industry in Fairfield County Our association is dedicated to promoting, strengthening, and informing our local home building market and those who work within it to ensure that we are - independently and collectively - a viable economic engine of growth now and in the future.

Upcoming Events - Register Now!

Thursday April 30 : Building Science Seminar th

Fletcher Wakefield Showroom, Stamford | 5:00pm

Join us for an evening of good wine and better building science with Foster Lyons and Ryan Fletcher.

Explore how the building envelope shapes air, moisture, comfort, and longterm durability, and why it matters more than ever.

Sip and learn with fellow architects, builders, and designers for an evening of shared insight.

Wednesday May 6 : Residential Wall CEU Class th

Ring's End Educational Center, Stratford | 4:00pm

Join the HBRA of Fairfield County for a CEU Class on Residential Walls, presented by Ring's End, designed to help you understand today's building requirements of residential wall assemblies while being mindful of desired performance and budget.

Immediately following the CEU class we will move down the road to Two Roads for our May GMM & Member Mixer, included with your ticket

Wednesday May 6 : Member Mixer th

Two Roads Brewing Company, Stratford | 5:30pm-8:30pm

Enjoy local craft beer and an appetizer spread, and network with the HBRA board of directors, committee members, and the businesses who make up the HBRA of Fairfield County.

Tabletop display opportunities are also available!

Wednesday June 3 : Clambake at the Beach rd

Penfield Beach, Fairfield | 5:30pm-8:30pm

Save the date for our annual Clambake at the Beach - registration opens soon!

Monday September 14 : Annual Golf Classic th

Tashua Knolls Golf Course, Trumbull

Registration is now open for our annual Golf Classic, presented by Ring’s End! Golf in our 18 or 9 hole tournaments, attend our “Happy Hour” dinner, or volunteer for our biggest event of the year! Sponsorships are also available for every budget.

MEMBERMIXER

Contractorshowtoconstructabetterperforminghomethatcomplieswith today'senergycodes,maintainstheoccupant'scomfortandhealth,and considersbudgetaryconstraints.

LearningObjectives:

#1What'sinaResidentialWall?Interiorvaporbarriersthroughtotheexterior cladding?

#2WhataresomeKeyDesignFactorstoconsiderwhendetailingaresidentialwall?

#3WhatarethePerformancerequirementsofaresidentialwallassembly?

#4Whataresomeoptiontomanagecostandperformanceexpectations? Thisprogramisapprovedfor1HSWcredit. Presented by: Ring's End

MEMBERMIXER SPONSORSHIPS

Bar Bites Sponsor - $1300

Delicious apps to feed the hungry crowd!

Premium signage at the food table

Opportunity to speak at the event

Logo on all marketing materials

Logo on event banner

Scavenger Hunt Square - attendees have to find you during the event!

10 extra drink tickets to hand out

5 attendees

Featured & tagged in Instagram story

Full page spotlight on your company in Building Connections E-Magazine

Imperial Sponsor - $1000

Premium table display!

Table to display literature and other marketing materials (prime placement)

Opportunity to speak at the event

Logo on all marketing materials

Logo on event banner

Scavenger Hunt Square - attendees have to find you during the event!

10 extra drink tickets to hand out

3 attendees

Featured & tagged in Instagram story

Signage at the event

Craft Beer Sponsor - $1200

Premium signage on the bar

Opportunity to speak at the event

Your logo on cups used at the bar

Logo on all marketing materials

Logo on event banner

Scavenger Hunt Square - attendees have to find you during the event!

10 extra drink tickets to hand out

4 attendees

Featured & tagged in Instagram story

Full page spotlight on your company in Building Connections E-Magazine

Top Hop Sponsor - $500

Table Display

Logo on all marketing materials

Logo on event banner

Scavenger Hunt Square

5 extra drink tickets to hand out

2 attendees

Event Sponsor - $250

Logo on all marketing materials

Logo on event banner

1 attendee

5 extra drink tickets to hand out

Membership Raffle Sponsor - $365

Draw the winning raffle ticket & announce the winner! 1 attendee CLICK

Sept. 14 | Tashua Knolls Golf Course, Trumbull Register now for the 18* and 9 hole tournaments! We also have sponsorship opportunities available. Click below for more information.

Network

All golfers receive on-course lunch and dinner. Join us

*The 18-Hole Tournament will sell out very quickly - register ASAP to secure your spot! A portion of all proceeds will go to support the HBRA’s Partnership with the Circle of Care. CLICK HERE to learn more. Sponsorships

Golfers: 18 & 9 Hole Tournaments

18 Hole: 10am Shotgun Start $1200 / foursome or $300 / golfer

9 Hole: 1:30pm Shotgun Start $600 / foursome or $150 / golfer

Dinner-Only

Opportunities are available for every budget. This event sells out, so book your sponsorship today! We are also accepting raffle prize donations.

THE SKILLED TRADES SURGE: RETHINKING SUCCESS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

Insights from Bepin Mgushi, owner of Fixitup Building and Remodeling

As we look at the landscape of Fairfield County from the custom builds in Ridgefield to the revitalization efforts in Bridgeport one thing is clear: we are in a golden age for the skilled trades. How do I know? Because, every plumber, electrician and HVAC guy out there that I call on to get the projects moving is as busy as ever and always looking to hire help! So are the carpenters, the flooring guys, the roofers and all trades in general Why can’t we fill these valuable and critical

jobs? Where are the people we need? Mike Rowe answered that with one line they are in middle school!!!

Yet for years, the narrative in our high schools has been that a four-year degree is the only path to success. As a business owner, a father of three, and an advocate for workforce development through the Pathways to Construction Trades project and Vice Chair of CIPBR (CT Institute of Professional Builders and Remodelers), I believe we are late but still on time to correct that blueprint. The trades are no longer just a "fallback plan"; they are a premier, high-tech, and financially savvy first choice And here is why our kids should be looking at trade school right now

One of the reasons is the beauty of the “Earning While Learning" advantage. The traditional college route often begins with a mountain of debt Trade schools and registered apprenticeships offer a much faster, more efficient Return on Investment (ROI). These programs typically cost a fraction of a university degree. And students often enter the workforce in two years or less, filling high-paying roles created by the current labor shortage. And, guess what? Many graduates hit the ground running with zero debt, allowing them to buy homes and build equity years ahead of their peers or even buy trucks and tools and start their own businesses before anyone else!

Another reason is that these are high demand jobs and "AI-Proof" Yes, I said AI Proof. In an era of rapid automation, the trades remain remarkably resilient. You cannot "outsource" a plumbing emergency or "automate" the intricate framing of a custom home. These are tactile, problem-solving skills that require human judgment and physical presence. With a large percentage of our current workforce nearing retirement, the demand and the leverage for young tradespeople has never been higher

Lastly, some parents may say, we have saved for 20 years for our kids’ college education and now they want to get into the trades! How can we tap into those savings? The "One Big Beautiful Bill" does just that and more! The bill has transformed the 529 plan from a "College Fund" into a versatile "Career Savings Account." The 529 funds can now be used for credentialing, licensing programs, and critically the essential tools and equipment needed for trade school.

How can you help?! Be the Bridge

We know the value of a solid foundation. But many families and guidance counselors are still operating on outdated information. They don't realize that Connecticut’s own CHET (529) plan is fully compatible with these new federal benefits.

You can also contact your local guidance office Reach out to schools in your town, and beyond. Share this information with counselors so they can give students the full picture.

AND, yes, if you can, invite a student to a job site. Nothing beats seeing the craft in action.

The labor shortage won't fix itself. It is up to us to show the next generation that by choosing the trades, they aren't just getting a job they are building a life of dignity, financial independence, and pride.

About Pathways to Construction Trades

In an era where skilled labor is in high demand, introducing high school students to trade careers through Pathways to Construction Trades is both timely and essential. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and industry by providing students with hands-on experience and exposure to fields such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and more. By engaging students early, this program not only equips them with valuable practical skills but also opens doors to lucrative career pathways that do not necessarily require a traditional four-year college degree. The program is designed to meet the needs of students with diverse interests and learning styles, fostering a sense of accomplishment and purpose through real-world applications.

Moreover, this workforce development initiative addresses a critical workforce shortage in the trades, creating a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals for industries facing aging workforces and increasing demand. By collaborating with local businesses, trades, and educators, the pr t d t i industry-relevant training and mentorship. Path only empowers students to achieve econ strengthens the community by investing in its fu

Founder / Chair: Rick Taylor

Founder / Chair: Bepin Mgushi

Secretary & Co-Chair: Mike Weiner

Marketing Director: Geoff Knapp

Application and Enrollment Director: Kendrick Constant

Donation Committee Chair: Brian A. Clarke Jr.

Course Content Committee: Rick Taylor, Brian A. Clarke Jr., Mike Weiner

NORWALK PUBLICSCHOOLS INTERNSHIPS 2025-2026

Helpusintroducehighschoolstudents totradecareersandbuildyour workforceoftomorrow!

The Norwalk Public Schools Workforce Development Program connects driven students with employers looking to offer real-world, hands-on job experience.

NPSWDP will connect students with employers from their career of interest, and interns will be paid directly from NPSWDP - all you as an employer need to do is offer the interns real-world job experience in your field.

To join the program and hire a student intern, please contact CarolWiltshireTothat wiltshiretothc@norwalkps.org with your name, company, and field (building, electrical, interior design, banking, etc.).

STUDENT INTERNS IN THE PROGRAM ARE: 16+ YEARS OLD 2.0+ CUMALITIVE GPA GRADES 10 - 12 SEEKING REAL-WORLD, HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE IN THEIR FUTURE CAREER OF INTEREST

BUILDERSPOTLIGHT BUILDERSPOTLIGHT

COMPANYHISTORY

Since its founding in 1991, Sea-Dar Construction has earned a reputation for excellence in the creation of luxury residences and architecturally complex homes. Guided by a belief that building trust is as vital as building exceptional homes, Sea-Dar has cultivated lasting relationships with homeowners, architects, and designers who value collaboration, craftsmanship, and integrity. The firm’s portfolio, recognized by national publications and distinguished industry awards, stands as a testament to its uncompromisingstandardsandclient-centeredapproach.

BUILDERSPOTLIGHT BUILDERSPOTLIGHT

Beyond construction, Sea-Dar Property Management Services offers homeowners a seamless extension of that same commitment. Providing thorough, reliable, and efficient care,thePropertyServicesteam manages day-to-day maintenance, emergency response, and home enhancements with the same precision that defines Sea-Dar’s building projects. Whether overseeing a renovation or maintaining a residence, SeaDar ensures each property remains exceptional built to last, cared for with intention, and supported by a team that understands the true meaning ofservice.

Sea-Darensureseachpropertyremainsexceptional builtto last,caredforwithintention,andsupportedbyateamthat understandsthetruemeaningofservice.

COMPANYMISSION

Sea-Dar’s company mission is to build challenging projects while implementingthesecorevalues:

Continuallyimprovethroughproject“postmortems”andemployee development.

Deliverexceptionalcustomerservicethatbuildslastingrelationshipswith clients,designers,vendors,andcolleagues.

Takecareofemployeesbyprovidingapositiveworkenvironment, opportunitiesforprofessionalgrowth,goodbenefits,andpromotinga healthywork-lifebalance.

Alwaysoperatewithhonesty,integrity,andtransparency.

Remainpassionateanddriventoexcelinallprojectsandrelationships.

EVENT RECAPS

Home Builders & Remodelers Association of CT, Inc. Holds Annual Home Building Industry Day at

the CT State Capitol

The HBRA of CT’s Home Building Industry Day at the Capitol on March 24 , held in collaboration with the Lumber Dealers Association, was a significant success. Our appreciation to our HBRA members who interacted with legislators regarding crucial issues. We thank HBRACT's Jim Perras, in-house lobbyist, Bob Wiedenmann, Government Affairs Chairman, and our outside lobbyists from Gaffney Bennett for their role in organizing this valuable annual event.

EVENT RECAPS

of CT leaders met with House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora and Rep. John

HBRA

Piscopo

HBRA of CT leaders met with Sen. Cicarella and Senate Republican Chief of Staff Michael Downes

EVENT RECAPS

April General Membership Meeting Connects Members at County

TV Stamford

The HBRA of Fairfield County welcomed members and guests to a lively and wellattended April General Membership Meeting held at County TV in Stamford on Wednesday, April 1 . The event brought together industry professionals from across the region for an engaging night of networking, collaboration, and connection.

Attendees enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere with beer, wine, and assorted appetizers, creating the perfect setting to reconnect with colleagues and build new relationships. The unique venue provided a dynamic backdrop for conversation, allowing members to exchange ideas, discuss current industry trends, and strengthen professional ties.

The evening highlighted the continued value of in-person gatherings, reinforcing HBRA’s commitment to fostering a strong, supportive community within the home building and remodeling industry. Thank you to everyone who joined us for another successful event we look forward to seeing you at the next meeting!

Photos by Kirt Washington Photography

EVENT RECAPS

Members Give Back at our April Volunteer Day at the CT Foodshare

On April 21 HBRA members came together in Bridgeport for a meaningful morning of service at the Connecticut Foodshare, dedicating their time and energy to supporting the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, which provides nutritious food boxes to local seniors in need.

Throughout the morning, participants worked side by side to organize and pack food boxes, as well as assist with sorting and other essential tasks to keep operations running smoothly. The hands-on effort highlighted the power of collaboration and the impact that even a few hours of volunteering can have on the community.

The event not only offered members a chance to give back, but also provided an opportunity to connect with one another in a shared mission of service. HBRA is proud of its members’ continued commitment to supporting local initiatives and making a positive difference beyond the building industry.

This year the HBRA will be offering different volunteer opportunities quarterly to our members – stayed tuned for the next one!

EVENT RECAPS

AI Made Simple Seminar: A Morning of Innovation in Ridgefield

East Haven & Ridgefield Building Supply hosted the HBRA on April 22 for an engaging and insightful morning focused on the growing role of AI in the design industry.

The fast-paced, interactive presentation introduced both newcomers and experienced users to practical ways artificial intelligence can enhance everyday workflows. The session highlighted how architects and designers can leverage AI to streamline timeconsuming tasks, generate fresh design ideas, and improve communication with clients all without disrupting their existing tools or creative processes.

Participants walked away with actionable strategies they could immediately implement, including time-saving shortcuts, idea-generation techniques, and methods for delivering clearer, more compelling client presentations. The approachable, beginner-friendly format ensured that everyone regardless of prior experience left feeling more confident in their ability to incorporate AI into their work.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this informative session, and to our hosts at East Haven & Ridgefield Building Supply for providing a welcoming space to learn, connect, and innovate.

Presented By:

Kathy D’Agostino is an AI Implementer and Advisor - who helps small businesses integrate AI through practical, workflow-focused methods. As founder of Win at Business AI, she translates AI capabilities into measurable outcomes with a “human first, AI second” philosophy.

A frequent speaker and published author on AI adoption, she has delivered presentations for architects, the Building and Realty Institute (BRI), and Women in Construction, bringing real-world AI applications to design and construction professionals.

She is also a co-facilitator of an AI training initiative serving 50 small businesses, sponsored by The Business Council of Westchester and supported by Google.org, focused on building foundational AI skills and real-world implementation. She bridges the gap between AI’s potential and everyday business use and holds certifications from Wharton, Vanderbilt, and LinkedIn Learning in generative AI and strategic implementation.

EVENT RECAPS

Pathways to Construction Trades Inspires the Next Generation

On April 18 and 25, the Home Builders & Remodelers Association proudly hosted its Pathway to Construction program, welcoming local high school students for an engaging, hands-on introduction to the many exciting career opportunities within the residential building industry.

Designed to inspire the next generation of skilled professionals, the two-day program provided students with valuable insight into the wide range of careers available in construction, from project management and skilled trades to design, engineering, and business operations. Participants had the opportunity to learn directly from experienced industry professionals who shared their expertise, career journeys, and passion for building.

Throughout the program, students took part in interactive activities, educational presentations, and real-world demonstrations that highlighted the creativity, teamwork, and technical skills required in today's construction industry. They also gained a deeper understanding of how residential projects come to life from initial planning and design through construction and final completion.

A highlight of the program was the opportunity for students to connect with local builders, remodelers, suppliers, and trade professionals. These conversations offered valuable perspective on the many pathways available within the industry and reinforced the importance of workforce development in addressing the growing demand for skilled talent.

HBRA is committed to building the future of our industry by investing in education, mentorship, and career exploration opportunities for young people. Programs like Pathway to Construction play a vital role in introducing students to rewarding, wellpaying careers while helping to strengthen the residential construction workforce for years to come.

We extend our sincere thanks to all of the industry professionals, member companies, educators, and volunteers who made this program possible. Your support and dedication helped create an impactful experience for these students and showcased the tremendous opportunities that await them in the world of construction.

We look forward to continuing to inspire and empower the next generation of builders, leaders, and innovators.

EVENT RECAPS

CIRCLE OF CARE

The Circle of Care provides emotional and financial support to families of children diagnosed with cancer.

Our most recent Circle of Care project is for a sweet 11 year old girl named Tegan. She was recently diagnosed and is currently going through treatment. She lives in Norwalk with her parents and brother who is age 9.

We will be completing her bedroom renovation mid - late May. In addition to volunteers for the weekend, we need the following items to complete her dream room.

Please review the attached list and consider purchasing an item.

An Interview With MEMBERSPOTLIGHT

Jack Zimmerman

DECORATIVE BATH AND TILE SALES CONSULTANT

CANYOUTELLUSABOUTYOUR ROLEANDHOWYOUGOT STARTEDINTHEINDUSTRY?

My role at Bender is as a showroom sales representative, where I help both homeowners and trade professionals select high-end plumbing fixtures for their projects. I’ve been in the industry foraboutfouryearsnowbuthavebeen in sales for about 10 years. I was introduced to it through my uncle, who also works here, and what started as an opportunity quickly turned into somethingIreallyenjoy.

WHATINSPIREDYOUTOPURSUE THISCAREERPATH?

At first, it was the opportunity and family connection that brought me in, but what kept me here was how dynamictheroleis.Ilikethateveryday is a different experience. Working with homeowners on personal projects while also building relationships with trade professionals. It’s a good mix of sales,problem-solving,anddesign.

At Bender, we really focus on the customer experience. It’s not just about selling a product; it’s about guiding clients through the selection process and developing trust. We truly do want our clients to love their products and enjoy the journey to choosing them.

MEMBERSPOTLIGHT MEMBERSPOTLIGHT

It’snotjustaboutsellinga product;it’saboutguiding clientsthroughtheselection processanddevelopingtrust.

WHYDOYOUTHINKINVOLVEMENT ININDUSTRYASSOCIATIONSIS IMPORTANT?

Beinginvolvedinindustryassociations helpsyoustayconnectedandinformed. It’simportantforkeepingupwithtrendsin themarket,newproducts,andbest practices,butalsofornetworkingand buildingrelationshipswithintheindustry. Thoseconnectionscanmakeabig differencewhenitcomestocollaboration andgrowth.

HOWDOYOUHELPSTREAMLINE PRODUCTSELECTIONFORTHESE PROFESSIONALS?

Itrytomaketheprocessasefficientas possiblebyunderstandingtheproject upfront.Thingslikestyle,budget,and timeline,thennarrowingdownoptions thatmakesense.Insteadofoverwhelming clientswithtoomanychoices,Ipresent productsthatalignwiththeirneeds.That helpssavetimeandkeepsprojectson track.

MEMBERSPOTLIGHT MEMBERSPOTLIGHT

WHATMAKESWORKINGWITHA SHOWROOMCONSULTANTVALUABLEFOR CONTRACTORSANDREMODELERS?

Workingwithashowroomconsultanttakesalotoff theirplate.Ihelpensuretheproductsarespecified correctly,compatiblewiththeproject,andordered ontime.Italsogivestheirclientsabetter experiencebecausethey’regettingexpert guidanceduringtheselectionprocess,which reflectswellonthecontractor/remodeler.

WHAT’SONECOMMONMISTAKEYOUSEE ONPROJECTSTHATCANEASILYBE AVOIDED?

Onecommonmistakeiswaitingtoolongtomake yourselections.Thistypicallyleadstoproject delays,limitedproductavailability,andrushed decisions.Choosingyourproductsearlyoninthe projecthelpsavoidallofthis.

WHATTRENDSAREYOUSEEINGRIGHTNOWTHATPROSSHOULDBE AWAREOF?

OneofthebiggesttrendsI’mseeingistheshifttowardcreatingspa-like environmentsinthehome,especiallyinbathrooms.Clientsaren’tjustlookingfor functionalityanymore.Theywantaspacewheretheycanrelaxandunwind. We’reseeingmoredemandforfeatureslikerainfallshowerheads,bodysprays, freestandingtubs,andcalmingfinishesthatcreateamoreluxurious,retreat-like feel.It’saboutturningeverydayroutinesintoanexperience,andasprofessionals, wecanhelpguideclientstowardproductsthatbringthatvisiontolifewhilestill fittingtheirspaceandbudget.

Membership Discounts & Deals

Through agreements with more than 20 national companies, NAHB offers exclusive discounts on a variety of products and services that can benefit your business, employees and family. Members save big when they take advantage of these offers.

Steps to Access NAHB Discounts:

Please Note: Your nahb.org login is separate from your buildfairfieldcounty.com login.

If you do not have an NAHB account, select “Register” on the right side of the screen. You will need the PIN you received when you first joined the HBRA – find yours by logging in to your account at www.buildfairfieldcounty.com, or contact the HBRA office and we would be happy to let you know!

After you log in, go to www.nahb.org/NAHB-Community/Member-Benefits/Savings

Click on “Learn More” under the discount you want to use and follow the instructions.

See the NAHB "Member Savings Program at a Glance" handout for a full list of available discounts!

Through the HBRA of Fairfield County’s partnership with NPP you can save on products for your business and employees. Membership is free.

Steps to Access NPP Discounts:

Visit www.mynpp.com/association/hbra-of-fairfieldcounty/

If you already have an account, select “Log In” at the top right to log in. If you do not currently have an NPP account, enter your information on the form on the right and follow the website prompts to create an account.

Click on the discount you would like to sign up for and follow the instructions.

See the NPP handout for a full list of available discounts!

For a full list of all benefits available to members, visit: buildfairfieldcounty.com/membership-benefits-discounts/

Membership Discounts & Deals

The HBRACT’s Member Rebate Program is a free member benefit available to Builder & Remodeler members of the HBRA.

There are currently over 50 of the country's leading Manufacturer Brands participating in the Member Rebate Program offering the same rebates as the "Top-5 Builders" receive regardless of your volume.

Steps to Access HBRACT Member Rebate Discounts:

Visit www.hbarebates.com/registration

Enter your company information. Select which products you currently use or which products you’d be willing to switch to. Fill out the Rebate Claim form and submit before the deadline each quarter.

See the "HBA Rebates" handout for a full list of available discounts!

The new HBRA member retirement plan is a real game changer for small businesses. A pooled group plan with over 2000 other businesses and 2 ½ billion of assets under management so members can access

the retirement benefits of a large company. At the same time, 90% of your administrative and investment oversight responsibilities are outsourced to a third party, which means it is simple to operate and has much lower liability than the typical 401(k).

As a business owner, the most important thing you can do is save for your retirement. The HBRA Retirement Program allows you to save for your future, provide a valuable tool for your employees and their families all while saving the overhead costs and liability of managing your own retirement plan.

Visit www.tagcobrand.com/hbra/ to get started today!

For a full list of all benefits available to members, visit:

UNDERSTANDING THE HIDDEN RISKS OF SOURCING PRODUCTS ACROSS MULTIPLE

VENDORS

By: Bender, with insights from our showroom consultants

In today’s building and remodeling landscape, delivering a successful project requires more than skilled design and craftsmanship. It demands coordination at every stage, particularly the product-selection stage.

Sourcing materials and fixtures from different suppliers may seem like a good way to get the best selections and prices, but it also brings a great deal of complexity to the project. This fragmented approach introduces challenges that may not be readily apparent at the outset but will certainly impact just about every aspect of a project –from timeline and budget to overall quality.

HowProductSourcingBecomesaProjectLiability

Everyprojectisdifferent.Butthereisonethingallprojectteams(andclients)can agree on: They want to minimize unpleasant surprises and costly delays. Understandinghowfragmentedproductsourcingcanbeaprojectliabilityiskeyto achievingthat.

MismatchedFinishesandMaterials

Productsthatappearcohesiveinimagesincatalogsoronlinecanlooksignificantly different when viewed in person Variations in tone, sheen, and scale across tile, plumbingfixtures,andhardwarecanunderminetheintendeddesign,requiringlastminute compromises or replacements. Viewing and selecting these elements togetherinoneplaceallowsprojectteamsandclientstoevaluatehowmaterialstruly worksidebyside,ensuringamorecohesiveandintentionalfinalresult.

DelaysAcrosstheSupplyChain

Eachvendoroperatesindependently,withdifferentleadtimes,inventoryavailability, andfulfillmentprocesses.Adelayfromjustonesuppliercancreateadominoeffect, pushing back installation schedules and impacting other trades. While delays can occur in any sourcing model, consolidating purchases through a single source providesbettervisibilityintotimelines,moreproactivecommunication,andgreater opportunities to identify alternative products or adjust delivery schedules to keep projectsmoving.

CommunicationGaps

Multiplevendorsmeanmultiplepointsofcontact—eachresponsibleforapieceof thepuzzle.Withoutacentralizedsourceofcoordination,criticaldetailscanbemissed, specificationscanbemisinterpreted,andaccountabilitycanbecomeunclear.

InstallationConflicts

Whenselectionsaremadeinisolation,coordinationbetweenelements,suchastile layouts, plumbing rough-ins, and fixture specifications, can be overlooked. These issuesoftensurfaceduringinstallation,whereadjustmentsaremorecostlyandtimeconsuming.

BuildingSmarterfrom theStart

A unified approach to productselectionbrings a level of clarity and coordination that is difficulttoachievewhen sourcing from multiple vendors. By centralizing selections,projectteams benefit from clearer accountability, with a singlesourcehelpingto guide decisions and resolve issues before theyescalate.Evaluating productstogetherallows for a more holistic specificationprocess, ensuring compatibility across categories from plumbing rough-ins and trim to tile thickness and layout.

This reduces the risk of costly adjustments during installation. It also strengthens design continuity, as materials and finishes can be reviewed in context, helping preserve the original vision without last-minute compromises.

From a logistical standpoint, coordinated ordering and delivery streamline scheduling and minimize delays due to missing or mismatched components. Just as importantly, it improves efficiency for designers, builders, and remodelers by reducing the need to manage multiple vendors, freeing up time to focus on execution and client service. For clients, the experience is more seamless and less overwhelming, leading to greater confidence in their decisions and fewer disruptions throughout the project.

SettingProjectsUp forSuccess

As projects become more complex and timelines more compressed, the margin for error continuestoshrink.A fragmented approach tosourcingintroduces unnecessary risk, while a unified selection strategy creates clarity, efficiency, and consistency.

For industry professionals, the takeaway is simple: How products are sourced is just as important as which products are selected. Taking a more integrated approach can lead to better outcomes not only for the project team but for the client as well.

Bender is a trusted resource for kitchen and bath solutions, serving homeowners and trade professionals throughout Connecticut and beyond. With a network of inspiring showrooms, Bender offers expertly curated products, hands-on guidance, and personalized support to help bring every project to life from simple updates to full-scale renovations.

HaveyougottenanemailofferingalistofIBS attendees,localbuilders/tradespeople,orsimilar?

Outsidemarketingcompanieshavebeenemailing membersofferinglistswiththecontactinfoofIBS attendees,localbuildersortradespeople,andeven HBRAmembersforafee.

TheseemailsareaSCAM.

TheHBRAwillNEVERgiveoutour memberlisttoanoutsidecompany, andwouldcertainlynotallowthemto chargeforit.

Whilethemarketingcompanymay giveouttheirownlistoflocalbuilders claimingtheinformationisfromus,itis notourmemberlistandwehaveno controlovertheinformationincluded orwhotheyreachoutto. Ifyoureceiveoneoftheseemails, markitasspamanddelete.

Home Building Shows Signs of Stabilization with Monthly Gain in Starts

Housing production bounced back in March as builders cautiously ramp up production despite ongoing headwinds.

Overall housing starts increased 10.8% in March to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.5 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Shrinking Share of Tradesmen in the Construction Workforce

The American construction labor force is continuing its momentum away from construction trades and towards management, business and technical roles, according to NAHB’s analysis of the latest 2024 data from the American Community Survey (ACS).

Population Growth and Housing Supply Dynamics at the County Level

U.S. population growth slowed notably in the latest population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, with the nation expanding by just 0.5% in 2025, roughly half the pace of the prior year. The deceleration was primarily driven by a sharp decline in net international migration, which dropped from 2.7 million to 1.3 million, while natural change remained relatively stable.

More Young Adults Interested in the Construction Trades, but Challenges Persist

A new study conducted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals that more young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 are interested in the construction trades...

Single-Family Permits Decline Sharply to Start 2026

Residential construction activity began 2026 on a mixed note, with single-family permitting weakening significantly while multifamily activity remained relatively stable. Higher borrowing costs and affordability constraints...

Builder Sentiment Posts

Notable Decline on Economic Uncertainty

Economic uncertainty coupled with rising building material costs and interest rates resulted in a sharp decline in builder sentiment in April as the housing market enters into the heart of the spring buying season.

Canadian Lumber Duties Expected to Drop This Summer

The U.S. Department of Commerce has signaled that it plans to lower antidumping and countervailing tariffs later this year on imports of Canadian softwood lumber products from the current rate of about 35.16% to 24.83% following its annual review of existing tariffs. READ MORE

Home Remodeling Profit Margin Jumps on Demand and Business Practices

Profitability for residential remodelers reached its highest level in nearly 30 years in 2024, according to NAHB’s most recent Remodelers’ Cost of Doing Business Study. The ongoing housing affordability crisis has pushed home owners to consider upgrading their homes rather than entering the buying market.