February 2018 Building Connections Magazine

The E-Magazine of the HBRA of Fairfield County

FEBRUARY 2018

Features

February GMM Winter Trade Showcase HBRA Home Tour Member News Builder News

UPCOMING

MARCH 7, 2018 - Legislative Night MARCH 16, 2018 - Trades Breakfast APRIL 4, 2018 - GMM at Aitoro APRIL 18, 2018 - Negotiation Seminar

Connecticut Home Builders & Remodelers Program

HBR A VIP CIRCLE

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

AN INSURANCE PROGRAM CUSTOM DESIGNED FOR YOUR BUSINESS Acadia Insurance is proud to be the endorsed property and casualty insurance carrier for the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Connecticut. As a leading provider of insurance for contractors throughout New England, Acadia Insurance understands the insurance and service needs of contractors from small to large.

With a local office in Rocky Hill, Acadia Insurance has professionals that handle underwriting, claim, loss control and premium audit for its Connecticut customers. Acadia is working with a select number of its Independent Agents in offering this program to Connecticut’s Home Builders and Remodelers.

2017-18 DIRECTORS Peter Battaglio Hocon Gas

Max Bender Bender Supply

Steve Berko

Four Square Build & Design

gas

Michael Church

William Pitt Sotheby’s

Ken DeLeo

Doherty & DeLeo

Brian Kurtz

The Right Policy for Your Business

Interstate Lumber

Acadia Insurance offers qualifying contractors a full array of necessary coverages including property, general liability, workers’ compensation, business automobile and umbrella. In addition, we can provide builders’ risk coverage, installation floater and equipment coverage.

✓ We have designed special coverage options just for home builders: Liability Coverage Enhancements:

Property Coverage Enhancements:

• Waiver of subrogation clause

• Coverage for newly acquired property

• Limited pollution coverage

• Coverage for property while in-transit

• Extended property damage coverage

• Debris removal coverage

✓ Acadia Insurance can craft the coverage you need to operate your business.

For a full listing of coverages and how they apply to an individual home builder, please see an Acadia Insurance agent who is equipped to analyze your current insurance program and provide you with recommendations.

Rob Michaud

The Michaud Group

Steven Roth

Elevator Service Company

Alex Shook

Pella Commercial

Michael Wood Wood Builders

LIFE DIRECTORS Joanne Carroll

Peter Fusaro

JMC Resources

Preferred Builders

Jerry Effren

Maureen Hanley

Gary Fanali

Michael Palumbo

The Greyrock Companies City Carting

MEDIA SPONSOR

United Bank

ERI Building & Design

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!

IN THIS ISSUE

9

February GMM

10

Winter Tradeshow

12

Legislative Alert

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

Message from the Executive Officer Upcoming Events February General Membership Meeting Winter Trade Showcase Legislative Alert Legislative Night New Members HBRA Receives HOBI for Exclusive Home Tour Members Only NAHB Tax Webinar Safety Training Toolkits Buy Your Tickets to the Home Show CRMCA offers Free Design Center Tools Robotic Accessory Could Hit Market Within Year NAHB Commends Trump Infrastructure Plan HELOCS Deductible for Capital Improvements NAHB Chairman on IRS Announcement Job Bank Dear Sandler Coach Training & Seminars Member Benefits

p.8 p.7 p.8 p.10 p.12 p.12 p.16 p.18 p.19 p.19 p.20 p.21 p.21 p.22 p.22 p.22 p.23 p.23 p.26 p.26

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

p. 2 p. 5 p.15 p. 17 p. 19 p. 21 p. 24 p. 25 p. 26 p. 27 p. 28 p. 29 p. 30 p. 31

Jackie Bertolone Sarah Iannarone

Marketing & Graphics Coordinator

HBRA of Fairfield County 2228 Black Rock Turnpike, Suite 307 Fairfield, CT 06825 203-335-7008 hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com www. buildfairfieldcounty.com

BEAUTY. PERFORMANCE. CRAFTSMANSHIP. The best DOORS overlook NOTHING.

LEARN MORE AT BEAUTYOFBETTER.COM.

Executive Officer

Clare Michalak

Recognized by J.D. Power for “Outstanding Customer Satisfaction with Windows and Patio Doors.” *

Every Andersen® patio door features proven durability, protection from harsh elements and a style that’s both breathtaking and refreshingly all your own.

Editorial Staff Membership & Events Coordinator

SHOWN: A-SERIES FRENCHWOOD® HINGED PATIO DOORS. SEE YOUR DEALER FOR COASTAL OPTIONS IN YOUR AREA.*

Want to advertise?

Contact the office for more information and rates.

*See your local code official for code requirements in your area. **Andersen received the second highest numerical score among 16 companies in the J.D. Power 2017 Windows & Patio Doors Satisfaction Study, based on 1,904 total responses, measuring the experiences and perceptions of customers who purchased windows and/or patio doors in the previous 12 months, surveyed February — March 2017. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. .

“Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2018 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. MS1801_0052

29 Prospect Street Ridgefield, CT 06877 203.438.2626 ridgefieldsupply.com M–F 7AM – 5PM, Sat. 8 AM – 4 PM, Sun. – Closed

MESSAGE FROM THE EO

MARK YOUR CALENDARS UPCOMING EVENTS

Dear HBRA Members, I hope that you will take a few moments out of your busy schedule to read through the Building Connections Magazine. The HBRA of Fairfield County has several upcoming events and opportunities we encourage you to take advantage of as a member of this association.

There are important legislative updates, information on trainings and events, rebates and member rewards you may not be aware of, and housing news on a national and local scale. We also have a new classified sections where members can post requests, offerings, and other industry related information.

I’d like to make particular mention of the upcoming Trades Breakfast at J.M. Wright Technical School. Skilled labor and subcontractor shortages have become a widespread and growing challenge for builders nationwide.

In a study conducted by NAHB in late 2017, 3 out of 4 builders cited a shortage of framers and carpenters. This breakfast is a unique opportunity to connect with the students in our industry soon entering the workforce.

Also, please make sure you register for legislative night coming up on March 7th. Visit our website or contact us for more information.

1

March 14, 2018

March 16, 2018

The Water’s Edge at Giovanni’s

JM Wright Technical High School

2748 Boston Post Rd

120 Bridge St, Stamford, CT 06905

GMM & Legislative Night

Trades Breakfast

Darien CT 06820

Click Here to register

Click Here to register

April 4, 2018

GMM -Aitoro Appliance Aitoro Appliance Showroom 401 Westport Ave. Norwalk, CT 06851

Click Here to register

Best,

Jackie Bertolone

HBRA Executive Officer

6 HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2018

UPCOMING MEETINGS

Exclusive Home Tour- March 1 Associates Council - March 13 PWB - March 15 Golf Committee - March 15 Membership Committee - March 21

FEBRUARY 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 7

HBRA EVENTS

February General Membership Meeting espite the unfortunate winter weather, it didn’t stop HBRA members from attending a fun networking event hosted by Ed’s Garage Doors and Sunshine Floors in Norwalk.

Members and guests were able to tour both showrooms, network with builders and associates, and watch a short presentation by HBRA EO, Jackie Bertolone, about upcoming events including the Exclusive Home Tour and the March Legislative Night.

Special thanks to our hosts, Rich Cunningham, RT., and their staff for hosting the evening and for sponsoring the raffle prizes including a work site Keurig, a garage door opener, and an Amazon echo.

Congratulations to Ross Clark of Clark Construction of Ridgefield, Inc. who was the lucky winning name picked for the $250 membership raffle prize. Make sure to register for next month’s March Legislative Night and General Membership Meeting at The Water’s Edge at Giovanni’s in Darien.

8 HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2018

FEBRUARY 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 9

HBRA EVENTS

2018 Winter Trade Showcase he 3rd Annual Winter Trade Showcase took place on February 20, 2018 at Dolce Norwalk. Associates from the HBRA set up nearly 30 displays throughout the room to prepare for builder guests. Each HBRA builder was invited to attend a free night of food, drink, networking, and raffle prizes. Thank you to DiMatteo Group, Deane, TD Bank, Gault, and Connecticut Appliance and Fireplace Distributors for providing an assortment of raffle prizes.

Also, thank you to our Diamond Sponsor, DiMatteo Group, our Gold sponsors County TV & Appliance and Torrco, and to our 3 silver sponsors Bender, Brothers that Just Do Gutters, and Leigh Overland Architects, the Overland Design Group.

Our Event Sponsors:

10 HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2018

Companies in Attendance • DiMatteo Group • TORRCO • County TV & Appliance • Bender • Brothers that Just Do Gutters • Leigh Overland Architect • BA Staging & Interiors • BDX • Buy Railings • Clarke • Connecticut Appliance & Fireplace Distributors (CAFD) • C&G Media Group • Daigle & Travers Insurance Agency • Deane Inc. • Elevator Service Company • Fairfield County Bank Insurance Services • Front Row Kitchens, Inc. • Gault Stone & Landscape Supplies • Hocon Gas, Inc. • Huber Engineered Woods • Key Insurance and Benefits Services • LTW Design LLC • Ring’s End • Smarthome & Theater Systems • Staging Sells • TD Bank • Tile America FEBRUARY 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 11

LEGISLATIVE

SAVE THE DATES

ALERT HARTFORD, CT

CT LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS 2018

The Connecticut General Assembly legislative session began on February 7th and ends on May 9th. This is an election year and a particularly good time to pay attention and make our voices heard! New taxes are on the horizon, and legislators need to hear from you.

March 7th is our annual Legislative Night. From 6-7p.m. we will host network with your legislators that represent Fairfield County. More than a dozen legislators have confirmed attendance. Don’t miss this critical opportunity to spread our message to Hartford.

Then on April 3, we join other HBRAs in Connecticut for Industry Day at the Capitol.

State Budget: The State of CT faces $3 billion in deficits over the next two years. Proposals to close the state budget gap include new taxes. Governor Malloy’s new budget would raise another $235 million in new taxes, including raising the RE conveyance tax from 0.75% to 0.85% and 1.25% to 1.4%.

BILLS WE SUPPORT:

Property Tax Relief for Homes Under Construction: Home builders are hit with higher assessments on homes they are constructing but not yet sold, and receive these higher property tax bills when nobody is living in these homes. This is a perverse disincentive to builders to start home construction. This bill would trigger the higher assessments and tax bills only when the earliest of these events occur: 1) a C.O. is issued, 2) a deed transfer to a buyer occurs, or 3) the home is first used as a residence.

Add Clarity and More Housing Emphasis to Zoning Enabling Statute (HB 5045): A proposal from the Fair Housing Workgroup (on which the HBRA had a seat), which is technical in nature and simply restructures the zoning enabling act so that it’s much easier to read.

Housing Impact Analysis: Also, from the Fair Housing Workgroup, and applicable to all new state and local regulations and utility requirements that impact the cost of producing new housing. Borrowed from existing law that requires state agencies to consider impacts on small business when adopting regulations, the bill requires state agencies, local land use regulators and utilities to conduct a housing impact analysis so that they think more about the adverse impacts they might have on the cost of housing construction.

APPLICATIONS ARE HERE! BUILDERS, if you have new construction homes, it’s time to apply to the annual HBRA Exclusive Home Tour Click HERE to view the application!

Please call the office at 203-335-7008 or email hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com with any questions.

Tour Dates: June 23 -24, 2018 VIP Kick Off: June 22, 2018 www.exclusivehometourct.com | @hbrahometour | 203-335-7008

BILLS WE OPPOSE:

Mandatory Inclusionary Zoning: This proposal from DOH and the Fair Housing Workgroup would impose an inclusionary zoning (IZ) overlay to most zoning commissions in the state, with exemptions for distressed municipalities and some others. It requires that every multifamily housing project of 10 or more units (in the covered towns and cities) set aside 12% of the units for affordable income levels. This severely disrupts the private marketplace. While well-intentioned to promote more affordable housing construction, which Connecticut needs, the state also needs more market rate housing. We cannot afford to lose market-rate multifamily units.

12 HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2018

FEBRUARY 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 13

Please join us for our March General Membership Meeting!

Water’s Edge at Giovanni’s

2748 Boston Bost Road, Darien March 14th, 2018 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Member Rate: $65 Non-Member Rate: $95 Seated dinner and cash bar

Program: 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Network with your Legislator 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Dinner with 3 guest speakers

Tired of state budgets in constant deficit and taxes and regulations hurting your business?

Do not miss the opportunity to show our representatives in Hartford we are a robust association with members who care about our state and pay attention to what they are voting on. Also listen to our guest speakers talk about advocacy efforts in Connecticut and Washington, DC.

REGISTER HERE Speakers

Brian Flaherty, SVP of Public Policy for CBIA, the state’s leading business organization. In leading CBIA’s public policy division, Flaherty is responsible for the association’s government affairs, grassroots, research, and communications operations. He will discuss the state of the state and how we can move the state forward together.

Larry Cafero, the former House Minority Leader, will speak about why advocacy is so important and how you can be effective in speaking with legislators. He spent 23-years as a legislator in Hartford, 8 of those years as Leader of the House Republican Caucus, where he made common sense and fiscal responsibility hallmarks of their legislative agenda. He currently serves as Executive Director and legal counsel for the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of CT. Bill Ethier, the CEO for the state HBRA will briefly discuss the state budget, proposed taxes and major issues facing our industry at the State Capitol during this legislative session.

14 HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2018

TRADES BREAKFAST J.M Wright Technical High School 120 Bridge St (In Scalzi Park) Stamford, CT 06905 March 16th, 2018 8:00AM

Register at www.buildfairfieldcounty.com. $10 per person for all HBRA members in the trades: (architects, builders, designers, HVAC, etc.)

Skilled labor shortages remain a top issue for builders. Meet the students who will soon enter the workforce and tour the newly renovated JM Wright facility.

REGISTER HERE

Sponsored By:

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: •

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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 FEBRUARY 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 15

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome to the newest members of HBRA of Fairfield County!

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

Bruce Dominick

Accordant Company

Welcome our newest affiliate members

Terry Scarborough

At Accordant, we know software! We also know the construction and real estate industries we serve – inside and out. But that’s just the start. Our job is to understand your business and help pave the way to your success. From choosing the right solution to process refinement through implementation, we help your company create harmony between your people, your technology and your business. With these critical components working in tandem, you will see immediate improvements in your business and how you work with your customers.

Deane, Inc.

Stephen Bradley

Ridgefield Supply Company

Tim Calascione

Big Guy Garage Doors In 2015, Tim “Big Guy” Calascione decided to take his extensive knowledge of the garage door industry and launch his own garage door company, Big Guy Garage Doors. Tim believes in treating customers right with quality work, quality products and reasonable pricing! We are locally owned and operated. You can always count on us to deliver prompt, courteous and professional service every time you call. If your garage door or garage door opener is malfunctioning, call Big Guy Garage Doors!! Whether you need repair work or a garage door replacement, we’ll complete your job quickly and professionally. On time and on budget. We look forward to meeting you!

Christina Handshy

Ridgefield Supply Company

Richard Muhlfeld

Arthur Anderson M&T Bank

For more than 160 years, M&T has helped people and businesses manage their money and make sound financial decisions, so they can live better today and realize their goals for tomorrow. Whether you’re buying a home, building a business, or broadening your career, find out how we’re making a difference, every day, in communities throughout New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia and Washington, DC. 16 HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2018

5 3/4"

New Field Builders is a residential Contracting and Construction Management company located in lower Fairfield County of Connecticut.

Established in 1976, we have been serving the greater community building fine Homes, Additions, and Alterations. We take great pride in our attention to fine details and quality workmanship. New Field Builders also is involved in Kitchen and Bath remodeling, Tile and Marble installation, and Interior Trim and Cabinetry. As a contracting company, we work directly with the Architect and homeowner to create the ultimate finished product.

7 1/4"

John E. Muhlfeld, Inc

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

FEBRUARY 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 17

MEMBER NEWS HBRA of Fairfield County Receives HOBI Award for Exclusive Home Tour

T

he Home Builders and Remodelers of Fairfield County has been recognized with a HOBI Award - “Best Promotion Event for a Spec Home” for its 1st Annual Home Tour.

The April 2017 event drew hundreds of visitors to four new luxury homes built by HBRA members in Darien and Greenwich and priced at $2.2 million to $6.7 million. The Home Tour Committee—made up of interior designers, architects, builders, and home staging experts - promoted the event, the participating builders and their homes, in transit posters, CTC&G Magazine, social media and more.

The results were impressive . . .Three out of the four homes sold within three weeks of the tour dates, and ticket proceeds, totaling $5,000, were presented to two charities – the Fairfield County Community Foundation and PSC Partners Seeking A Cure.

There is so much good that came out of the 2017 home tour. Besides meeting amazing people, we received a lot of great publicity. - Ken DeLeo, Doherty & DeLeo Development.

Read More

Members-Only Webinar: Tax Reform and Your Bottom Line

M

onday, March 5, 2018 at 1 p.m. (ET)

The landmark tax reform legislation, which took effect Jan. 1, created significant changes in the tax code that will affect the housing industry and our small business members.

To help you understand how these changes could impact your business, NAHB is providing a members-only webinar on March 5 at 1 p.m. ET. The webinar will feature NAHB tax experts and outside tax counsel who will focus on the specific changes that will most directly impact small businesses, including the 20-percent pass-through deduction, limitations on the business interest deduction and new depreciation guidelines.

Members will have the opportunity to ask questions during the webinar. If you are not able to join the webinar, a replay will be posted on nahb.org.

Safety Training Toolkit

N

AHB has a variety of resources on maintaining worksite safety. The materials contained here will help builders and trade contractors train their workers and comply with OSHA regulations.

Read More

NAHB remained actively engaged throughout the tax reform debate and fought hard to ensure that our industry’s priorities were addressed. As the implementation of the law begins, we will continue to work on behalf of our members and keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Read More

HBRA NOW OFFERS TEXT ALERTS TO MEMBERS

WE ARE NEW TECHNOLOGIES

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 to sign up

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.

18 HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2018

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

FEBRUARY 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 19

MEMBER NEWS 71st Connecticut Home & Remodeling Show

T

he 71st Connecticut Home & Remodeling Show is Connecticut Convention Center March 2nd through 4th, and we want you to be there.

As Connecticut’s largest and longest running Home and Remodeling Show, the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Central Connecticut offers residents of Connecticut and western Massachusetts a one-stop shopping experience in home products and services. You will be able to find a wide variety of home improvement, building, and remodeling exhibits from featuring local and national vendors featuring thousands of ideas for your home and yard.

Because this is the show that is produced locally by the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Central Connecticut, you have the confidence knowing that this home show represents many of our members and the people we do business with everyday.

The Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Central Connecticut and the Connecticut Home & Remodeling Show… quality, integrity and professionalism.

2018 marks the 71st year the Home Builders & Remodelers Association has produced the best resource for homeowners to discover the latest products and services for their homes. Make sure to join us this year, as we highlight and showcase the latest products and design trends for the home.

The Design Cafe, where you can learn about the latest trends, tools and techniques to enhance your home, features seminars all weekend.

Be sure to join us on Friday, March 2, as we celebrate with our Happy Hour, sponsored by James Hardie. Everyone attending the show will receive a complimentary adult beverage and two free tickets to return to the show anytime during the weekend. Stop by after work with your co-workers and return during the weekend!

For more information on the 71st Connecticut Home & Remodeling Show, Read More

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

REQUEST GENTLYCLASSIFIEDS USED CABINETRY MEMBER

A member is looking for gently used cabinetry, HBRA Members can post their potentially from one of the remodeling or builder members.

Please contact Maureen Hanley at latest news, requests, and listings mhanley@bankatunited.com or (203) 974-6260

here:

REQUEST: TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD PLEASE EMAIL HBRA@BUILDFAIRFIELDCOUNTY.COM OR GENTLY USED CABINETRY CALL THE OFFICE AT 203-335-7008

Please contact Trades

LOTS FOR SALE - STONEWALL LANE SNELLMAN CONSTRUCTION • (2) one-acre parcels for sale in desired Westport neighborhood off of Hermit Lane.

• Part of a 4 lot subdivision with 2 completed and occupied homes • Each parcel is zoned for pool and pool house.

• Front lot asking price; $800,000 • Rear lot asking price; $850,000

BUILDER NEWS Connecticut Ready Mixed Concrete Association Offers Free Design Center Tool

Time-Saving Robotic Accessory Could Hit Market Within The Year

T

he Connecticut Ready Mixed Concrete Association announces that FREE concrete project design and technical assistance is available with just a click through the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association’s Build With Strength Concrete Design Center.

The Connecticut Ready Mixed Concrete Association (CRMCA) announces that FREE concrete project design and technical assistance is available with just a click through the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association’s (NRMCA) Build With Strength Concrete Design Center. The NRMCA’s Concrete Design Center can assist you in choosing the right concrete solution for a wide variety of projects, from multi-family residential/mixed use to industrial and health care facilities.

Connecticut Concrete Promotion Council ‘s Executive Director Dominic Di Cenzo comments,” The Connecticut Ready Mixed Concrete Association has an arsenal of tools to assist Connecticut construction specifiers and those involved with the design and engineering of multi-story buildings, commercial office buildings and infrastructure. The Design Center is a free tool that allows architects and engineers to submit projects to verify various project specifications such as structural design, noise reduction, fire resistance and sustainability.

Read More

T

he Autoset accessory is just the latest construction industry robotics play with the potential to increase productivity in the field.

For example, in October, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that a collaboration between the CEO of a Pennsylvania construction company and a robotics researcher had resulted in a robotic arm that can tie bridge deck rebar. The Tybot can be used with just one supervising worker, and is able to perform work in half the time that it typically takes human crews.

Read More

THE SMART CHOICE

For Making Your Dream Kitchen A Reality

Contact: John Snellman Sr. at (203) 943-9354

THERMADOR

SUBZERO / WOLF

GE MONOGRAM

BEST SERVICE AT THE GUARANTEED BEST PRICE

SMART HOME CONTROL ...and more 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

20 HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2018

FEBRUARY 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 21

DEAR SANDLER COACH

NAHB NEWS NAHB Commends Trump Infrastructure Plan

T

he National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) today commended President Trump’s $1.5 trillion infrastructure plan to rebuild and revitalize the nation’s aging transportation network.

“This package includes a number of provisions that are designed to spur economic and job growth that will also boost the housing sector,” said NAHB Chairman Randy Noel, a custom home builder from LaPlace, La. “Specifically, it will streamline the regulatory and permitting process to get new projects off the ground, place an emphasis on vocational training and delegate authority back to state and local governments.”

The plan expedites environmental reviews by giving the Army Corps of Engineers primary authority to make jurisdictional determinations under the Clean Water Act (CWA) and removing the Environmental Protection Agency’s authority to veto a CWA Section 404 permit. Improvements to the CWA Section 404 permit program are particularly important to home builders who rely on them to authorize impacts to wetlands and streams as a result of residential developments, utility lines and linear transportation projects, among other activities.

The proposal also contains a number of initiatives to help to alleviate the severe labor shortage in the residential construction industry. It would expand Pell Grants and alter the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education program to increase funding to high schools “to promote strategies such as apprenticeship, work-based learning and dual-enrollment.”

“A robust transportation system that enables people to live near where they work will benefit housing and the economy,” said Noel. “We urge Congress to support the president’s infrastructure initiative.”

Read More

HELOCS Deductible for Capital Improvements, IRS Says

I

n a victory for NAHB remodelers, the IRS today issued a letter clarifying changes to home equity loans and lines of credit to confirm that households may take a tax deduction when these loans are used for home improvements.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, enacted Dec. 22, suspends from 2018 until 2026 the deduction for interest paid on home equity loans and lines of credit, unless they are used to buy, build or substantially improve the taxpayer’s home that secures the loan, the letter said.

“This is a major victory for remodelers and for home owners who want to invest in their homes,” said NAHB chairman Randy Noel.

“NAHB has been pushing hard for this outcome since December, when act was signed into law. We will continue to work with Congress and the administration as they hammer out the details of the new tax law.”

Read More 22 HBRA of Fairfield County | FEBRUARY 2018

Statement from NAHB Chairman Randy Noel on IRS Announcement Clarifying Tax Deduction for HELOCs

R

andy Noel, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a custom home builder from LaPlace, La., issued the following statement regarding today’s IRS announcement clarifying tax deductions taken on home equity loans or home equity lines of credit : The National Association of Home Builders applauds today’s announcement by the IRS clarifying that households can take a tax deduction on a home equity loan or home equity line of credit if the loan is used for home improvements. This is a major victory for remodelers and for home owners who want to invest in their homes. NAHB has been pushing hard for this outcome since December, when The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 was signed into law. We will continue to work with Congress and the Administration as they hammer out the details of the new tax law.

Read More

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 203-335-7008 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’ve heard of the Up Front Contract but can you expand on what that is? - Mike B from Brookfield

Hi Mike, Absolutely! The Up Front Contract is a tool we use in sales but things like UFC’s happen to us all the time. It’s basically letting your prospect (or anyone for that matter) know up front what is going to happen. Think of this as the Doctor telling you what will happen in surgery, although you may even be unconscious you are a little bit more at ease knowing what’s going to occur. In a sales meeting you would cover things like how much time you have, what the other persons agenda is, what your agenda is and then what the outcome could possibly be (good or bad).

Just like other professions there are some bad apples in sales. It’s why a lot of times we are looked at as just a “Typical Sales Person” and not the Trusted Advisors we actually are. What the up front contract does is put your cards out on the table first thing and shows why you are there and what you are looking to accomplish. More importantly though it allows your prospect to make sure they cover what is on their mind and in the end have permission to say No if it’s not a good fit.

In sales our mission is to gather information to qualify or disqualify a prospect. Using an Up Front Contract can really set the tone for the entire meeting and get out any major issues early on.

Keep those questions coming! - John 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

FEBRUARY 2018 | HBRA of Fairfield County 23

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.

EDUCATION SURVEY Do you have a new idea for a seminar? Do you want to take a class that the HBRA doesn’t offer?

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