October 2019 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 - O CTO B E R 2 0 1 9

UPCOMING

FEATURES

MEMBER BENEFITS

November GMM HOBI Awards Awards & Holiday Celebration

Fall GMM Axe Throwing PWB Meeting

mynpp.com NAHB Benefits

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.

FEATURES

10 12 14 34

Fall GMM With NAHB

Build Your Business with Instagram

Axe Throwing

HOBI Winners Announced

QUICK LINKS Upcoming Events New Members HBRA News Builder News HBRA Before and After Member Discounts Find Us On Social Media

hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com www.buildfairfieldcounty.com

Editorial Staff Jackie Bertolone Executive Officer Sarah Iannarone Membership & Events Coordinator Clare Michalak Marketing & Graphics Coordinator

ON THE COVER

Redwood Construction & Consulting, LLC Cassondra Stevenson https://www.redwoodconsultingco.com/

2019 VIP PARTNERS HOME BUILDERS AND REMODELERS ASSOCIATION OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY

2019 OFFICERS

ELITE

President Anthony DeRosa DeRosa Builders

Sr. Vice-President Kim DiMatteo DiMatteo Insurance

Vice President John Hertz

Hertz Construction

Secretary Rob Michaud

DIAMOND

The Michaud Group

Immediate Past President Chris Steiner Steiner, Inc.

2019 DIRECTORS Propane Pete Battaglio Hocon Gas

TITANIUM

Max Bender Bender Supply

Steve Berko

Four Square Build & Design

Michael Church

William Pitt Sotheby’s

Ken DeLeo

Doherty & DeLeo

PLATINUM

Brian Kurtz

Interstate Lumber

Steve LoParco

LoParco Associates, Inc.

Steven Roth

Elevator Service Company

Alex Shook

Pella Commercial

Michael Wood

GOLD

Wood Builders

LIFE DIRECTORS Joanne Carroll JMC Resources

Michael Palumbo ERI Building & Design

Jerry Effren The Greyrock Companies

Peter Gaboriault Bear Paw Builders

Gary Fanali City Carting

Terrence Beaty William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty

Peter Fusaro Preferred Builders

MEDIA

Thank you to the following VIP Associate Members for their support in 2019. Due to their generosity the Association greatly benefits - from developing new events and educational opportunities for the membership, to keeping our lights on!

ME SSAGE F ROM THE EXECUTIVE OF F ICER

Dear Members, We hope you have enjoyed some of our newly launched events including Build Your Business with Instagram, Axe Throwing, the Legal Pitfalls seminar and our evening with NAHB featuring a presentation from the Chairman and the Chief Economist. Our members value opportunities to learn and grow their business as well as network with other industry professionals.

We look forward to a joint membership event with the HBRA of Central Connecticut on November 6 at Haynes, the HOBI Awards Dinner put on by the state association on November 20th and our Annual Awards & Holiday Celebration on December 11.

We are starting the process for the 2020 Membership Directory & Resource Guide so please be sure to send in your listing forms and any advertising to secure your spot. The directory is a resource members rely upon and is available in showrooms across Fairfield County.

MEMBERS AT A GLANCE

531 TOTAL MEMBERS

121 NEW MEMBERS

85

NEW BUSINESSES

As always, if anyone has any questions or suggestions please don’t hesitate to contact me. I look forward to the last few months of 2019 with you all.

All the best, Jackie L. Bertolone

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 5

2019 Idea House Tour October 24, 2019

4 Main Street New Canaan CT 06840 5:30-8:00PM

This Old HouseÂŽ has teamed up with award-winning building firm KARP to build the THIS OLD HOUSE 2019 IDEA HOUSE in a classic-meets-contemporary home located in the coveted historic district of downtown New Canaan, Connecticut.

KARP and This Old House invite HBRA and AIA members to tour the home.

Join us to celebrate the members who contributed to this project: KARP This Old House Accurate Lock & Hardware Bender Plumbing Supplies* Big Guy Garage Doors CAH Architecture and Design Closet & Storage Concepts Circa Lighting County TV & Appliances Inc.* Everest Marble

* Members of both HBRA & AIA

Frangione Engineering LLC Fimbel Architectural Doors Garage Living* Hogue ID Huber Engineered Woods* Iconic Modern Home Interstate + Lakeland Lumber Corp.

J Geiger Shading* Magna Steel Sales Inc. New England Stair Company Inc.

RSVP as an AIA Member Click here to RSVP

RSVP as an HBRA Member AIA members are eligible for 1 CE credit 6 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

U P COMING EVENTS

10.24 10.29

11.6 11.20 12.11

Idea House Tour October 24, 2019 KARP & This Old House Click Here To Register

WELL Designed Lighting Controls October 29, 2019 KLAR Studio Windows+Doors & AVS Click Here To Register

Committee Meetings Associates Council November 11, 2019 Program Committee November 12, 2019 Membership Committee November 13, 2019 PWB November 21, 2019

November GMM November 6, 2019 Haynes Outdoor Living Showroom Click Here To Register

HOBI Awards November 20, 2019 Aqua Turf Click Here To Register

Awards Night & Holiday Celebration December 11, 2019 SAVE THE DATE

H B R A M EM B ER E V E N TS

Tablescape Event October 23, 2019 County TV & Appliance 5:30-8:00 p.m.

Click Here to RSVP

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 7

Because you need the solution before the problem.

Your business is one that deserves to be protected, and our job is to minimize risk.

TOOFER.COM

Tooher-Ferraris’ Home Builders Specialty Program has been supporting and protecting the reputations of builders and contractors for over 85 years.

From general contractor construction liability and workers compensation, to commercial automobile insurance, subcontractor risk transfer, and OSHA compliance assistance, our high-touch service is delivered with honesty, integrity, and dependability.

43 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT 06897

1.800.899.0093

HBRA JOINT MEMBER EVENT November 6 | 3:30-5:30 PM | Haynes Group PLEASE NOTE THE EARLIER TIME

Join the HBRA of Fairfield County and the HBRA of Central Connecticut for a joint member event at Haynes Outdoor Living Showroom. Tour the quarry, network with industry professionals while enjoying artisan pizza and barbecue from the outdoor kitchens, and participate in the rock stacking competition.

Haynes Outdoor Living Showroom

600 Derby Avenue | Seymour, CT $20 Members | $40 General Admission CLICK HERE TO REGISTER Rock Stacking competition

Challenge your colleagues to see who can build the best stack with some of the Haynes quarry rocks.

Prizes will be awarded to the highest stack, the most creative stack, and the most rocks used.

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 9

HBRA EVENTS

Fall GMM with NAHB On October 2, 2019 the HBRA of Fairfield County welcomed the Chairman of the National Association of Home Builders, the Chief Economist and Chief of Staff for a presentation on the economy and the home building industry nationwide and locally.

The event started with a VIP reception sponsored by 7 local builders and was followed by networking with the full membership. Then attendees sat down to listen to Brett Diggs discuss membership benefits, rebates available to them and upcoming IBS 2020. Greg Ugalde, Chairman of NAHB, gave an 10 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

SPONSORS update on legislative affairs in Washington, DC and some of the themes he is seeing throughout the country.

The presentation concluded with an informative presentation from Dr. Robert Dietz on the housing market locally and nationwide including a forecast of what’s to come.

The presentation is available to members. Please contact us if you would like it sent to you. The HBRA thanks all the sponsors who made this evening possible and the guests who joined us for this important event.

HBRA EVENTS

NAHB Chairman, Greg Ugalde, speaking to VIP reception

Greg Ugalde presenting a 50 year membership plaque to the Steiner family on behalf of Richard Steiner

Greg Ugalde presenting a 50 year membership plaque to John Kinahan of SEKN Construction

Pictured left to right Antonio Stella, Angela Legg, Jen DeLaurentis, Michael Church

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 11

HBRA EVENTS

Build Your Business With Instagram Instagram is the most used social media platform among our industry and membership so we held a seminar to highlight ways to take advantage of what the app has to offer to help members grow their business.

Panelist Erica Chludzinski from Connoisseur Digital led off the presentation with best practices, managing organic content, hashtagging and geotagging and then Tarra Del Chiaro presented

12 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

on amplifying your content with advertising, targeting customers and connecting with your website.

The HBRA would like to thank Black Bridge motors for hosting us in their showroom where members were able to see antique cars get a modern reboot.

HBRA EVENTS

OSHA 10 The HBRA of Fairfield County hosts OSHA10 certification classes 2-3 times a year. OSHA10 is required every 5 years by state law and is appropriate for any trade or construction worker on job sites in Connecticut. The next offering will be January 30th and 31st.

Thanks to our hosts Ring’s End and our lunch sponsor, Dimatteo Insurance.

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

®

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 13

HBRA EVENTS

Axe Throwing We put on our first ever Axe Throwing event in the first axe throwing venue in Fairfield County just days after it opened.

Members were able to come try out the new game before competing against others. The venue was great for networking.

A special thanks to our table sponsors Elissa Grayer Interior Design and Marsillio’s Appliance.

Guests were also treated to a delicious dinner from Bears BBQ thanks to the sponsorship from Northeast Building Supply.

We look forward to making this an annual event for members.

SPONSORS

14 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

HBRA EVENTS

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 15

HBRA EVENTS

Professional Women in Building Council The October PWB Meeting was the council’s annual meeting to vote on the new Board of Directors for 2020.

The new Chair, Stephanie Rapp, was already chosen by HBRA Board President Anthony DeRosa.

Voting members in attendance unanimously elected the following board: Vice Chair: Emilia Ferri, Emilia Ferri Architecture + Design, LLC; Treasurer: Lisa Bancroft, Fairfield County Bank; Secretary: Robin Carroll, KARP; Director: Angela Legg, Tile America; Director: Peggy Rubens-Duhl, Fresh Architect; Director: Tarra Del Chiaro, Accurate Lock and Hardware.

Also announced at the meeting was the 2019 Woman of the Year, nominated by PWB members.

Congratulations to Stephanie Rapp on her much deserved recognition.

The award will be presented at the HBRA’s December 11 awards dinner.

The PWB will also be launching four committees this winter including: mentoring, events, philanthropy and communications. If you are a member interested in serving on a committee, please contact us.

The next PWB meeting will take place on November 21 at 10:30 12:00 at Sunshine Floor Supplies Inc. in Stamford CT.

16 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

2020 Woman of the Year, Stephanie Rapp

2020 PWB Board of Directors

DON’T JUST INVEST IN WINDOWS, INVEST IN THE CONTRACTOR. ANDERSEN DID. Even the best windows don’t perform well if they’re not installed properly. Andersen Certified Contractors are trained by ® Andersen to install Andersen windows and patio doors. In fact, Andersen is so confident in their contractors, they offer a 2-year installation limited warranty.* When you’re ready to replace, Andersen contractors are here to help. You’ll not only be choosing someone certified by Andersen, you’ll be choosing the window company ranked #1 in quality and the one most trusted and recommended by trade professionals.** *See Andersen certified contractor limited warranty for details. **Based on 2016 survey of trade contractors.

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

For more information, visit andersenwindows.com

29 Prospect Street, Ridgefield, CT 06877-0519

203-438-2626 www.ridgefieldsupply.com

MEMBER DIRECTORY & RESOURCE GUIDE 2020 The printed HBRA Directory is created each year to provide members with a resource to identify and contact other HBRA members. Inside you will find information about the HBRA of Fairfield County, the Board of Directors, the 2019 HOBI Winners, member contact information, and local town and state contact information including building departments and state legislators.

HAVE YOU UPDATED YOUR INFORMATION 2020 HBRA Member Directory & Resource Guide The Home Builders and Remodelers Association Member Directory & Resource Guide is provided annually in print and online to all members. The 140 page book contains information about all current members, HBRA staff and the Board of DIrectors, contact information for town and state officials, as well as past presidents and a brief history of the HBRA. It is also distributed at events and is available for display at member’s offices and showrooms.

All active HBRA members receive a listing in the directory included as part of your membership. Please complete both sides of this form for the 2020 directory and return by December 13, 2019.

Listing Information SELECT THIS BOX IF YOUR INFORMATION HAS NOT CHANGED SINCE LAST YEAR’S DIRECTORY WAS PUBLISHED

Company_________________________________________________________________________ Member Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________ City________________________ State_____ Zip____________ Tel. Phone __________________________ Website____________________________ _________ Unless requested we do not include cell phone numbers or email addresses.

Please check the boxes below in order to include this information.

o I would like to include my email in the directory listing. Email: ____________________________

Choose which categories your company will be listed under and make sure your information is up to date. Updating your listing information including your address, emails, and other information will ensure that customers will be able to contact you. Don’t forget that you can add additional email addresses and social media links on your listing form.

o I would like to include my cellphone number in my directory listing. Cell Phone:(____)______ ___ __ o I would like to include my social media handle: @_____________________________ Instagram

or

Facebook

o I would like to display extra directories in my office/ showroom. I would like __________extra copies

CLICK HERE FOR FORMS ( All members receive 1)

Listing Examples

Businesses with One Member InSinkErator 4700 21st St Racine WI 53406 www.insinkerator.com Rhonda Burnim (203)522-9608

Businesses with Affiliate Members DeRosa Builders 522 East Putnam Ave, Ste 1 Greenwich, CT 06830 www.derosabuilders.com Main Member Anthony DeRosa Affiliate Member Michael DeRosa (203)769-1804

NEW ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES 2020 HBRA Member Directory & Resource Guide The HBRA Member Directory & Resource Guide reaches industry professionals and consumers throughout Fairfield County. The directory is distributed to 500+ HBRA members, plus prospective members, consumers, and at all HBRA events. The directory is also on display in members’ showrooms and offices and can be accessed online by visiting our website.

Ad materials, payment, and categories are due no later than:

December 13, 2019

AD DIMENSIONS & PRICING size

dimensions [WxH]

Full Page Half Page (Hor.) Quarter Page Business Card

5.75” x 8.75” 5” x 3.85” 2.45” x 4” 2.45” x 2”

memBeR PRiCe

$900 $650 $425 $150

GUIDELINES FOR FULL PAGE SIZING

non-memBeR PRiCe

For full size pages with a bleed Live Area 5.75” X 8.75” Trim: 6” X 9” Bleed: 6.25” X 9.25”

$1,400 $1,150 $925 $550

PLEASE COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING: Use the same directory ad from 2019

o Please send me a copy for approval o I have reviewed last year’s copy and approve as is (no changes necessary) I would like to run a NEW ad [please check the size] Page Size o Full page o Half page o Quarter page

o Business Card

If running a new ad, please specify one of the following:

o I will provide the proper materials, as specified above, to HBRA of Fairfield County for an ad to be created* [fees to be incurred]

o I will provide a completed ad with the above specifications to HBRA of Fairfield County

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS **ReQUiRed** In order to reserve an ad, please read the following, sign and date.

I understand that full payment for my ad is due to the HBRA of Fairfield County* upon commitment of ad. If full payment is not received, I understand that my ad will not print in the 2020 Member Directory & Resource Guide.

Print Name: ____________________ Signature: ________________________ Date:__________ * Full payment includes the cost of the ad AND any corrections and/or creation fees done by the HBRA of Fairfield County and reserves the right to withhold any ad that is not fully paid for prior to print.

AD MATERIALS AND CATEGORIES DEADLINE IS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2019 Please send completed form, payment, and materials to the HBRA via email, fax or mail. Contact the office with any questions.

18 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019 HBRA of Fairfield County • 2228 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield CT 06825 • T: (203) 335-7008 • F: (203) 335-7141 clare@buildfairfieldcounty.com

PLACE AN AD TO SUPPORT THE HBRA Advertising in the HBRA Directory is an investment in year-round exposure. The HBRA directory is available online, in print, is given to every HBRA member, and is available at events throughout the year. Your contribution directly helps the HBRA provide new and improved experiences, events, education seminars, and a variety of other services.

HBRA EVENTS

Why a Membership with the HBRA has Value

Find HBRA of Fairfield County Members for your next project.

Visit our online member directory here

For a step-by- step guide of searching our online directory please click the video

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 19

HBRA NEW S

ASID New York Metro Announces their 2019 DESIGN Excellence Awards Winners Congratulations to HBRA member Elissa Grayer for receiving two recent awards from ASID NYMetro.

The first design award was for best Master Bedroom Suite, and the 2nd was for best Children’s Playroom. The entries were judged by ASID members from Los Angeles and Chicago.

20 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

HBRA NEW S

Suite Talk: Peggy Rubens-Duhl, principal and owner, Fresh Architect One of the busiest architects in the region is Peggy Rubens-Duhl, whose work has covered the residential and commercial real estate markets.

She has been a registered architect in Connecticut since 1991 and maintains offices in Westport and Woodbridge. Her most prominent projects involved the Jewish High School of Connecticut in Stamford, Aflac’s Connecticut headquarters and training center in Trumbull and the Casey Family Services headquarters and the new SGI-USA Buddhist Center, both in New Haven.

Member of HBRA and PWB Board Member for 2020

Rubens-Duhl has served on the board of directors and as secretary of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Institute of Architects and on the board of the Connecticut Architecture Foundation, where she also served as an officer, secretary, treasurer and the chairwoman of the foundation’s scholarship committee.

In this edition of Suite Talk, Business Journal Senior Enterprise Editor Phil Hall speaks with Rubens-Duhl about her career and approach to her work.

Read More

IT’S NOT A TREND. IT’S A REVOLUTION. Visit ZIPRevolution.com to learn how easy it is to make the switch.

© 2017-2019 Huber Engineered Woods LLC. ZIP System, the accompanying ZIP System logo and design are trademarks of Huber Engineered Woods LLC. Huber Engineered Woods’ ZIP System® products are covered by various patents. Please see ZIPSystem.com/patents for details. HUB 81860 REV 1/19

Connecticut Home Builders & Remodelers Program

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.

The Right Policy for Your Business 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.

22 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

H B R A MEMBER BEF ORE & AF TER

Before and After: Redwood Construction & Consulting, LLC

BEFORE

This entire house renovation included the construction of a brand new pool house with kitchenette, full bathroom, two bifold 14’ doors, 8’ deep in ground pool, glass fence, built-in luxury grill, fire pit, bocce court that lies right along the views of Long Island sound. Other outdoor AFTER features include a pavilion with wood burning fireplace, large yard, and a two car detached garage.

The main floor received an all new modern kitchen that opens up to the family room with a wood burning stone mantel fireplace and a series of French doors that leads to a grand 25’x 30’ deck.

This floor also includes a library with built-ins, a day bed and wood burning fireplace, foyer with herringbone floors, living room, dining room, pantry/office, playroom with an extension also opening to a deck covered with a beautiful pergola.

On the second floor west wing a cupola over the main stairs allows natural light to come in. There are four bedrooms with walk-in closets and en-suite bathrooms, a hallway connector to the master bedroom with a juliet balcony over-looking the rear pergola, and attic walk up stairs with impressive structural glass floor that leads to second floor deck/ pergola thru French doors. The attic was redone to include a gym, art studio, guest bedroom with an en-suite.

If you are interested in being featured for a before & after contact us here.

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 23

NEW MEMBERS

D&P Construction Inc. Livio R. Paniccia

D&P Construction, Inc. was founded in 1963 by Americo Paniccia, President of D&P, and Panfilo DiTunno. The company incorporated in 1972. D&P is fully licensed and insured, in; septic tanks, sewer/plumbing, and new home construction. We are general contractors who do paving, asphalt/concrete work, sanitary sewer lines/mains/work, excavation, grading, foundations, footings, drainage systems, water/storm drains, backfilling, driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots READ MORE.

Rubiny Drywall, LLC Bruno Mello

The Complete Drywall Services LLC. Our Goal is your satisfaction !... READ MORE

Arnold Peck’s Commercial World Arnold Peck

THE ONLY NAME YOU NEED IN REAL ESTATE IS ARNOLD PECK For some people, real estate is just a business. For Arnold Peck, it’s more. It is his passion. His dream – to establish one of the best Real Estate organizations in Connecticut – happened not by accident, but by design... READ MORE

Ruddy Builders John Ruddy

RUDDY BUILDERS CREATES QUALITY, SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTS that reflect their client’s style, needs, and budget, providing a professional and a personal approach to new home construction, alterations, and historic home restoration. The firm combines old world craftsmanship, exceptional project management, and contemporary construction technologies — with passion... READ MORE

24 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

BUILDER NEWS Auburn Landing Inc. Jeffrey Andrews

Auburn Landing has created hundreds of unique projects in Fairfield and Westchester counties, ranging from mid-range to high-end new custom builds, renovations and historic restorations... READ MORE.

Kingswood Kitchens, INC. Petros Pouliovalis

Kingswood is a family-owned manufacturer of fine custom cabinetry with our factory located in Danbury, Connecticut. Kingswood has been designing and manufacturing true custom cabinetry for the public for over 50 years.... READ MORE

Solli Engineering, LLC Chris Pawlowski

Solli Engineering offers comprehensive civil engineering and land development consulting services to clients throughout the northeast and beyond. Solli Engineering is determined to be recognized as more than just a consultant, but rather an integral part of any development team... READ MORE

Welcome New Affiliates Jon Maxwell Russ Pastor

Liberty Closet and Garage Co

Priscilla Vasconcellos

Palette Pro Painting & Renovation Inc

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 25

BUILD ER NEW S

The Number Of People In The Average U.S. Household Is Going Up For The First Time In Over 160 Years

The Biggest Housing Boom In History Has Just Begun

Over the course of the nation’s history, there has been a slow but steady decrease in the size of the average U.S. household – from 5.79 people per household in 1790 to 2.58 in 2010. But this decade will likely be the first since the one that began in 1850 to break this long-running trend, according to newly released Census Bureau data. In 2018 there were 2.63 people per household.

Bill Brame edited Star Trek films before he took up “house flipping.”

Since 2010, household growth has trailed population growth.

Households are increasing in size mathematically because the growth in the number of households is trailing population growth. The newly released data indicates that the population residing in households has grown 6% since 2010 (the smallest population growth since the 1930s), while the number of households has grown at a slower rate (4%, from 116.7 million in 2010 to 121.5 million in 2018).

The increase in household size is significant because it could have implications for national economic growth. Rising household size reduces the demand for housing, resulting in less residential construction and less demand for home appliances and furniture.

During the housing boom, Bill was often “turning around” 14 houses at once with three crews of renovators working full time. In 2004, he paid $400,000 for a house in Hollywood, California. A year later he flipped it for $1.2 million.

Back then, flipping houses was the most profitable side-job in America. Buy a house, fit it with a new kitchen, sell it for a big markup, repeat.

In 2006, one in every 10 homes was bought to flip!

This Craziness Blew Up in 2008 The housing market melted down in 2008, and the average home lost over a quarter of its value. Flippers went bankrupt when they got stuck owning rapidly depreciating homes no one wanted to buy.

Many ordinary Americans, who never intended to speculate on housing, were financially devastated too.

An Interview with Dr. Dietz US housing shortage could get even worse here’s why CNBC’s Diana Olick reports how a sharp drop in mortgages rates this summer brought demand back for entry-level homes and has depleted that supply dramatically.

Some lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Others lost their jobs or their businesses. This all shocked millions of folks who believed the lie that US housing was a slamdunk, can’t-lose investment.

The housing crash was hands down the most financially disruptive event of the century. It scorched one thing into the minds of Americans: “I’ll NEVER get burned like that again.”

Read More

26 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

COUNTY COUNTY HASHAS ALL YOUR ALL YOUR APPLIANCE APPLIANCE & SMART & SMART HOME HOME NEEDS NEEDS

From From Kitchen Kitchen Appliances Appliances to Home to Home Automation...

Automation...

WE WE HAVE HAVE IT ALL! IT ALL!

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

www.countytv.com www.countytv.com

27702770 Summer Summer Street Street • Stamford, • Stamford, CT 06905 CT 06905 • 203-327-2630 • 203-327-2630 STORE HOURS: STORE HOURS: MON & THURS: MON & THURS: 9AM-9PM 9AM-9PM | TUES, WED, | TUES, FRI WED, & SAT: FRI9AM-6PM & SAT: 9AM-6PM | SUN: 11AM-5PM | SUN: 11AM-5PM

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 27

NAHB NEW S

White House Launches Opportunity Zones Website The White House has announced a new website designed to serve as an information hub for the opportunity zones initiative established as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.

Opportunity zones provide tax incentives for investors with capital gains to invest in and provide an economic boost to underserved communities.

The White House opportunity zones website includes: An interactive map of the 8,764 opportunity zones nationwide; Links to opportunity zone-focused websites from states and territories; Federal tools and resources that support opportunity zone residents and complement Qualified Opportunity Fund investments; and Completed action items of each White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council member agency.

Read More

Federal Code Mandates Costly and the Wrong Approach to Boost Energy Efficiency The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) today urged Congress to oppose any federal mandates that require the adoption of more stringent building codes because it would harm housing affordability, prevent healthy competition in the marketplace and may not achieve the intended results.

Read More

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 28 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

NMLS ID #516624

EQUAL HOUSING

LENDER

MEMBER F D IC

NAHB NEW S

Bipartisan Legislation Introduced on Energy Tax Incentives

Builder Confidence Hits 20-Month High

Two NAHB-supported bipartisan bills have been introduced in the House and Senate to update and extend two expired energy tax incentives frequently used by home builders and remodelers. These provisions are part of a broader group of temporary tax incentives, known as tax extenders, that expired at the end of 2017.

Builder confidence in the market for newly-built single-family homes rose three points to 71 in October, according to the latest NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today.

Sentiment levels are at their highest point since February 2018.

The Home Energy Savings Act (S. 2588 and H.R. 4506) would extend and improve the Section 25C tax credit for qualified energy efficiency improvements. This credit offers home owners an incentive to install certain energy efficient products, such as windows or HVAC systems.

The New Home Energy Efficiency Act (S. 2595 and H.R. 4646) would extend and modernize the Section 45L tax credit for energy efficient new homes. This credit incentivizes builders to exceed certain energy efficiency standards.

Read More

“The housing rebound that began in the spring continues, supported by low mortgage rates, solid job growth and a reduction in new home inventory,� said NAHB Chairman Greg Ugalde.

Read More

Haynes is offering all HBRA Members 20% off all Haynes Outdoor Living products.

Shop our incredible range of architectural stone, pavers and outdoor living fireplaces, fire pits, fire rocks, and outdoor kitchens at all-time low prices. Explore a remarkable selection of wall stone, veneers, flagstone and pavers, all perfect for New Home Construction and Home Remodeling.

Click Here OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 29

NAHB NEW S

Single-Family Housing Starts Hold Firm in September Due to a decline in multifamily housing starts, total housing starts fell 9.4 percent in September to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.26 million units, according to a report from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and Commerce Department.

Remodelers’ Confidence Holds Steady in Third Quarter of 2019

The National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Remodeling Market The September reading of 1.26 million starts is the number of housing Index (RMI) posted a reading of 55 in units builders would begin if they kept this pace for the next 12 months. the third quarter of 2019, remaining Within this overall number, single-family starts increased 0.3 percent stable from the previous quarter. to 918,000 units. The multifamily sector, which includes apartment The RMI has been consistently buildings and condos, fell 28.2 percent to a 338,000 pace. above 50—indicating that more “Single-family builders continue to see positive conditions for housing, remodelers report market activity and this is reflected in NAHB’s Housing Market Index, which measures is higher compared to the prior builder sentiment,” said Greg Ugalde, chairman of the National quarter than report it is lower— Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder and developer since the second quarter of 2013. from Torrington, Conn.

The overall RMI averages current remodeling activity and future Read More indicators.

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30 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

MI LLENNIAL INSIG HTS

How Millennial Layout Preferences Differ From Baby Boomers vs.

Other Generations Millennials: Merging Millennials are more inclined to want features such as two-story homes, Cultures open layouts, and a greater number of bedrooms and bathrooms than other generations, according to data from NAHB’s “What Home Buyers Really Want” report. The report is based on a survey of prospective and recent home buyers about the preferences they want in a home and community.

Additional space is important to millennials, who have an eye toward homes with at least three bedrooms (87%) and two bathrooms (86%).

These home buyers also want a half basement (36%) or a full basement (37%), and prefer open kitchen and dining room layouts (50%) and family room and dining room layouts (43%) more so than older home buyers.

What they don’t tend to want are single-story homes (35%) — which, in contrast, are much more popular with boomers (80%) and seniors (74%).

The cultural chasm between baby boomers and millennials in the manufacturing workplace can be canyon-sized. The difference between the oldest baby boomers and the youngest millennials is 50 years, and there’s more to it than whether the first flip phone came out when you were in diapers or dress shirts.

How do you build a bridge across this cultural divide?

Read More

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Personal Banking Mortgages Commercial Banking Personal and business solutions for your life.

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OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 31

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ADVICE COLUMNS

DEAR SALES COACH Dear Sales Coach, One of my salespeople is having some challenges. Feedback from multiple sources – his own clients, prospects, customers, and colleagues -- suggested that his communication skills needed some work. One important contact at a major client, told the salesperson’s supervisor that he “often confuses being direct with being antagonistic. He issues orders. And frankly, that sometimes makes working with your company difficult.” The supervisor was able to smooth ruffled feathers and regain the relationship but what is the best way to address the misplaced “assertiveness” that he feels in necessary for closing business?

Chris M. Dear Chris, Your salesperson may need some help in understanding that these negative reactions from contacts could be a result of “tapes” or audio recordings that are embedded when we are very young. This theory, known as Transactional Analysis, segments the human personality into three ego states: Adult, Parent, Child. Each ego state may be thought of as an audio recording that plays back at various times throughout your life.

It sounds like his messaging may be coming from the “Critical Parent” ego-state that comes across as more harsh or critical.

By learning to recognize messaging that was coming from his Critical Parent, he can set that messaging aside, and focus instead on interactions that initiated from his Nurturing Parent and Adult tracks, which are more comforting and logical ways to communicate.

With practice, the salesperson will be able to secure a much more positive impression for both himself and your company. Reach out to us for more information about how to implement this successful communication skill.

-Ed

Ed Schultek

Ed began Sandler/PEAK with focus on medium and small size firms to Corporate organizations who must lift their Management and Sales competency to Win, improve their ability to lead others to change their future, and position themselves as the Trusted Advisor to their Clients above all others.

Have a sales question? Email Ed at ed.schultek@sandler.com or visit, www.peak.sandler.com.

32 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

Have a sales question? Email Ed at ed.schultek@sandler.com.

connecticut cottages & gardens

+ february 2019

COTTAGESGARDENS.COM | FEBRUARY 2019

HOBI AWARDS

KITCHEN

ISSUE

cottagesgardens.com

THE

C O NG R ATU L ATI O N S TO TH E 2019 FAIRF IELD COUNTY HOBI AWARD EE S Ben Krupinski Builder

D’Acunto Construction

BEST CUSTOM HOME 10,000- 15,000 SF Back Country Estate , Greenwich

BEST SPEC HOME $2-3 Million 668 Carter Street, New Canaan BEST POCKET COMMUNITY Thomas Ridge at Carter Street New Canaan

Eastern Inc. BEST GREEN ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOME 95 Locust Avenue, New Canaan

RR Builders BEST IN-TOWN CUSTOM HOME for 16 Orchard Lane, New Canaan

Vitabuilt / Vita Design Group BEST SPEC HOME $4-5 Million 281 Compo Road South, Westport

Cerreta Builders BEST CUSTOM HOME UNDER 3,000 SF for 355 Edwards Street, Fairfield BEST POOL HOUSE 7 Lantern Hill Road, Westport BEST RESIDENTIAL REMODEL $500,000750,000 569 Fairfield Beach Road, Fairfield

HOBBS Inc. BEST NOT SO BIG CUSTOM HOME Fairfield Carriage House

Tallman Segerson Builders & Vita Design Group BEST MODERN CUSTOM HOME 7 Compo Beach Road, Westport

Nordic Construction BEST OUT OF STATE CUSTOM HOME 150 South Bedford Road, Pound Ridge, N.Y.

Murphy Brothers Contracting BEST SPECIAL PURPOSE BUILDING Equestrian Facility at 131 Mill Road, Greenwich

Altamura Homes BEST SPEC HOME $3-4 Million BEST KITCHEN, BEST BATH, BEST LIBRARY/ OFFICE 97 Skyview Lane, New Canaan

Bluewater Home Builders BEST SPEC HOME $5-6 Million 27 Soundview Drive, Westport OUTSTANDING OUTDOOR ROOM Roof Deck at 27 Soundview Drive, Westport

DeRosa Builders OUTSTANDING SPEC HOME $3-4 Million 1 Tower Lane, Old Greenwich BEST LUXURY TOWNHOUSE 59 East Elm Street, Greenwich BEST RESIDENTIAL REMODEL $750,000 - 1 MILLION BEST BUTLER’S PANTRY 20 Greenbrier Lane, Greenwich

TREC The Real Estate Collaborative

BEST SPEC HOME $750,000-1 Million 175 Romanock Road, Fairfield BEST MARKETED HOME 8 Romanock Place, Fairfield

BEST SPEC HOME OVER $8 MILLION 307 Shore Road Greenwich BEST OUTDOOR ROOM Roof Deck at 307 Shore Road, Greenwich BEST GREEN PRODUCT Robotic Lawn Mower at 307 Shore Road, Greenwich

BEST CUSTOM HOME 5,000-6,000 SF 38 Shorefront Park, Norwalk BEST CUSTOM HOME 8,000- 10,000 SF 65 Conyers Farm Drive, Greenwich

The Michaud Group

Corbo Associates

SBP Homes

Hogue Interior Design LLC

Keith J. Manca Building Company BEST CUSTOM HOME 4,000-5,000 SF for 49 Danby Drive, Greenwich

Fletcher Development

BEST SPEC HOME $6-8 MILLION 9 Cornelia Drive, Greenwich OUTSTANDING CUSTOM HOME 5,000-6,000 SF 73 Willowmere Circle, Riverside

Legacy Development BEST CUSTOM HOME 6,000-7,000 SF Tree Top Lodge, Bedford

Ruddy Builders BEST CUSTOM HOME 7,000-8,000 SF 25 Bittersweet Lane, Darien

34 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

DeLaurentis Developments

BEST SPEC HOME $1-2 Million 154 Mill Hill Terrace, Southport

BEST IN TOWN SPEC HOME BEST SPEC HOME INTERIOR DESIGN 34 Oak Street, Westport

Karp Associates BEST NEW OLD SPEC HOME OUTSTANDING BUTLER’S PANTRY BEST OPTION UPGRADE the = Smart Load Center 4 Main Street, New Canaan BEST NEW PRODUCT Ghostop in 2019 Idea House at 4 West Main Street New Canaan BEST CONVERSION Scarsdale N.Y. Guest cottage/ In-law suite

BEST FAIRFIELD COUNTY SINGLE FAMILY HOME $500,000-600,000 26 Meridian Ridge, Newtown

Toll Brothers Inc. BEST MID PRICED TOWNHOUSE for the Bethel Berkshire model, Ridgewood at Middlebury BEST 55+ HOME Toll Brothers for the Alder model at Regency at Prospect BEST OUTDOOR LIVING ENVIRONMENT FOR A COMMUNITY Rivington in Danbury

C O NG R ATU L ATI O N S TO TH E 2019 FAIRF IELD COUNTY HOBI AWARD EE S RMS Companies

D.A.S. Builders

Torrco Design Center

BEST FAIRFIELD COUNTY Cluster COMMUNITY BEST CLUBHOUSE, BEST INTERIOR MERCHANDISING Ainslie Square in Stamford BEST RENTAL COMMUNITY Parkside Crossing in New Haven

BEST HISTORIC REHAB $1-2 MILLION for Greenwich Residence

BEST PRODUCT SHOWROOM UNDER 5,000 SF 105 Hamilton Street, New Haven

Stone Harbor Land Company

Bender Showrooms

BEST HISTORIC REHAB UNDER $1 MILLION 24 Cherry Tree Lane, Riverside

BEST PRODUCT SHOWROOM OVER 5,000 SF 177 South Leonard Street, Waterbury

John Paul Development

County TV & Appliance

BEST NEW OLD HOME REMODEL OVER $750,000 480 Old Post Road, Fairfield

BEST SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN BY A SUPPLIER

Greenwich Custom Homes Best Rental Unit 38 St. Roch Avenue, Greenwich

Koushouris Construction BEST RESIDENTIAL REMODEL $100,000250,000 174 Marshall Ridge Road, New Canaan

East Coast Structures BEST RESIDENTIAL REMODEL $250,000500,000 10 Salt Box Lane East, Darien

Blansfield Builders BEST RESIDENTIAL REMODEL $1-2 MILLION 144-146 Lake Drive South, New Fairfield OUTSTANDING REMODEL $250,000-500,000 2 High Fields Drive, Danbury

Redwood Consulting & Construction BEST RESIDENTIAL REMODEL $2-3 MILLION BEST MASTER SUITE ADDITION OUTSTANDING POOL HOUSE 93 Indian Head Road, Riverside BEST REMODELED MASTER BATH UNDER $100,000 83 Ryders Lane, Wilton

LoParco Associates BEST MODERN HOME REMODEL 25 Knapp Street, Easton BEST SPECIAL PURPOSE ROOM Wine Room at 25 Knapp Street

CCO Habitats BEST SPEC HOME REMODEL 1 Harborview Road, Westport

Gatehouse Partners BEST RESIDENTIAL REMODEL $3-5 MILLION BEST EXTERIOR HOME FEATURE BEST ENTRY BEST REMODELED BATH OVER $100,0000 45 Husted Lane, Greenwich

Hemingway Construction BEST EXTERIOR REMODEL BEST OUTDOOR LIVING ENVIRONMENT BEST KITCHEN REMODEL Weston Home

Polito Builders BEST SPECIAL PURPOSE ADDITION 199 Skunk Lane, Wilton

Significant Homes BEST REMODELED ACCESSORY BUILDING BEST REMODELED LIBRARY Back Country Greenwich Residence

Greenwich Home Construction BEST REMODELED POOL HOUSE BEST INTERIOR / Exterior HOME FEATURE 435 Lake Avenue, Greenwich

Argus Development BEST OUTDOOR ROOM ADDITION 9 Windrose Way, Greenwich

McBrien Interiors BEST SPECIAL PURPOSE ROOM BY A SUPPLIER Family Entertainment Room at 683 Galloping Hill Road, Fairfield

Elevator Service Company BEST HOME ELEVATOR Vuelift octagonal elevator in Riverside home

Closet & Storage Concepts BEST WALK-IN CLOSET Master closets at 4 Main Street New Canaan

Innerspace Electronics Inc.

Tile America BEST COMPANY VIDEO Caitlin Ceruto

Aitoro Appliance BEST SPECIAL EVENT Event series including “Bad Night” for builders

BA Staging & Interiors BEST HOME STAGING $1-3 Million Home 10 Appletree Trail, Westport BEST HOME STAGING $3-5 Million Home 97 Skyview Lane, New Canaan

Iconic Modern Home BEST HOME STAGING $6-9 Million Home 307 Shore Road, Greenwich

LTW Design BEST HOME STAGING OVER $9 MILLION HOME Bruce Willis Estate in Bedford, N.Y.

Connie Cooper Designs BEST RESIDENTIAL INTERIOR DESIGN New Canaan townhome

Emilia Ferri Architecture + Design BEST COMMERCIAL INTERIOR DESIGN Boca Oyster Bar in Bridgeport

Jen Chieh OUTSTANDING Construction Permanent Custom Home Loan People’s United Bank

click here for the webpage featuring awardees

BEST HOME TECHNOLOGY 44 Harbor Road, Greenwich

OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 35

CONNECTICUT’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS HOUSING AWARDS

HOBI AWARDS HOME BUILDING INDUSTRY AWARDS HBRA OF CONNECTICUT

November 20, 2019 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM Aqua Turf Club, Plantsville, CT Black Tie Optional

Please join us in recognizing outstanding talent and expertise within the HBRA. Enjoy a superb evening of food, drink, and camaraderie.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER HOBI Invitation Final.indd 1

36 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

10/8/2019 11:38:59 AM

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OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 37

$ ME MB E R REBATES & D ISCOUNTS

“Roberta goes above and beyond selling advertising. She stays in touch with us regarding editorial opportunities, invites us to high quality networking events, and makes email introductions between us and potential partners.”

—Kristen Sullivan, Gatehouse Partners

Contact Associate Publisher, Roberta Mancuso to learn how New England Home Connecticut can help generate business for your company. rmancuso@nehomemag.com | 203.530.9593

nehomemag.com 38 HBRA of Fairfield County | OCTOBER 2019

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OCTOBER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 39