At Home in Berks February 2016

Contents 2016 HBA Berks Board of Directors OFFICERS:

Features:

Angles:

6

9

Work Smart, Not Hard: How to Effectively Streamline Social Media Strategy

President James E. Gavin, Esquire Masano Bradley, Attorneys At Law (Wyomissing)

1st Vice President

10 On the Road with

Cathy Sloan, CGR, CAPS, CGP Hartman’s Home Improvements (Temple)

2nd Vice President Larry Kehres L A Kehres Building & Remodeling (Leesport)

Alternative Fuels The Advantages of Filling Up with Propane and CNG

14 HBA Restoring

Secretary/Treasurer

Hope Foundation Gearing Up for 2016

Evan L. Hand, III National Penn Bank (Wyomissing)

Immediate Past President

17 What’s Next for Economic

Development in Berks County

Edward F. Anewalt IV, CLP Anewalt’s Landscape Contracting (Bernville)

BUILDER/REMODELER DIRECTORS

FEBRUARY 2016

Preventing Hypothermia & Frostbite

29 The HBAof Berks County & HBA’s Government Affairs Committee Need Your Support!

34 Should you File a

Mechanics Lien Claim?

3 Things to Consider

Ask the Expert: 13 Smart Tips for Setting Goals

18 Are You Pinterest-ed?

22 2015 Builder Excellence Awards

16 10 Tips for a Powerful

LinkedIn Profile

Brian Bogert Advanced Construction Solutions, LLC (Newmanstown)

David Hallowell

30 Facebook

The Face of the Future

Heffleger Kitchen Center (Reading)

Diane Salks Riverview Tree & Landscaping, Inc. (Temple)

32 How to Create a Website That Maximizes Your Brand Identity

Tom Watts Middle Creek Roofing, LLC (Newmanstown)

ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS Sherrie Hallowell Tompkins VIST Bank (Wyomissing)

Jason Jenkins

Departments:

4

36

Member Benefits: 38 Don’t Leave Any Money

From the President HBA of Berks County President Jim Gavin.

Membership Pages New and returning members, member to member discount programs, and an overview of all Association-related events for February–May 2016.

on the Table in 2015

Bursich Associates, Inc. (Pottstown)

John Schmoyer Fulton Mortgage Company (Wyomissing)

Jim McCarthy McCarthy Engineering Associates, Inc. (Wyomissing)

HBA STAFF Janet Campis

Executive Officer & At Home in Berks Editor-in-Chief

For Advertising Opportunities: call 610.685.0914 Ext. 1 Read At Home In Berks Magazine Online at HBAberks.org The written and visual contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. Reproduction of print or digital articles without written permission from Hoffmann Publishing Group, Inc., and/or the Home Builders Association of Berks County is forbidden. The placement of paid advertisements does not imply endorsement by HBA of Berks County.

Publisher: Hoffmann Publishing Group, Inc. 610.685.0914 2921 Windmill Road, Suite 4, Sinking Spring, PA 19608 Graphic Designer: Brittany Fry

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

From the President

here are builders, landscapers, tradesmen, and suppliers. There are architects and engineers. There are bankers, realtors, and insurers. And yes, there are even lawyers. Each one of these professions, and many more, are members of your Home Builders Association. As you meet your Board of Directors, you will see that some of these professions are represented on the current board. All are vital members striving to serve our mission.

The mission of the Home Builders Association of Berks County is actually quite simple. It states, “The HBA of Berks County is a leading advocate for the building industry by promoting trust

and value for the community.� In short, what we do every day is serve the building industry and the community we live in. The fact remains, however, that none of us can do it on our own.

It is only through interdependence and reliance upon each other that we can be successful. We all need each other. A building cannot be constructed in the absence of a plan from an architect and input from engineers. There must be materials from suppliers and tradesmen that know how to use those materials. There must be land sold by realtors and financing from banks. It is through our collective effort that we accomplish what we cannot do alone.

Associations like the Home Builders Association provide a foundation for us to work together. It even gives us a venue to debate and argue critical issues, with a view toward our common interests and mutual goals. I am not the first to say, and certainly will not be the last—it is united that we stand and divided that we fall. These are not just words; rather they express a commitment that we are making to each other daily. Survival in times of prosperity and times of poverty depends on the same thing and that is our willingness to commit to the success of each other.

The HBA of Berks County is a leading advocate for the building industry by promoting trust and value for the community.

In light of its past and its future, it is my great honor to lead this association of fine people. People that recognize that they have something to give that is of value to others. Something that, when given in conjunction with those things that others have to offer, can be used to build something absolutely amazing.

So in closing, it is with pride that I tell you that the Home Builders Association of Berks County includes builders, landscapers, tradesmen, and suppliers. It includes architects and engineers. It includes bankers, realtors, and insurers. And yes, it includes this lawyer. I trust and rely on them all. Our success, both yours and mine, is dependent upon our commitment to each other. In the Home Builders Association, I have every confidence that commitment exists.

4

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

features

Work Smart, Not

Hard:

How to Effectively Streamline Social Media Strategy

Blog by Didmind.blog

Why social media monitoring (quite rightly) scares us

S

ocial media monitoring (SMM) is a mammoth task. More often than not, it’s perceived as an unmanageable mountain of mentions just waiting to be addressed: the modern day marketer’s equivalent to piling-up paperwork. But, with 79% of marketers integrating social media with traditional marketing activities, opting-out of social media is no longer an option.

It’s time to get over your “socialmediaphobia.” With a social media monitoring software to keep an ear-out for mentions of your brand, all you really need is a well-defined, structured daily strategy in place.

After all, creating a winning social media marketing strategy involves Step 1

Over 36% of marketers spend 11 hours ESTABLISH YOUR GOALS per week on social media, whilst 62% spend 6 hours per week dedicated to In order to decide which social media SMM, according to an SMM report by channels to target, you need to understand Social Media Examiner. What’s more, small your goals and how social media can help businesses are just as inefficient, with 25% you reach these goals. dedicating 6-10 hours per week on social media, as indicated by a social media marB2B and B2C businesses, for example, keting survey, conducted by Vertical Response. have very different goals and thus require marketing through different channels. A Social media managers have become so recent marketing study showed that B2Cobsessed with preserving online presence focused marketers prefer Facebook (67% around-the-clock, with endless updating placed it as #1 choice), while Facebook and and meticulous monitoring, that they have LinkedIn dominate the B2B space (tied for forgotten to take a step back and put a strat- #1 choice, with 29% each). egy in place to address exactly where they Take our Social Media should be spending it and how time should Survival Quiz to find out be allocated. The problem, however, is that which social media chanmarketers (83% of them!) haven’t the fog- nels are most relevant for giest about creating a social media strategy. your B2B or B2C business.

6

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

STEP 2

PIN DOWN YOUR PERSONAS Before you work out what your key channels will be, you need to know who your buyer is: this means mapping out the perfect persona (or personas). Be the 50-something sheep-farming fanatics or 20-somethings with toddlers: pinning down your target audience is a prerequisite to identifying your key channels.

Once you’ve found out who you’re targeting, get working on the when, what and how…When is your audience most active online? What social media sites are they engaging with? In addition, how do they use social media networks (chat with friends, share interesting content, post photos).

STEP 3

IDENTIFY YOUR KEY CHANNELS Now to the one million dollar question: how many social media accounts should my business be monitoring? Frankly, the answer is simple: not as many as you need, as many as your followers need. Take a step back and look at which social media

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

channels you are currently monitoring, which channels you should be monitoring and which channels you really could do without monitoring…

Monitoring too few channels? Ask yourself: can you successfully engage with people on Facebook and Twitter alone, or could you better nurture business relationships through LinkedIn? Could there be an opportunity to further humanize your brand on Instagram? Are you missing an opportunity to diversify your content on YouTube?

Monitoring too many channels? Perhaps you have gone a little social media mad of late and signed up to every social media site under the sun. Don’t fret, it’s happened to the best of us. Just do yourself a favor and do away with those dead accounts or those that you simply don’t have the bandwidth to properly manage and create useful, engaging content for your audience.

And, if you’re one who thinks they’ve got it just right…well, there’s still no harm in reflecting upon your strategy and evaluating whether or not you are fully leveraging the functionality of the social media sites you are using. Ask yourself: are you getting the most out of the social networks you are currently using: harnessing hashtagging on Twitter, creating Circles on Google+ and implementing interest lists on Facebook?

If not, why?

STEP 4

PLANNING IS PARAMOUNT Sorting out a structured schedule and deciding on a dedicated daily duration for social media monitoring is central to a successful social media monitoring strategy.

When structuring your strategy, resources (people!) play an overriding role in the allocation of social media monitoring tasks, so, be sure to: • Track the amount of time your team currently spends on social media in a week • Enforce a weekly limit for time spent on social media monitoring

STEP 5

REMEMBER THE SMILER STRATEGY When enforcing your schedule for social media monitoring, remember the S.M.I.L.E.R strategy…

1. Schedule and share content— blogs, videos, whitepapers, eBooks

2. Monitor social media mentions of your brand and respond accordingly 3. Increase your reach: this involves following and engaging with industry influencers Continued on page 8 FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

7

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

4. Listen to what’s trending in your industry-space 5. Engage with your current connections: familiarize yourself with followers, ask and answer questions, take an active interest in their needs, likes and dislikes 6. Report on your findings STEP 6

SMM: 1 HOUR IS ALL IT TAKES!

10 MONITORING

minutes

20

SCHEDULING & SHARING

Schedule and share your organization’s original content on social media sites: Pick & Mix x4 • Twitter

(5 minutes)

retweet content of industry influencers to establish online relationships

• Facebook

Digimind Social: • Sort mentions by date and relevance (mentions which have highest engagement) •

Similar mentions are grouped together: no reading the same mention twice

•

Bulk actions feature: mass delete, tag and alter sentiment of mentions

5

minutes

•

Influencers are ranked so you can select the most influential internauts with whom to begin discussions, follow and connect with

•

Influencer comparisons by media type

promote/share content and images (5 minutes)

• LinkedIn

(5 minutes)

share content with your circles

start a group discussion/contribute to an existing discussion

• Pinterest

5-10es minut

LISTENING TO INDUSTRY TRENDS

(5 minutes)

pin recent visual content

• Instagram

(5 minutes)

promote cross-channel by sharing content images

*REMEMBER* the relative importance of social media channels will vary depending on an organization’s goals and personas. Refer to STEP 3 for help identifying key channels.

8

INCREASING YOUR REACH

Take some time out to follow and engage with industry influencers.

(5 minutes)

• Google+

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

ENGAGING

Read relevant mentions linked to your Reply to questions or comments from brand on Twitter, Facebook, Google+, followers on your key social media channels.

Instagram, Pinterest, Blogs, News, Forums and beyond…

• Directly reply to tweets and other social comments or assign Time-saving solutions from mentions to colleagues

The key to streamlining your social media monitoring strategy is software. Digimind • Tag mentions by topic: enables quick and easy filtering Social is an example of leading social media monitoring software, which tracks what is buzzing about your brand 24/7, so you • Smart email alerts: mentions matching your search are don’t have to! Here’s an outline of how your immediately sent to your inbox daily social media schedule might pan out: minutes

10

minutes

Set some time aside to keep up-to-date with the latest industry news and trends.

• Article influence is ranked: target the writers making the greatest waves in your social sphere!

• Bulk actions feature: mass assign mentions to colleagues

10

minutes

REPORT ON THE RESULTS (once a week)

At the end of the week, take 10 minutes to check your benchmarks. To what extent has your social media strategy helped you achieve your organizational goals? Ask yourself: what worked and what needs improving next week? Create personalized, automated reports.

There you have it—6 steps to streamline your social media monitoring strategy and save time! Although these six steps provide a tried-and-tested solution, unfortunately there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to a social media monitoring strategy. Coming up with a functional strategy that works for your organization may take several attempts, but one thing is certain, the results will be worth it!

Get the most out of your social media strategy with the right software. Digimind Social is listed as one of the best social media monitoring software for streamlining and saving time! Find one that will suit your needs and is affordable.

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Angles

Frostbite

[frawst-bahyt, frost-] noun

1. injury to any part of the body after excessive exposure to extreme cold, sometimes progressing from initial redness and tingling to gangrene.

Frostbite—What to Do?

Frostbite occurs when deep layers of skin freeze. Symptoms include pale, waxy skin and numbness in the affected area. Frostbite usually affects fingers, hands, toes, feet, ears, and nose.

Erica J. Grimm, CISR

If a co-worker seems to be suffering from frostbite: • Move him or her to a warm, dry place.

Hypothermia

[hahy-puh-thur-mee-uh] noun

1. Pathology. subnormal body temperature.

2. Medicine/Medical. the artificial reduction of body temperature to slow metabolic processes, as for facilitating heart surgery.

Hypothermia occurs when body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Hypothermia­—What to Do?

Symptoms of hypothermia include fatigue, drowsiness, uncontrolled shivering, bluish skin, slurred speech, clumsy movements, irritability, and irrational or confused behavior.

Here are some tips for what to do if a co-worker appears to be suffering from hypothermia:

• Do not rub the affected area. This might damage the skin. Instead, gently place the affected area in warm—not hot—water for 25 to 40 minutes.

• When normal feeling and color have returned, dry the skin, and wrap the affected area to keep it warm.

• Finally, seek medical attention.

The Key is Prevention

To prevent frostbite and hypothermia, remember these simple safety rules: • Dress warmly in waterproof and wind-resistant clothing.

Wear several layers to provide the best protection.

• Wear a hat and gloves. Remember, up to 40 percent of your body heat can be lost if your head is uncovered.

• Wear insulated, waterproof boots to protect against cold and dampness.

• Call for emergency help, and move him or her to a warm, dry place.

• Remove wet clothing and replace with warm, dry clothing or wrap the person in blankets.

• Take frequent short breaks in a warm, dry place to allow your body to warm up.

• Drink warm, sweet beverages, but avoid caffeine or alcohol.

• Give the victim warm, sweet drinks if the person is alert. Avoid drinks with caffeine (coffee, tea, or hot chocolate) or alcohol.

• Have the victim move arms and legs to create muscle heat. If they are unable to do this, place warm bottles or hot packs in the armpits, groin, neck and head areas.

• Finally, do not rub the victim’s body or place him or her in a warm water bath. This could stop the heart.

Hypothermia is not the only danger of working in cold conditions.

• Finally, eat warm, high-calorie foods on meal and snack breaks.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Erica J. Grimm, CISR, is the Account Administrator for the PBA Workers Compensation Insurance Program, which has highly competitive rates for all HBA members, especially those in the building and remodeling trades.

Learn more at www.HBAberks.org/Insurance.hml. Contact Erica at egrimm@ ekmcconkey.com or (717) 755-9266.

FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

9

features

ON THE ROAD ALTERNATIVE FUELS WITH

The advantages of filling up with propane and CNG Michael DeBerdine, III, CEO

T

he conventional wisdom seems to be that we’re always “a few years away” from vehicles that run on alternative fuels like propane and natural gas. But the reality is, commercial fleets large and small are already enjoying the advantages of alternative fuels: they’re quieter, much better for the environment and much less expensive to operate.

Whether your fleet includes two vehicles or two hundred, the time has come to consider powering all or part of that fleet with alternative fuels—and to understand the additional expenses you incur by standing pat with diesel and gasoline vehicles.

The Alternative Fuels Options

Fleet operators have choices to make when they weigh a decision on alternative fuels. First, they can consider purchasing a new vehicle that operates on an alternative fuel, or they can consider converting an existing gasoline vehicle. Rhoads Energy has had success with both options. Next, it’s important to understand something about the fuels available: •

10

Propane: Propane, sometimes called autogas when used as vehicle fuel, offers lower operating and maintenance costs. Propane can sometimes be even more convenient than traditional fuels, because fleet operators can opt to install a propane tank on site.

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

•

Natural gas: Two forms of natural gas are currently used in vehicles: compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Both are domestically produced, relatively low priced, and commercially available. Fleets using natural gas need to plan for fueling; today, there are a handful of CNG fuel pumps in our region, but signs point to rapid growth in the number of CNG stations.

•

Dual-use: Dual-use vehicles operate on both an alternative fuel and on regular gasoline.

Though these fueling options may seem new and cutting-edge, they have a long track record worldwide, where millions of vehicles have been using propane and natural gas for decades.

Real Savings, Real Benefits

The first question for anyone operating a commercial vehicle: How much will I save with alternative fuels? The specific answer depends on a range of variables: miles driven, type of vehicle and so on. But a few key facts demonstrate the economic advantages of conversion: • Today, diesel fuel costs around $3/gallon, while the equivalent cost for compressed natural gas is just over $2/gallon.

• In our region, a gallon of propane costs about $1.50 less than a gallon of gasoline.

• School districts expect to save millions on fuel costs with propane buses, but converting even one service vehicle to propane can result in fuel savings of $10,000 a year­­—or more.

• Propane-powered vehicles require less frequent maintenance and

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

fewer oil changes; they also offer extended engine life and reduced vehicle downtime.

example, Rhoads Energy opened a CNG fueling station in Fredericksburg, near I-81, that will eventually deliver 500,000 gallons per year.

Fleet operators also gain the benefit of much quieter operation—and lower main- Local Examples, tenance costs. Among the environmental Local Resources benefits: CNG vehicles reduce carbon Fleet operators of varying sizes have monoxide emissions by up to 75%, while embraced alternative fuels in our region. propane vehicles reduce smog-producing A few examples: hydrocarbon emissions by up to 80%.

• Hempfield School District (Lancaster County) rolled out a new fleet of To see some specific examples, try using propane buses in 2014, and Council an online conversion calculator (see resourcRock School District (Bucks County) es sidebar for details).

Alternative Fueling in Pennsylvania

In June, Ben Franklin Technology Partners released a report on the advantages alternative fuels present to fleet operators in Pennsylvania. One conclusion: “Natural gas and propane are increasingly gaining a foothold as alternative fuel sources for Pennsylvania’s transportation sector.”

The report reinforces what Rhoads Energy has seen in our regional marketplace over the past few years.

Here are a few key findings from the report: • Not just for large fleets -

Opportunities exist for small fleets or individual vehicles such as midsize delivery vans and trucks, taxis, high-mileage commercial vehicles— even commercial lawn mowers.

• The market is ready - Even though gasoline and diesel prices are relatively low today, the price differential between those traditional fuels and alternative fuels remains around $1 to $1.50 per gallon. Because of that price spread, the report notes, “any fleet operator, and also individuals who are high mileage drivers, should study their fuel choice options.​” • Expanding infrastructure The number of CNG and propane stations is increasing monthly, though that trend must continue to make alternative fuels even more appealing.

In our area, that’s happening. For

will begin operating its propane bus fleet this fall. Many other districts are considering conversion; in fact, 19 of the top 25 school bus markets in the U.S. have at least some propane-powered buses.

• W.C. McQuaide, a major trucking company serving the northeastern U.S., is converting part of its fleet that covers our region to CNG-powered trucks.

• Rhoads Energy has converted

several vehicles from gasoline to propane, demonstrating that service vans, pickup trucks and passenger vehicles can also reap the savings and other benefits of alternative fuels.

Taking the Next Steps

How much can you save? It pays to find out. Begin to explore the options for fueling with the resources in the sidebar. Run some scenarios based on your vehicle usage in the online calculators designed for that purpose.

If you have questions about converting an existing gasoline vehicle or purchasing a new alternative fuel vehicle, feel free to contact E.G. Smith Inc., Boyertown Oil & Propane, or one of the other Rhoads Energy companies for details on our experience.

Over the coming years, alternative fuels will continue to gain momentum as small and large fleet operators realize the advantages they present. Now is the time to explore the advantages of propane and natural gas vehicles.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Michael DeBerdine, III, is president and CEO of the Rhoads Energy family of companies, including Boyertown Oil & Propane and E.G. Smith Inc., in Berks County. Additional information is available at www.boyertownoil.com and www.egsmithinc.com.

RESOURCES: Where to go for more information

Alternative Fuels Data Center (www.afdc.energy.gov)

This federal government site offers detailed explanations of the different types of fuels and vehicles, plus a vehicle cost calculator that enables visitors to compare the lifetime cost savings they can capture with different types of vehicles.

Natural Gas Vehicles for America (www.ngvamerica.org)

This industry group offers details on the payback for using natural gas vehicles, environmental benefits, and other valuable information.

Autogas for America (www.autogasforamerica.org)

This site focuses on the benefits of propane (autogas) as a vehicle fuel, including reduced maintenance and use of an abundant American-produced resource.

FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

11

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Tips to heat smarter this winter

Get more out of your heating system—and spend less—with these wintertime tips:

Get a programmable thermostat.

Don’t heat empty space.

Small steps can add up to big savings—and extend the life of your heating system.

12

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Ask The Expert

Smart Tips for Setting Goals Barbara Mitchell

Question:

My manager asked me to come up with some goals for 2016. Where do I start?

Answer: You’re fortunate to work for a manager who involves you in the process—sometimes managers set goals for their employees, and that can be less motivating.

 MEASURABLE. How will

success be measured? Are there metrics you can apply?

 ACHIEVABLE. Hopefully, your manager shared your Is the goal realistic? department’s goals with you and how they fit into the overall goals of your association.  RELEVANT. Does the goal That information should help you come up move the organization forward? with a couple of personal objectives that can help you make an impact.  TIME BOUND. When does the goal need to be As you develop your goals, remember accomplished? Are there that they should be supplementary to milestones to be reached? the responsibilities outlined in your job description. For example, if one of your job You should aim for setting about four responsibilities is to answer phone and email to five goals—more than that can be requests from members, your goal can’t be overwhelming. One of your goals should “Take requests from members.” Your goals be personal or developmental, such as should also stretch your abilities and add “Complete degree by December 31, 2016” or to your skill set.

“Take a presentation class by June 30, 2016.”

These can be things that will increase your You probably have heard of the SMART value to the organization. goal-setting process. It’s been around for a long time, and it still works. SMART As you develop your goals, remember that goals are: they should be supplementary to the responsibilities outlined in your job description.  SPECIFIC. What will you If your organization doesn’t set goals accomplish? Is the goal from the top down, it’s a bit more difficult concise and descriptive?

to set your own, but it can be done. Look at the big picture, as you know it, and consider the challenges your organization and your department face. Try to come up with goals that will be useful in helping achieve those overarching objectives.

Once you draft your goals, your manager should sit down with you to review them and may add to your list. If you’ve completed the SMART process and considered your association’s wider aims, you’re on the right track to setting effective goals that will benefit you and your organization.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Barbara Mitchell is a human resources and management consultant and author of The Big Book of HR. Do you have a question you’d like her to answer in “Ask the Expert”? Send it to achq@asaecenter.org.

FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

13

features

Gearing up for 2016 he HBA Restoring Hope Foundation was formed in response to a very successful 2010 episode of the ABC show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Having led Berks County’s local efforts during the production of the episode and wishing to continue the practice long after ABC had moved on, the HBA of Berks County formed The HBA Restoring Hope Foundation, a 501(c)3 to provide annual, smaller-scale, local home renovations.

In each of the five years since, the foundation has selected a middle-class, working family who happen to be in unusually difficult circumstances and need a helping hand. The HBA Restoring Hope Foundation has no paid staff, and because staff needs and office facilities are generously donated by the HBA of Berks County, the Foundation can apply 100% of all donations toward the benefit of the build recipients.

Past Projects: 2011 Steve & Christina Eisenhower, Shartlesville.

Steve has MS and was sleeping in his wheelchair, unable to access the second floor bed-and-bath.

The Foundation provided a new addition with a handicap-accessible bed-and-bath, an exterior ramp, a patio with landscape plantings and lawn reseed, new carpeting and paint, a shed, and flooring.

2012 Mary Jo Van Sant, Muhlenberg Township.

This single mother of two teenagers got a new roof and heat, a new coat of paint, carpeting and flooring, furniture and decoration, the sidewalk redone, the kitchen and pantry redone, and a bathroom upgrade.

2013 Lisa Pieller, Womelsdorf.

This widow with two teenagers got a new bedroom from her enclosed porch, kitchen upgrades, new carpeting and flooring, painting and decorating, a security system, landscaping and a retaining wall, and a pergola.

2014 Dennis & Lisa Welgo, Upper Bern Township.

This family has one adult child with Down’s Syndrome, another in college, and two adopted school-age children. Lisa has cerebral palsy and is a five-year cancer survivor. They received a new carport and generator, a washer and dryer installed upstairs, a bathroom upgraded and made handicapaccessible, new furniture, new carpet and flooring, landscaping and tree removal, and a new patio.

14

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

2015 Jeremy & Meggan Landis, Wernersville.

The Landis family has a daughter and an autistic son, also afflicted with ADHD and epilepsy. The Foundation removed half the wall between the kitchen and living room and provided an upgraded bathroom, converted the enclosed porch into a sunroom, upgraded the heating system and insulation, and provided a new bay window, a new patio with landscaping, new furniture, painting and décor.

Throughout the years, over 143 local companies have participated, and their staffs have donated hundreds of workhours. Most of these companies have participated time and again; some have even worked with us through each of the five annual builds and are again committed to this year’s build. We have also had over 64 unaffiliated individuals who have donated their time and talents. It is only through these generous donations that these builds have been possible.

Each of the builds has resulted in improvements to the properties with an average value of ≈$85,000. And each was possible only through very generous donations of materials, labor and time.

This past November, the Berks County Community Foundation nominated us for the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ National Philanthropy Day awards program.

We are so grateful and pleased to announce that we were selected as Best Foundation for 2015 and were honored at their awards banquet. Thank you!

2016 Board of Directors Diane K. Salks, Chair Tony Carroll, Fundraising Chair Cathy Sloan, Vice-Chair Dawn Wivell, Marketing Chair Eric Keller, Secretary/Treasurer Deb Martzall, Design Chair Larry Kehres Dennis Kline Larry Lill FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

15

Ask The Expert

10 Tips for a Powerful

LinkedIn Profile

Barbara Mitchell

Question:

I’ve heard that my profile on LinkedIn is important. Why? And how can I be sure mine is as good as it can be?

Answer:

My opinion is that the resume as we know it will be gone in the next few years. Many organizations want you to apply using their online application, and many are now encouraging you to import your LinkedIn profile into the application. So that’s one reason your profile is important, but there is an even more critical one.

6. List how to reach you—email and phone if possible.

Your profile is how you get noticed. Recruiters and executive search professionals actively use LinkedIn to find candidates for job openings. So your profile is essential to your job search.

8. Update your profile often to include new information, such as an article you’ve written or a presentation you’ve given. Your connections will hear about it.

You can find consultants to write your profile, but I don’t think that’s necessary if you follow some easy steps.

9. Join LinkedIn groups and contribute to online discussions.

1. Remember that this is your opportunity to sell yourself, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills and strengths.

10. Ask for recommendations from people you know and trust.

2. Use the keywords that will get you noticed—the keywords you see in job postings for jobs you are interested in or current buzzwords in your field.

Your profile is how you get noticed. Recruiters and executive search professionals actively use LinkedIn to find candidates for job openings.

3. Your summary should be three to five paragraphs long. Consider a bulleted list to showcase the industries you’ve worked in, your unique qualifications, and your key strengths. This will increase your odds of showing up when recruiters are searching for someone with your background.

4. Don’t give your educational background short shrift. Make it as complete as possible—include your degree, the field it’s in, and the activities you were involved in while in school.

5. Include your volunteer experience.

16

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

7. Include a recent photo.

Once you have your profile completed and posted, the next big step is to connect with as many people as possible to build your network. Start by sending invitations to current and former colleagues. Invite people you know from your volunteer work or other activities. Then, as people accept your invitations, take time to look at who their connections are and, if you know any of those people, invite them to connect with you. Within a very short time you can build up your network.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Barbara Mitchell is a human resources and management consultant and author of The Big Book of HR. Do you have a question you’d like her to answer in “Ask the Expert”? Send it to achq@asaecenter.org.

features

What’s Next for Economic Development

in Berks County Pamela J. Shupp, AICP, CEcD, Vice President, Greater Reading Economic Partnership

companies’ needs to the available workforce. In addition to focusing on the skilled jobs, there has been an increasing demand for an unskilled or semi-skilled workforce—due to increased levels of labor unavailability. This has and will continue to result in wage pressure across the region. Moving forward, it will be critical for the region to identify a broad labor pipeline—where labor will come from; how far they are willing to commute; and what are the specific skill requirements.

very year the Economic Partnership takes stock of the economic development trends at the global, state, and local levels to begin to strategize for the coming year. Developing predictions in response to recent trends not only allows the organization to proactively develop strategic actions, but also to continually position Berks County for business 4. Increase in International Leads attraction and retention.

Over the last three years the number of international leads has continued As we move into the New Year, the good news is, there is a lot to be optimistic about to increase in the region. The state of in the region.

Pennsylvania has an incredibly proactive international team and global network working to cultivate leads and provides 2016 BERKS COUNTY OUTLOOK an outstanding support system. Berks County is well positioned to accommodate companies looking for a mid-Atlantic location with a close proximity to 1. Increased Role of Municipalities expansion were in the manufacturing international airports and large metro The role of municipalities in the attraction sector. In addition, Berks County has markets, but at a much lower cost. and retention of companies continues maintained the highest percent—20 to evolve with increasing importance. percent—of jobs in manufacturing versus 5. Filling the Site & Infrastructure Because of this, the Economic Partnership 12 percent for surrounding regions.

Pipeline Critical has made it a priority to partner with Berks Adding depth to the region’s ready-to-go municipalities and develop economic The transportation corridors in Berks site inventory is and will continue to be development strategies to grow and retain County lend themselves to the logistics critical for Berks County’s ability to grow its commercial and industrial development and distribution industry, specifically in commercial and industrial base. The lack in their communities. Removing potential the northern and southern communities of appropriate and desirable inventory stumbling blocks including streamlining of the county. These industries will will result in missed economic growth the permitting process will continue to be continue to come to Berks County opportunities for Berks County. So look for critical in municipalities’ ability to attract organically based on location and a coordinated and strategic effort from the and retain commercial and industrial users. market access, and potential workforce.

Berks County community to ensure that the inventory pipeline for the future is secure.

2. Growth in Manufacturing and Logistics/Distribution Industries

Manufacturing has a long history in Berks County. While the industry has evolved, the region continues to be a natural fit. In 2015 over 60% of the inquiries for a Berks location or

3. Workforce Availability Focus

New and expanding companies are required to continue focusing on general labor availability in the region. Business and education leaders have worked over the last three years to identify the specific skills gap to ensure that we are matching

Plan to see economic development efforts in Berks County be more strategic and collaborative in 2016.

Article also published on LVB.com and in the Route 422 Business Advisor.

FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

17

features

? d e

t s e P inter Are You

Jessica Ciesla & Alex Russo

oes Pinterest have you interested?

With its tremendous growth over the past 6 months and its 10 million visitors worldwide, it should. Pinterest is a self-described “Virtual Pinboard Social Network” that allows you to organize and share photos you find on the web.

gain consumer insights by showcasing com- cially created your own personal Pinterest pleted projects. And, it is a great tool when Account! Sounds easy enough, right? it comes to competitive scouting, employee searching, and company growth.

Boards, Boards, &

Join In

See how easy it is to get started! Go to www.pinterest.com. From the home It was launched in March of 2010, and page, click the bright red box labeled “Join its popularity skyrocketed shortly there- Pinterest,” and then choose which way you after. According to Hitwise data, the site would prefer to sign up. became one of the top 10 largest services in December 2011, with 11 million total visits Pinterest allows you to sign up with per week. The following month, Pinterest your e-mail address, Facebook, or Twitter created more online traffic to retailers than account information. Once you have done Google+, YouTube, and LinkedIn combined. that, it will bring you to the “create your It has become a phenomenon because of account” screen. its visually appealing images and marketing potential. It allows businesses to create Here you will plug in all the informaoriginal online portfolios to gain views from tion requested to get your account started, possible customers. Your business can also then click “create account.” You have offi-

More Boards

Now that you have an account, it’s time to start making your business the best it can be. Start off by creating a “board” for any projects you have completed or things you may be interested in as a company. A board serves as your company’s online Pinboard showcasing your talents in a creative way.

Think of it as a cross between the break room cork bulletin board and your photo portfolio of your best work combined with a modern flair that everyone can see.

Click the “add” button in the top right corner of the home screen, and then select “create board.” This causes a box to pop up that allows you to name your board. Make your board name as creative and unique as possible—think marketing! This will draw the most attention to your business or project. Most importantly, it will demonstrate what it stands for and what it means to you. Pinterest is an online art boutique that permits you to show off your work to the world—make it personal! Add feeling!

Step outside your emotional boundaries to engage!

Customize to Make it You

Pinterest serves as an online photo portfolio for either your own personal interest or the potential professional benefits it offers.

Make your boards come to life! Do so by beginning back at the home page. At the

18

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

top of the home page, there is a drop-down labeled “Categories,” with 36 unique categories to choose from—choose the best fit.

Select a category based on what you think will be most pertinent to your business’s or the project’s success. Next, scroll through all of the pictures under that category, selecting anything that draws your attention. Once you have selected a picture, click the “re-pin” button in the top left corner. This will automatically pin the picture to your board. Keep in mind that you can create as many boards as you like.

The more variety you have, the broader your customer base will be.

Follow the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Berks County: Pinterest: HBAberks Feel free to re-pin anything you find on our boards.

Help It Grow

Pinterest is about showcasing your unique style and using your creativity to market a specific product or service. The images you see under each specific category are general pictures that any user can obtain. To personalize your Pinterest, upload photos of previous projects you have completed.

Start by clicking the “add” button in the top left corner of the home page, and select “upload a pin.” This will bring you to a pop up box where you will select “browse” to search your own computer hard drive for photos you wish to pin.

The more photos you have on Pinterest, the more traffic will come to your account.

This marketing tool is a great way to get your name out there with zero cash outlay and minimal start-up time. Whether you join Pinterest for entertainment or use it as a portfolio to help your business succeed, you won’t be disappointed. Pinterest offers a unique way to create buzz for your business while having fun in the process!

ABOUT THE AUTHORS: Jessica Ciesla & Alex Russo are students at

Alvernia University under the guidance and tutelage of Assistant Professor Sue Guay in

COM 330: News & Feature Writing in the

College of Arts & Science. Professor Guay can be reached at sue.guay@alvernia.edu.

FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

19

features

The Home Builders Association of Berks County Announces

2015 Individual and Company Awards & 2015 Builder/Remodelers Awards At a ceremony held on January 14, 2016, the Home Builders Association of Berks County announced its 2015 Individual and Company Awards together with its 2015 Builder/Remodeler Awards at a ceremony held at the newly opened Doubletree Hotel in Reading, Pennsylvania. Many local builders and dignitaries were in attendance, including State Senator Judy Schwank, State Representative Mark Gillen, and State Representative Barry Jozwiak. “In Berks County, we are lucky to have some incredibly talented and gifted builders, landscapers, and remodelers. Importantly, they are honest and work with pride and integrity. Tonight, we have honored the best of the best,� said 2016 Home Builders Association President James E. Gavin.

The Home Builders Association of Berks County currently ranks as one of the top ten building associations in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Its mission is to serve as the leading advocate for the building industry by promoting trust and value in the community. All awards are the result of peer review by competent professionals in the building industry.

Congratulations to all the winners!

22

AT HOME IN BERKs February FEBRUARY 2016

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

The following

Individual & Company Awards were presented:

Association Leadership Award

Builder of the Year

Sales Professional of the Year

Patrick J. Dolan,

Kristen Cossa

Kieffer’s Appliances, Landsdale, PA

CGR, CAPS, CGP Aluminum Associates/ Sloan Corporation,Temple, PA

CGR, CAPS, CGP Hartman Home Improvements, Temple, PA

Community Service Award

Builder Company of the Year

Associate Company of the Year

Best Membership Engagement

Diane Salks

L.A. Kehres Building & Remodeling, Leesport, PA Larry Kehres, President

Kohl Building Products, Reading, PA Thomas J. Kearse

Tom Watts Middle Creek Roofing, LLC Newmanstown, PA

AIA, LEED, AP Dolan Construction, Inc., Reading, PA

Riverview Tree & Landscaping

Advocate of the Year

Kert Sloan,

Cathy Sloan,

FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

23

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Builder/Remodelers Awards

ENERGY EFFICIENCY/ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE PROJECT

Aluminum Associates/Sloan Corp.

SINGLE FAMILY HOME 3,000 – 4,000 SF over $350,000

24

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

Dolan Construction, Inc.

KITCHEN PROJECT OVER $20,000

Dolan Construction, Inc.

Builder/Remodelers Awards DECK PROJECT OVER $15,000

Heffleger Kitchen Center

KITCHEN PROJECT UP TO $20,000

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Breyer Construction & Landscape, LLC

SUNROOM PROJECT

Heffleger Kitchen Center

FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

27

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Builder/Remodelers Awards Dolan Construction, Inc.

COMMERCIAL REMODELING PROJECT

Heffleger Kitchen Center

BATHROOM PROJECT OVER $7,500

AWARD OF RECOGNITION for Recruitment Efforts Edward F. Anewalt, IV.......................................................................Anewalt’s Landscape Contracting Scott Moyer ......................................................................................... A.D. Moyer Lumber & Hardware Kert E. Sloan.................................................................................... Aluminum Associates / Sloan Corp.

Catherine A. Sloan................................................................................Hartman’s Home Improvements Patrick J. Dolan...................................................................................................Dolan Construction, Inc.

28

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

Angles The Home Builders Association of Berks County & HBA’s Government Affairs Committee

Need Your Support!

HBA Staff

T

he HBA of Berks County and the Pennsylvania Builders Association believe that strong legislative initiatives and lobbying are needed for ultimate governmental affairs successes on behalf of our members and the building industry in Pennsylvania.

Because of this, many of our efforts are directed at advocating for builders and consumers on the Hill, promoting grassroots initiatives, fighting harmful regulations and promoting beneficial legislation.

The HBA of Berks County: A Three-Tier Organization:

1.

The Home Builders Association of Berks County represents the home building industry on the local level in Berks County. With over 200 members, we are the voice of the community when it comes to addressing issues within the Building Industry.

2.

The Pennsylvania Builders Association represents the home building industry at the state level, and often works with individual locals at the municipal level.

3.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) represents our industry at the federal level.

your Workman’s Compensation Insurance, and if you purchase select products, you can earn member rebates. When you take advantage of these 3 benefits alone, you will earn your membership dollars back in no time at all.

Not only does it take a village to raise a child, it takes a village to build a community. There is strength in numbers. The stronger our membership becomes, the louder our voice is on the HILL! Join the Home Builders Association of Berks County today. For more information, please visit our website at www.HBAberks.org or contact us by calling (610) 777-8889.

Some battles being fought on behalf of the building industry are much bigger than others. At some point, the battles being fought in other states may end up being the same battles we will have to fight here in Berks County in the near future. If it affects one, it may affect us all.

If your business is within the Berks County area, please consider joining the Home Builders Association of Berks County.

Your membership dollars will help fight issues on all three levels: Local, State and Federal. Our members vary from Engineers to Lawyers, Accountants, Builders, Remodelers, Insurance Agencies, Bankers and more.

Membership also comes with valuable Member Benefits. For example, the PA One Call annual fee of $125.00 is covered through the Pennsylvania Builders Association. You can save on FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

29

features

Sydney Glasmyre & Billy Tharp

re you looking for a way to promote your business, get more customers, or to have one easy place for people to find information? Facebook is the site for you!

No matter your knowledge of computers, Facebook is easy to set up and even easier to manage. By taking the first step and getting a Facebook account, you are setting your company up for success and gaining a low-cost opportunity to network your company in a way that was never possible before. A Facebook page allows you to gain knowledge of what your potential customers want and provides you a space to share how you are going to give your customers what they want. All you have to do is follow these easy steps.

Create Your Account

Start your Facebook account at the Facebook home page (www.facebook.com) to fill out some simple information that lets Facebook know who you are. Create a password and username. Having a safe and secure password is important to maintaining the safety of the Facebook group.

Next, you will be taken to the screen to enter more specific detail about your business. Enter your address and other vital details about your businesses location.

This information will be on your groups Facebook page which allows customers to visit your shop.

Add a profile picture to your new Facebook page. Pick a photo that describes 30

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

your company well. It could be a picture of the outside of your company’s building, your company logo, or maybe a picture of the company staff. To add this photo, click on the “upload from computer” button and choose a saved photo.

Write a brief description about your business. This is a very useful tool so that Facebook users who view your page can easily understand your company.

Manage Your Account

you would like to share with your customers.

You can also add photos and videos in this box. Other Facebook users can “comment” on these posts which means they share their opinions on what you wrote. They can give you feedback, opinions, or simply say ‘hello’.

Another thing users can do is “share” your posts to their Facebook or their friends’ Facebook page. This means that anyone who looks at their page or their friends’ page will see your post.

These steps will create your new Facebook page where you can connect with clients, With the above steps, your page is comattract new customers, and get feedback plete. The first thing you will notice when about your business. Now that you know you see your created page will be the “Admin how to set up and run a Facebook page, Panel” at the top of your home screen. This your company is well on its way to thriving helps you keep track of your business page. and making you money.

The section labeled “Notifications” shows if anyone has liked your page, liked any posts you have made, or commented on anything on your page. The section labeled “Messages” demonstrates if anyone has sent ABOUT THE AUTHORS: you a message through Facebook.

Sydney Glasmyre & Billy Tharp are students at Alvernia University under the guidance and tuteThe top section of your page, with your lage of Assistant Professor Sue Guay in COM 330: pictures and company name, is where users News & Feature Writing in the College of Arts & will look to see what your company does, Science. Professor Guay can be reached at sue. what it’s about, and if they are interested guay@alvernia.edu. in it. Below that, there is a box that you can type in. This is called your “Wall.” In that box you can create a “post.” A post is Friend or Like the Home Builders anything you want to tell your customers Association (HBA) of Berks County: and followers through Facebook. The posts can be about what events are coming up FaceBook Page: that are related to your business, or any new Home Builders Association services/products your company offers that of Berks County

features

How to Create a Website That

M a x i m i z e s Your Brand Identity f you want your business website to be successful, stunning web design is not enough. The design also needs to reflect your brand identity. When you create a website, you need to make sure that the colors, the text, the images, the navigation and everything else is geared towards optimized representation of your brand.

Think of brand identity as the set of values and ideas that you want people to associate with your company. Design can help you express these ideas to the public. Google, for example, is using a minimalistic design that conveys simplicity and supports their techie image. Ben & Jerry’s, on the other hand, is doing a fantastic job in creating a playful, witty and fun identity that relies on crazy color schemes, childish icons and wacky copyrighting.

Your website is the most important component of your online presence, so it needs to be in sync with your brand identity. Here are a few helpful tips for creating a website that shows the uniqueness of your business and that establishes your brand:

Optimized Content

If you want your brand to stand out as being awesome and substantial, to have meaning and reflect a certain feel, then you need high-quality content to show it. Eye-catching photos, compelling and valuable information and anything original and credible will fit the bill.

You want to show how your brand is relevant to the lifestyle of your target audience and how it meets their needs. Engage your site’s visitors and be sure to give them something of value, something that will get them coming back for more. Update your site with images and texts that are appropriate for your market.

Remember, prime content is also greatly appreciated by search engines, so on top of establishing your brand, you will also benefit from improved SEO.

Logo Design

Coca Cola, Nike, Mercedes, McDonalds —when you hear these words you can automatically picture their logos in your mind.

There’s no overstating the importance of a great logo for branding, and therefore for good website design. A strong logo is an important part of your branding strategy.

It needs to be the visual synonym of your company’s name, so make sure you also position it in a prominent place on your website, and that it appears on all pages.

Call to Action

This term refers to directing customers on how to interact with your website and complete your desired actions. You need to create large and clear text messages, for example, “View our catalog,” “Download Now!” or “Enter to Win.” Once users understand how to engage with your site, they will capture the full experience of your brand.

When you create a website, think about your “call to action” as a crucial element in the user experience. To draw attention to your

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

call to action (aka CTA), leave some blank space around it, don’t clutter it with other text and emphasize it with colors so that visitors won’t miss it.

Colors and Fonts

Make sure that fonts and colors on your site complement your brand. If you are in the gardening biz, for example, opt for relaxing green or bright flowery colors, and combine them with earth tones and a clean, simple font. If you sell surfing gear, on the other hand, you would like the colors and fonts of your website to reflect the spirit of your products as something a bit wild and grungy.

Apps and Widgets

There are endless apps and widgets that you can add to your website to enhance the user experience, but it’s the quality, not quantity, that counts. Select apps that fit your target market and the tone of your brand. For example, a Facebook comments widget will fit a musician’s website, but much less a law firm’s site. An event calendar is a must for a comedy club’s website, but does a dentist need it too?

In the Wix App Market, you can find great web apps organized according to categories, so you can easily find the right ones for your website and brand.

FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

33

Angles

Should you file a mechanics lien claim?

3 things to consider: Scott Wolfe

Did notice get sent? Most states will require contractors or suppliers to send a “preliminary notice” at the start of the project. If the notice was not sent, the lien rights were forfeited. Determine whether a notice was required and if it was sent accordingly.

hose who furnish labor or materials to a construction project have the right to file a mechanics lien claim in the event of nonpayment. This is a remedy first established in America by founding fathers Thomas Jefferson and James Madison to protect suppliers and contractors against a project’s financial risks, and the remedy has persisted throughout the nation’s history with laws in every state.

Those unpaid on a construction project, therefore, may find themselves contemplating the use of the mechanics lien remedy.

This article will explore some things to consider when deciding whether to use this remedy.

1. Is the mechanics lien remedy available?

Is there time to file? Mechanic lien claims must always be filed within a certain (rather short) period from when materials and labor were last furnished.

Determine whether there is time left to file.

All of these factors vary state by state and project by project. Consider consulting a 50-state guide to the mechanics lien laws to answer some of these key questions. If the mechanics lien remedy is available, the next step is to determine whether filing will make any difference.

While the mechanics lien remedy is established to protect contractors and suppliers against nonpayment, there are many more 2. Will filing the mechanics lien make a difference? nuances and qualifications aside from simply being unpaid. Here are some factors that will determine whether the lien right is even Discussion of this point will start with a small disclaimer: Filing an available option: a mechanics lien claim is almost always going to make some difference or impact.

What work or materials were provided? The lien right is (largely) available on construction and improveWhen parties have a payment dispute, the remedy typically ment projects. Was the project and the work of a type available is to file a lawsuit and then to fight—through months contemplated by the state’s lien laws? and thousands of dollars in litigation—to get to a judgment. The

2.

34

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

judgment will be “unsecured,” which is to say that there will be nothing guaranteeing that the claim is paid.

Mechanic lien filings, however, actually create a secured debt, and the secured debt is created right away—before the need for any litigation. This is a much more desirable position for a creditor.

Just ask banks, which universally refuse to give unsecured loans.

Nevertheless, there are some desperate situations that will hardly be impacted by a mechanics lien filing. Some states give lenders priority over lien claimants, and if a property is overleveraged, this circumstance can present dim prospects. Likewise, if there aren’t many parties involved with a project, and the project goes into bankruptcy, this may prove problematic.

It’s a good idea, therefore, to understand the complete financial situation around a project property. It may be a rare situation in which the lien will not make a difference. Nevertheless, even in these circumstances, filing a mechanics lien is likely prudent. The cost is so low, and the potential upside so big.

If a party has a mechanics lien right available, the only real consideration is the relationship consequences from a filing, discussed in the next point.

Those with lien rights can actually improve their relationships by being transparent and communicating the nonpayment and lien situation to the appropriate parties before filing. Something like this is commonly done with a notice of intent to lien document.

Conclusion

When thoughtfully used, the mechanics lien remedy can eliminate all major receivables risks and problems. Determining whether to pull the trigger with a lien filing, however, can be a complicated decision. Companies must know that the lien right exists, must understand how it will help them, and ultimately, must prepare and take steps to avoid any negative impact to industry relationships.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Scott Wolfe is the CEO of Wolfe Law and founder of zlien. com, a resource that helps contractors receive payment and manage financial risk. An attorney in six states, Scott is also the author of Construction Finance Journal, which zeros in on credit management. You can connect with him via Twitter, LinkedIn and Google+.

will be the relationship consequences 3. What from a lien filing?

Many companies will consider the relationship consequences of filing a mechanics lien claim, and appropriately so. While mechanics lien claims are filed every day and are rather commonplace in the construction industry, they are still adversarial instruments and will sometimes ruffle feathers.

In fact, since the lien instrument can carry so much relationship baggage, some will push companies around financially and bring them to the brink of a lien filing only to threaten them with “ruining the relationship” if they proceed to file.

Filing a mechanics lien cannot only negatively affect industry relationships with the nonpaying party, but also with the owner/ developers, general contractors and others affected by the filing on the project.

For this reason, it is important to not only keep relationship consequences in mind, but also to leverage the mechanics lien right in favor of making relationships stronger.

In most instances, relationships are soured when lien claims get filed out of nowhere. Owners, developers, lenders and GCs usually are highly motivated to get everyone paid and avoid lien claims, and bad lien circumstances usually arise when something unsuspected goes awry.

FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

35

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Membership happenings 2016 Upcoming Events…

FEB 17

FEB 25

MAR

11-13

Southeast Regional Meeting (All Members Welcome)

HBA of Bucks Montgomery 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm

RMCTC Career Roundtable

Reading Muhlenberg Career & Technology Center

Home Show

Santander Arena TBD

MAR

PBA Spring Regional Meeting

APR 16

APR 26

MAY 12

MAY 25

Terry Hinkle 8261 Allentown Pike, Reading, PA 19605 PH: 610-926-1911 Email: mtvcorp@ptd.net Sponsor: Aluminum Associates

McCarthy Engineering Associates, Inc.

MAR 17-19

Maidencreek TV & Appliance, Inc.

(Lunch will be provided to those who stay the whole day) 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (3 Sessions: AM, Mid-day, PM)

GA Luncheon

16

welcome new members

TBD

Jim McCarthy 555 Van Reed Road, Ste. 2, Wyomissing, PA 19610 PH: 610-333-8001 x225 Email: JMcCarthy@mccarthy-engineering.com Sponsor: James E. Gavin, Esquire

TBD

(All Members Welcome)

Omni Springs, Bedford, PA All Day

HBA Spring Clean Up Day HBA Business Campus 8:00 am – 12:00 pm

Member 2 Member Discount Program As one of the many benefits of membership in the Home Builders Association of Berks County (HBA), the following members are offering the discounts listed to HBA members only.

Geoff Penske Buick GMC

Contact: Victor Popescu 610.777.1300

GM AFFINITY PROGRAM & PARTNERSHIP WITH HBA (Call Victor for more details on how you can save)

All About Your Membership

(Open to Members & Interested Businesses)

HBA Conference Room 7:30 am – 9:30 am

HBA Golf Tournament Rich Maiden Golf Course 11:30 am – 6:30 pm

Parade Home Judging Berks County All Day

Berks Transfer

Contact: Bob Quinn 610.926.7626

$50 OFF 1ST CAN ORDER TO NEW CUSTOMERS Aluminum Associates / Sloan Corporation Contact: Kert E. Sloan 610.921.2201

5% DISCOUNT ON ALL SERVICES Martin’s Flooring, Inc.

Contact: Richie Zook 877.445.7799

FREE INTERIOR DESIGN & SPECIAL HBA CONTRACTOR PRICING (Ask about our contractor referral program)

If you would like to join the HBA or offer a Member 2 Member Discount, contact the HBA office: 610.777.8889.

36

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016

HBAberks.org I 610.777.8889

Membership happenings 2016 Foundation Club Members:

Thank you for the continued support of the HBA of Berks County legislative efforts!

Bruce Radar Berks Surveying & Engineering

Joseph J. Witkowski, Jr. Herbein & Company

James E. Gavin, Esquire Masano Bradley

Walter Greth Greth Homes

Larry Kehres L A Kehres Building & Remodeling

Stephen Bright EJB Paving & Materials Co.

Brad Kehres L A Kehres Building & Remodeling

Gregory R. Eshbach Malsnee Tile & Stone

Kert Sloan Aluminum Associates/Sloan Corp.

Patrick J. Dolan Dolan Construction, Inc.

Cathy Sloan Hartman’s Home Improvement

John Newton Greth Homes

Deborah Kearse Kohl Building Products

Kevin Kozo Turnberry Custom Homes

Tom Kearse Kohl Building Products

John E.P. Schmoyer Fulton Mortgage Company

Bryan Moll B&G Glass

Call the HBA office at 610.777.8889 to learn how to become a member of the FOUNDATION CLUB.

Bob Holt Holt’s Remodeling

These members understand the important role legislation plays in their businesses and the importance of electing and supporting legislators who are sensitive to the issues affecting the building industry.

Thank You to these Renewing Members of the HBA of Berks County!

31+ Years

11-15 Years

 Aluminum Associates  Berks Products  Berkshire Greens, Inc.  Culligan Water Conditioning  Dutch Valley Door & Window Co., Inc.  LeRoy Schannauer Plumbing & Heating, Inc.  North Temple Builders, Inc.  RE/MAX of Reading (Jim Williams)  Robert L. Weidele, Contractor  Stanley W. Bauman General Contractor

 Bursich Associates, Inc.  Elite Vinyl Railings LLC  Our City-Reading, Inc.

26-30 Years  Jeffrey L. Zimmerman  SAH, Inc. 20-25 Years  Applied Geoscience & Engineering, Inc.  J/M Fence & Deck Co.  Visions Federal Credit Union  Welbilt Homes Inc.

16-20 Years  Bodden Contracting Group Inc.  EJB Paving & Materials Co.  Fulton Mortgage Company  Glen-Gery Corporation  Heffleger Kitchen Center  Santilli Oil Company

6-10 Years  Berkshire Systems Group, Inc.  Fisher’s Rental Center, Inc.  Glen-Gery Corporation (Tim Leese, Affiliate)  Greater Reading Economic Partnership  Hartman’s Home Improvements  Manmiller Electric, LLC  Pro Max Fence Systems

2-5 Years  Hampson Mowrer Kreitz Insurance  L2i Construction LLC  Wise Signs

1st Year Anniversary  Boyer’s Floor Covering, Inc.  Bursich Associates, Inc. (Chad Camburn, P.E., Affiliate)  Emil Washko Jr. & Co.  Superior Walls by Advanced Concrete Systems, Inc

FEBRUARY 2016 AT HOME IN BERKs

37

Member Benefits

Don’t Leave Any Money on the Table in 2015 ince the Member Rebate Program (MRP) has been offered as a free member benefit of the Pennsylvania Builders Association, it has given participating members a total of $581,592.99. With 242 members participating in the program, that is an average of $2,403.28 going to each builder and remodeler member!

PBA’s Member Rebate Program lets builders and remodelers receive cash rebates for using certain manufacturers’ products in the building and remodeling of homes. There are currently 51 participating manufacturers covering 35+ different product categories.

The 4th Quarter is your last chance to claim for any completed addresses in 2015. This year alone, MRP has added 12 new manufacturers to the program and is always working on adding more. With this many manufacturers in the program you are sure to be using at least some of them. Make sure you don’t leave any money on the table in 2015 and send in a claim now!

First you need to register: www.HBArebates.com This tells MRP where to send your rebate check!

Once you are registered, you are eligible to claim on a quarterly basis. Any home, remodeling project, or multi-family unit completed from October–December 2015 is eligible to be submitted by February 19, 2016.

The claiming process is just as simple as registering. An address is ready to be submitted once it is completed. MRP will ask for your company name, the completed address, and the completion date(s). You then provide all of the information required for each manufacturer used.

The information required by most manufacturers typically includes: • Quantity used

• Subcontractor or supplier name • Model number

• No receipts are needed!

Once a project is completed and the form is filled out, all you have to do is send it in. MRP will process your quarterly information, send it to the manufacturers, and issue you one lump-sum check for all of your rebates!

Nationwide, over 70% of the builders and remodelers who participated last year have received in rebates more than they paid in annual dues to their HBA. Get the most of your membership by taking advantage of this free member benefit.

38

AT HOME IN BERKs FEBRUARY 2016