July 2011 Newsletter - Asheville Home Builders Association

Nationwide housing starts rose 3.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual pace of 560,000 units in May, according to newly released figures from the U.S. Commerce Department. The gain partially offsets a larger decline that was registered in April.

“While the upward movement registered in today’s report is somewhat good news, housing production continues to bounce along the bottom near historic lows, and is only running at a level necessary to replace dilapidated or destroyed units,” said Bob Nielsen, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder from Reno, Nev. He also noted that “Amidst this fragile marketplace, the nation’s policymakers should be aware of a recent poll that confirms the strong value that most American voters continue to place on homeownership and housing choice.”

Conducted this May on behalf of NAHB by Public Opinion Strategies of Alexandria, Va., and Lake Research Partners of Washington, D.C., the poll asked 2,000 likely voters about their attitudes on homeownership and housing policy. It found that the vast majority of current home owners are happy with their decision to own a home and believe that owning their own home is important, while nearly three-quarters of those who do not now own a home consider it a goal of theirs to eventually buy one. Additionally, the poll determined that 73 percent of owners and renters believe the federal government should provide tax incentives to promote homeownership. Details on this poll are available at www.nahb.org/voterpoll.

“Like consumers, builders remain very concerned about the pace of economic growth and are awaiting signs of improvement before moving forward with new projects,” noted NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe. “The relative bright spot in new-home construction is on the multifamily side, where improving demand for rental apartments is spurring gains in that sector. However, access to construction credit remains a limiting factor for new building.”

Single-family housing starts rose 3.7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 419,000 units in May – their strongest pace since this January. Multifamily starts rose 2.9 percent to a 141,000-unit rate in May.

Regionally, housing production rose 1.5 percent in the South and 18.1 percent in the West, but declined 3.3 percent in the Northeast and 4.1 percent in the Midwest in May.

Issuance of building permits, which can be an indicator of future building activity, rose 8.7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 612,000 units in May. This was the strongest pace since December of 2010. Single-family permits were up 2.5 percent to a 405,000-unit rate, while multifamily permits rose 23.2 percent to 207,000-units – their best pace since October of 2008.

Permit issuance posted double-digit gains in the Northeast and West in May, rising 35.6 percent and 15.1 percent, respectively. The South also posted a gain, of 3.5 percent, while the Midwest registered a 1.1 percent decline.

Asheville HBA l Your Homebuilding Resource Since 1966 l www.AshevilleHBA.com

JULYAHBA

Networking NightHosted by:

ClearChannel Asheville

July 21 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Join us for networking, food and beverage at the ClearChannel Asheville Facility located off

Leicester Hwy.Details on page 2

Upcoming Events

July 19New Member Orientation

AHBA Office3:30 pm

RSVP to AHBA Office

August 14AHBA Annual Picnic

Camp Rockmont, Black MountainJoin us for an exciting day of water

activities and socializing!Details on page 7

RSVP to AHBA Office by August 5

Upcoming Parade of Homes Entry Deadlines

July 13Final Entry Deadline

$1900*

July 15Sponsorship & Advertising

DeadlineAll spaces must be reserved by this

Date for inclusion!Details on page 14

June 08

A monthly publication of the Asheville Home Builders Association

November 2010

A monthly publication of the Asheville Home Builders Association

July 2011

Housing Starts Gain 3.5 Percent in May

JULY

Calendar

2 | Asheville HBA l Bringing Professionalism to our Industry

Skip Brewer, PresidentC. Skip Brewer AMB, CGP, Custom Builder

Richard Soderquist, Immediate Past PresidentSoderquist Construction Company

James Bound, 1st Vice President Greencraft, Inc.

Steve Wallin, 2nd Vice President Custom Homes of Asheville, Inc.

Robi Eckley, Associate Vice PresidentFerguson Enterprises, Inc.Jill Jones, TreasurerWestall Chandley

Christopher Fox, Christopher Fox Builders

Steve Royster, Bass & Royster Builders

Renee Maxwell, Progress Energy

Chris Brock, Brock Builders

Jennifer Duvall, Asheville Savings Bank

Chuck Cloninger, McGuire, Wood & Bissette Construction Law Team

Thomas McClain, Home Sweet Home Land Management

Nancy Padgett, High Country Homes, Inc.

2011 AHBA Board of Directors

AHBA StaffExecutive OfficerCaroline Purcell [email protected]

Director of Member Services & Special EventsChristi [email protected]

Office HoursMonday - Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pmPhone: 828-299-7001Fax: 828-299-7008Email: [email protected]

www.AshevilleHBA.com

MeetingsProfessional Women in Building Tuesday, July 12 @ 8:30 amAHBA OfficeMembership Committee Thursday, July 7 @ 3:30 pmAHBA Office

Board of Directors MeetingThursday, July 14 @ 3:00 pm

Parade of Homes CommitteeThursday, July 28 @ 3:30 pm

Events

EducationUpcoming Seminars and ClassesThe Asheville Home Builders Association offers eduational courses and professional development throughout the year. Check out Ashevillehba.com/eduation.php for upcoming Courses and Webinars.

New Member OriantationJuly 19, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pmAHBA Office RSVP to [email protected] the AHBA Staff and Membership Committee members as we provide valuable information to our newest members of the AHBA!

New memebers are required to attend a new Member Orientation as part of the application process.

AHBA Networking NightJuly 215:30 pm - 7:30 pm*Hosted by ClearChannel Asheville.13 Summerlin Dr.Networking, Food & Beverage provided!ClearChannel Asheville is located just off Leicester Hwy.

AHBA Annual PicnicAugust 14See page 7 for details

In an effort to increase efficiency, lower cost, and meet the needs of the development community, the City of Asheville Development Service Center will begin working a four day week. The new hours, effective Tuesday, July 5, 2011, will be 7:30 AM until 5:30 PM Monday through Thursday. A survey was conducted for several months with 80% of the customers responding indicating a four day work week with longer hours would meet the needs of the development community. This change will increase the hours during the day a customer may contact the Development Service Center.

The change in the inspection request hours will allow Friday and Monday inspections to be conducted with less opportunity for error. The change in the work hours and inspection request deadlines will allow for the inspections to begin earlier in the day.

7:30 AM - 5:30 PMMonday through Thursday

Effective June 20, 2011 all telephone inspection requests (828-259-

5946) must be received by 4:30 pm the day before the request

Monday inspection requests via the telephone must be received by Thursday at 4:30 pm

Inspection requests via the web at www.ashevillenc.gov can be made until 7:00 a.m. the day of the inspection

Inspections will be performed on Friday

For general questions about the changes contact City of Asheville Building Safety Director Robert Griffin at 259-5726.

Development Service Center Hours to Change to Extended Hours, Four Days a Week

www.AshevilleHBA.com |3

[ monthly message ]

Welcome to Summer 2011 and vacation season! Since last month, several of your AHBA Board Members and Staff visited with our elected officials in Raleigh, more particularly, with Patsy Keever and Mitch Gillespie to share the main concerns of our Members here in WNC and throughout the state. We attempted to meet with other elected officials, although the legislature session ran until the late hours the night before and not everyone was available. Additionally, there was a large contingent of the NCHBA senior leadership visiting elected officials from all across the state, and the feeling was one of playing offense this year, instead of defense. Suffice it to say, legislatively we gained some traction for our industry last year and have shaped up similarly this year so far. Remember, approximately 15% of NC’s economy has come from housing, which creates significant revenue for state and local municipalities, in terms of taxes and fees. However; we have to drive the message home that increased and/or new taxes and fees based in

our industry are not the answer and only increases costs to an already burdened consumer. A strong building industry means a strong economy in NC. The election cycle next year will be very important to all of us, including the fact that district lines are being re-drawn as you read this. Building friendly candidates will be identified and your Build-Pac dollars will support those who support us. Please consider a Build-Pac donation if you have not done so already.

On another note, we had great attendance for the OSHA Builder Breakfast last month. Of significant note, our locality has officially been desig-nated “a special emphasis zone” by OSHA, according to John Mertz of Builders Mutual Insurance Co. The building permit lists are now being monitored and used to visit jobs by regulatory agencies and insurance risk managers. While some may see this as intrusive, we have the op-portunity to make this work to our advantage as well. Builders Mutual and OSHA will share job site assessments with you on a pro-active basis if you choose to do so. Enlist them as your ally and you will be the better for it. The assessment is free, and while compliance can have costs; the costs of non-compliance are typically far greater and longer lasting.

Our Banking/Lender Panel Discussion last month was well attended and much information was shared. While it is no secret that A&D and Speculative lending continues to be all but non-existent for the foreseeable future, financing for homebuyers and those looking for new con-struction is still readily available to qualified buyers. Close those deals, rates are at all time lows!!!

Remember, our 30th anniversary of the AHBA Parade of Homes is this year, and sponsorship and advertising opportunities will close on July 15th. I hope to see all of you at our event this month, the AHBA Networking Night at ClearChannel of Asheville on July 21st for great food, beverages and networking!

President’s Message by C. Skip Brewer, AMB, CGP, Custom BuilderWorking to Make Your Business Successful

[ builders tips ]


I never want to throw away a tube of caulk until it’s empty.

Sometimes, however, I can go for days or weeks without using the caulk, which then hardens and plugs up the tube’s spout.

Now, hardened latex caulk is no problem to remove. All you have to do is run the wire on the caulk gun down the spout of the tube, squeeze out the dried caulk and you’re back in business.

Hardened silicone caulk, however, is a problem.

No matter how tightly I try to seal the end of the tube to keep the caulk from drying, and I have tried many times using different methods, I always ended up with a fairly large plug stopping up the spout.

Running a caulk-gun wire down the spout won’t do the job because the wire just pushes the plug farther down the spout. Then, when you try to use the gun, the plug just stops up the spout again.

Another way to try to remove the plug is to cut more off the tapered end of the spout — but this will create a larger spout opening, which essentially renders your gun useless when you need to squeeze out a small bead of caulk.

You can pay your membership dues with a Visa

or MasterCard! Call theAHBA Office or pay online at

www.ashevillehba.com! 828-299-7001

800.222.3230ashevillesavingsbank.com

Our Western North Carolina neighbors turn to us for their mortgage

needs because we’re built on 75 years of great rates, the best

products and honest service. So when your customers are ready

to buy, build or just talk, tell them about the area’s most solid

mortgage foundation—Asheville Savings Bank.

SO DO WE

With 13 convenient locations in Western north carolina!

Member FDIC

Builders’ Tip: Slice, Don’t Snip. Tube Spout to Remove Dried Silicone Caulk Plug

Upcoming Webinars

July 6: 2011 Emerging Trends in 50+ Design & Amenities

It’s difficult to recognize today’s 50+ consumers. The housing downturn has exploded the concept of the 50+ community. However, a few constants remain; today’s boomer buyers are looking for good design, not to mention homes and communities that reflect their unique lifestyles, preferences and ideals.

Learning ObjectivesCurrent and emerging design trends for 50+ lifestyle • communitiesReview examples of successful communities that meet the needs • of changing 50+ consumers;Hear market research that illustrates what design features and • community amenities that 50+ consumers prefer and will pay for;

For more information or inquiries about this product, contact: Office of the Registrar at 800-368-5242 x8338 or [email protected].

July 13: What’s Hot in Residential Building

This unique professional development session will provide insights into new trends for both single-family and multifamily homes, products, and strategies that help enhance design and business development as well as take advantage of new market opportunities.

Learning Outcomes:Learn about the key market trends emerging in interior, exterior • and outdoor living designExplore tricks of the trade for achieving hot new looks on a tight • budgetDiscover how to reach prospective home buyers by understanding • their wants and needs

For more information, contact Jaclyn Toole, 800-368-5242 x8469or email at [email protected]

To Register:The webinar is $19.95 for NSMC members, $24.95 for NAHB mem-bers and $44.95 for non-members.To register online, visit the NAHB Webinar Wednesday page.

My simple, more effective trick:

Run a utility knife about 1/4-inch lengthwise down the spout tip. • This creates two slits in the spout that open it enough to enable you to force out the plug.Once the plug is out, the spout will return to its original shape. • Then simply wrap the tip with a little electrical tape so it will hold it’s shape and you’re ready to go.

You also can wrap the tip a little tighter to reduce the diameter of the opening when you need a smaller bead of caulk.

— Lee Hildenbrandt; Hilton Head Island, S.C.

Tips & Techniques provided by Fine Homebuilding.©2010 The Taunton Press

To contact Fine Homebuilding, email Christina Glennon at [email protected]

[ builder issues ]


home advantage

Visit progress-energy.com/carolinasHA or call 1.800.327.8704.

©2011 Progress Energy Carolinas, Inc.

With Home Advantage, you’ll build homes that are ENERGY STAR® certified and qualify for a lifetime 5 percent Progress Energy homeowner discount. Plus, you could receive cash incentives starting at $400 per home.

Remodel Smart: Know the Language

An educated shopper is a smart shopper. This especially holds true in the world of hiring and working with contractors to make improvements to your home.

As you interview potential contractors, being able to understand the terminology they use can help you avoid miscommunication and ensure a smoother remodeling experience so you and your family can enjoy your new or updated kitchen, bathroom or room addition even sooner. Here’s a glossary of some of the common terms used by builders and remodelers to help you understand the language of your remodeling project:

Allowance:A specific dollar amount allocated by a contractor for specified items

in a contract for which the brand, model number, color, size or other details are not yet known.

Bid: A proposal to work for a certain amount of money, based on plans

and specifications for the project.

Building Permit:A document issued by a governing authority, such as a city or county

building department, granting permission to undertake a construction project.

Call-back: An informal term for a return visit by the contractor to repair or

replace items the home owner has found to be unsatisfactory or that require service under the warranty.

Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR): A professional designation program offered through the National

Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers Council™. To attain the CGR designation, a remodeler must take a specified number of continuing education courses and must comply with a strict code of ethics.

Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS): The CAPS designation was developed by the National Association

of Home Builders and AARP. CAPS professionals have been taught the strategies and techniques to meet the home modification needs of home owners who want to continue living in their homes safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of age or ability level. CAPS graduates pledge to uphold a code of ethics and are required to maintain their designation by attending education programs and participating in community service.

Change Order: Written authorization to the contractor to make a change or addition

to the work described in the original contract. The change order should reflect any changes in cost.

Cost-plus Contract: A contract between a contractor and home owner based on the

accrued cost of labor and materials plus a percentage for profit and overhead — also known as a time-and-materials contract.

Draw:A designated payment that is “drawn” from the total project budget

to pay for services completed to date. A draw schedule typically is established in the contract.

Lien Release: A document that voids the legal right of a contractor, subcontractor

or supplier to place a lien against your property. A lien release assures you that the remodeler has paid subcontractors and suppliers in full for labor and materials.

Mechanic’s Lien: A lien obtained by an unpaid subcontractor or supplier through the

courts. When enforced, real property — such as your home — can be sold to pay the subcontractor or supplier. If a subcontractor or supplier signed a lien release, then this lien cannot be enforced.

Plans and Specifications: Drawings for the project, and a detailed list or description of the

known products, materials, quantities and finishes to be used.

Punch List:A list of work items to be completed or corrected by the contractor,

typically near or at the end of a project.

Subcontractor: A person or company hired directly by the contractor to perform

specialized work at the job site — sometimes referred to as a trade contractor.

To learn more about remodeling your home, including a checklist for selecting and hiring a remodeler and advice on financing and designing your project, visit www.nahb.org/remodel, or to find a professional remodeler in the Asheville area, contact Ashevillehba at (828) 299-7001.


[ member news ]

Share your accomplishments, awards, and announcements with fellow members. Send your news to [email protected] and we will be glad to include it in the newsletter!

Henson Building Materials offers FREE Deck Building WorkshopAHBA member, Henson Building Materials is offering a free Deck Building Workshop to anyone interested in attending! Join Henson’s and other guests at the AHBA Office on July 19 from 8:30 am - 1:00 PM lunch included! Learn more about deck construction and inspection for the International Residential Code. RSVP your attendance to http://tinyurl.com/DeckSwannanoa

Members Exchange is FREE on AHBA WebsiteDon’t forget that as a member of the AHBA you can post your announcements, job openings, need for or excess in materials and much more on our Members Exchange! This is a free service to our members and a great place to find things you need or get your information out - Visit http://www.ashevillehba.com/exchange.php to post today!

21st Building Expo - Free Registration for Members!Coming up in September, the ninth annual 21st Century Building Expo & Conference will begin in Charlotte, North Carolina offering a three-day educational conference and two-day exposition. The Expo floor will feature the latest products and services for the home building industry. In addition, over 50 courses and seminars will keep you up-to-date on the trends and techniques in home building. Work towards a professional designation and learn from nationally-recognized instructors how to improve your business.

Special offer! Register online at www.21buildingexpo.com and use promo code EMKT to take $10 off your registration. This will make your Expo Floor registration FREE or take $10 off your conference registration rates.

Social Media & the AHBA- Twitter, Facebook, AHBA Blog and more!Stay up to date with all the happenings and important information from the AHBA by following us through social media. Utilize any of the sites above to get info as soon as it is released. Get started today and look for special offers and giveaways too! Search ashevillehba.

LENOX Offering Free Saw to NAHB MembersLENOX® is offering to give a revolutionary new hole saw to any NAHB builder, remodeler or contractor who wants one. All you have to do is visit www.nahb.org/lenox. [Note: you must be logged into NAHB’s website with your user name and password to access this page.] “There’s no downside to this offer — so find out what a LENOX Speed Slot® Hole Saw can do by signing up for your free one today!

The Energy Star Transition: What it Means for Your BusinessThis 3 hour lunch and learn presentation will cover the core changes between Version 2.5 and 3.0, illustrate example of how the new scoring systems, and focus on what you need to do to make sure you’re designing and building houses that will satisfy the new programs requirements. Located at PSNC Asheville Offices on July 19th: 11 am - 2 PM. To RSVP visit http://homeenergypartners.com/pages/esv3.php

Parade of Homes Entry DeadlinesBuilders get ready for another exciting year for the Parade of Homes! This year marks the 30th Anniversary of this annual event and we look forward to putting out a big spread to celebrate this exciting moment in AHBA history! Don’t miss your chance to be involved this year! View an entry packet at www.ashevillehba.com/paradehomes.com and check out more details on advertising and sponsorship. Keep these important deadlines in mind:

Now- July 13, 2011: Extended Deadline @ $1900

July 15, 2011: Final Deadline for all Sponsorship and Advertising

*Last minute entries after the July 13 date prior to printing will be reviewed at a rate of $2250. More info on Page 14.

Don’t forget Special Projects - These are due by July 15 and are $500 per submission! This is a great way to gain exposure in the Parade without having a completed home for entry. Special Projects are not open for tour and must showcase a single aspect of a home - Bathroom, master suite, patios, etc.! Builders, work with an Associate member and enter one together!


[ member news ]

AHBA’s Annual “Pig-nic” Fun for All!Great food, fun and more water activities than you can even imagine – this is a casual day at the AHBA’s Annual “Pig-nic.” A long running tradition, this is an event you won’t want to miss! Mark your calendars for August 14 and come out for a great afternoon. Camp Rockmont is the perfect location for this event – located in Black Mountain it offers an array of activities for all who dare to partake. There’s swimming, canoes, a zip line, and you can’t forget the ever famous Gully Washer water slide! Check out the AHBA broadcast online for some great pictures of past picnics!

This year the event will run from 12-5pm and all members are free of charge to attend but you must RSVP! Guests and coworkers are invited as well and a small fee applies. New this year the Activities Committee will be hosting a raffle during the event! Tickets will be available for purchase and there are some awesome items that have been donated!

You won’t want to miss the excellent BBQ and sides prepared by AHBA member Wally Capps of Hi-Tech Integrated Systems! The AHBA will provide BBQ, sides, ice cream, tea and lemonade. Attendees are allowed to bring coolers and encouraged to bring chairs for lounging! Remember – no pets allowed!

We look forward to great weather and a stellar turnout for this annual event! Special thanks to our AHBA Foundation Club members who help make this event possible each year!

Purchase tickets for the Raffle from an Activities Committee Member, AHBA Office, at the July 21st AHBA Networking Night or at the Picnic! 1 ticket for $5 or 6 tickets for $20. Raffle will take place at the Picnic and you need not be present to win!

AHBA Picnic Raffle ItemsThanks to these companies for your generous donations!

Special thanks to the companies above and their donations for this year’s raffle! Raffle drawings will take place at the Annual AHBA Picnic on August 14, 2011 at Camp Rockmont.

Item: Asheville Savings Bank Visa Gift CardValue: $50Donated By: Asheville Savings Bank

Item: Build It Naturally, Inc. Gift CardValue: $150Donated By: Build It Naturally, Inc.

Item: Paslode F-350 Framing NailerValue: $279.99Donated By: ProBuild

Item: Russound 8” Ceiling Speakers & Free On-site ConsultationValue: $450Donated By: HarmonyInteriors.com

Item: Sears Gift CardValue: $50Donated By: Sears Commercial

Item: Solar Charger for Camping/BackpackingValue: $100Donated By: FLS Energy

Item: Tandem SkydiveValue: $200Donated By: Skip Brewer, C. Skip Brewer, AMB, CGP, Custom Builder

[ member news ]


Owning a Home Essential to the American Dream, Survey Shows

Despite the ups and downs of the housing market, home owners and non-owners alike consider owning a home essential to the American Dream.

That’s the key finding of a recent survey of people likely to vote in 2012 that was conducted on behalf of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) by Public Opinion Strategies of Alexandria, Va., and Lake Research Partners of Washington, D.C.

“The survey results show that Americans see beyond the immediate housing market to the enduring value of homeownership,” said NAHB Chairman Bob Nielsen, a home builder from Reno, Nev. “An overwhelming 75 percent of the people who were polled said that owning a home is worth the risk of the fluctuations in the market, and 95 percent of the home owners said they are happy with their decision to own a home,” Nielsen said.

“Homeownership is worth the risk, pure and simple,” said Neil Newhouse, a partner and co-founder of Public Opinion Strategies. “Even though the market is weak, people who don’t own say they want to buy a house. Almost three-quarters of those who do not currently own a home, 73 percent, said owning a home is one of their goals. And among younger voters who are most likely to be in the market for a home in the next few years, the percentages are even higher,” Newhouse said.

One of the more striking aspects of the survey results is the intensity of sentiment among potential voters, according to Celinda Lake, president of Lake Research Partners. “People believe overwhelmingly that owning a home is an anchor to the American Dream,” she said. “It’s an anchor to your retirement, and it’s an anchor to your personal economic well-being.”

Among the other survey results:

Homeownership and a retirement savings program are • considered by voters to be their best investments.80% of home owners would advise a close friend or family • member just starting out to buy a home.Saving for a downpayment and closing costs is the biggest • barrier to homeownership.Americans believe that owning their own home is as important • as being successful at their job or being able to pay for a family member’s education.

“Owning a home isn’t just a policy to people,” said Lake. “It isn’t just a commodity to people. It is a core value.”

This national survey of 2,000 likely 2012 voters was conducted May 3-9, 2011 by Public Opinion Strategies of Alexandria, Va., and Lake Research Partners of Washington, D.C. It has a margin of error of +2.19%.

Public Opinion Strategies is a national political and public affairs research firm based in Alexandria, Va. Founded in 1991, it has conducted more than 6 million interviews with voters and consumers in all 50 states and over two dozen foreign countries.

Lake Research Partners is a leading public opinion and political strategy research firm providing expert research-based strategy for campaigns, issue advocacy groups, foundations, unions and non-profit organizations.

“Owning a home isn’t just a policy to people, it isn’t just a commodity to

people. It is a core value.”

[ member news ]


In the Know...2011 Committees and CouncilsActivities CommitteeNathan LawrenceWe are thrilled about the upcoming picnic on August 14th at Camp Rockmont! Join us for a full slate of family activities including the zip line, water slide, swimming and canoeing. Wally Capps from Hi-Tech Integrated Systems will be cooking up the BBQ again this year and the ice cream truck has been ordered! We will also be having a raffle to support the Activities Committee; see page 7 for all the details on the great prizes, how to purchase tickets and details on how to RSVP your attendance.

We are also set for our AHBA Golf Tournament, September 22nd at Black Mountain Golf Course with a shotgun start at 11am! With only one tournament this year we are expecting a sold out event so don’t miss the release for sponsors and teams on July 1st! Sign up early to ensure a spot for this fun filled day. Last but not lease - we are narrow-ing down the venues for the Holiday Social on December 8th for the last event of this year. Stay tuned to this newsletter for more details on all our events and fell free to contact the AHBA office for more informa-tion.

Associates CommitteeRenee MaxwellThe committee met in June and reviewed the exhibitor evaluation sur-veys from the 2011 Home & Garden Expo. (These surveys were e-mailed to all 2011 exhibitors following the expo and asked for detailed feedback on all aspects of the expo.) The surveys were overall very positive and provided valuable input on the many strengths of the expo as well as ways to make the expo even better in 2012. The committee will meet again in August to continue planning for the 2012 expo which is set for April 21-22. We are recruiting new committee members to join us—so please contact the AHBA office if you’re interested in being part of a great committee!

Legislative CommitteeThomas McClainThe Legislative Committee is setting out to raise our final dollars to meet our 2011 Build Pac Goal! If you have not yet made a donation to Build Pac this year please consider doing so today. An investment in Build Pac is an investment in your future. We need to ensure that we have adequate funds to support candidates that are friendly to the housing industry. Increased fees and regulations can have unintended consequences – it’s important that we stay active in front of our elected officials to make our voices heard. Check out page 10 for an update on our Build Pac Goal and a list of those who have contributed in 2011.

Education CommitteeRobi EckleyThe Education Committee hosted a well-attended Builder Breakfast on OSHA Regulations and Safety Plans last month and all who attended picked up some great information! We encourage you all to mark your calendars for our next Builder Breakfast that will be held in September. These events are for builders only and offer a great chance for education and networking with your peers! Additionally, last month the committee hosted a seminar titled “Construction Lending In Today’s Market.” A special thanks to our panelist: Asheville Savings Bank, BB&T Home Mortgage, HomeTrust Bank and United Federal Credit Union who all had represen-tatives present to share info about the products, services the state of the market and much more! Lots of questions were answered and we appreci-ate the participation of both our panelist and the attendees. The Education Committee is continually striving to offer free education to our members – if you have a suggestion for a course or topic please contact the office!

Parade of Homes CommitteeJason WeilAt the June meeting of the Parade of Homes committee, we recapped who had entered the Parade of Homes by the early bird deadline. We had 6 entries by the early bird deadline which ended June 9th. If you are considering entering a home in this year’s Parade, you have until June 28th to enter by the main deadline. After that, builders can enter a home in the Parade through the extended deadline which goes until July 13th. Don’t forget, if you have a home that is occupied, you can still enter a feature of the home in the special projects category.

The big news from the committee meeting is that we voted to allow builder occupied homes in the Parade this year. Builders will need to prove that they are occupying the home by providing a deed of trust or proof of permanent financing, a Certificate of occupancy dated no earlier than 11/1/10, and must put the AHBA on their insurance policy through the close of the Parade of Homes. For complete details and re-quirements with this newly released Builder Occupied Home Category, please contact the office with any questions or refer to the entry packet online.

Membership MinuteChristi StokesThe Membership Committee continues to work hard on recruiting new members to the AHBA, membership retention and engaging AHBA members to be involved! As the committee makes plans for the next AHBA Membership Drive this coming fall, the membership committee wants to hear from you! Look for a Membership Survey to be released later this summer by email to share your valuable feedback.

Remember, any AHBA member can recruit new members all through-out the year – take a moment to look at who you do business with and if they are not a current member ask yourself, “Could they benefit from membership?” Recruiting lends to the growth and development of our membership, the continued strength of our association as well as the increased awareness within our community as THE homebuild-ing resource! Your recruiting efforts and active participation will be recognized!

The lucky winner of the monthly AHBA drawing from June is Rob John-son with Sealing Agents! If your membership is up for renewal and your payment is received by the AHBA office prior to your expiration date, you will automatically be entered in the monthly drawing.

Professional Women in Building Council Maria AponteThe Professional Women in Building Council would like to thank every-one who attended, donated to and otherwise supported our scholarship fundraiser, the Beer Tasting, Tour and Silent Auction at Highland Brew-ing Company. We were able to raise $3,800 for our scholarship fund. We would also like to congratulate the winners of our 2011 scholar-ships, Greg Capps and Nason Rathbone.

Our June meeting was hosted by PWB member Katherine Morris of Stone Gallery Granite and Marble. We had a lovely catered lunch and were able to tour their impressive showroom and facilities. Our next PWB meeting will be July 12th at 8:30 am at the AHBA office, although we typically meet the first Tuesday of the month. If you haven’t at-tended a PWB meeting please join us! PWB member Shana Combs of Build It Naturally will be our educational speaker.

[ member news ]


One Step Closer to the AHBA’s 2011 BUILD PAC Goal

Thank you to the following members who have made personal contributions towards the AHBA’s 2011 BUILD PAC Goal of $6,140! To date, we have reached over 40% of our goal with $2,660 in contributions. Help us reach our final goal by making your contribution today online at www.AshevilleHBA.com/buildpac.php.

Amanda Ballew, More Space Place

Caroline Sutton, Asheville HBA

Chris Brock, Brock Builders, Inc.

Chris Carson, AVL Associates, Corwin LLC

Chris Cradduck, Carolina Drywall Contracting, Inc.

Chris Ramsey, Brand Vaughan Lumber of Asheville

Christopher Fox, Christopher Fox Builders

Curt White, Carolina Craftsmen

Derek Weekley, Derek Weekley NCRE Broker

Dwayne Brome, Labor Finders of Asheville

Erin Spicher, Solid Surface Specialists

Greg Spicer, MATH Insurance

Howard & Terry Ferree, Ferree Construction Inc.

James Bound, Greencraft, Inc.

Jenny Brunet, Cool Mtn. Construction

Jeremiah Hughes, Allied Insulating Co.

John Graham, Mountain Air Mechanical

Josh Abrams, More Space Place

Josh McGee, Westall Chandley

Judy Dinelle, 84 Lumber

Katherine Soderquist, SoderquistConstruction

Kristine Freeman, Herbert C. Freeman CPA, PC

Laura K. Williams, Carpet One Floor & Home

LeAnn Bound, Greencraft, Inc.

Maria Aponte, Salon Blue Ridge

Matt Sutton, Tucker Materials, Inc.

Renee Maxwell, Progress Energy

Scott Lewis, ProBuild

Sean Sullivan, Living Stone Construction, Inc.

Skip Brewer, C. Skip Brewer Custom Builder

Thomas McClain, Home Sweet Home Land Management

2011 BUILD PAC Contributors

[ member news ]


E. Flat Rock Pisgah Forest, NC Simpsonville, SC (828) 692-5716 (828) 883-2711 864-675-9519

www.casonbuildersupply.com www.carolinamulchplus.com

Water Features, Pavers, Mulch, Erosion Control, Retaining Wall, Stepping Stones, Rock and Stone,

Rain Barrels

NAHB members can take advantage of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s On-Site Consultation Program — a free service for employers funded by OSHA — to learn about hazards on their job sites, improve their safety programs and have the oppor-tunity to qualify for a one-year exemption from programmed OSHA inspections.

The free service is geared towards small, high-hazard businesses and operates separately from OSHA enforcement initiatives.

The program is conducted by safety and health professionals work-ing with businesses, and no citations or penalties are proposed dur-ing the consultation period.

Employers who choose to participate in this voluntary program are required to correct serious safety and health hazards on the job site in an agreed-upon timeframe.

The on-site consultants will:

Conduct a walk-through of the job site with the employer and • review company injury and illness rates and records, if avail-able; (OSHA 300 Log of Recordable Injuries and Illnesses not required for companies with 10 or fewer employees)Help identify hazards, provide detailed findings in a closing • conference and also provide a written report summarizing their findingsAssist in the development or maintenance of an effective safety • program and also provide training and education for the em-ployer and employees

The on-site consultants will not:

Issue citations or propose penalties for violations of OSHA • standardsReport possible violations to OSHA enforcement staff• Guarantee that they have identified every potential safety or • health hazard that exists on the job site

Following the walk-through and roughly 20 days after a closing conference, the safety and health consultant will prepare a written report outlining the findings and confirming an agreed-upon deadline for corrections.

Free OSHA On-Site Consultation Program Available to NAHB Members

For the duration of the consultation service — from the initial walk-through up to and including the final correction date — employers are deferred from OSHA’s scheduled inspections.

Employers also have the option of participating in OSHA’s Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP), which is designed to provide incentives and support for employers to develop and implement safety and health programs.

Employers who meet specific SHARP requirements may be exempt-ed from OSHA’s programmed inspections for a one-year period.

For more information, visit OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program website, or view the OSHA Consultation Program Fact Sheet.

For further information, email Marcus Odorizzi at NAHB, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8590.

NAHB BuilderBooks recently released the second edition of “Social Media for Home Builders 2.0: It’s Easier Than You Think,” which teaches builders and residential construction professionals how to use social media tools such as blogs, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube to increase their visibility and improve their sales results.

Home builders who have embraced social media strategies to market their business have seen extraordinary results, according to the publication — with website traffic increasing between 25% and 300% and increased customer referrals.

Written by Carol Flammer, MIRM, CAPS, CSP, a managing partner at the Internet and social media marketing firm mRelevance, “Social Media for Home Builders 2.0” helps building industry professionals understand social media and outlines how to construct a strategic plan for attracting more prospects, following up on leads and closing on more homes.

NAHB BuilderBooks Publication Shows Builders How to Sell More Homes Through Social Media


[ member news ]- Renewing Members -

84 LumberNeil Brunson75 Montgomery Drive Asheville, NC 28806-1010(828) 665-3815

A R Construction & Development, Inc.Anthony Roberts38 Murray Debrahl Rd. Alexander, NC 28701(828) 776-2490

Accurate AccountingKevin Jackson215 Oak Terrace Rd Ste AAsheville, NC 28806-9539(828) 670-6464

Allied Industrial CoLen WarrenPO BOX 1360 Old Fort, NC 28762-1360(828) 652-6304

Alltek Systems Design, LLCDavid Winchester22-C New Leicester Highway PMB 102 Asheville, NC 28806(828) 251-1163

Asheville Construction Inc. (ACI)Joseph GolinoPO Box 6698 Asheville, NC 28816(828) 776-6909

Atomic Solar LLCRonald Frazier3170 Halls Chapel Rd Burnsville, NC 28714(866) 704-1187

Austins Heating & CoolingSteven Austin831 Parkway View Rd Mars Hill, NC 28754-0018(828) 689-2980

Carolina Mountain HomesTim Dearman54 Lance DriveArden, NC 28704 (828) 684-2676

Cashin Construction Co IncSean Cashin18 Okoboji Dr Fletcher, NC 28732-8488(828) 775-5683

Clevenger & Son LLCClayton ClevengerPO Box 1067 Weaverville, NC 28787(828) 645-4425

Crossville Tile & Stone of AshevilleSheryl Williams15 Design Ave. Suite 206Fletcher, NC 28732(828) 209-0270

Custom Homes of Asheville, Inc.Steve WallinPO Box 86 Weaverville, NC 28787-0086(828) 645-0506

Greencraft, Inc.James BoundP.O. Box 19051 Asheville, NC 28815(828) 273-0128

Gurewitz ConstructionPaul Gurewitz577 Indigo Bunting Ln Marshall, NC 28753-6430(828) 649-0013

Jag & Associates Construction, Inc.Jody Guokas20 Battery Park Ave Ste. 814Asheville, NC 28801(828) 216-0914

Jeff Ledford Electric Co IncJeff Ledford5 Watsell Dr Leicester, NC 28748(828) 683-1723

McKinney Insurance AgencyDouglas McKinneyPO Box 907 Skyland, NC 28776-0907(828) 684-5020

Metcalf Bldg & Rlty CorpWD Metcalf36 Salem Church Rd Weaverville, NC 28787-9347(704) 645-5529

Mountain Town Carpentry, IncJames Carr66 Davenport Rd Asheville, NC 28806(828) 230-4131

O & D Framing CompanyOscar Ibarra106 Springdale Ave Asheville, NC 28803-1214(919) 538-7659

Page 9 EnterprisesGrant Sassen7 Split Creek Court Mills River, NC 28759(828) 651-9389

Pioneer Construction & Development, Inc.Duane Liming133 Thompson St Unit FAsheville, NC 28803-1458(828) 768-8771

Rafferty Construction CorpRodney HawkinsPO Box 8282 Asheville, NC 28814(828) 273-0783

Salon Blue RidgeMaria Aponte518 S. Allen Rd. Flat Rock, NC 28731(828) 455-8685

Sealing AgentsRob Johnson15 Beverly Rd Greer, SC 29609(828) 337-2399

Soderquist Construction CompanyRichard Soderquist1200 Town Mountain Rd Asheville, NC 28804-2932(828) 258-3303

Target Concrete FoundationsBritt Thames1854 Henersonville Road, #21 Asheville, NC 28803(828) 458-1751

The Mike Taylor Co., LLCMike Taylor310 Stone Mtn. Farm Rd. Black Mountain, NC 28711(828) 669-9313


[ member news ]- New Members -

*Pending New Member OrientationGreencraft, Inc.LeAnn Bound/Affiliate109 Village Pointe LaneAsheville, NC 28803828-273-0128Green BuilderBuilderSPIKE: James Bound

*Pending New Member OrientationHome Sweet Home Land Manage-mentChristopher Mears/Affiliate10 Sunset DrieAsheville, NC 28806828-280-3302General ContractorGreen BuilderSPIKE: Thomas McClain

*Pending New Member OrientationHorizon Tile & Stone Gallery, Inc.Timothy Allmond/Affiliate3 Design Ave., Unit 110Fletcher, NC 28732828-651-0480Ceramic TileStone MasonrySPIKE: James Bound

*Pending New Member Orienta-tionLabor FindersHilary Paradise/Affiliate1 Kenilworth KnollsAsheville, NC 28805828-253-0019Employment ServicesLabor StaffingSPIKE: Angela Ramsey

M & M Kitchens and Baths, Inc.Ryan Schroeder/Affiliate329 Emma RoadAsheville, NC 28787828-551-2427Kitchen & BathMarble, Stone, Granite & TileSPIKE: Keith Schroeder

*Pending New Member Orienta-tionMercer Design Group, PCJames Marvin Mercer/AffiliatePO Box 1516Weaverville, NC 28787828-645-7088EngineersWater, Sewer & Storm DrainageSPIKE: Eric Allen

Bella Hardware & BathDana Bergstedt/Affiliate1096 Hendersonville Rd.Asheville, NC 28803828-505-7950Kitchen & BathPlumbing Fixtures & SuppliesSPIKE: Jill Jones

Bella Hardware & BathKevin Kennelly/Affiliate1096 Hendersonville Rd.Asheville, NC 28803828-505-7950HardwareKitchen & BathSPIKE: Jill Jones

Exotic CountertopsBrian Burpeau2592 Hwy 70Black Mountain, NC 28711828-669-0528Countertops, Laminate or SolidMarble, Stone, Granite & Tile

Mountain Marble & Granite, Inc.Jason Allison/Affiliate91 Thompson StreetAsheville, NC 28803828-225-0001Kitchen & BathCountertops (Laminate & Solid)SPIKE: Hank Strauss

*Pending New Member OrientationSpringtime HomesBrian Knight185 Courtland PlaceAsheville, NC 28801828-329-2156BuilderCustom BuilderSPIKE: Brenda Dunlap

To educate and engage, new AHBA Members are required to attend a one hour New Member Orientation as a final step in the application process.

- Pending Members -Mountain Metal Werks & Construction, Inc.Shane DelahozPO Box 1697Candler, NC 28715828-423-3083Roofing ContractorsMetal FabricationSPIKE: John Mertz

PLEASE READIn compliance with our Bylaws and the policies which have been put in place by our Board of Directors and the Membership Committee, Association procedure is to have new member applications approved by the Board of Directors and by the General Membership. Please look at the lists of all Members. If you know of any compelling reason that any applicant should not be considered for membership, please contact any AHBA staff member at 828-299-7001 or email your comments to the AHBA at [email protected]. All information given to the AHBA is held strictly confidential.

- Sorry to See You Go -The AHBA is sorry to see the companies below drop their AHBA memberships. If you know these past members or do business with them give them a call and help us get them back to the AHBA. And remember, always strive to do business with members!

Appalachian Carpet & Textile CleaningAssociate

Appalachian Mountain Homes, LLCAssociate

Asheville CabinetsAssociate

Asheville Construction Services, Inc.Associate

Goosman Rose, P.A.Associate

Jennings Builders SupplyAssociate

KHI, LLCAssociate

Leicester Carpet SalesAssociate

Quality Still CountsAssociate

S B ColemanBuilder

W.H. Osborne Construction Co., Inc.Jeff OsbornePO Box 18569Asheville, NC 28814828-712-5291Commercial ConstructionGreen BuilderSPIKE: Greg Spicer


[ member news ]

The AHBA is pleased to announce that 2011 marks the 30th Anniversary of the annual Parade of Homes! Mark your calendars now for the weekends of October 8-9 & 15-16. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to tour beautiful homes in our area while checking out the latest trends, products & services and special touches in each of the homes on tour.

A leading staple in the Asheville area, the Parade of Homes creates an atmosphere where members can showcase their craftsmanship and skill all while being showcased in a full color glossy magazine accompanied by an open self-guided tour during the Parade Weekends.

Builder members have been utilizing the Parade of Homes as a marketing tool for over 29 years - We encourage you to be a part of this stellar event in 2011!

Not only does the Parade of Home publication highlight homes and special projects, it also includes the AHBA Full Directory for 2011-2012, increasing shelf-life and amount of exposure each advertiser and sponsor will receive!

There are many unique ways for both Builders and Associate Members to be involved throughout the Parade. Whether placing an entry, sponsoring, or advertising in the publication there is a place for all budgets and companies within our industry.

The AHBA is proud to be publishing 10,000 copies of our full color glossy magazine this year and we hope you choose to be recognized as a participant in this award winning publication. Check out advertising rate below for this year’s publication and remember the deadline to researve space is July 15th! Don’t miss this great opportunity for exposure to consumers looking to build, buy, or remodel in our area.

Advertising Rates Members Non-membersFull Page $1685 $21061/2 Page $1130 $14121/4 Page $797 $997Page 3,4,6 inside front/back cover $2614 $3267

As a reminder, this year’s event will be slightly different encompassing even more awards for AHBA members all while focusing on the continued success of the AHBA Parade of Homes! Mark your calendars for this year’s Fall Gala & Awards, October 12, 2011 at the Crest Center. Details and Invitations to follow.

Visit www.AshevilleHBA.com/ParadeHomes.php FOR ALL DETAILS!

Be a part of the 2011 Parade of Homes

Celebrating 30 Years of ExcellenceOctober 8-9 & 15-16, 2011

Builder Parade Entry DeadlinesNow-July 13: $1900 Entry Fee

After July 13: $2250 Entry Fee *subject to approval/timing

Completed entry packets must be received by 5pm to qualify for deadline pricing above.

Parade of Homes Sponsorship OpportunitesPackages are now avaliable and filling up fast! Find a spot for your company with packages ranging from

$300 to $3500 - a place for every budget! Be a part of this year’s multimedia campaign as we celebrate our

30th Anniverrsary!

Secure your space by July 15th - find details at www.ashevillehba.com/paradehomes.php

Parade of Homes AdvertisingGain exposure for your company in this year’s full color glossy magazine! With 10,000 copies distributed you won’t want to miss this chance to get your company

in front of clients who are looking to build, buy or remodel in our area! With the Full AHBA Directory in the Parade of Homes Publication, shelf-life is greatly increased! Rates are affordable and offered on a first

come first serve basis - don’t delay! Look for the 2011 Media Kit on our website today.


[ AHBA Nation ]PWB Beer Tasting, Tour & Silent Auction - Largest Fundraiser To Date!The Professional Women in Building Council (PWB) of the AHBA held their most successful fundraiser to date on June 9th at Highland Brewing Company! Over 150 attendees gathered to support the cause, raising money for the PWB Scholarship Fund which is awarded each year to students pursing higher education in a construction related field in North Carolina. The location was great and then networking was on point! The evening hosted an array of silent auction

items donated from area companies listed below helping raise just over $3800 for the PWB Scholarship Fund. On display was a delightful spread of food donated by Artisan’s Catering & Deli, Crème Patisserie and Confectionery, Fiore’s Ristorante Toscana and The Colorful Pal-ate! A special thanks goes to Highland Brewing Company for hosting our group and TriCounty Solutions for all of printing needs! This year the PWB will be awarding two scholarships in the amounts of $1500 each to two very deserving students in our area. We look forward to presenting these students with their checks at our July 21st AHBA Networking Night at ClearChannel of Asheville. We invite all of you to come out and join us and help show your support for these students as they begin the next step in their education. This year’s fundraiser was a huge success because of all of those involved! The PWB would personally like to thank the companies below for making this event possible! A big thanks to all of you who attend this year’s event showing your support for higher education within the construction industry in our community!

The following companies helped make the 2011 PWB Scholarship Fundraiser the most successfulPWB event to date! Raising just over $3800 - we couldn’t have done it without you!

Special Thanks to the following companies who donated items to the Silent Auction & Raffle:

Allied Insulating CompanyAnytime Fitness, Inc.Asheville GymnasticsAsheville Strength and ConditioningAsheville TouristsAtlas Branding & Design Inc.Bent Creek Engineering, P.A.Bikram Yoga AshevilleBoatload of Believers ShopBuild It Naturally, Inc.Carolina Native NurseryCarpet One Floor & HomeComplete BuildersCrowne Plaza Tennis & Golf ResortCummings Cove Golf & Country ClubCustom Living Quarters

Delia LowDelkote/Build Smart AllianceDillard-Jones Builders, LLCDuinkerken Homes, Inc.

Eagledove Greenhouse & Garden CenterEssential Bodyworks, Inc.Ferguson Enterprises, Inc.Frankie Bones Restaurant & LoungeGeaux Girl ConciergeGlobal Vision Healing ArtsGreen Built EnvironmentsHigh Cotton, Inc.Hi-Tech Integrated Systems, Inc.Hops & VinesICF Constructors, Inc.

Kamala ParkerK-Wall Poured Walls, LLC

Maria Aponte, Mary Kay Independent Beauty ConsultantMath Insurance ServiceMcNutt Service Group, Rick CooperPostNet of South AshevillePrintville, Inc.Retro+Fit Design, LLCSamsel Architects, P.A.

Shanti Collective School of Energy Healing & Self TransformationSimply Wired, LLCThe Fire Personal Training StudioThe Hop Ice Cream Cafe’Westside PaintingWright’s Carpet, Inc.

A big thank you to the following companies for their generous donations of food, location & signange:

Artisan’s Catering & Deli, Crème Patisserie and Confectionery, Fiore’s Ristorante Toscana and The Colorful Palate

Highland Brewing Company and Tri-County Solutions

AHBA Annual “Pig-nic”

Sunday, August 14, 2011 12:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Lunch Served from 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Bring Your Family & Join Us for a Fun-Filled Day!

Monster Water Slide - “The Gulley Washer!” Canoes, Swimming & Zipline

New this year – a RAFFLE will take place!

Items include: Skydiving, Nail Gun, Gift Certificates and more! Tickets: 1 for $5 or 6 for $20

BBQ, Sides, Tea/Lemonade & Ice Cream Provided BYOB (Coolers Allowed) • Bring Swimsuits & Lawn Chairs • No Pets

DIRECTIONS TO CAMP ROCKMONT:

375 Lake Eden Road, Black Mountain NC 28711 Travel I-40 East to Exit 59 toward Swannanoa. Left onto Patton Cove Road. Right onto US-70/Black Mountain Highway. Left onto Grovestone Road. Left onto Old US 70W. Right onto

Lake Eden Road. Camp Rockmont is on the left.

Registration Form

Company Name: __________________________________________________________________ Member Name: ________________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Email: _____________________________________

Member of Record: ___ (Free) Guests: ___($20) Children 8-15___ ($15) Children Under 7___ (Free)

Total Number Attending: ______ Total Enclosed: $ _____

RSVP Required by August 5, 2011

Phone 299-7001 • Fax 299-7008 • E-mail [email protected]

THIS WILL SERVE AS YOUR INVOICE Payment must be received prior to event or at check-in - Check • Visa • MasterCard


[ AHBA upcoming event ]

Documents

July 2011 Newsletter - Asheville Home Builders Association