At T.W. Ellis, we are big believers in the importance of trade associations like the National Association of Home Builders.
It’s why we’ve been NAHB members for years, and work to promote the association. Company President Tim Ellis has served as the NAHB Remodelers Chairman of the Board and held a number of other positions. Our team members have earned multiple certifications, including Certified Master Remodeler, Certified Graduate Remodeler, Certified Master Green Professional, and more.
That dedication hasn’t changed just because of the coronavirus. Normally one of the highlights of the spring is the NAHB Spring Board Meetings and Legislative Conference. It’s a chance to get together, talk about the major issues in the industry, and share those concerns with legislators on Capitol Hill.
This year, those meetings have gone virtual. T.W. Ellis and remodelers around the country are meeting last week and this week to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the remodelers and home builders today. Here’s just some of the issues at this year’s meetings:
Housing Bounces Back
We’re already seeing signs of a housing recovery from the historic slowdown due to COVID-19 in March and April. Numbers released during the meetings show that building permits and housing starts were up in May. Builder confidence also surged this month, back to positive territory as builders around the country are seeing increased activity.
Green Building
NAHB staff shared the results of the annual Green SmartMarket Brief. The survey showed that consumers are most interested in products and systems that directly impact utility bills and indoor environmental quality. More than half of builders and remodelers rank products/systems related to energy efficiency as the primary request they receive from homeowners. Other top areas of concern include indoor air quality, water conservation, and renewable energy.
Capitol Hill Virtual Visits
There were also several goals we shared with legislators, congressional staff, and regulators:
- Promoting policies and job training programs that will help ensure an ample supply of well-trained workers to build the nation’s homes;
- Strengthening the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC);
- Reducing regulations that harm small businesses;
- Preventing federal intrusion into the energy codes development process;
- Revising small business lending programs during the COVID-19 crisis to make those loans available to more home builders; and
- Providing rental assistance to struggling families during the coronavirus-caused economic downturn.
Trade associations like NAHB make builders and remodelers better, and in turn help us deliver a better experience to our customers. When you’re considering your next remodel, be sure to look for certified professionals like T.W. Ellis to ensure your best experience!
