December 2020
NAHB Continues to Emphasize Job Site Safety
A worker on a site in Wisconsin reviews the clearly posted NAHB coronavirus safety materials.
From the very beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, NAHB has been working to keep America’s home builders and trades partners safe and on the job. That effort is now being redoubled as the country faces a worrying spike in cases, hospitalizations and deaths from the virus. Early efforts focused on the safety of workers on construction sites. NAHB, in cooperation with the Construction Industry Safety Coalition (CISC), adapted CDC guidance into a Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Plan for Construction tailored specifically to home building job sites. That plan was published on NAHB.org on March 25 in English and Spanish. NAHB has been monitoring changes in official guidance and has updated the plan three times, with the most recent version published on Oct. 29. The plan was immediately adopted by many in the home building industry, with HBAs adding local guidance and distributing the materials to members, many of whom posted the information on job sites and used them to train workers and trades partners. The materials provided the basis for the nationwide COVID-19 Jobsite Safety Stand Down held on April 16 and a video toolbox talk. They have also been used by HBAs in their efforts to keep job sites open.
Single-Family Starts Pace Best Since 2007 Led by solid gains in single-family production, overall housing starts increased 4.9% in October to a season- ally adjusted annual rate of 1.53 million units, accord- ing to a report from HUD and the Census Bureau. The October reading of 1.53 million starts is the number of housing units builders would begin if development kept this pace for the next 12 months. The pace of single-family starts was the best since the spring of 2007.
The Pros and Cons Of Solar Panels Homes with solar photovoltaic panels (PV) can appeal to some new home buyers because of reduced electric bills and a lessened environmental impact. The decision to proceed with such a major investment, however, raises a question about the return on investment. Home Innovation Research Labs recently completed a study analyzing the cost effectiveness of rooftop solar PV across five different markets: Phoenix; Tampa, Fla; Boston; Kansas City, Mo.; and Seattle. Register Now For Virtual IBSx The 2021 NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) has transitioned to a virtual-only event. The exclusive IBS opportunities that attendees have come to expect from the in-person event will still take place, connecting home building professionals together, online, during the IBSx Virtual Experience (IBSx), Feb. 9-12, 2021. Visit BuildersShow.com to register.
NAHB Focuses on Mental Health NAHB has launched a new effort focused on mental wellbeing in the construction industry with an emphasis on helping association members support healthy work environments and be more proactive in looking at their own health and wellness. Construction workers are particularly susceptible to mental health issues and suicide. More construction workers die by suicide each day than all workplace- related fatalities combined, with a rate of 43.5 suicides per 100,000 workers.
IRS Rules on PPP and Expense Deductions Businesses that get their Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans forgiven will not qualify for some valuable deductions, according to IRS guidance. "Companies that have “a reasonable expectation that the govern- ment won’t require them to pay back the money can’t deduct the business expenses paid for by the loan.” There is a bipartisan effort in Congress to overturn the IRS’ guidance. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal (D-Mass.) support legislative changes that would allow businesses to deduct expenses paid for with PPP money.
After a long and contentious election season, former Vice President Joe Biden will become the 46th president of the United States. It appears that Republicans will retain control of the upper chamber. The tally currently stands at 50 Republican Senate seats to 48 Democratic seats, with two Georgia Senate races headed to a Jan. 5 runoff. And while the majority of the U.S. House of Representatives remains in Democratic hands, House Republicans recaptured some of the suburban seats they lost in 2018. As the 117th Congress is seated in January 2021, and with Democrats regaining control of the White House, NAHB’s near-term priorities remain passing another coronavirus relief package and providing relief from recent highs in lumber prices. Longer-term efforts will focus on ensuring a strong economy and creating a regulatory environment that supports new home production so that housing continues to be the brightest spot in the economic recovery. Read NAHB’s election summary for more detail about the new political environment.
BUILD-PAC Wins 95% of Races The election cycle was expected to be competitive in 2020, so members stepped up their support this year for BUILD-PAC, NAHB’s political action committee dedicated to electing the most qualified pro-housing, pro-business candidates. During the 2019-2020 election cycle, BUILD-PAC contributed to 355 U.S. congressional candidates and played in over 100 competitive races. As of Nov. 23, 95% of the candidates BUILD-PAC supported won their races. NAHB also endorsed 159 candidates for the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives who have shown a commitment to policies that promote homeownership and rental housing opportunities for all Americans. NAHB supported the candidates it endorsed with an intensive voter mobilization effort.
Legal Action Fund Provides Grants NAHB’s Legal Action Committee recently recommended that the Board of Directors fund $56,000 in Legal Action Fund grants to members and HBAs for legal efforts that will have a national impact on the home building industry. Examples include: The Builders Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh was awarded $10,000 in its challenge of state rules that impose greater limits on the number of people on residen- tial job sites than on commercial sites. An NAHB member from the Kansas City HBA received $11,000 to support their challenge to growth controls imposed by the municipality. An NAHB member from the Rochester HBA in New York received $10,000 for their efforts to defend a legal victory they achieved in a lower court regarding a challenge to local zoning conditions.
NAHB Prepared to Work With Biden White House
Calendar of Events Check GCBA's Monday eMail for current Location & Registration Information. Friday, January 1 8:30AM Coffee & Conversation on ZOOM Monday, January 4 Event Comm. Meeting on TEAMS / 3PM Thursday, January 14 Installation & Awards Gala / 7-9PM Monday, January 18 Ex. Officers meeting / 5:30-7PM Tuesday, January 19 Membership Committee on Teams / 12PM Tuesday, January 26 Redevelopment on ZOOM / 12-2PM Monday, February 1 Event Comm. Meeting on TEAMS / 3PM Friday, February 5 8:30AM Coffee & Conversation on ZOOM Tuesday, February 9 - Friday, February 12 IBSX Monday, February 15 Exc. Officers / 5:30-7PM Tuesday, February 16 Membership Committee on TEAMS / 12PM Wednesday, January 17 FHBA Spring Leadership Thursday, February 18 FHBA Spring Leadership HHHH – Bar Louie / Location TBC Friday, February 19 FHBA Spring Leadership Friday, February 26 1 Hour MBA / 2-3:30PM All dates and locations are subject to change. Check the GCBA Website for most current information.
Leadership List 2020 GCBA Officers and Directors OFFICERS PRESIDENT Jay Huebner, HSQ Group 1ST VP Maya Chocron, K Hovnanian 2ND VP Rafael Roca, DR Horton Homes ASSOCIATE VP Jason Handin, Ward Damon PL VP FINANCE Steve Karp, Melamed & Karp PA IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT David Kanarek, Pulte Home Company LLC DIRECTORS Fred Pfister, Toll Brothers Inc Karl Albertson, DR Horton Homes Steve Dassa, Lennar Homes LLC Michael Nuziata, 13th Floor Homes Tony Macaluso, GFA International Ken Lebersfeld, Capitol Lighting Irina Heyaime, Pulte Home Company LLC David Donvito, Minto Communities Josh Hedden, Hydroshield South Florida Peggy West, GRS Management Associates, Inc. Executive Officer: KT Catlin Design: Gregory J. Del Deo
If you are interested in serving on the Board and/or Becoming an Office please contact KT at 561-228-6137 or KT@GCBAFlorida.com
Welcome to our Newest Members!
DISCOVER THE VALUE OF MEMBERSHIP NAHB members save thousands of dollars each year thanks to NAHB’s advocacy efforts and other member benefits. While home building is a challenging industry, NAHB’s resources, expertise and educational opportunities can help you build a better product, build a better business, and create a more positive business environment. The Four Pillars of NAHB & Membership are: ADVOCACY NAHB fights for our members on Capitol Hill, in your state and in the communities where you do business. EXPERTISE FOR OUR MEMBERS ON CAPITOL HILL, IN YOUR STATE AND IN THE COMMUNITIES WHERE YOU DO BUSINESS. KNOWLEDGE NAHB’s educational programs and professional designations provide opportunities to improve your skills and advance your career. NETWORKING Discover opportunities to build relationships with fellow professionals, future customers and suppliers.
GCBA 2020 TOP RECRUITERS KT Catlin - 11 *Michelle Mockenhaupt - 9 Deborah Giarratana - 8 Stuart MacGregor - 6 Tony Macaluso - 6 Jay Huebner - 5 Ethan Nelson - 5 Maya Chocron - 2 Steve Dassa - 2 Josh Hedden - 2 Peggy West - 2 Vic Canales - 1 Aldo Conigliaro - 1 Frank Coppola - 1 Irina Heyaime - 1 Alex Piazza - 1 Ron Qualk - 1 Michael Weiner - 1 *Michelle has also been responsible for 6 renewals. GCBA SPIKE CLUB Members reach the GCBA Spike Club once you recruit 5 or more members in the current year. GCBA Spike Club Members will be recognized at Board Meetings & more!
Builder Benchmark Design Remodel Chrisdon Building & Design, Inc. Master Contractor and Subcontractor Association of Florida Premiere Electric Inc. RTG Construction, Inc. Affiliate Jesse Castaldo Michele Mockenhaupt Miranda Coppola Associate Action Sales LLC Allstate Heating and Cooling Castle Mobility LLC dba Next Day Access EmbroidMe of Palm Beach Gardens Exclusive Management & Properties inc. Max Home Improvement Nickcola Wallace Pro-Tech International Security Systems, Inc. If you sponsored one of these individuals please let KT or Robin know! We will be having year long contests and recognition for Recruiting & Retention!
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mEMBERSHIP NEWS
Building the Dream Series Looks at Housing Affordability Season
Over the past year, NAHB’s “Building the Dream” series, in partnership with The Hill, has explored various factors contributing to the housing affordability crisis. Although the crisis had been a longstanding issue prior to COVID-19, the current pandemic has altered the situation in many cases, including delays in supply chains, labor shortages and increased interest in the suburbs, that have had a further impact on the cost of housing. The Hill’s Editor-at-Large Steve Clemons explored the current conditions of housing affordability with policymakers and industry leaders during the series’ final event. Having access to safe, affordable housing has been a paramount concern during the pandemic for both home owners and renters. While forbearance and rental assistance have provided short-term relief in the immediate wake of COVID-19, additional assistance is still needed to prevent families from slipping into poverty, as well as longer-term solutions to address overall affordability. “There are millions of people in this country who are very vulnerable to any setback in terms of what they can do to stay in a safe, affordable, accessible home,” Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, shared during the recent event. “We first need to deal with eviction, but we absolutely need a housing policy that will encourage partnerships in building more housing … Housing has gotten so expensive in metropolitan areas but so cheap in many ways in other places still, and we’ve got to find ways to encourage growth in those areas.” NAHB and The Hill kicked off the “Building the Dream” series in Minneapolis in November 2019, and the series continued throughout 2020. Full replays of all of the events in the series, including this most recent segment, are available on NAHB.org.
New York Wealth is Further Boosting South Florida's Housing Market By Brad Hunter The flow of New Yorkers to Florida is now on steroids. It's normal to see New York and New Jersey license plates around here this time of year, but they seem more eager than ever to buy a home in South Florida. Many of the seasonal visitors who come each year are now deciding to make this their primary residence. First we heard about Barry Sternlicht, of Starwood fame, and Carl Icahn moving here, then a couple of other billionaires including Paul Singer (who owns the hedge fund Elliott Management) followed suit. These heavyweights by the way are going to be staffing up their businesses here as well. Now, Goldman Sachs just announced that they are going to transplant their asset management division from Manhattan to South Florida. Mind you, this is all still happening despite the spike in coronavirus cases. To some extent, the coronavirus situation is actually accelerating these moves, because well-heeled northeasterners say that if there is another stay-at-home order, they'd rather be staying at home in Florida than in the great white north. Add to that the fact that you can get a LOT more square footage down here, for a pittance compared with New York prices, and that allows for a very nice home office within the home. In business relocation news, Blackstone, the private equity behemoth, recently announced it is moving some of its operations to Miami, bringing hundreds of jobs to the area.Sprinkle a little SALT (the tax kind), some sunshine, room to spread out and physically distance while staying socially connected, and you have a recipe for continued strength in this market. Icing on the tax-differential cake: I'm now hearing reports that a lot more Californians are coming to Florida now too!
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FHBA Legislative Priorities 2021 Twelve-months ago the topics of the day were a Florida law that went into effect allowing teachers to carry firearms in schools, tens of thousands of Hong Kong protesters marching in defiance of a new ban on face masks at public assemblies, and a record 12 Democratic presidential candidates participating in a live TV debate in Westerville, Ohio. To cap it off, in the final months of 2019, the buzz word in preparation for the 2020 Legislative Session was “resiliency” to rising sea levels. A lot has changed in a year, and although we still expect the Florida Legislature to move forward with “resiliency” (and maybe one day defining it), we are certain this Legislative Session and possibly a preemptive Special Session will look to address a near $3 billion budget shortfall, COVID-19 liability protections, and a surplus of issues that have risen in the aftermath of the pandemic. In the past month, the Governor’s office and the Florida House have both reached out to FHBA inquiring what actions can be taken to keep Florida builders building. Whether it is streamlining the building permit process and increasing efficiencies, incentivizing electronic plan reviews, continuing virtual hearings, or simply fighting back local governments who look to balance their depleted revenues on the backs of builders – the issues in 2021 will not be hard to come by. Below is a quick excerpt on FHBA priority issues:
FHBA Members Get First Access To Latest CE Offerings Today, FHBA is announcing two new live continuing education courses focused on changes coming to the Florida Building Code Residential Edition. Course registration opens today for FHBA members for two identical courses, both offered for free by FHBA in partnership with Florida DBPR, the Florida Building Commission and Building a Safer Florida. Click the button below to register today!
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 3PM
Event Details When: July 13-15, 2021 Where: Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center What: Opportunities for socials, networking and result-focused meetings designed to create lasting strategic partnerships.
BUILDERS CLICK HERE FOR MORE
As FHBA has adjusted to the changing landscape of in-person events in 2020, the 2020 Builder and Exhibitor Exchange (BEX) was adapted to a virtual meeting platform and held earlier this month. More than 20 companies and builders participated in the two day event, reaping the benefits of action-oriented, one-on-one meetings. Don't miss out on BEX in 2021! Reserve your space now for this exclusive, VIP Event!
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 3PM
CLICK HERE TO SEE LIST OF PARTICIPANTS