Where does time go? Winter was just here and it fells like spring now. January saw the International Builder Show in Las Vegas with a down turn in both exhibitors and builders. After 26 years of building a home in the local home show area so attendees can view into the future of building, the lender called in the construction note and the home was left uncompleted. It was a fitting example of our industry’s economic condition.

February was filled with the 2009 IECC (International Energy Conservation Code) meetings and worries of activity levels and raising costs. Most new homes being built are trying to comply with the new changes, but with formal training through the ICC (International Code Council) meetings not getting started in this area until April 9, we are all still unsure what it really takes to comply. I have had several builders call me after they were getting building permits and just found out that this is a mandatory state law! This is just another example of why it is important to be an active member in our local HBA where information is readily available.

February’s home show was another sell out due to Lisa’s single handed efforts; she walked ‘door to door’ to fill the last few booths. The cloudy, rainy weekend aided in drawing large crowds to enjoy the show. There is always lots of behind the scenes work to be accomplished for this large show. A special thanks to Mike Moews and your board of directors for pitching in. We can hope next year’s new venue, to be announced soon, will also bring another sellout and increased enthusiasm.

These next few months will be crucial for sales and closings of our new houses and remodeling jobs yet this calendar year. We need to keep a watchful eye as slowly building prices start to creep upwards.