October 2015 Building Buzz

BUILDINGBuzz

Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association

October 2015

Mandan Property Tax Rate, page 6

Curbside Recycling Coming, page 7

Hot Products, page 12

SPORTING CLAY SHOOT RECAPNEW RECORD SET, PAGE 8THE K & L DIFFERENCE

Homes that are designed and built to last.

2 Building Buzz | October 2015

Publisher/Editor: Dot FrankLayout Editor: Michael L. Quinn

Building Buzz is a publication of the Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association

2600 Gateway Ave., Suite 1Bismarck, ND 58503

Phone: 701.222.2400 Fax: 701.250.9730

Like Us! www.facebook.com/bmhbaFollow Us! www.twitter.com/bmhba

Your membership is three-in-one: BMHBA, NDAB and NAHB

Professionals building our community through promotion of home ownership, education and

legislation since 1958.

2015 Board of DirectorsPRESIDENT

Drew KnutsonKnutson Homes, Inc.

Phone: (701) 258-34641ST VICE PRESIDENT

Greg ZenkerFerguson Enterprises

Phone: (701) 663-24462ND VICE PRESIDENTShannon Reichenberg

Diversity HomesPhone: (701) 220-8177

Susie FranklinCapital Credit Union

Phone: (701) 255-0042Nathan Jones

Tollberg HomesPhone: (763) 205-2037

Parker PladsonVenture Building Co.

Phone: (701) 290-6734

PAST PRESIDENTVance Vetter

Vance Vetter HomesPhone: (701) 751-8218

SECRETARY/TREASURER Lynn Klein

Gate City BankPhone: (701) 355-7633

Paula HaiderHaider Glass SpecialtiesPhone: (701) 250-6787

Chad MoldenhauerK & L Homes, Inc.

Phone: (701) 258-4584Jeff Sattler

Sattler HomesPhone: (701) 255-7628

Bill SchmidTownsquare Media

Phone: (701) 250-6602

Cover PhotoK & L Homes, Inc.www.k-lhomes.com

Details:Southport

Built in 2015Slab-On-Grade with Main Floor Master Bedroom

4 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths

This home was built with a slab-on-grade foundation on one of the last remaining lots in the Southport Subdivision. It was designed to take advantage of the view up the bay

with a catwalk overlooking a two-story high foyer and family room. In addition, the main floor has a formal dining room, sunroom, kitchen, office, master bedroom and master bath with a huge walk-in closet that would fit any wardrobe. Upstairs you will find a sitting area overlooking the main floor family room as well as three bedrooms, a bath

and a storage room which is ideal for a home without a basement.

BUILDINGBuzz

Bianco Realty has named SHIRLEY THOMAS and DEE KUBIK “REALTORS® of the Month”! Shirley and Dee had the most closed sales at Bianco Realty for the month of September

2015. Shirley has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2001 and Dee has been a licensed REALTOR® since 2010.

Bianco Realty Sales Awards

DEE KUBIKSHIRLEY THOMAS

3October 2015 | Building Buzz

Alliance Concrete, LLC | Ryan Wisdom | Concrete Work

Apex Builders | Amy LarsenSingle Family Spec/Tract Building

Arvig | Dudley Gartner | www.arvig.comComputer Products and Services

Bismarck Heating & Air | Tom Kambeitzwww.bismarckheating.com | Plumbing/Heating/Air

Conditioning

Bismarck Technical Center | David PetersonSingle Family Spec/Tract Building | Trade Association/

Non-Profit

Camp Bros Heating & Air | Jim CampPlumbing/Heating/Air Conditioning

Capitol City Welding | Ross Nathanwww.capitalcitywelding.com

Creative Wood Designs | Mike Nesswww.creative-wood.com | Remodeling-Residential

Building Materials Lumber (Retail Dealership)

D & M Industries | Dan Narvesonwww.weselldoors.com | Building Materials Lumber

(Retail Dealership)

Design That Sells | Kari Huberwww.designthatsells.net Planner or Designer

Eide Ford Mercury Lincoln Inc. | Jesse Petersonwww.eideford.com

Exquisite Lifestyles, LLC | Jamie CoxPlanner or Designer

Fabricators Unlimited | Betty NarlockBuilding Materials Lumber (Retail Dealership)

Gietzen Construction, LLC | Sam Gietzenwww.gietzenconstruction.com | Single Family General

Contracting | Building Materials Lumber (Retail)

Great Plains Insulation, Inc. | Alex BunkBuilding Materials Lumber (Retail Dealership)

I. Keating | Kevin Oler | Planner or Designer

Imperial Flooring, Inc. | Chris Svaneswww.imperialflooringdesign.com | Planner or Designer

Flooring Coverings (Retail Dealership)

Klemetson Woodworks Co. | Paul Klemetsonwww.klemetsonwoodworks.com | Building Materials

Lumber (Retail Dealership)

Missouri Valley Petroleum | James Froelichwww.mvpinc.net | Utilities

Paramount Builders, Inc. | Jarred Roloffwww.paramountbuildersinc.net | Single Family General

Contracting | Single Family Custom Building

Ramkota Hotel | Dave Achtenberg

Redford Signature Homes | Deborah Luptakwww.redfordsignaturehomes.com | Single Family Spec/

Tract Building | Single Family General Contracting

Rocks & Blocks Landscaping, LLC | Andy Thomaswww.rocksandblocks.com | Manufacturing | Landscaping

SHE | Chris Saxton | www.sehinc.comLand Development | Engineering

Ted Lipp Drywall, Inc. | Ted Lipp | Drywall Installation

Toman Eng Co. | Harvey Schneiderwww.tomanengineering.com | Architecture | Engineering

Valley Borders, LLC | Lonnie ShereckMasonry/Stone Work/Tile Setting/Plaster

Valor Insulation Co. | Kyle HillerudBuilding Materials Lumber (Retail Dealership)

New Members & Anniversaries

Bismarck-Mandan Permit ReportsPermit Type August 2015 August 2014

Single Family – 20 Value - $3,612,783 Units – 20Multi-Family – 1 Value - $4,200,000 Units - 40Commercial – 17 Value - $8,420,085 Units – N/A

Single Family – 8 Value - $1,129,578 Units – 8Multi-Family – 0 Value - $0 Units - 0Commercial – 0 Value - $0 Units – N/A

Single Family – 17 Value - $4,158,385 Units - 17Multi-Family – 0 Value - $0 Units – 0Commercial – 1 Value - $500,000 Units – N/A

Single Family – 7 Value - $2,687,517 Units - 7Multi-Family – 0 Value - $0 Units - 0Commercial – 0 Value - $0 Units – N/A

Single Family – 1 Value - $150,000 Units - 1Multi-Family – 0 Value - $0 Units - 0Commercial – 0 Value - $0 Units – N/A

BISMARCK - www.bismarck.org

LINCOLN - www.cityoflincolnnd.com

MANDAN - www.cityofmandan.com

BURLEIGH COUNTY - www.co.burleigh.nd.us

MORTON COUNTY - www.co.morton.nd.us

Single Family – 59 Value - $10,159,084 Units - 59Multi-Family – 0 Value – $0 Units – 0Commercial – 5 Value - $633,203 Units – N/A

Single Family – 5 Value – $652,541 Units - 5Multi-Family – 0 Value - $0 Units - 0Commercial – 0 Value - $0 Units - 0

Single Family – 13 Value - $2,736,435 Units - 13Multi-Family – 2 Value - $598,176 Units - 2Commercial – 2 Value - $4,379,070 Units – N/A

Single Family – 2 Value - $799,226 Units - 2Multi-Family – 0 Value - $0 Units - 0Commercial – 1 Value - $1,358,866 Units – N/A

Single Family – 3 Value - $745,980 Units - 3Multi-Family – 0 Value - $0 Units - 0Commercial – 0 Value - $0 Units – N/A

Blue Hawk Audio & Video | Mike Wilkinson BlueHawkAudio.com | Computer Products and Services

Security Systems

D & W Hagen Homes LLC | Weston HagenSingle Family Spec/Tract Building & General Contracting

Nest Interiors | Darcie HamiltonFacebook: Nest Interiors ND | Planner or Designer

Paradise Homes, Inc. | Richard StrausSingle Family General Contracting & Custom Building

RG Electric | Roger Grendahlrgelectricinc.com | Electrical Work

Time to Renew!Members with October Anniversaries. Renew by October 31, 2015.

August 2015 New Members


ctober brings a time to celebrate and learn. We survived the Fall Parade of Homes and will have a chance to celebrate its success this month. Additionally, we will get to learn what to expect for the spring construction season when we hear from building officials on Oct. 22.

The Parade of Homes is one of the most prominent public events our office coordinates. It takes an entire committee to pull together all of the Parade pieces to ensure its success. I would like to extend my thanks to all Parade of Homes Committee members, Committee Chairwoman Lindsey Matter, HBA staff and of course our builders and associates who participated.

We’re tallying the votes and tabulating the visits. I encourage you to be a part of the big reveal on Oct. 8. The Fall Awards Mixer will begin with a social at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner and a program at 6 p.m. We’re celebrating at the Bismarck Ramada, which is located on Interchange Avenue. Make sure to get registered to attend at bmhba.com/events.

The Events Committee has a special night in store for the Fall Awards Mixer and they’re calling on members to button up and clip on a bowtie. Former NAHB Economist and national speaker Elliot Eisenberg, affectionately known as the “Bowtie Economist” is our keynote speaker. Elliot’s presentation will be educational and comedic.

By now you’ve likely noticed the “Calls to Action” that NAHB, NDAB and our office issue from time to time urging you to contact elected officials. While they ask infrequently, they work consistently to ensure codes and ordinances don’t put us out of business and buyers out of homeownership. NAHB relies on your vocal and financial support to advocate. I’m asking each of you to make a personal contribution to BUILD-PAC. For those who elect to make a $100 contribution or higher, we’re hosting a special VIP PAC Social with the NDAB as a thank you. You’ll join the likes of PAC Trustees, elected officials and Elliot Eisenberg on Oct. 8 prior to the Fall Awards Mixer. This special social includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Register online at bmhba.com/events.

As we enter fall, don’t forget to save the date for the Fall Building Officials Roundtable. The association hosts this lunch event twice a year to get updates from building officials and share industry concerns related to building codes and ordinances. Please come prepared to ask questions and offer recommendations. You also may contact Dot in the office if you prefer she present concerns on your behalf.

Thank you for being a part of this growing association. I’m excited to see many of you at our upcoming events.

President’sLetter

Drew KnutsonBoard President

O

Drew KnutsonPresident


In an Aug. 26 Eye on Housing post, NAHB economist Na Zhao breaks down the Census figures by number of units per building and by region of the country to see how long it takes to build an apartment or condo building once the developer has authorization in hand.

The data team at Realtor.com took a deep dive into 1.5 million active listings of single-family homes for sale and parsed out over 200 individual features from their listing descriptions. From there, they finalized the top five features for each state and picked the one with real local flavor. Find the interactive map online at facebook.com/bmhba or at realtor.com.

September 24-27, 2015Thu & Fri 6-9pm; Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 12-5pm

T We are excited and honored to have Cathleen

Feland, Christa Stayton, and Morgan Edmonson joining our team of Real Estate Professionals.

Call Cathleen, Christa, and Morgan to answer all of your Real Estate questions. Morgan

Edmonson (701) 302-0603

Christa Stayton(701) 739-6520

201 West Front Avenue 701.223.6654 www.century21morrison.com

Cathleen Feland(701) 527-0753

North Dakota:Large master room,

9% of listings


BThe City’s Budget and Finance

Committee is recommending a contribution of $4,571,405 from property tax revenue toward a total city budget of $30.7 million. Property tax revenue is budgeted $269,463 higher with much of the additional revenue stemming from new construction entering the tax rolls and expired exemptions in 2015.

Sales tax buy-down. The City remains focused on lowering property taxes by fostering retail business growth. The budget committee’s recommendation for 2016 is to contribute a larger share of projected sales tax revenue to property tax buy-down, 62% as compared to the policy of 50% adopted in 2013 and contributions of 40% in 2012 and years prior. The total sales tax contribution to the general fund budget for 2016 is pegged at $1,613,950. Without it, the mill levy would need to be 23.3 mills higher.

Lowering mills to offset value increases. The taxable valuation of Mandan property is estimated at $69 million in 2015, up from $57 million in 2014. There was a 17% increase in the total value of residential property, with an average increase for existing homes

of 14%. The increase to the total value of commercial property was 35% with the average increase to existing commercial property at 20%.

Water, sewer and garbage rates pending. Water and sewer utility fund base rates will be considered later in the year once city officials can better determine the potential cost share from the N.D. Water Commission for water treatment plant improvement projects.

The solid waste utility fund, which covers residential garbage hauling and overall landfill services, will see a base rate increase of $0.85 per month per family living unit. The implementation of

residential single-sort recycling services will cost a minimum of $5.50 per month per home. The total residential base rate increase for solid waste services will amount to $6.35 per month per family living unit or about $76 for the year.

udget Proposal DecreasesProperty Tax Rate

The City of Mandan’s proposed 2016 budget calls for a decrease in the 2015 property tax rate for city services of nearly 9 mills, dropping to almost 66 mills. The property tax rate decrease will offset the average residential property valuation increase of 14%. The City Commission will make its second and final consideration of the proposed budget at a Sept. 15 meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m. A public hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m.

Reprinted from the Mandan Messenger


HOW DOES MANDAN MEASURE UP?

CITY NEWS

The City of Mandan entered into a contract with Dakota Sanitation for residential, single-sort recycling in September. Residential single-sort recycling allows residents to place most recyclable materials in one container for pick-up. The 96-gallon recycling containers will be delivered with information packets in December.

Collections will begin Jan. 1, 2016. Recyclables will be collected every other week. Collection weeks will be organized by address, with odd-numbered and even-numbered properties scheduled on opposite weeks. A calendar will be issued to residents and posted at cityofmandan.com/recycle.

Recycling services will be provided to all single residences and multi-family units that already have individual trash receptacles. Options for larger complexes, generally four or more units, which have trash dumpsters may be considered in the future.

A recycling cost of $5.50 per month per unit will be added to residents’ utility bills. An insert providing information on what can and cannot be recycled will be included in the November utility bill mailing.

CURBSIDE RECYCLING COMING TO MANDAN

Mandan Mayor Arlyn Van Beek and Bismarck Mayor Mike Seminary will present statistics on each city’s growth at the Chamber’s State of the Cities breakfast on Nov. 3 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Radisson Hotel. For more information call 223-5660 or visit bismarckmandan.com.

STATE OF THE CITIES

esearchers from the Heartland Center for Leadership Development say a community culture that supports economic, civil and social

entrepreneurship as a development strategy will do well. They report that the following attributes are usually present in successful communities.

• Evidence of community pride• Emphasis on quality in business and

community life• Willingness to invest in the future• Participatory approach to community

decision making• Cooperative community development• Realistic appraisal of future

opportunities• Awareness of competitive positioning• Knowledge of physical environment• Creatively build new economic

opportunities• Deliberate transition of power to a new

or younger generation of leaders

• Acceptance of women in leadership positions

• Strong belief in and support of education• Problem-solving approach to providing

healthcare• Strong multi-generational family

orientation• Strong presence of traditional

institutions• Sound and well-maintained

infrastructure• Careful use of fiscal resources• Sophisticated use of information

resources• A willingness to seek help from the

outside• Communities are self-reliant

Over the next one to two years, citizens will have an opportunity to provide input on how Mandan rates with regard to these traits through the City’s monthly poll at cityofmandan.com.

RReprinted from the Mandan Messenger

Photo courtesy of N.D. Department of Transportation.


More than 90 members turned out to Capital Sporting Clays for the association’s 8th Annual Sporting Clay Shoot on Aug. 27 setting a new attendance record. Participants were encouraged to adopt Redneck attire for a chance at the best dressed prize. As you can see by the photo displayed, some took this encouragement really seriously.

Lynn Klein was named best dressed through an applause vote. In addition to best dressed, other Redneck inspired activities included a Redneck Ring Toss sponsored by Advanced Mechanical, the Sit & Shoot, stationary drive by shooting, and beer blasting.

The association thanks all attendees and event sponsors. We also extend a special thanks to Tom Haider of Haider Glass Specialties for grilling.

Thank you…Dinner Sponsor - Acme Tools, Platinum Sponsor - BNC Bank, Gold Sponsors - Knutson Homes and Haider Glass, Bronze Sponsor - D & M Industries, Station Sponsors - Allied Building

Products, Dakota Community Bank & Trust, CS Doors, Gate City Bank, North Dakota Guaranty & Title, Quality Title, Starion Financial, TransTrash and Vance Vetter Homes.

REDNECKS SET NEW RECORD

BMHBA NEWS

Susie Franklin, Ken Knodel, Blair Ihmels and Lynn Klein compete for best dressed Redneck.

Tom Haider grills to perfection 1/3 pound patties for participants.

The best dressed Redneck received a Redneck approved prize package.

Executive Officer Dot Frank attended the North Dakota Building Officials Association (NDBOA) fall meeting in Medora on Sept. 16. Frank encouraged NDBOA members to support home building and homeownership through construction-friendly codes and reminded them of their department’s impact on affordability.

The association will intensify its efforts to communicate with building

officials in the coming months are we prepare for the state adoption of the 2015 building codes. If you are interested in assisting in the review of major changes to the code and discussion regarding amendments, please contact the BMHBA at 222-2400.

State review of the 2015 codes will begin in March 2016.

ASSOCIATION ADDRESSES BUILDING OFFICIALS

Local building officials Doug Lalim, Ray Ziegler and Brady Blaskowski were among the officials present at the Fall Building Officials meeting.


Former NAHB Senior EconomistElliot Eisenberg, Ph.D

SISTER HBA SECURES ADVOCACY SUPPORT

Dakota Media Access is producing City Current, a series of videos that provide information about city services and actions of city government. The abbreviated reports include interviews with city employees and elected leaders.

Episodes are airing on cable government access channels 2 and 602. They are also posted on the Dakota Media Access website, www.freetv.org.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT SERIES PREMIERES

Executive Officer Bryce Johnson of the Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead testified in front of NAHB’s State and Local Government Affairs Committee. Johnson communicated the request from her local for advocacy support funds to encourage the implementation of Fargo Diversion project.

The committee approved a matching grant to help fund a public relations campaign to encourage completion of the diversion.

Executive Officer Dot Frank attended NAHB’s Fall Board Meeting in Dallas last month. Onerous federal regulations were the top topic of discussion and North Dakota’s name came up often. NAHB and other associations are extremely appreciative of the efforts made by Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem to fight off Waters of the US. Stenehjem was effective at gathering 12 additional states to work cooperatively to file an injunction against the new rule. Please make it a point to share your appreciation with his office and other elected officials who work alongside our association to advance homeownership.

NORTH DAKOTA RECOGNIZED AT

NAHB EVENT

BEND OUR BUILDING OFFICIALS EARSThe BMHBA is excited to announce

the date for our Fall Building Officials Roundtable. We encourage you to join association peers on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bismarck Public Works Building.

Building officials from the cities and counties will talk about the 2015 construction season and share insight for the year ahead. Elected officials have been invited to attend and confirmation has been received from Bismarck City Commissioner Steve Marquardt and Burleigh County Commissioner Kathleen Jones.

The event includes lunch. Each member gets one free admission and additional staff may attend for just $10 each. RSVPs are required for an accurate lunch count. Registration is open online at bmhba.com/events.


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THE AGING HOUSING STOCK

The American housing stock continues to age, especially as residential construction continues its modest rebound after the Great Recession. According to the latest 2013 American Housing Survey (AHS), published by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the median age of owner-occupied homes is 37 years old, compared to only 27 years old in 1993. This aging trend signals a growing market for remodelers, as older structures normally require additional remodeling and renovations. It also implies additional demand for more new construction over the long run.

Approximately 2/3 of owner-occupied homes in the U.S. were built before 1980, with 40% built before 1970. Homes constructed after 2000 account for just 17% of the owner-occupied homes. And newly built owner-occupied homes constructed after 2010 only make up 2% of the housing stock according to the 2013 AHS.

The impact of the aging housing stock can be seen in the age distribution of owner-occupied homes. The share of housing stock that is over 34 years old in 2013 has increased significantly. It was 57% in 2013, but only 41% in 1993 and 46% in 2003.

In contrast, the share of new construction in 2013 (i.e. owner-

occupied houses less than four years old is 2%) is notably smaller than in 1993 and in 2003, when 6% of homes were built within four years. Clearly, the smaller share of new construction, together with an aging housing stock, represents an opportunity for builders and developers, as housing demand is steadily increasing over time.

The age of housing stock is an important indicator for housing market going forward. Aging homes require remodeling and renovations, as these structures are, for example, less energy-efficient than new construction.

www.capcu.org

NMLS# 889668

It’s Not Just Business.It’s Personal.

We are excited to announce expert home loan services now at our Mandan Branch.

MandanWelcomes

Brent Fischer!


U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Julián Castro addressed members at the NAHB Fall Board meeting in Dallas on Sept. 29. Castro talked about the work his department has completed to advance homeownership opportunities. Specific references were made to greater access to HUD financing, the reduction of primary mortgage insurance rates and more. He applauded NAHB and its members for working to promote homeownership and maintain affordability.

HUD is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year. Castro was sworn in as the 16th Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on July 28, 2014. In this role, Castro oversees 8,000 employees and a budget of $46 billion.

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BROWNING FERRIS:WHAT HOME BUILDERS NEED TO KNOW

The National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) contentious decision in Browning Ferris Industries expanded the test for

finding joint-employer status.

While the breadth of the decision will vary across industry, builders and contractors need to understand the decision’s

unique impact on the industry.

It is important to remember that the NLRB has jurisdiction over all employers. So, both union and non-union builders

need to understand Browning Ferris.

Learn more about how the decision affects you and your business at https://goo.gl/OkbL27.

HUD SECRETARY SPEAKS TO HOME BUILDERS

NEW DOWN PAYMENT PROGRAM EXPANDS HOMEOWNERSHIP

OPPORTUNITIESEven as the housing market

continues its slow and steady recovery, many potential buyers find that qualifying for a mortgage and saving for a down payment remain high hurdles to homeownership.

The good news is that while lenders are looking more closely at borrowers today than in recent years, there are options for purchasing your home without a 20% down payment.

In fact, creditworthy borrowers with moderate to low incomes will be able to purchase a home with a down payment as low as 3% through Fannie Mae’s new HomeReady™ mortgage program. HomeReady will expand and replace Fannie Mae’s current affordable lending program, MyCommunityMortgage®, to include both first-time and repeat home buyers. By increasing access to affordable mortgages, more borrowers should be able to purchase homes.

In an effort to increase the types of households that qualify for the mortgage program, more flexible sources of funds can be used for the down payment and closing costs. For example, income from a non-borrower household member can be considered to determine an appropriate debt-to-income ratio for the loan. This should help multigenerational and extended households qualify for these mortgages. Fannie Mae’s research indicates that these types of extended households

tend to have incomes that are as stable or more stable than other households at similar income levels, positioning them well for homeownership.

The new mortgage program also allows income from non-occupant borrowers, such as parents, and rental payments, such as from a basement apartment, to supplement the borrower’s qualifying income.

Borrowers will be required to complete an online education course about the buying process and the responsibilities of homeownership. In addition, the program will offer homeowners support through the life of the loan to help ensure sustainable homeownership.

More information about the HomeReady program can be found at fanniemae.com/singlefamily/homeready.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Julián Castro speaks to NAHB members in Dallas.


When it comes to building a home, there are a lot of decisions to be made.But when it comes to your closing, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s Build Together.

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Other colors include an apple green, an aqua blue, a bright red, a terra cotta brown, and eight neutrals. The new colors bring the total number of color options to 16, plus six coordinating pencil-thin trim tiles.

The tile works for wet and non-wet vertical surfaces, in both residences and larger venues such as clubhouses. All colors come in 4”x 8” and neutrals are also available in 4”x 12.” Two neutrals and black are available in an 8”x 8” size as well, with coordinating bullnose and corner trim tiles available in neutrals. All colors are available in gloss finish, but only neutrals are available in satin finish.

Hot Products!

If you have a space that’s a 31” x 31” square, you can have an original model Duravit shower. But if you have a few more square inches, the company’s new OpenSpace B shower offers more features.

The enclosures are a tad larger, with 35” x 35” or 38” x 38” footprints. The new models still have two wall-mounted panels and two panels that fold out to create an enclosure that grips either a tile floor or a Duravit shower pan.

One of the panels is mirrored, so folding the panels back delivers not only more floor space but also a full-length mirror that adds perceived depth to a small room.

OpenSpace accessories fit behind the folding panel. They include a folding wall-mounted seat, and a slim-profile handle and soap basket.

With Niagara Conservation’s temperature-controlled Hot Start Showerhead, the user turns on the hot water, but once the water

reaches 95°F, the shower head dials the water flow back to a trickle. Users can do other bathroom chores or answer the phone with an environmentally-clear conscience, because the hot water remains on hold.

When the user returns to the shower, the shower head provides a visual confirmation that the water is hot. Just hit the

resume button and step in.

Crossville Tile has expanded its Color by Number wall tile series to include a bright orange, a deep purple, and two new neutrals, one beige-toned and one

on the gray scale.

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eal estate professionals and appraisers both play an essential role in the process of buying or selling a home. It is critical that

these two parties work together to ensure that an appraiser provides an independent, impartial, and objective opinion of value that accurately reflects the marketplace. However, we often hear from brokers and agents that they’re unaware of how much interaction they may have with an appraiser, what they’re allowed to say, and what information they can provide. Some incorrectly believe that they are prohibited from speaking to an appraiser at all.

In reality, qualified and competent appraisers welcome any information that helps them do their job. In fact, The Appraisal Foundation encourages brokers to actively communicate with appraisers in a professional and productive manner. Real estate professionals should feel empowered to supply relevant materials, including the terms of the sale, applicable comparable sales, and any evidence of notable renovations done to a home that might affect its value. Additional useful data could include records that categorize maintenance and upkeep done to a home, such as regular inspections or replacements of major appliances. These materials will help an appraiser arrive at an opinion of value that accurately reflects the market value of a home.

However, real estate professionals are legally barred from any communication with an appraiser that is intended to

unduly influence the outcome of the appraisal. While it might be obvious that coercing an appraiser is off-limits, it is always a good idea for agents and brokers to make sure an appraiser or regulator couldn’t interpret their communications as an attempt to improperly influence an appraisal. An example of improper communication would be asking an appraiser to provide a valuation that matches the asking price of a particular home. Another example could be telling an appraiser he or she will not receive future assignments if the appraisal does not facilitate a transaction.

And communication between appraisers and real estate professionals doesn’t have a specific cut-off point, either. A broker or agent who has questions or concerns about an appraiser’s final report may take formal steps to communicate those concerns and ask for reconsideration

of the appraisal report. For instance, a broker can submit additional comparable sales through the lending institution for the appraiser to consider. A broker can also request that the appraiser correct any errors in the report, such as the miscalculation of the number of bedrooms in a home or the total square footage. The appraiser can be asked to provide additional detail explaining how he or she arrived at certain conclusions and the ultimate opinion of value. However, a broker cannot dispute an appraisal simply because he or she is not pleased with the outcome.

At the most basic level, it’s important for real estate professionals to recognize that it’s the duty of competent and qualified appraisers to provide credible opinions of value for homes. Any information that assists an appraiser in that objective is not only allowed, it is welcomed.

DOS AND DON’TS OF APPRAISER COMMUNICATION

RBy David S. Bunton


NDAB NEWS Volume XXII, Issue 10 Monthly News from the North Dakota Association of Builders October 2015

Get Your Home Ready for Fall

This month I would like to draw attention to some simple and effective ways to ready your home for the cold months ahead. Energy.gov is a great resource for ideas and directions for preparing your homes and businesses to take advantage of energy saving opportunities. So, put on your work gloves and enjoy the last weeks of nice weather. LeRoy

1. CLEAN OUT THE GUTTERS

All the leaves and grime that you neglected while you were out swimming, hiking, or riding your bicycle this summer have built up in your gutters. If left full of debris, clogged gutters and drains can form ice dams that prevent your drainage systems from working properly. This can lead to water seeping into your home, which—as seen in the Conquering Moisture blog—can lead to all sorts of issues and extra energy costs. Save yourself the hassle of repairing a leak by simply cleaning your gutters and drains now. When you do, run water through the gutters to check for misalignments that could also cause water damage.

2. KEEP THE OUTSIDE AIR OUT AND THE INSIDE AIR IN

We talk about this a lot, but it is hugely important for your energy savings to ensure there are no air leaks in your home. Warm air will escape out of any cracks and can make your heating system work harder and cost you more to heat your home. Use caulk to seal cracks and openings between stationary house components like a door frame and weatherstripping to seal components that move like an operable window.

3. SHOW SOME TLC TO YOUR FURNACE

Your furnace may be a distant memory since you last powered it on, but before the cold weather descends and you must reluctantly switch it on, give it some TLC. Clean your furnace annually each autumn. Sediment build-up can cause your system to work less efficiently or potentially become a fire-hazard. Cleaning your system and getting it inspected will reduce the risks. During the winter try to change your filter regularly; a dirty filter will decrease air flow and energy-efficiency. And if your furnace is ready to be replaced, buy an energy-efficient model. It will save you money and energy each month!

4. GET YOUR DUCTS IN A ROW

Your ducts are often times out of sight, out of mind, tucked away in the attic or basement, but a home with central heating can lose about 20% of the air that moves through the duct system. Make sure your ducts are in order by properly sealing and insulating them. Tightly sealed and insulated ducts can potentially reduce your annual energy bills by $120 or more!

5. LIGHT THE WAY

The fall and winter months mean less daylight. I know we are all keen on saving energy, but we don't want any falls while you carry in your groceries. Luckily, you can still use your outdoor lights without wasting money and energy. Because outdoor lights are typically left on for long periods of time, buying ENERGY SAVER products and bulbs to light your outdoor pathways or porches can save a lot of energy. ENERGY STAR even makes CFL and LED flood lights that can withstand snow and rain. As an extra energy-saving effort, look for ENERGY STAR products that come with automatic daylight shut-off and motion sensors. And be sure to decorate with LED holiday lights to reduce the cost of decorating your home for the winter holidays. Colder weather is on its way, and using these tips will help you stay warm and cozy, while saving energy and money in your home. Stay tuned for part two with five more tips for getting your home ready for fall and winter! Written by: Paige Terlip, Former Communicator, National Renewable Energy Laboratory

LeRoy Kurtyka NDAB President

North Dakota Association of Builders 1720 Burnt Boat Drive, Suite 207, Bismarck, ND 58503-0801 701/222-2401 or 800/326-4746 www.ndbuild.com

Back your PAC … your PAC backs you! NDAB-PAC is the North Dakota Association of Builders’ Political Action Committee. It is a non-partisan political action committee that provides support for candidates who are friends of the building industry. Contact NDAB at (800) 326-4746, (701) 222-2401 or [email protected] to contribute or learn more!

Time to Gather September brought representatives from across the state to Dallas, TX for the 2015 Fall National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Board of Directors meetings. NAHB board members from across the nation gathered for updates on legis-lative and regulatory initiatives and listened to an expanded economic forecast for the con-struction industry. In addition, board members attended committee meetings to prepare to make recommendations to the association’s

leadership. The group also gathered with fellow Area 10 members from Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin to hear up-dates on what is happening in each state, discuss PAC and fund-raising opportunities as well as meet new members and employ-ees. It wasn’t all hard work as some of our members had the op-portunity to attend a Dallas Cowboys football game, others went golfing and many enjoyed the great BBQ that Dallas has to offer. In the end, it was another great week of learning and networking opportunities. The next big event that NAHB hosts is the 2016 International Build-ers Show (IBS) and Annual Meeting of the Membership being held January 19-21 in Las Vegas. IBS is the biggest light construction show in the country and, for NAHB members, the centerpiece of Design & Construction Week. IBS is also the time for NAHB’s an-nual meeting, when the election of our national leadership takes place, as well as dozens of meetings, awards presentations, and other special events to celebrate the achievements of members all over the country. IBS is one of the best attending events from rep-resentative from across North Dakota and we invite you to join us. Registration is now open and you can learn more by visiting http://www.buildersshow.com/Home/ In between these two great events, NDAB will be hosting their An-nual Banquet and Board of Directors meeting December 3-4 in Dickinson, ND. We invite you to join us on Friday, December 4 while we install our new State President, Arnold Karsky (Dickinson), celebrate and thank our outgoing President, LeRoy Kurtyka (Grand Forks), install our new Board of Directors Members and celebrate our past year achievements as we toast the upcom-ing year. More information on this great event will be forthcoming and we look forward to celebrating with you! Finally, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Janna Lutz, the new Executive Officer with the Williston Area Builders Association. Lutz brings her organizational experience from the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce and we are excited to welcome her to our team! Warm wishes to you and yours, Kim Schneider

Kim Schneider NDAB Executive Officer


www.ndbuild.com North Dakota Association of Builders October 2015

Dot Frank, Executive Officer 701-222-2400 bmhba.com

The Fall Parade of Homes hit a record number of entries – 40 homes constructed by 28 builders.

All NDAB members are invited to attend the BMHBA Fall Awards Mixer on Oct. 8 that will feature keynote speaker, former NAHB Economist Elliot Eisenberg. A VIP social is open to Century Club PAC contributors and higher.

The Fall Building Officials Roundtable is scheduled for Oct. 22. Members will recap the 2015 construction season and talk about potential changes for 2016.

NAHB’s webinars are scheduled as Lunch and Learns through the fall. Members are encouraged to meet at the BMHBA to participate in the webinar and post discussion.

Dickinson Area Builders Assoc. Irene Schafer, Executive Officer 701-483-0044 dickinsonareabuilders.com

Our GMM’s are back on schedule. Larry Bares, City of Dickinson’s Board of Adjustments and Mary Massad, Southwest Water Authority teamed up to bring us up to date on Board of Adjustments activities and current plans for Southwest Water.

Builder of the Year, Associate Builder and Affiliate of the Year were announced. Lance Kilwein is our Builder of the Year; Val Voelkering was named Associate Builder of the Year. Our association started a new award for Affiliate of the Year. Mike Schwab was named our first Affiliate of the Year.

Mike Schwab, Membership Chairman, will plan a Membership Night before our October GMM.

We have a search committee working on finding a new EO.

Our next meeting will be held at the Elks Club on Wednesday, October 14th

Bryce Johnson, Executive Vice President 701-232-5846 hbafm.com

The HBA of F-M is excited to announce its featured speaker for the Awards Gala & Annual Meeting Oct. 29: National Association of Home Builders CEO Jerry Howard. This meeting will kick-off the HBA of F-M’s 60th Anniversary in 2016!

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has released its Environmental Impact Study for the F-M Diversion, which has a 45-day comment period. the HBA of F-M is actively involved with the Business Leaders Flood Taskforce, which has hired a PR firm to create a unified voice in support of the F-M Diversion Project.

The HBA of F-M welcomed three staff

members in September: Tahra Doll as office coordinator, Sami Eidenschink as membership & marketing coordinator and Jason LaMoine as communications intern. Allison Weckman has transitioned to senior events & marketing coordinator and Chelsea Smith has transitioned to communications coordinator. Welcome to the new staff!

The HBA launched its new website in September, visit www.hbafm.com to see the new and improved site!

The Fall Parade of Homes was Sept. 26-27 & Oct. 3-4. The Remodeled Home Tour was the second weekend only. The events featured over 50 homes!

Several HBA of F-M members traveled to Dallas to attend NAHB’s Fall Board of Directors.

Forx Builders Association Betty McDonald, Executive Officer 701-746-4536 forxbuilders.com

We had 112 golfers enjoy a wonderful day

at our annual Golf Outing. At the Grand Forks Country Club. Thanks to Marvin Windows and Doors for being our Title Sponsor. For registration First State Bank sponsored the brats and Weber’s Irrigation Company sponsored the keg with Premium Waters providing water bottles. Our Co-Chairs Chip and Andy Shea and Kyle Weber did a great job organizing the event again this year.

The Lighting Gallery will host the September 23rd Builders after Hours so we can help them celebrate their 15th anniversary in business.

Our General Membership Meeting is scheduled for October 7th. The Builder and Associate of the Year and BEAM awards will be presented.

The First Annual Chili Cook-Off is scheduled for October 24th with a tailgating theme. Garon Corporation, Applegren Construction and The Craftsmen will host the cook-off at the Applegren shop. We are looking for all the great chili cooks in our association to bring their crock pots full of their favorite chili recipe.

Minot Association of Builders Vicky Flagstad, Executive Officer 701-852-0496 minotab.com

A fall contractor seminar was held Sept. 23 hosted by the City of Minot and the Minot Association of Builders.

MAB Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet is set for October 13th at the Grand Hotel. Builder, Associate & Citizen of the Year Awards will be announced. City Manager, Lee Staab, will be the guest speaker and NDAB President LeRoy Kurtyka will preside over the installation of the 2016 Board of Directors and incoming president Phil Risbrudt.

The November BAH will be hosted by Burdick Job Corps Center. The date is yet to be determined.

Williston Area Builders AssociationJanna Lutz, Executive Officer 701-572-5744 willistonbuilders.com

WABA welcomed new Board Member – Tim McCauley (General Manager of ACME Tools)

WABA is also excited to announce our new EO – Janna Lutz who has been with us for three weeks and is doing an excellent job. WELCOME Janna!!!

WABA Board of Directors has selected DAWA Solutions to provide us with a completely new web site. We are excited to begin the process and hope to have it completed by December of this year.

Our Fall Parade of Homes is occurring October 3rd & 4th and we have 20 homes of parade this year.

Our Spring Home and Garden Show is April 15 – 17, 2016 and the Home Show committee is just getting started. If anyone is interested in being part of the Home Show, please contact Janna at our office or [email protected]

Thank you to the NDAB 2015 Partners! We truly appreciate your support and we are very excited to serve you throughout the entire year!

Gold Partner - Montana Dakota Utilities

Silver Partners - Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association, Dickinson Area Builders Association, Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead, & Northern Plumbing Supply

Bronze Partners - Bell State Bank & Trust, Forx Builders Association, Minot Association of Builders, ND Guaranty & Title Co., ND Housing Finance Agency, ProBuild, RDO Equipment Co., & Williston Area Builders Association

NDAB is pleased to announce that for the second year in a row we are the recipient of the Grand Award for Retention Rate for highest year-end membership rate within group size. Thank you to all of our members for your support!

Around the State

DATE CHANGE! NDAB will be host-ing the Annual Banquet in Dickinson, ND this year! Mark your calendars for Friday, DECEMBER 4TH and join us for a night of recognition, network-ing, and fun. We will welcome 2016 Board Members and give a great send off to those retiring at the close of 2015. There will also be great food, PAC fundraisers, and several other fun surprises. You won't want to miss it! Watch for further details!

2600 Gateway Ave., Ste. 1Bismarck, ND 58503

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Bismarck, ND58501

UPCOMING BMHBA EVENTSFall Awards Mixer - Oct. 8 at 5:30 p.m.

Lessons from Learned Leaders – Oct. 14 at 1 p.m.Building Officials Roundtable – Oct. 22 at 11:30 a.m.

Combating the Labor Shortage – Nov. 11 at 1 p.m.GMM – Nov. 24 at 5:30 p.m.

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Documents

October 2015 Building Buzz