Shinn Consulting Blog and Articles

Articles

Build Your Budget for the Business You Want Next Year

In a tough market, every budget decision matters. Margins are shrinking, buyers are cautious, and leaders are looking for ways to control costs without compromising performance. 
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2025 Financial Study Results: A Cautionary Tale

For 33 consecutive years, Shinn Group has studied the financial and operational performance of private home builders.
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10 Ways to Strengthen Your Production Process

For production managers, the pressure rarely comes from just one problem.
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Operational Excellence: The Builder's Advantage

Before you can consistently work on your business, you must first build a business that operates efficiently and effectively.
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Surprise Your Home Buyers with "Service Buffers"

Looking for ways to increase home buyer satisfaction? The Service Buffer concept may be exactly the tool you’re seeking.
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A Litmus Test for Adopting New Construction Technology

Every builder has a story about software that promised the world and delivered a headache.
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Preparing for What's Next in Housing

Many are forecasting an upturn in volume for the housing market this year, for both new and existing homes, along with generally rising home prices.
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Participate in Our 33rd Annual Financial & Operations Study

How did your company measure up In 2025? Don't miss this opportunity to participate in a proven exercise for driving greater profitability.
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Standout Moments from the 2026 Executive Summit

Last month, private home builders from across the U.S. and Canada gathered in Breckenridge, Colorado, for the 2026 Executive Summit, our annual leadership training event designed for forward-thinking builders committed to growth, innovation, and long-term success.
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Sego Homes Earns Dual Honors for Excellence

At this year’s awards banquet at the Executive Summit, we had the privilege of recognizing a builder for outstanding achievement across two key areas of performance.
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Shinn Group Announces New Consultants

Shinn Group, the nation’s leading business performance consulting firm for home builders, today announced the addition of two new consultants, Thomas Berrington and Paul Winegar.
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Fixing Hidden Profit Leaks

Home builders often struggle with hidden inefficiencies that quietly erode profitability. The good news? Once identified, they can be fixed.
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The Next Cycle Belongs to the Prepared

If you’re still standing in today’s market, take a moment to acknowledge that. It hasn’t been easy.
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Burn and Turn Leadership Models: Why Sales Teams Lack Stability

The problem with inconsistent sales leadership models didn’t start in a weak market. It started near the end of a strong one.  
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In Memory of Buddy Coleman, Founder of Rausch Coleman Homes

We are saddened to share that Ernest Robert "Buddy" Coleman, founder of Rausch Coleman Homes, passed away on December 22, 2025.
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The Realtor Effect: How Inventory Pressure Rewired Onsite Sales Behavior

Over the last few years, something subtle but damaging has taken hold inside many new home sales organizations, and it’s a shift many leadership teams are still trying to understand.
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A Fresh Perspective on Leadership: Welcoming Chris Laping as Keynote Speaker at the 2026 Executive Summit

One of the defining features of our annual leadership training event is the decision to look beyond our own industry for insight. That’s why we’re excited to announce Chris Laping as our keynote speaker at the 2026 Executive Summit.
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Networking: The Business Advantage Hiding in Plain Sight

Networking is a powerful strategy that’s often underestimated. Meaningful connections open doors, spark new ideas, and create opportunities that fuel business growth and long-term success.
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5 Ways to Align Goals and Improve Performance

The most successful builders in today’s market know that alignment is everything. They build a culture where everyone’s goals connect to the company’s bigger vision and improving how things get done is part of the daily routine.
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Common Purchasing and Production Headaches and How to Fix Them

Home builders are constantly juggling budgets, schedules, and customer expectations, and many of the biggest headaches show up in both purchasing and production.
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Your Team Determines Your Success, Not the Market

Every market slowdown separates those who merely survive from those who come out stronger. The builders who lean into professional development during uncertain times emerge sharper, more adaptable, and ready to capture opportunities when others are still regrouping.
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Top of the World Charitable Foundation

The Top of the World Charitable Foundation was established 23 years ago, founded by Ed Hauck [Senior Consultant, Shinn Group] and friend Dale Smith; it is dedicated to providing compassionate support to individuals and families in times of need.
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2024 Financial Study Results: Effective Management Drives Superior Profits

The 2024 Comparative Financial and Operations Analysis for home builders marks the thirty-second consecutive year Shinn Group has conducted the study. Throughout the years, we have accumulated a landmark historical record of home building companies’ financial and operational performance.
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Solve Quality and Service Problems with Effective Production Management: 5 Strategies

Production management is responsible for delivering quality construction and exceptional customer service and cannot abdicate this responsibility. Product quality starts at the top. Superintendents, suppliers, and trade contractors are not to blame for poor quality.
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Underwhelming First Half of 2025: Trends and Takeaways

Throughout the first half of 2025, the housing market did not see the anticipated spring selling season, not due to lack of housing demand, but because of affordability problems and persistent, high mortgage interest rates.
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10th Annual Driving for Kids Endurance Run

Chuck and Emma Shinn’s “Shindig Rover” team participates once again in the Driving for Kids charity event supporting chronically ill kids and their families to spend a week of camp at Roundup River Ranch.
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Why Strong Sales Teams Matter More in a Down Market

The uncomfortable truth? Many builders underinvested in their sales teams during the good times—and are paying the price in today’s slower market.
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Chuck and Emma Shinn Earn 2025 NAHB Exemplary Service to Home Building Award

This prestigious accolade recognizes individuals who have made outstanding and commendable contributions to the housing industry.
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5 Cost-Efficient Design Strategies for Building Affordable Homes

Shifts in the market call for a smarter, more efficient approach to product design.
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Our Team is Growing!

We’ve got some exciting news—the Shinn Group team is growing. We’re thrilled to welcome three amazing new consultants who bring a ton of talent, energy, and fresh ideas to the table.
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Make Changes, Not Excuses

Excuses only delay solutions, they don’t build homes, businesses, or legacies. The builders who succeed are the ones who face hard truths, adapt quickly, and turn challenges into fuel for success.
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Highlights from the 2025 Executive Summit

In an industry defined by constant change, effective leadership is what separates surviving from thriving. That was the focus of this year’s Executive Summit, where private home builders came together to gain fresh perspectives and actionable strategies to thrive in any market.
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Encore Time! Guard Your Traffic: Uncertainty is Raising the Caution Flag

Looking at too many metrics can be confusing and distract home builders from focusing on one of the most important metrics at this moment: TRAFFIC.
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Participate in Emma Shinn's 32nd Annual Financial & Operations Study

How did your company measure up in 2024?
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Housing Will Continue to Face Headwinds This Year

Housing experienced a turbulent year in 2024, and all signs point to more rough seas for the industry during 2025.
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Emma & Chuck Shinn Win Exemplary Service Award

The National Housing Center Board of Governors has announced the recipients of the 2025 National Housing Center Awards.
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Spec Out the Highest Security Features in Your Next Build

We rigorously test all of our products to meet the UL 325 standard, the industry’s highest safety requirements.
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Builder Intel Our Newest Suite of Applications

Unlock the full potential of your home building business with our Builder Intel suite of applications and services.
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Schuber Mitchell Homes Celebration

Gathered around tables at a local community center, representatives from Schuber Mitchell Homes learned how their latest Homes for HOPE project will transform lives around the world.
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Don't Miss Out: Updated Manufacturer Incentive Programs

As we welcome in the new year, we have some manufacturer members that have updated their incentive programs. We encourage you to take advantage of these great opportunities to maximize your rebate earnings on the homes you build.
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Market-Proof Your Business for Resilience in Uncertain Times

Predictions for the 2025 housing market run the gamut, from economic turbulence and labor shortages, to project expansion and revenue growth. One thing is certain: the housing market is full of uncertainty. Now more than ever, home builders need to focus on strategies that help them market-proof their businesses.
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Metrie - Moulding, Trim and Doors Joins Builder Partnerships

Metrie is proud to announce its partneship with Builder Partnerships, the largest manufacturer and supplier of solid wood and composite mouldings in North America.
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One Mismanaged Project Can Damage a Home Builder's Reputation

The impact construction managers have on a home builder’s reputation cannot be overstated. They are the primary link between project planning and execution.
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Amarr: Garage Door Trends for 2025

The start of the year is a great time to look at the trends that defined the previous 366 days and to forecast what might be popular in 2025. Watch the video by Amarr on their top 8 trending garage door designs.
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Higharc: How Smaller Builders Can Deliver a Top-Tier Customer Experience

For smaller, local-market homebuilders, competing with large, well-established builders can feel like an uphill battle. Smaller builders have a hidden advantage, the ability to be more agile and customer-focused.
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Emser Tile's Design & Trend - Dopamine Decor

Dive into Emser Tile's gallery for inspiration. Dopamine Decor has re-emerged as a driving design direction, focusing on creating spaces that spark joy and elevate moods through the strategic use of bold colors and patterns.
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Homes for HOPE Grand Homes Celebration

Grand Homes has partnered with Homes for HOPE numerous times and consistently invites builders and trades to engage with the mission. 
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Novi Knows Podcast: Level Homes - How Sales Agents Use Listing

The latest episode of the Novi Knows podcast brings a fresh perspective on how technology is revolutionizing the homebuilding and homebuying experience.
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Connect, Learn, and Grow at IBS 2025

From our 19th Annual Networking Reception and booth at the show, to the NAHB education sessions featuring our industry experts, there's plenty to love about this year's International Builders' Show.
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How Aligned Department Goals Can Improve Your Customer Experience

Misaligned department goals in homebuilding can negatively impact the customer experience, but strategies such as unified goals, transparent communication, and a customer-centric approach can foster team alignment and create a seamless and enjoyable homebuying journey.
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2024 Bigelow Award Winner: Mick McGraw, CEO of Eastbrook Homes

Homes for HOPE’s most prestigious award, The Bigelow Award, was created in remembrance of Perry Bigelow, our board president of over 20 years.
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AZEK has been ranked #374 on Newsweek's 2025 Excellence 1000 Index

We’re proud to share that AZEK has been ranked #374 on Newsweek’s 2025 Excellence 1000 Index!
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Shinn Group Announces New Leadership Transition as Emma Jane Wildermuth and Brian Wildermuth Assume Executive Roles

Shinn Group, a leader in home building consulting, proudly announces a new generation of leadership, with Emma Jane Wildermuth stepping into the role of President.
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Crack the Builder Code: How to Sell, Stand Out, and Win Long-Term Business with Builders, Virtual

Winning with builders starts by defining your ideal customer and understanding their needs. Virtual Meeting: Wednesday, November 12th at 1:30pm-2:00pm ET
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Leadership is a Journey, Not a Destination

Leadership is often viewed as a final goal, a pinnacle to be reached. However, true leadership is a continuous journey of growth and development.
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The Shinn's Legacy of Professionalism

Chuck and Emma Shinn are retiring, leaving a 50-year legacy of helping professionalize the home building industry.
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12 Common Pitfalls in Home Building and How to Fix Them

Home builders face unique challenges that require proactive solutions. In this article, we’ll explore 12 critical issues home builders must address to stay competitive and thrive in the coming year.
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Noritz NRCR Tankless with Internal Pump

The NRCR Residential Condensing Tankless Water Heater Series uses a fully integrated pump to keep hot water close to even the farthest outlet in the home, minimizing the wait and, therefore, the waste of unused potable water down the drain.
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The TK Design & Builder Collaboration

We work with many production builders, locally and nationally, creating beautiful, timeless designs while eliminating waste, saving costs, and creating more livable, buildable homes.
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Generac | Cold Weather Preparedness Guide

With early planning, you can help ensure that you and your loved ones are ready before the winds howl and the snow flies. Download our guide today!
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Multi-Generational Impact: a Family Legacy | McCall Homes

This year, Homes for HOPE is proud to honor our Milestone Award Honorees who have been partnering with us for 10 years! McCall Homes is one of these Honorees!
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Discover Affordable Ways to Provide Homebuyers with Power and Lighting Control Solutions They Demand

The Problem: Attracting buyers with modern solutions while keeping added costs at bay. The Solution: Convenient upgrades that are both cost-effective and cutting-edge.
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3 Ways to Give Your Purchasing Strategies a Profitability Boost

For home builders, effective purchasing strategies play a critical role in maximizing profits while ensuring projects stay on schedule and meet quality standards.
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Stand Out from Your Competitors

In today’s competitive housing market, it can be a challenge to stand out in a crowd. Earning awards is a credible way to boost your brand and attract top talent and new customers.
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MonteVista Homes Success Story

Hear how ECI's residential construction suite of products has helped MonteVista Homes operate more efficiently.
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Field Controls: Delivering Premium Air Quality

Field Controls offers advanced HVAC solutions catered to both residential and commercial needs, ensuring optimal air quality, ventilation, and combustion performance for every space.
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The AZEK Company Expands 2025 Portfolio

The AZEK Company Expands 2025 Portfolio with Debut of Premium Vinyl Railing, Steel Railing, and Revolutionary Exterior Trim Made from up to 95% Recycled Material, Reinforcing Leadership in Outdoor Living Innovation
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Thin Brick Veneer for Exteriors: 6 Things Builders Should Know

StoneWorks makes achieving a traditional brick appearance easier and more cost-effective with thin brick veneer and a turnkey installation solution.
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Solve Quality and Service Problems with Effective Production Management

Production management is responsible for delivering quality construction and exceptional customer service and cannot abdicate this responsibility. Product quality starts at the top. Superintendents, suppliers, and trade contractors are not to blame for poor quality.
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2024 Driving for Kids Charity Event Recap

For the ninth year, Emma and Chuck participated in the Driving for Kids charity event, September 20-22, 2024. Driving for Kids supports chronically ill kids and their families to spend a week of camping at Roundup River Ranch which is on the Colorado River in Gypsum, Colorado.
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Partner Spotlight: Cornerstone’s Blueprint for Cutting Costs with Builder Forward Commitments

As your trusted partner, we’re excited to share how Cornerstone is making a difference for builders nationwide through their Builder Forward Commitments program.
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Spice Things Up with The Parma® Kitchen Collection

Want to spice up your kitchen? Let the Parma Kitchen Collection bring the perfect amount of pizzazz to your décor.
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InSinkErator® Next Generation Innovation

America's #1 disposal brand continues to innovate with next generation features.
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Kingswood Capital Management Announces Acquisition of Kichler Lighting and Merger with Progress Lighting

Kingswood Capital Management Announces Acquisition of Kichler Lighting and Merger with Progress Lighting to Establish a Leading Residential Lighting Platform
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Green Park Homes Launches First Homes for HOPE Project

On Monday, September 9th, Green Park Homes and affiliated trades gathered together to kick off their first Homes for HOPE project.
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Introducing Uponor ServicePEXâ„¢

Introducing Uponor ServicePEX™— the latest innovation from the trusted name in PEX piping for more than 40 years.
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Endeavor Business Media Announces Acquisition of Scranton Gillette Communications Buildings Media & Event Brands

Endeavor Business Media announces the acquisition of a portfolio of construction related events from Scranton Gillette Communications.
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Guard Your Traffic: Uncertainty is Raising the Caution Flag

In today’s business environment, metrics have become a favorite analytical tool. However, looking at too many metrics can be confusing and distract home builders from focusing on one of the most important metrics at this moment: TRAFFIC.
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Builder Forward Commitments: Your Competitive Advantage

In today’s market, balancing affordability for buyers with maintaining your profitability is no easy task. Rising interest rates have left many buyers on the sidelines, and price reductions aren’t always the best solution. That’s where Builder Forward Commitments come in...
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Schuber Mitchell Homes Announces Acquisition of Cronkhite Homes

Schuber Mitchell Homes is pleased to announce the successful acquisition of Cronkhite Homes.
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Emser Tile Takes Home Two Awards

With more than 74,000 voters, Emser Tile has won not only one but two KBB Readers' Choice Awards!
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The Best Material For Exterior Trim That Lasts

All AZEK premium trim products are made using advanced materials science and crafted for installation ease.
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Transformative Model Home Upgrades: The Key to Boosting Sales

In today’s competitive real estate market, making your model home stand out is essential for driving sales. But what does it take to create a model home that not only attracts attention but also converts interest into action?
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In Memory: Remembering Bernie Glieberman 

We are deeply saddened to share the news that Bernie Glieberman passed away on August 26.
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Avoid These Product Design Mistakes

Product design plays a major role in a home builder’s ability to be competitive and profitable. It’s also a common blind spot. Two common mistakes home builders make with product design include having too many plans and designing homes for themselves instead of their buyers.
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The Key to Home Builder Growth and Profitability

In the competitive world of home building, achieving consistent growth and profitability requires more than just quality craftsmanship and market knowledge. A strategic approach to business management is necessary, and this is where consulting and coaching services prove invaluable.
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Higharc Joins Builder Partnerships

Shinn Builder Partnerships welcomes Higharc, an integrated product platform for builders to design, sell, and build better homes, to their partnership program to continue pioneering innovation and pairing builders with industry-leading technology.
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WEBINAR: Navigating the Upcoming 45L Tax Credit Changes and ENERGY STAR® Requirements

Discover how you can EARN TAX INCENTIVES WITH VENTILATION SOLUTIONS THAT HELP MEET ENERGY STAR v3.2 REQUIREMENTS while providing a healthier, more energy-efficient home.
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Photo Journal of Chuck & Emma's Road Trip to Bring the Lotus Emira to Colorado

The Lotus Emira, which was a retirement gift from a group of builders for the "Driving for Kids" event, is now in my garage after its 10-day, 2,565-mile excursion from Naples to Denver.
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Wayne Dalton Shines at the 2024 Spring IDA Expo+ in Las Vegas

This April, Wayne Dalton didn't simply attend the Las Vegas 2024 Spring IDA Expo+; we rocked it!
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Organization for Every Space

With over 30 years of experience in the professional shelving industry, Rubbermaid® is proud to be a reliable brand that builders and contractors can trust for closet organization solutions.
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5 Reasons to Use a Garbage Disposal

Using a garbage disposal keeps food waste out of the trash and out of the landfill – for a fresher, cleaner kitchen and healthier planet.
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The Impact of Lighting Design on Model Home Sales Success

Lighting plays a critical role in the perception and success of model homes. From the inviting glow of natural light to the strategic placement of artificial lighting, the right lighting design can significantly influence a buyer’s decision.
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Larson Announces Additional Programs at Builder Partnerships

Larson Motorized Retractable Screens are now a part of the Builder Partnerships Rebate Program! Models 6+, 7+, 8+, 9+, 10+.
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Lennox Named Best Overall and Most Efficient Air Conditioner Brand by Forbes Home

We’re proud and excited to share that Forbes Home has named Lennox 2024’s Best Overall and Most Efficient Air Conditioning Brand!
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3 Strategies for Minimizing Chaos and Maximizing Profitability

In a strong housing market, mediocre management in a home building company merely lowers profitability. In a weak market, it can result in collapse of the company.
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Leading the Way: Superintendents Drive Home Building Success and Profitability

It’s no secret that skilled superintendents are key to the success of a home building company. Their management talents significantly influence both project outcomes and overall profitability.
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NoviHome Joins Builder Partnerships

NoviHome, a leading innovator in custom app solutions for the homebuilding industry, is thrilled to announce its partnership with Builder Partnerships.
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Field Controls Joins Builder Partnerships

Field Controls is proud to announce its partnership with Builder Partnerships, a collaboration aimed at empowering homebuilders with top-tier HVAC solutions.
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