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Saturday, October 18, 2008
KY3 Ozarks Today: Live from the HBA Home Remodeling Expo!
KY3's Abby Wuellner broadcast live from the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds Saturday morning for the debut of the station's Saturday Ozarks Today show. It is the site of the HBA Home Remodeling Expo, continuing Saturday and Sunday at the Fairgrounds E*Plex. Four segments were broadcast live during the one-hour show. This summary includes all four live updates. HBA member guests featured included Brian Tidwell (Tidwell Concrete) and Mark Nichols (Missouri Insulation Supply). Later, KY3 also featured coverage on its evening news about how the HBA Home Remodeling Expo is a 'hit' in spite of economic challenges. You can watch all the highlights below.
Springfield News Leader Covers Home Remodeling Expo on Front Page
The Springfield News-Leader's Didi Tang reported on the HBA Home Remodeling Expo in an article that appeared on the paper's front page Saturday (October 18).
October 18, 2008
'Market is still out there' for home improvements
Didi Tang
News-Leader
Local construction of new homes has taken a hit from the sluggish housing market, but Springfieldians remain enthusiastic about home improvements.
As of this week, homeowners in Springfield have applied for 275 permits totaling nearly $11.8 million worth of remodeling and repair work for their houses, compared to 352 permits worth just a little over $11 million for the entire year of 2007.
That probably explains why the annual Home Remodeling Expo -- which began Friday and ends Sunday at the Missouri Entertainment and Events Center -- once again sold out its booth space to area businesses.
"The vendors believe the market is still out there, or they wouldn't have spent hundreds of dollars to set up a booth," said Jennifer McClure, director of public affairs for the local HBA.
Morrow added the actual dollar figure for home improvements surpasses the amount recorded at City Hall because many renovation jobs don't require a permit.
The remodeling expo, which allows local businesses in the building industry to make direct sale pitches to consumers, apparently has its draw from near and far.
"If there are good projects with good prices, it may have an influence," said Gene Jones of Harrison, Ark.
More likely than ever, homeowners are getting better prices and more timely services, said Mark Sechler, who owns Sechler Remodeling.
On Friday, he filled his booth with photos of his past renovation jobs.
Sechler said he remains busy but does not have as much backlog as he had a year ago.
"That's a good thing (for homeowners). You can get more prompt service than when everybody was busy," he said. "Price? (Remodelers) want to stay busy ... they are willing to come down a little to keep their men and women working."
Monta Wiggin, a project manager with B's Renaissance Renovations, said the demographics of those who remodel have shifted as the housing market changes.
A few years ago, more people were investing in homes they could sell for a profit in a booming market, Wiggin said.
Today, homeowners are spending money to remodel homes they plan to stay in for the next few years, so they may not rush as much as the flippers, Wiggin said.
Another trend is that homeowners, like Debbie Hendricks of Springfield, are renovating for energy efficiency.
"When the economy is what it is now, you're not going to put a rug under your dining table, but (you'll) improve energy efficiency," said Hendricks, who plans to purchase doors and windows that will help lower utility bills.
She added that she has become more environmentally conscious and is recycling more.
Chris Lowe, a sales consultant with Krueger Mechanical Services, said the business is booked through January. Krueger sells tankless water heaters and water furnaces that draw energy from underground.
Some who came to the expo Friday were interested in new ideas.
"We're looking for innovative ideas for our new home," said David Sayre, who moved to Ava from Tacoma, Wash., with wife Cathy.
Some said the economic downturn has little impact on their remodeling plans.
"We don't have major projects," said Ron Crosswhite of Republic.
Friday, October 17, 2008
KSFX / KOLR: HBA Home Remodeling Expo Draws Crowd Despite Uncertain Economic Times
The HBA Home Remodeling Expo opened Friday, with a record number of exhibitors and a steady flow of consumers, despite growing anxiety about the national and local economic picture. KSFX (Channel 27), KOLR (Channel 10), and KSPR (Channel 33) all ran news stories Friday night that highlighted the show. To get a feel for Friday's news coverage of the show, you can watch the KSFX story below, or by clicking here. The same story ran on KOLR, with similar coverage on KSPR. Saturday will offer continued media coverage of the Home Remodeling Expo. The Springfield News-Leader is scheduled to run a Saturday article, and KY3's Ozarks Today will broadcast live from the show between 7am and 8am. Saturday hours of operation for the show are 10:00am to 7:00pm. The show will be open Sunday from 11:00am to 5:00pm.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
HBA Home Remodeling Expo Opens Friday
The Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield will open its annual Home Remodeling Expo on Friday, October 17. The Show will be open Friday (1pm to 7pm), Saturday (10am to 7pm), and Sunday (11am to 5pm) at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds E*Plex (West and Center Halls).
Admission is $4 for adults. Children aged 12 and under are admitted at no charge. Television, radio, and print advertising is underway. The ads highlight the importance of hiring professionals for your major remodeling projects. You can watch the television ad titled "Glory" below, or by clicking here. Download / Open PDF - Containing Exhibitors, Seminar List, Floor Plan.Click Here.
Weigh Your Options Before a "Do It Yourself" Remodel
The HBA's Home Remodeling Expo, which runs October 17-19 at the Missouri Entertainment and Event Center (Fairgrounds) E*Plex, provides homeowners with an excellent opportunity to evaluate their home improvement projects and learn more about hiring a pro when necessary."Our seminar, 'Which Remodeler is Right for Your Project?', will help homeowners understand the scope of their projects, answer questions about which permits may be required, and provide tips about how to find the right products and professionals, when necessary," said HBA Executive Officer Matt Morrow. "This is valuable information. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, homeowner do-it-yourself (DIY) projects account for 20 percent of all home remodeling performed nationwide. While there are a substantial number of weekend warriors out there, remodeling industry professionals report that between 25 and 30 percent of their work comes from fixing DIY debacles." That seminar will be offered on Friday, Oct. 17 at 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 18 at 1 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 19 at 3 p.m.
Some credit the desire among homeowners to tackle repair and remodeling projects to hit television show’s like ABC’s “Extreme Home Makeover” and the Discovery Channel’s “Monster House.” The introduction of cable channels with programming dedicated to all things home including HGTV and the DIY Network may inspire homeowners to take on home fixes and decorating challenges as well.
While most professional remodelers understand that homeowners will do some of their own home repairs or small renovations, overwhelmingly they believe that many jobs should be left to the pros. For a full list of your local HBA's remodeling professionals, click here to download the HBA of Greater Springfield's brochure containing profiles of member remodeling contractors.
“The rule of thumb that I always live by is that if a handyman service in your area can do the project, then odds are that a good do-it-yourselfer can do it themselves,” says Bob Birner, CGR, CGB of Amazing Siding Corp. in Houston, Texas. “If they don’t do it, then that’s a good sign that you need a professional.”
Birner adds, “Remodelers wouldn’t perform open-heart surgery on a loved one without medical expertise. Remodeling is open-heart surgery for the home—only professionals should attempt it.”
Still think you can tackle a big remodeling project? Bob Van Cleef, CGR, CGB, GMB, owner of Yankee Housewrights in Jamestown, R.I. cautions all motivated DIYers. “A homeowner should look at a project, consider the worst case scenario and ask, ‘If it comes to this, will I know how to fix it?’” says Van Cleef.
Van Cleef and other professionals admit that when it comes to repairs and remodeling their own homes they hire professionals to do it. “I have been in construction my whole life and I still hire a pro to do work at our house, because there are certain things even I wouldn’t touch such as electrical, plumbing and framing,” says Van Cleef.
Advice for Do-it-Yourselfers
There are some home projects that professional remodelers believe can be tackled by determined DIYers (depending on skill level) such as hanging pictures, interior painting, caulking, changing door knobs and cabinet pulls, and some aesthetic work such as installing crown molding.
If you are willing to put the time and energy into a do-it-yourself home remodel, Barbara Rose Peck, co-owner of S.N. Peck Building, Inc. and Case Handyman Services of Chicago advises:
• Follow product directions. Read everything that comes with the product and take it seriously.
• Get a detailed, illustrated home repair and maintenance book.
• Conduct careful and thorough preparation. Set everything up and protect surrounding surfaces and furniture.
• Practice with the tools.
• Follow safety procedures and use proper safety equipment.
Consumers are cautioned not to take on more than they are capable of doing both in terms of time and skill. “The biggest mistake the weekend handyman makes is to take on a project larger than he can handle in a reasonable amount of time,” says Douglas Nelson, CR, CGR of New Spaces in Burnsville, Minn. “I have talked with people who have been remodeling their kitchen for more than two years.”
Some credit the desire among homeowners to tackle repair and remodeling projects to hit television show’s like ABC’s “Extreme Home Makeover” and the Discovery Channel’s “Monster House.” The introduction of cable channels with programming dedicated to all things home including HGTV and the DIY Network may inspire homeowners to take on home fixes and decorating challenges as well.
While most professional remodelers understand that homeowners will do some of their own home repairs or small renovations, overwhelmingly they believe that many jobs should be left to the pros. For a full list of your local HBA's remodeling professionals, click here to download the HBA of Greater Springfield's brochure containing profiles of member remodeling contractors.
“The rule of thumb that I always live by is that if a handyman service in your area can do the project, then odds are that a good do-it-yourselfer can do it themselves,” says Bob Birner, CGR, CGB of Amazing Siding Corp. in Houston, Texas. “If they don’t do it, then that’s a good sign that you need a professional.”
Birner adds, “Remodelers wouldn’t perform open-heart surgery on a loved one without medical expertise. Remodeling is open-heart surgery for the home—only professionals should attempt it.”
Still think you can tackle a big remodeling project? Bob Van Cleef, CGR, CGB, GMB, owner of Yankee Housewrights in Jamestown, R.I. cautions all motivated DIYers. “A homeowner should look at a project, consider the worst case scenario and ask, ‘If it comes to this, will I know how to fix it?’” says Van Cleef.
Van Cleef and other professionals admit that when it comes to repairs and remodeling their own homes they hire professionals to do it. “I have been in construction my whole life and I still hire a pro to do work at our house, because there are certain things even I wouldn’t touch such as electrical, plumbing and framing,” says Van Cleef.
Advice for Do-it-Yourselfers
There are some home projects that professional remodelers believe can be tackled by determined DIYers (depending on skill level) such as hanging pictures, interior painting, caulking, changing door knobs and cabinet pulls, and some aesthetic work such as installing crown molding.
If you are willing to put the time and energy into a do-it-yourself home remodel, Barbara Rose Peck, co-owner of S.N. Peck Building, Inc. and Case Handyman Services of Chicago advises:
• Follow product directions. Read everything that comes with the product and take it seriously.
• Get a detailed, illustrated home repair and maintenance book.
• Conduct careful and thorough preparation. Set everything up and protect surrounding surfaces and furniture.
• Practice with the tools.
• Follow safety procedures and use proper safety equipment.
Consumers are cautioned not to take on more than they are capable of doing both in terms of time and skill. “The biggest mistake the weekend handyman makes is to take on a project larger than he can handle in a reasonable amount of time,” says Douglas Nelson, CR, CGR of New Spaces in Burnsville, Minn. “I have talked with people who have been remodeling their kitchen for more than two years.”
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Jennifer McClure Talks Home Remodeling Expo on KTTS Morning Show
HBA of Greater Springfield Public Affairs Director Jennifer McClure visited this morning (Wednesday, October 15) with Andy Taylor on his KTTS morning show about the HBA Home Remodeling Expo, which opens this weekend. To listen to the three-minute interview, click here.
Monday, October 13, 2008
HBA Home Remodeling Expo Booths Sold Out!
The 2008 HBA Home Remodeling Expo is scheduled for Friday, October 17 through Sunday, October 19 in the E*Plex at the Missouri Entertainment and Event Center (Ozark Empire Fairgrounds).For the second time in its nine-year history, the HBA’s Home Remodeling Expo’s booth space sold out nearly a month before the show. There are 137 vendors in 225 booths.
“After enduring a series of natural disasters in recent years, area homeowners have discovered the importance and value of connecting with reputable contractors and suppliers,” said HBA Executive Officer Matt Morrow. “The Expo is attractive to vendors because many consumers are coming to take advantage of the convenient opportunity to interview HBA member remodelers and trades people face-to-face. This is the best consumer protection plan, in any economic environment, for a homeowner. You won’t be tempted out of desperation to hire someone going to door-to-door after a storm to repair your roof. That rarely ends well for the consumer.”
Whether homeowners are considering a simple “do-it-yourself” painting project, or a large scale kitchen remodel, they’ll find the right products and professionals for the job under one roof at the Expo. They’ll also find educational seminars presented by the pros at no additional expense beyond the price of admission.
“One of our seminars focuses on protecting the homeowner by teaching them to properly evaluate their project and hire the right professional for it,” said Morrow. “We know that now, more than ever, people need to know which remodeling projects have the greatest value for the investment and which are the most desirable to potential homeowners. One of our seminars will review some excellent data related to that issue, specific to our region, which will help people choose the most viable home improvements for this market.”
Morrow said there’s also a seminar program especially for seniors. “As a large segment of our population ages, there’s a need to modify homes to adapt to physical and lifestyle changes. Several of our remodelers have a high level of expertise and training in that specialty.”
Dates and Hours.
Friday, October 17 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday, October 18 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, October 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location and Cost.
The 2008 HBA Home Remodeling EXPO is located at the Missouri Entertainment and Event Center E*Plex (Ozark Empire Fairgrounds) - a convenient show venue, right off Interstate 44, with plenty of free parking conveniently located near the main entrance. EXPO admission is $4 per person. Prior to Friday, Oct. 17, you can pick up a $1 off coupon at the HBA office, located in Corporate Village, 636 W. Republic Rd., D-108, 881-3711.
Free Seminars – All programs are presented by the HBA’s Remodelors™ Council
Friday, October 17
3 p.m. Seniors: Remodel It Right!
4 p.m. Which Remodeler is Right for Your Project?
Saturday, October 18
1 p.m. Which Remodeler is Right for Your Project?
3 p.m. Improving for Value and Lifestyle
5 p.m. Seniors: Remodel It Right!
Sunday, October 19
1 p.m. Improving for Value and Lifestyle
3 p.m., Which Remodeler is Right for Your Project
The 2008 HBA Remodeling EXPO is better than ever, offering consumers more variety. Thousands are expected to attend the three-day show. The 2008 HBA Home Remodeling EXPO will be open to the public on Friday, October 17 from 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.; Saturday, October 18 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Sunday, October 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds E*Plex Exhibit Halls. Admission is $4 per day for adults. Children under 12 years of age are admitted free of charge.
For more information call 417-881-3711 or go to www.SpringfieldHBA.com for details.
** MEDIA REMINDER**
Members of the press and electronic media may schedule advance interviews, live remotes (show set up begins Tues. Oct. 14), photos, video, etc., by contacting HBA of Greater Springfield Executive Officer Matt Morrow at 417-881-3711 or 417-838-7009.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
HBA Home Remodeling Expo One Week Away
The Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield will open its annual Home Remodeling Expo on Friday, October 17. The Show will be open Friday (1pm to 7pm), Saturday (10am to 7pm), and Sunday (11am to 5pm) at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds E*Plex (West and Center Halls).
Admission is $4 for adults. Children aged 12 and under are admitted at no charge. Television, radio, and print advertising is underway. The ads highlight the importance of hiring professionals for your major remodeling projects. You can watch the television ad titled "Whimper" below, or by clicking here.
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