The area’s builders have set their course for the year.
The Northeast Florida Builders Association’s executive board has agreed on a number of initiatives as well as ways to strengthen membership communication and services, and promoting programs that reach out to the community and assist those in need.
The areas with the board’s supporting statement:
Political Advocacy: “NEFBA’s political involvement provides great value to its membership. The need for more accurate appraisal standards and practices is one of the key political issues facing the board. Current appraisal methods are creating critical problems impacting the housing industry and the economy in today’s market. In many cases, there is a willing buyer and willing seller but the appraised value is often lower than the selling price of the home. Government regulations are causing banks and appraisers to promote a declining market by using foreclosed properties that are not consistent with market values in the evaluation process. NEFBA believes recovery is not possible until the declining value issue is addressed. The board is also targeting continued moratoriums on impact fees, reasonable sign and landscape ordinances, and revisions to the foreclosure process.”
E-Council: “The E-Council is a new partnership with NEFBA and JEA. The E-Council will focus on the energy, efficiency and economy of remodeling and new construction. The purpose of this new partnership is to create a referral program to match knowledgeable, energy conscious builders, remodelers and trade partners with customers. The council will also provide NEFBA with new marketing and building science information to help members build and remodel more homes.”
Electronic Communications: “Communication is vital in every membership organization and NEFBA will increase its electronic media reach so that members can obtain news from their cell phones, iPads or computers. Members can stay up-to-date on NEFBA news by signing up for text alerts or via Facebook.”
Events: “NEFBA will continue to offer events during the year where NEFBA members representing all councils can meet as one group and address significant industry issues.”
Community Support: “NEFBA members will continue to serve the community and those in need through its support of Builders Care, the association’s charitable arm, and other charitable efforts.”