Builder Magazine

Small Builders Weather The Downturn

Big builders dominate the news, but small builders still make up the majority of companies and housing starts. Here’s a close-up look at how small builders are faring during the downturn.
Architects' Own Homes Rich in Cost-Saving, Space-Saving, Eco-Friendly Ideas

Architects’ own houses often hold the keys to cost savings, building efficiencies, and new standards of beauty.
America's Best Builders 2008: A Family Affair

For Drees Homes and London Bay Homes, winners of America’s Best Builders for 2008, the last 12 months saw challenges met head on, new initiatives undertaken, and carefully thought-out processes leading to success.

Small Advantages

Even in a tough market, smaller builders have some advantages that the big guys can’t touch.

Warranty Ruling Stirs Concern in Iowa

Builders worry that a state supreme court ruling could leave them open to more lawsuits.
Bankruptcy Becoming Last Hope for More Builders

Some things builders seeking court-sanctioned debt relief should know.

Builders Need to be Careful With Their Environmental Performance Claims

Making claims about the performance of your homes can put your company at risk.
High-Density Development Design Can Help Reduce Carbon Emissions

Recent research efforts shed light on the impact of vehicle traffic on the environment—and how dense development can help stem it.

Home Builders Try Commercial Construction to Make Money During Downturn

As the residential construction recession drags on, some home builders are finding other ways to make money.

Barratt American Hires Director of Social Networking

The next time you’re on MySpace, check out my buddy Barratt American. According to his profile, Barratt is 28, from the U.S., single, an Aquarius, and male. “I had to list a gender,” explains Paul Chirco, social network developer at the Carlsbad, Calif.–based builder.
What New-Home Sales Associates Can Learn From QVC

New-home sales tips from QVC.
Generating Traffic Through Referral Programs

Referrals are the most cost-effective way of generating traffic and sales in your communities. If you’re not asking your home buyers for referrals, you need to start today.

Architect Tips for Budget Kitchens and Baths

Experts share their secrets to low-cost kitchens and baths.

Builder Software Company Constellation Offers New Web Site for Home Builders

Constellation offers an easier way to find the right software.
Ten Tech Companies Form Software Alliance

Leading tech firms combine forces to offer best-of-breed products to builders.

Survey to Assess Marketing Opportunities for Building Products in China

A new survey will measure potential market opportunities for North American building product manufacturers in China’s growing housing market.
Builders Must Take Political Action

As elections approach, do your part to put the friends of housing where we need them—in office.