Testimonies

We could spend all day telling you about the benefits of being a member of the Home Builders Association of Lexington, but we’d prefer to let our members help us as well.  The list below provides testimonies from Builders, Remodelers, Associates, and Developers.  Want to know more about the Association from a member standpoint?  Use the directory and call the members who have provided a testimony.

Howard Properties
Stephen Howard
At first, I joined the HBA as a marketing tool for my business.  Then I became involved and discovered a wealth of knowledge capital.  From educational seminars, annual state/national conventions and local committee involvement, the opportunities to grow are limitless.  My advice to new members… get active and participate!  Your time invested in the HBA will grow your business exponentially.

Amzac Garage Doors
Prudence Daniels
Amzac Garage Doors, Inc. is a family owned business that has three generations of Newman’s proudly serving the Central Kentucky area. Joining the Home Builders Association of Lexington has helped our company show the building community that Amzac Garage Doors, Inc. can not only provide top quality and unique products but outstanding customer service as well. In today’s market it is important for Builders to know that there are more options when it comes to hiring a garage door installation company. I highly recommend for any family owned company to join the HBAL to take advantage of the networking opportunities which will help promote business growth.

Greater Lexington Insurance Agency
David Thornton
We joined the HBAL to support a handful of clients and we have been growing with the association since. If you derive your income, directly or indirectly, from residential construction or reconstruction, you should join the HBAL. The association protects the industry and provides innumerable opportunities to promote your goods or services. The friendships that I have developed and the accounts that have been written make our membership dues the best money we spend.

If Walls Could Talk
Todd Bunch
I joined the HBAL for a variety of reasons. I wanted to be a part of the Home Builders Community. I also wanted to meet and work with people in the same industry. Since joining the HBAL I have been in a position to talk with and get to know many members.

The best thing that has happened so far in my membership is getting to sponsor different events to get our company name out in the industry. It is not a short process, I do not want to make potential member think that once you join the HBAL you will all the sudden get swamped in business. That does not happen, but what does happen is you become a part. It is still up to you to be involved and work at creating the long term relationship that can happen by being a member.

Excel Design & Construction
Rob Fraser
The HBA has brought confidence to Excel Design & Construction, Inc. in that we are doing everything we need to become a reputable company.  The education teaches us things we may not have known about or things we need to learn better. The customer calling us through HBA gives an extra comfort to them because of the screening and professionalism of the organization.

Lexington Building Supply
David Hyman
There is no better way for an associate to meet quality, creditworthy builders than through the homebuilders association of Lexington…  during the phases of my career in the lumber business, truck driver, inside sales, outside sales and general manager, the path was made easier as my involvement in the HBAL increased.

My original goal in the association was to get to know all of the builders thinking that a few would buy something from me. I did and they did.  I thought the next course of action would be for me to get involved in committees and work my way onto the board of directors and that would increase my business.  I did and it did. 

If your business is related to homebuilding, the level of your success will be proportionate to your involvement in the HBAL.  Trust me, if you want Lexington area builders to trust you, support the organization that supports all of us.

Kentucky American Water
Greg Tomko
Membership in LOCAL community organizations like THE HBA provides opportunities for us to LISTEN TO OUR customers AND RESPOND TO their needs. Our ultimate goal is to provide RELIABLE WATER SERVICE AND QUALITY WATER to all of our customers, and OUR HBA MEMBERSHIP IS KEY TO solid, two-way communication.

Dominion Homes
Nancy McFarland
My membership in HBAL has been a real asset for me. The networking opportunities are endless which helps me stay connected with fellow Realtors and builders.
New South Federal Savings bank
Wanda Browning
I have been an affiliate member of HBAL & Sales & Marketing Council for several years and feel that being a member has increased my business substantially.  HBAL requires all members to be of the highest integrity and professionalism and that shows in all that they do. It’s an honor working with the members of HBAL.

Clay-Ingles
Bill Chapman
Clay Ingels is a charter member of HBAL and has continually supported the local home building industry.  My father-in-law, Buster Givens, and Eddie Griffin were instrumental in the early years of the association.

The HBAL is the voice of our industry in the legislative and regulatory process. That’s paramount to all of us.

Being a member says that we care about what HBAL stands for – responsible growth, environmental awareness and creating a better quality of life in Central Kentucky.

The Brock-McVey Company
Bill Fowler
HBA Lexington does an absolute wonderful job for my business with Brock-McVey. I deal pretty much exclusively with homebuilders and there is not a better avenue to meet and mingle with the decision makers. HBAL offers several venues each year for even new members to meet and get introduced to several people in the industry. These are not only terrific contacts, but as I have found out some of the nicest people you would ever want to meet. I have not only made great contacts, but have made some lasting friendships as well. I highly recommend HBAL to anyone associated in any way in the homebuilding industry.
Epipihany Foam Insulation
Jim DeBold
The HBA has helped opened doors for us that otherwise would have been shut.  We have found that potential clients encourage us to join the HBA and when we tell them that we are already members they react positively.  Joining the HBA has helped us in problem solving, networking at social events, and educational seminars.  To this point it has proven to be our best investment.

Clay-Ingles
Rob Franklin
Our membership in the Home Builders Association of Lexington has been a tremendous asset to our company. Our employees have been able to meet and network with the movers and shakers in our industry. Educational opportunities are second to none and the exchange of ideas energizes our business. At Clay Ingels we highly value our long relationship with the HBA of Lexington and recommend membership to any professional seeking the inside track to success!

J&R Construction Services
Jimmy McKinney
I have really enjoyed the continuing education classes that the association offers to help keep us better educated and informed.  Along with the Remodelor’s Council and the social events, the association has been a great way to network and generate business, thru the exposure on our website with the logo, and the stickers for our trucks.  We also enjoy great benefits with discounted work comp. and heath insurance.  I recently bought a new Dell computer for our office and I got a total of 20% off the complete system just for being a member of the association.  The long lasting relationships that we have started I plan to keep for many years to come.  We have also benefited from the doing business with a member, for this gives us great peace of mind and pride that we are using companies that support our industry.  The main benefit for us is that it separates us from the Joe Schmo that is not a member and does anything to cut our legs off to get a job.  We serve many clients and it shows them that we truly care about what we do.  We try to be involved with the association as much as possible for if you don’t use the association, for it is a member driven association, you won’t get much out of it.  I encourage all members to be a part of the association in one way or another because if you are a member and you don’t participate in some way, why are you in the association in the first place?  Thanks again for all you do for us.

Smith Homes Construction
Joey Smith
In addition to meeting and becoming friends with many subs, suppliers and builders, we enjoy the rewards of being involved with the Parade of Homes and Grand Tour of Homes.  We will not let our membership expire!

First American Title
Melissa Frantz
As a new affiliate to the real estate industry, I joined HBAL with the anticipation I would develop networks. My expectations have been exceeded! Since joining in October 2005, not only have I made valuable networks and meaningful friendships, I have added 6 new accounts. I expect this number will grow and my association with HBAL will continue to grow my business with First American Title Ins. Co.  

Sheeran Construction
Tom Sheeran
HBAL is the only source for quality education for the residential construction industry in the region

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Corporation
John Sizemore
The HBA has been an outlet for me to build my business, personal relationships, and a confidence for each of my customers. The ongoing changes in the market place, weather in education, or on the political front, the HBA is there laying the ground work for continual uninterrupted Residential Construction. It is because of the HBA that the builder is able to build, and the associates to market their products. This and many others reasons is why I encourage builders to be a Member, and do business with a Member.

Handyman Matters
Rick Adkins
As a recent Associate member of the Home Builders Association of Lexington, we are seeing an endless amount of networking opportunities available to us as a source for growing and validation our business.  Additionally, our HBA is a great conduit with which to acquire other complementary and valuable resources.  Our local membership also provides us access to both the Kentucky and National Home Builders Associations which are additional sources of valuable information and resources related to our industry.

Padgett Construction
Tom Padgett
The HBAL is a professionally run organization that provides education, training and a vehicle for our local industry to be represented and promoted as a group of professionals who want the best for our community.  The leadership and support provided by the staff of HBAL is an invaluable component of being in the building business in Lexington.

Dominion Homes
Bo Howell
Being a member of the Home Builders Association of Lexington has been a vital tool for my business. In utilizing my HBAL membership, I have gained numerous amounts of exposure to builders and out state buyers.  In addition, HBAL Grand Tour of Homes is a great event to showcase the builder’s quality and floor plans to hundreds of people. I would absolutely recommend any builder to be a member of HBAL.

Housewarmings
Karen Smith
When we opened our doors two years ago, we began with a vision of a “Dream House” that would inspire others and bring the absolute best of luxury indoor and outdoor living to Lexington. 

One of our most valuable business assets has proven to be the Home Builder’s Association of Lexington.  Not only has it provided us with a very strong network of great individuals who share our interest in building relationships and keeping connected, but it has allowed us to grow our business in ways we never imagined possible.

Through HBAL we have met artists, designers, builders, remodelers and business people who have been full of ideas and encouragement.  As a result, we are now building custom grill islands, pergolas and fully-equipped outdoor kitchens for individuals, and corporate clients.

HBAL has been instrumental in paving the way for housewarmings to evolve and become a part of the community.  For this, we are most grateful.  We would highly recommend all the services HBAL provides – from essential seminars to networking to keeping everyone current on industry trends.

LCM Company
Linden Long
I’m a partner in a large residential development in Branson, Missouri and being a member of the HBA has provided the resources necessary to obtain the guidance & training required to help the project be a success.  The HBA provides invaluable tools for small businesses like LCM Company.

Fifth Third Bank
Robert Adkins
I recently joined the HBA after relocating back to Lexington with 5/3 bank.  I immediately started going to the various HBA social functions and found out there are many builders and suppliers I knew prior to leaving Lexington.  I have already set up several lunches and sit downs with several local builders.  Just last week I received one referral from a builder wanting a construction loan.  HBA is by far the best association I have been apart of since moving back.  I am really optimistic about developing more business relationships through HBA in the future.

Primax Home Center
Michael Mudd
The Homebuilders Association of Lexington has been a very beneficial marketing instrument for Primax Home Center. It has linked us to many events throughout the Lexington area that we have utilized in presenting our products and service to the homeowner. We consider being a member of HBAL a great attribute.

Corman and Associates
Debra Kiser
As an associate member of HBAL, one of our primary goals was to reach builders with the value and integrity of one of our products, “Slatwall for the Home.  We participated in the 2005 Home of Excellence and the home owner is so sold on our product that he thinks every house should have it installed. HBAL has given us great contacts and grown our business in the process of networking with a wonderful group of people.

Willis Klein Residential Sales
Terri Naiser
Our Home Builders Membership has been great for not only for our business but for us personally.  Home Builders allows us to network with our Customers in professional as well as relaxed and fun settings.  We love the opportunity to participate in functions that not only help us grow as a company, but where friendships and business relationships are formed. I would encourage any one who wants to learn about our industry, make a new friend, find true partners in business or just have fun, join HBA today!! It is a key to success.

Victory New Home Builders
Tonja Elrod
Being a member of the HBA has been a valuable tool for Victory New Home Builders, Inc.  Our company has networking opportunities with other builders, access to training, and a reference point for our potential customers.  Customers know we are a legitimate builder and respect the construction industry.

Blue Grass Home Entertainment
Dan Moore
Having been in business for the past 12 years, I look at my HBAL membership as one of the best business decisions I have made.  The members of the HBAL are a big reason we have grown from doing 500K per year in sales to well over 2M in product sales alone.  Due to this surge in business from fellow members of the HBAL, we have had to move out of our other two locations & into a new, much larger, state-of-the-art facility (which we own) to handle the volume.  As most of us all know, networking is important for growth and if you don’t grow – you’ll probably end up closing your doors.  Thanks to the HBAL and their staff, committees, socials, fund raisers, news letters, magazines, political lobbing, etc… We are always in the loop instead of finding out too late. These functions not only give us the opportunity to get to know our fellow members (which are potential clients) but also long term friendships.  I want to thank the HBAL, their staff & those who volunteer their time to help the group stay strong & on top of the industry’s events.  I wouldn’t like to think where we would be without them.

For the past 7-8 years, we have focused on only working with HBAL members, knowing that their HBAL membership shows a higher degree of professionalism & a commitment for improvement/ excellence.  Dealing with HBAL companies, we have found the ideal professional partner. So if you are already a member, please use fellow members (I believe you’ll find a more professional contractor) & for those who have yet to make the commitment – what are you waiting for.  The benefits are too many to list…  See you at the next HBAL event!

Mr. Electric of Central Kentucky
Dana Philpot
Home Builders has been a wonderful link to several very interesting classes and activities, not to mention meeting other professionals in the Lexington and surrounding areas and networking with them.
On a personal level I have participated in 2 classes which were wonderful boosts to our company.  One was a Sales and Marketing Class with Ms. Patti Hathaway, which helped teach us to develop customer loyalty through teamwork!  Another interesting class regarding Human Resources and the legal ways to hire and let go employees that suit your company’s needs was VERY helpful.  The professionals who taught both classes were both highly motivated and very interesting.  A New Urbanism in the Bluegrass meeting was interesting as well.

This past year our children also painted personal treasure trunks for the children in the Florence Crittenden Home.  They really enjoyed being able to help out other children through the local Home Builders Association. We had some exposure with our company name in the local newsletter/paper.

We have really enjoyed our first year with our local Home Builders Association!

John M. Considine, General Contractor
John Considine
John M. Considine, General Contracting, Inc. joined the HBAL in 2002 in order to help the business survive during an economic downturn.  However, increased exposure is just one of the benefits enjoyed by our company’s membership.  Our company is developing more professionalism through education and safety programs.  These programs mitigate risk for our company and our clients as well.  Other benefits include group health insurance, help with contracts and conflict resolution, networking and volunteer opportunities, and established relationships with an organization full of qualified subcontractors and suppliers.  John M. Considine, General Contracting, Inc. is a proud to be an active member of the Homebuilders Association of Lexington.

Padgett Construction
Greg Padgett
I have enjoyed greatly getting to know the other builders, remodelers, subcontractors and suppliers in our industry. The networking opportunities provided by the HBAL are invaluable.

Flagstar Bank
Jesse Hardin
Since joining the Home Builder’s Association of Lexington we have received several calls from prospective clients that initially saw our contact information in the HBAL member guide.  Not only has our HBA membership increased our name recognition to other members, but it has also facilitated in our ability to network with other professionals in the industry.

M&M Sanitation
Byron Bradshaw
It is not what the Homebuilders Assoc. has done for us. It is what they cause to happen. We are more connected with the industry then ever before. It’s all about new friends that produce new opportunities.

Meade Concrete Products
Bill Mead
Our membership in the Home Builders Association has helped us keep our finger on the pulse beat of the Central Kentucky construction industry.  From forecasting to educational seminars and community projects, the association keeps its’ members informed and up-to-date.  I would encourage anyone associated with the building industry to join the HBA.  It could be one of the best business decisions you make.

Rector Hayden Realtors
Joan Delmoro
My involvement w/the HBAL has been rewarding in so many ways-personally as well as professionally.  Every event-social, educational or otherwise is always a perfect opportunity to network with other individuals in the industry.  I have gained more insight into the “other side” of building, and can better appreciate the builder’s perspective, you might say, whereas before I probably was more “consumer oriented.” 

Having met more associates, I have more avenues to explore for my own clients when they are searching for financing, and I have a better knowledge of associates’ products available so that I can refer my clients to these associates when they are in need of lighting and plumbing fixtures, or hardware for their new or remodeled homes, etc. 

Through HBAL and ultimately SMC, I have formed many valuable friendships with folks that I would never have known otherwise.

I have also come to realize that HBAL is not just a social club–HBAL’s board and staff  is always looking for ways to “raise the bar” in the industry and educate it’s members so that they can work smarter not harder and provide the best product available to the public.

Custom Metalworks
John Turner
As a new member of HBAL I am proud that my company will be affiliated with a large group of businesses that support professionalism. If your business takes pride in the quality of work and the manner in which you complete that work then this is a great place to meet and work with like minded people. I’ve been a member for less than a month and I have received two resumes and the opportunity two bids a nice job just from being in the member directory.

Brill & Co.
Mike Brill
There have been many benefits to joining the Home Builders Remodelors Council.  Education, networking, and getting the Brill & Company name in front of the public.  The education we’ve gotten to learn how to run my business, as well as learning in advance about new issues for our industry.  With networking and talking to and learning from local and national Remodelors and Builders.  I know that being a member has helped to promote my company to the public in ways like the Tour of Remodeled Homes, as well as awards we have received.

Dominion Homes
Deborah Pauley
I am extremely pleased with the outcome of my membership with the HBAL.
There are so many things in which the Home Builders Association can do for you and your company. Just to mention a few Networking opportunities, continuing education along with informative information.
I also feel as though through the HBAL I have a voice in the homebuilding industry.

ProSource Wholesale Floor coverings
Barb Fraser
We joined the HBAL when we opened our doors eight years ago. I can truly say that it helped jumpstart our business. Getting involved on committees & participating in HBAL events is where we’ve benefited most.  This is where you make one on one contact with people who are very willing to help you and your company and share their knowledge of our market and the building industry.  You get to know them and they introduce you to other people and it’s like dominos.  We have not only developed new business with realtors, home builders and remodelers, but also built partnerships with many other associate members that we network with.  We have a great group of people in our association and its fun to be a part of it!

Martin’s Sanitation Service
Mike Thornton
We have increased business with our portable toilet rentals solely due to more exposure through members who stand behind the Lexington HBA.  Advertising in local phone books and etc. have not exposed us to the home builders and contractors in the Lexington area as much as the HBA and its members.  No matter how much we strive to earn new business most contractors have become accustomed to listening to the same old lines and promises of better service, weekly service, etc.  They refuse to give you a chance, thinking that your company will just be the same.  Although we have become a trend setter in offering clean portable toilets, weekly service on the same day each week, very competitive rates, and great customer service, without the dedication of the HBA members that we service and their word of mouth, I know that our company would not be as successful.  I have already talked to many people about the benefits of the HBA, what it means to our company and will continue to encourage new membership whenever the opportunity presents itself.

A.G. Perry Insurance
Donna Pile
What is important about the association is that it exists solely for the benefit of all who come under its umbrella.  You are the advocate for and the educator of the contracting businesses .The association keeps members informed of regulations, building code updates and enforcements, new materials, legal, regulatory and legislative issues that will affect how contractors do business.    From an insurance industry point of view, the more educated and informed our contractors become the lower the risk of loss by any means.  (Noting in a recent tornado in Lexington, the newspaper reported that had the quality of materials used been upgraded one more level. the less likely the wind would have caused the damage that occurred. Now which contractor wants that stamp of “shoulda coulda woulda” work ethic or education on how little more it would have taken to avoid a catastrophic loss to that property? ) A look at the changes in building codes in  Florida and Louisiana can give a little insight in how the industry must now look at “how” it builds and the wind and flood it can sustain.      Quality of construction and materials is critical to the insurance industry in rating for and evaluating potential risk.    Poor construction and lack of information from building regulation to permits… hurts the public as a whole.  Enormous amounts of money are paid for claims that occur merely because of poor quality of construction or materials or a contractor who was not knowledgeable about what he was doing………..  HBAL and your national association…….. Are the folks who keep your building industry in good stead and on the cutting edge?   Your role is important to both the contractor, and the public.  Your members most assuredly are the more informed and more educated of the industry because they care enough to join and participate in the future of their industry and to protect the free market we all so love…… Contractors, who view themselves as professionals, generally respect their work and that of their counterparts as leaving a lasting mark on the landscape.    I was recently in Scotland and noted buildings that have been standing since the 1300’s……………… now that is leaving a lasting mark on the landscape.        Secondly I think HBAL’s networking opportunities are tremendous and are of significant value to any member.  You can find out very quickly who the best of the best is in this area. !!!     Last but by far not the least, is the AGC program that literally is a gift to contractors.   Workers compensation in Kentucky is a challenge.  To be able to keep a self insured fund solvent and working on behalf of your members is a critical part of your association business.   the risk management teaches your contractors how to avoid or reduce claims while protecting employees and managers  and monthly reporting helps keep my clients from experiencing large audits and or renewals that can literally put a business on the  line.

The Flooring and Furniture Gallery
Hobart Woods
When business with a single cause work together you have a stronger voice on matters that reflect upon your livelihood. The HBA gives us this voice. The HBA gives the members the opportunity to meet and develop long term working relationships that can be transformed into working partnerships.

Barlow Homes
Andy Hils
First of all, the HBA staff treats me like I am a valuable member of the team even though I have not been involved for a long time. I know Barlow Homes has been a member for a long time but, I felt welcome at all of the events from the first day that I started at Barlow.
 
Secondly, the classes that you offer are as valuable to us as members.  Your ability to inform the members of time sensitive issues such as Urban Service area debates, political candidates and their views, OSHA rules, Immigration rules and Workers Comp/General Liability issues are money saving items.  The instructors are real professionals and experts in their field, not just hired instructors that have no real world experience. And, I appreciate the fact that they are not using the training sessions as a platform to sell their company or product.
 
Todd Johnson’s dedication to getting political insight into the city’s direction is a huge help to builders/developers.  Not many of us have the personality, professionalism or desire to filter out what is going on downtown. I have called Todd on two different occasions regarding timely HVAC inspections and he came through.  If you are working solo, you do not get the same respect as you get when you are working on behalf of a powerful organization as the HBA.  The interest clock ticks daily on your construction loans.  Therefore, resolving problems quickly is key and the HBA helps with that as well.
 
As you know, I only have 2.8 years of building experience. That is 2 “point” 8 not 28.  That means I need a lot of training.  The HBA newsletter is clear, concise and always has a training class that I can benefit from. I have also been able to form my own mentor type of program with some of the experienced builders that I have met at some of the functions. They allow me to call and ask questions about on the job construction issues which are extremely beneficial to a newcomer.
 
I do not know how you can be a builder and not belong to the HBA.  You will spend more money in mistakes and fines than you will on your membership dues.
 
Lastly, I am extremely impressed by the turnout at all of the functions the HBA puts on.  As a past banker, I can tell you first hand that low turnout is a tell tale sign that an organization is unorganized and not well respected.  The HBA outings are always well attended which is a huge compliment to the staff and board members that organize the HBA.

Showcase Showers
Susan Young
This year, while we were deciding whether to renew our HBAL membership, a few hours later, we received a phone call, requesting an estimate for a new shower enclosure.  We asked the client how they were referred to us since they lived out of town and they said they located us through the HBAL website.  We also have had contractors who we work with, attempt to recruit us to join the HBAL.  We have been very proud to be able to say that we joined HBAL within a few weeks of starting our business, knowing that our membership would reflect our commitment to professional standards within the building industry.

Beazer Homes
Tom Cawthon
Beazer Homes is proud to be an active member of the Lexington HBA.  As a company on the move, we pride ourselves in associating with like minded organizations. 

The progressive management of the HBA helps Beazer to stay on top of the political climate both locally and in Frankfort.  By providing a unified voice for the builders, the HBA often has the ability to succeed where others have failed.  Locally, the HBA is involved and in tune with today’s building environment.  Their top notch local management is dedicated to the future success of all builders in Lexington, not just a select few.

I whole heartedly recommend HBA membership to ANYONE associated with the building industry in Lexington.

Anderson Communities
Tracy Pearce
Joining HBA has been a great benefit to me and my career as a New Home Consultant.  I have had the opportunity to meet wonderful people who are in my area of business.  HBA is a fun, informative organization that gives the local homebuilding industry a great resource for learning and networking.

Commonwealth GMAC Real Estate
Vanessa Vale
I have found that HBAL has been an excellent networking source.  Not only with Builders but also with Real Estate Agents, Mortgage Loan Officers, Advertisers and Construction Vendors.

Walden Mortgage Group
Jeff Sharp
HBAL has allowed me to meet members of our association that I otherwise would not have had the opportunity to meet.  This interaction has helped create networking opportunities that help my business grow daily.   

MassMutual Financial Group
Adam Simon
I have been a member of The Homebuilder’s Association of Lexington since April of 2006.  In that short time period, my list of contacts has grown dramatically.  It is refreshing to work with a group of like-minded individuals who treat their clientele with the same respect that I do; acting in the best interest of the customer.  I would definitely recommend becoming a member of the Homebuilder’s Association of Lexington.  You truly get out of it what you put into it.