Recapping the International Builders Show (IBS)

Recapping the International Builders Show (IBS) and our IBS Education Session about Healthier Homes and Communities

The International Builders Show (IBS) is the annual convention, conference, education and expo for the home building industry. It has become an annual event for Green Home Coach and many of the companies and people we work with. When I went to my first show in 2010, I had a mentor from the St. Louis HBA who gave me some pointers about experiencing the Builders Show and they have stuck with me since.  That first year was also where I met several ladies from the Professional Women in Building (PWB) Council and I’ve been a proud member ever since.  I’ve made so many friends through PWB and love what we’ve brought to the table in Oklahoma City and nationally.  

NAHB Meetings, Education, The Expo and More

There is SO MUCH to do during the week and our week starts a few days before the official show with National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) committee and subcommittee meetings.  I am honored and excited to be the chair of the NAHB Healthier Homes & Communities subcommittee for 2024. There was a theme going as this related to our education session as well – A 4 Pillar Approach to Building Healthier (and Profitable) Homes and Communities. I was so honored to work with this great team of experts and have learned so much from each of you as we put our presentation together. Thank you to: 

• Christy Reyes-Howelll of CRH Design Build from Oklahoma City – design and health & wellness
• Bill Sanderson of WS Team – land development and communities
• Mark Laliberte of Construction Instruction – healthier, high performance homes and remodels

The Highlights of Our Education Session

In today’s bustling world, where we’re constantly juggling responsibilities and trying to stay on top of things, one thing that’s been gaining traction is the idea of healthier, high-performing homes and communities. But what exactly is driving this trend? Well, it’s not just a temporary COVID or post-COVID bump. Nope, it’s a sustained desire from consumers for better living spaces, coupled with some shiny new financial incentives.

Picture this: you’re a builder, trying to navigate this brave new world of housing demands. You know there’s potential in urban infill projects, but there’s that nagging uncertainty about financing and building in these areas. Plus, there’s the fear of increased costs when you start thinking about building homes that are not just four walls and a roof but are also healthy and energy-efficient systems.

But fear not, because there’s light at the end of this tunnel. And that light comes in the form of four pillars that can help turn your uncertainty into confidence and your fear into excitement.

Pillar 1: Financial Incentives

Let’s start with Pillar 1: Financial Incentives. Ah, money—the great motivator. With incentives, grants, and tax instruments at your disposal, you can actually get paid to make those upgrades for healthier homes. And here’s a tip: when you factor in new design criteria for your project budgets, you’ll find yourself reducing waste, avoiding rework, and ultimately saving money in the long run. It’s all about shifting your mindset from focusing solely on upfront costs to considering the life cycle costs of your builds.

Pillar 2: Sustainable Land Use

Now, onto Pillar 2: Sustainable Land Use. We’re talking about finding that sweet spot between urban infill and sprawling developments. It’s about creating communities that not only thrive economically but also protect the environment and enhance our quality of life. Think maximizing existing infrastructure, minimizing dependence on cars, and building communities that stand the test of time.

Pillar 3: High Performance Building Techniques

Next up, Pillar 3: High Performance Building Techniques. This is where the magic really happens. By embracing high-performing building techniques and planning out ventilation strategies from the get-go, you can build homes that are not only tight but also properly ventilated. And trust me, proper ventilation is your best friend when it comes to mitigating risks and ensuring the health and safety of your occupants.

Pillar 4: Occupant Health & Wellness Outcomes

Last but certainly not least, Pillar 4: Occupant Health & Wellness Outcomes. Because what good is a fancy, high-performing home if the people living in it aren’t healthy and happy? It’s all about educating owners, occupants, and staff on how to use these systems and features effectively. And hey, why not throw in some smart home technology to make things even easier? Oh, and don’t forget to shout about all the health and wellness benefits of your homes from the rooftops (pun intended).

So there you have it.  With these four pillars—financial incentives, sustainable land use, high performance building techniques, and occupant health and wellness outcomes—you’ll be well on your way to creating healthier, high-performing homes and communities that are not only attainable but also profitable. It’s time to roll up those sleeves, grab that hammer, and get building!

See the session on the Builders Show Website