The Utah Valley Home Builders Association
Where Competitors Become Collaborators
In the heart of Utah, the Utah Valley Home Builders Association (UVHBA) serves as a guardian of the building industry, aiming to protect, preserve, and promote Utah’s construction sector and its workforce.
Steve Caldwell, Executive Officer of the UVHBA
Led by Executive Officer Steve Caldwell since 2014, the UVHBA in Vineyard, Utah, has shown resilience and innovation in addressing construction industry challenges. Caldwell notes, “We have a strong organization with dedicated members, making positive contributions to our community.”
Located 40 miles south of Salt Lake City, Vineyard has experienced a 27.5% population surge since 2020, currently totalling 16,491 residents. Anticipating an annual growth rate of 8.44%, city planners are proposing Utah City—an extensive 17 million square foot mixed-use development on the Wasatch Front. This comprehensive project includes residential, retail, dining, entertainment, and hospitality areas to meet the needs of the expanding population in the region.
Despite the persistent demand for construction in the local Utah market, challenging factors like high interest rates create obstacles. The elevated mortgage payments resulting from these rates narrow the pool of people eligible for housing, affecting the lower end of the market.
Consumer trends dictate which category of residence is gaining the most traction. Knowing the market for multi-family residences, the demand for townhouses, or the enduring appeal of single-family homes is crucial in strategy, planning, and execution. Caldwell predicts, “With the demand we see, there is going to be a need, and we’re going to have to come up with more ways to help people get into houses.”
Adding to the complexity, a shortage of qualified trade workers further complicates matters, making it challenging for builders to keep up with the demand.
However, the Utah Valley Home Builders Association (UVHBA) stays steadfast in its mission to assist people in finding homes. Even in the face of these challenges, the current circumstances serve as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration among UVHBA members.
The Utah Valley Home Builders Association participates in various government affairs committees, working with 20 cities to get reasonable taxes and impact fees to keep housing more affordable. It works with the state’s Department of Housing and Urban Development (DUD) to address the housing shortage and manage the market. But also, to improve the quality of life for its members.
The Builder Assistance Program helps build relationships between builders and homeowners, and they have a team of professionals working to help build and maintain affordable and accessible housing options.
Membership Has Its Benefits
The Utah Valley Home Builders Association advocates for its 850 members by engaging with city and state governments on zoning, taxes, and housing affordability issues.
For instance, the UVHBA identified unwarranted fees related to building permits, which involved over 13,500 permits issued to 2,000 individuals and companies. The association recovered over $32 million from the affected parties.
Despite the current inflationary climate, the Utah Valley Home Builders Association is enjoying a surge in membership. This growth is an unexpected bonus among the severe housing, stock, and trade worker shortages prevalent across the country.
Unlock exclusive advantages by becoming a member of the Utah Valley’s most esteemed business community. Engage with influential business owners throughout the Utah Valley by participating in various social events and member meetings, fostering valuable connections.
Elevate your professional standing and impress clients by acquiring a respected membership. Enjoy the benefits of an enhanced listing in the membership directory, contributing to the growth of profits and leads for your business.
Access exclusive vendor and member business discounts that not only elevate your revenue but also provide a competitive edge. Stay at the forefront of advancements in building science by becoming a Certified Green Professional, displaying your commitment to sustainability.
Experience additional rewards, including discounts on auto purchases, leases, rentals, insurance, and more, ensuring comprehensive support for your business needs. Embrace a collaborative spirit as competitors within the community transform into collaborators, fostering a dynamic and mutually beneficial business environment.
Membership to the UVHBA also entitles its members to benefits through the Home Builders Association of Utah (HBAU) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
Events, Networking, and Social Connections
The association prides itself on bringing its members together at events like December 6th’s sold-out UVHBA Holiday Dinner. Explore a variety of engaging events within the community that go beyond the ordinary.
For four decades, the Utah Valley Home Builders Association (UVHBA) has hosted the annual Parade of Homes, which has become a cherished tradition for residents and visitors alike. Over 25,000 people tour the 31 distinct home designs annually, creating an immersive experience for attendees. These landscaped properties range in price from $600,000 to $1.3 million and provide a unique opportunity to explore the latest trends in home construction and design.
Throughout the almost three-week event, UVHBA members leverage this exposure through magazine features, garage booths, or active participation in the parade. The Parade of Homes is an architectural masterpiece and a testament to excellence, offering profound insights into Utah’s housing market craftsmanship.
Tickets are available leading up to the event taking place on June 6-22, 2024.
Family Night is a cherished event organized by the UVHBA and fosters a community among its members. The annual November event provides a casual and enjoyable atmosphere for members and their families to come together.
One notable destination is Provo Beach, which offers a gaming night that allows members to connect on a personal level beyond the confines of business. This event not only strengthens professional relationships but also creates a sense of camaraderie within the association.
Take part in Subcontractors for Santa, contribute to the festive spirit, and make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Or support the local community through the Can Build Food Drive, where you can contribute to addressing food insecurity.
Tee off and network with industry professionals at golf tournaments, fostering connections in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. Experience the semi-annual Speed Networking Event, an opportunity to connect with peers and expand professional networks. Contribute to meaningful community projects by participating in the Habitat for Humanity Building Blitz, making a tangible difference in local housing initiatives.
Education and the Future
Utah Valley Home Builders Association educates its members about legislation and industry-related concerns, emphasizing the association’s multifaceted approach, including roundtable discussions, conferences, and general membership meetings.
These collaborations support construction management programs, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the building industry.
Members can also attend classes and seminars to stay up to date on code changes, innovations, and technological advances in the building industry. But UVHBA’s involvement in education goes beyond the classroom with ongoing projects, like building a donated material house for Brigham Young University.
UVHBA scholarship recipients
Scholarships
The UVHBA commits to fostering the next generation of builders through extensive scholarship programs. It partners with educational institutions, including Brigham Young University, Utah Valley University, and Snow College. Caldwell emphasizes the association’s efforts to support students and the industry, stating, “We support the construction management programs in our three universities here.”
The Utah Valley Home Builders Association Scholarship is available to students majoring in building construction or construction management at Utah Valley State College. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required. The deadline is March 1st, 2024. The scholarship amount varies.
Achievements
The association has received prestigious accolades, including the Grand Award for Membership Competition and Best Parade of Homes from the NAHB in 2018.
Caldwell reflects on the association’s achievements, stating, “I think our Parade of Homes seems stable and will do well next year.” The event not only covers Utah’s housing market but also contributes to the association’s recognition within the industry.
The Grand Award for Membership Competition highlights the association’s success in fostering a robust and engaged membership.
Conclusion
Looking to the future, the association recognizes the fluidity of the housing market and seeks to find innovative solutions to meet the need for housing in the state. As the population in Utah continues to grow, the UVHBA remains at the forefront, addressing issues such as housing affordability, skilled labor shortages, and industry education.
Membership brings a multitude of benefits, from advocacy on zoning and affordability issues to networking opportunities with influential business owners. Association events provide a platform for displaying industry excellence and cultivating a sense of community among members.
The UVHBA’s dedication to education and supporting future talent is clear in its partnerships with universities and scholarship programs.
The Utah Valley Home Builders Association is a stalwart caretaker of the Utah building industry. Through its commitment to its members, the association navigates challenges, embraces innovation, and fosters a collaborative environment within the construction sector.
AT A GLANCE
The Utah Valley Home Builders Association
WHAT: The Utah Valley Home Builders Association works to protect, preserve, and promote Utah housing and individuals working in the construction industry.
WHERE: Vineyard, Utah
WEBSITE: https://www.uvhba.com/
