There is a long standing concept of supporting and giving back to an industry that supports your livelihood. There are other reasons to join the SSHBA as a Builder or Associate member:
Advocacy & Awareness
Nothing can impact your business more than legislation. The SSHBA takes a proactive role to monitor local and state legislation that directly impacts the housing industry. The NAHB; of which you are also a member, monitors federal legislation. Collectively we work to have an impact with legislators and on legislation affecting housing. We may choose to support candidates of any party for governmental offices as well.
The Governmental Affairs Committee is dedicated to managing this process for its members. The SSHBA has been instrumental in making positive code revisions such as the change to plastic plumbing pipe in Orland Park. A Municipal Outreach Program has been initiated to open dialogue between local builders and municipal officials. Many times these officials do not understand the potential ramifications to housing if certain laws or policies are passed. We work to create a positive reputation and working relationship with all lawmakers and only ask for an audience in order to explain our side of an issue.
In 2005, the Southwest Suburban Homebuilders Association Political Action Committee (SSHA PAC) was formed to promote awareness about housing issues and to support candidates, officials, and causes that advocate home ownership. We strive to keep safe the process of planning and approving new housing developments and the process of physically constructing each home without excessive fees and red tape. Funds raised will help the SSHA become more politically active and influential with local and state officials.
On the state level, the Illinois Home Builders Political Education Committee (IHBPEC) has been providing the housing industry with a voice in government through the support of elected officials and candidates committed to the future of the housing industry. As the political affiliate of the Home Builders Association of Illinois, IHBPEC is the only statewide political action committee that specifically represents the building industry. Funds raised by IHBPEC are contributed to those political candidates who have demonstrated their interest, understanding and support of the housing industry without regard to party affiliation. By supporting state lawmakers who craft and pass builder-friendly legislation, IHBPEC saves your business thousands of dollars. IHBPEC is dedicated to fostering a builder-friendly climate in Illinois so quality, affordable housing can be provided to all. HBAI was also instrumental in effecting passage of the Model Home Tax Assessment Act, which provides Illinois homebuilders property tax relief on model homes. On the national level, the NAHB Build-Pac Action Committee contributes to political campaigns advocating housing and supports NAHB’s legislative agenda.
Education
The vast amount of changing information in today’s market makes education critical to staying competitive. SSHBA provides seminars and publications to keep you on the cutting edge of technology. Speakers at General Membership Meetings address issues such as economic trend forecasts, business management, building codes, technology and finance. Membership in the Association also entitles you to information access through NAHB and their National Housing Library and Westlaw legal research system. In addition, the NAHB Annual Convention & Trade Show is the industry’s largest featuring over 170 seminars and almost half a million square feet of product exhibits.
The Sales and Marketing Committee was established to provide a forum for sales staff training and provides support for a full array of industry awards programs. In addition, educational programs, such as the Certified Sales Professional (CSP), the Master Certified New Home Sales Professional (MCSP), Institute of Residential Marketing designation (MIRM) and Home Buyers Schools are available. This committee provides motivational and educational speakers during the year and serves as a forum for innovative approaches to sales, as well as provides networking opportunities for sales related associates.
Networking
The SSHBA represents a strong local network of over 200 builder and associate members. By joining SSHBA, you are also a member of the Home Builders Association of Illinois (HBAI) with a membership of over 2,000 and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) which is over 170,000 members strong. This provides a united front addressing difficult issues impacting the building industry. NAHB membership offers access to business and industry related products, services and staff experts providing a strong foundation for business success.
Get involved and you get noticed. Get noticed and you gain sales which leads to profits. Participation in the SSHBA activities such as General Membership Meetings, the Annual Raffle Event, the Annual Golf Outing, and other special events provide publicity for you and your company. Get to know your local vendors and broaden your base of business associates. Backed by the Association name and credibility, you are steps ahead of the competition. Association affiliation not only promotes professionalism, but it strengthens your credibility with the public.
Referrals
The SSHBA office regularly receives calls from consumers seeking a builder or remodeler in the area. The SSHBA office staff will promote our builder members for these requests, promote current and upcoming member builder subdivisions, and direct these consumers to our website to locate them.
Associate members join the SSHBA to get in front of local builders and developers to gain business and referrals. The Associate Membership keeps you in front of like-minded business people truly interested in their industry.
As of 2015, the SSHBA has put together a committee specifically to develop new marketing concepts and strategic plans to broaden our public outreach. This committee is comprised of current board members and marketing industry professionals. The SSHBA has embarked on a new marketing campaign and has aligned with a marketing firm to create a new website with the latest in SEO and HD Video. The SSHBA wants to make sure that its members are at the forefront and benefit from these tools to gain exposure.
Become a SSHBA Member
It’s never been easier to become a SSHBA member. Simply fill out our application online!
