New Home Sales Rise 2.7 Precent in September
Sales of newly built single-family homes turned upward in September, posting a 2.7 percent gain to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 464,000 units, according to U.S. Commerce Department numbers released recently.

Surge in Pre-Sold Custom Homes Felt by Columbia Area Builders
While a decline in existing, specifically, starter to mid-level, homes continues to show slow improvement on a regional and national level, a marked increase in pre-sold custom built homes appears to be on the rise.

Columbia HBA to Host NAHB President Dunn
The Greater Columbia Home Builders Association will host NAHB President Sandy Dunn during their Annual Meeting of the Membership and SPIKE Night on Thursday, November 13 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

CMB Education Offered in Myrtle Beach; HBASC Education Calendar Updated
Anyone who wants to take advantage of the Horry Georgetown HBA’s Mid Winter Education Conference should act now to reserve a seat. The one-day conference will take place November 13 at the Crown Reef Resort Conference Center in Myrtle Beach.

Community Digs Deep for Harvest Hope
Harvest Hope Food Bank is pleased to announce that the Feed Your Neighbor campaign has raised more than $392,000. After learning of the dire need at the food bank, Steven Mungo issued at challenge to the community to donate and promised to match all gifts up to $100,000.

Daily Speakers at IBS to Give Tips on Surviving Downturn
Each day of the 2009 International Builders’ Show will open with a special session featuring one of three nationally recognized speakers from companies that have capitalized on innovation and turned challenges into opportunities.

Think — and Act — Radically About Industry Education. Sign Up at IBS
Think radically about industry education programs from The NAHB University of Housing and embrace new ways to navigate the downturn and strengthen your company while attending the 2009 International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas on Jan. 16-19.

Builders Can Rehab Foreclosed Homes for HUD Program
Under the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) included in the Housing and Economic Recovery Act passed this summer, NAHB members may find opportunities to rehabilitate or redevelop homes that been foreclosed upon or abandoned.

Study Shows How to Combine SIPs Roofs and Concrete Walls
A new study prepared by the NAHB Research Center and released by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) shows builders how to improve the durability and energy efficiency of their homes by combining structural insulated panel (SIPs) roof systems and concrete wall systems in one- and two-family dwellings.