Home Buyer Tax Credit, New NOL Rules Signed Into Law
In a major victory for NAHB that will boost the fledgling housing recovery and help struggling business owners nationwide, Congress last week approved legislation that will extend the first-time home buyer tax credit beyond its Nov. 30 deadline and expand it to a wider group of home buyers.

Higher Conforming Loan Limits Extended Through 2010
In a victory for NAHB, a provision that will extend the loan limits for mortgages issued by the Federal Housing Administration and purchased by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac through the end of next year was included in a continuing resolution approved by the House and Senate late last month.

SCHBA Announces a New Benefit for HBA Members
The Home Builders Association of South Carolina is excited to announce that Auto Owners Insurance Company will offer a ten percent & five percent discount on policies written for HBA members.

HBA Pee Dee Member Secures Building Foundation Patent
Florence general contractor and residential home builder Advanced Building Concepts, LLC has been awarded United States Patent Number 7,591,110 for a building foundation.

Even in Down Economy, Community Rallies to Aid Harvest Hope
Mungo Homes is thrilled to report that the second annual Feed Your Neighbor campaign has raised approximately $370,000, with an additional $15,858 in in-kind donations.

SIF: Insurance Rates Will Not Increase in 2010
For the fourth year in a row, the South Carolina Home Builders Self Insurers Fund will not increase renewal rates.

Santee Cooper unveils ‘Smart Energy Homes Program’
Santee Cooper has unveiled its “Smart Energy Homes Program,” the next phase of its multiyear “Reduce the Use South Carolina” campaign.

Firms Can Now Apply for Lead Paint Rule Certification
Remodelers can now apply to have their companies become certified to work under new lead paint rules by filling out an online application and paying a $300 fee to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Early Findings Inconclusive on Chinese Drywall Hazards
Releasing its initial findings recently, a multi-agency government task force was unable to establish a conclusive link between Chinese-made drywall and adverse health symptoms in home owners or corrosive effects on components of their homes.

Web Site Content: The Good, The Bad and The Viral
When it comes to upgrading Web sites or creating new ones, many builders concentrate their efforts on graphics, design and programming, what they believe are the most arduous aspects of the process — and overlook the value of content.

Disney Institute Course Comes to Columbia
The Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia is proud to partner with The Darla Moore School of Business and The College of Hospitality, Retail & Sport Management to bring the Disney Keys to Excellence program, presented by the world renowned Disney Institute, to the Columbia area on December 8, 2009.

Certified Green Professionals Need Up-to-Date Listings
The number of Certified Green Professionals continues to grow, with nearly 4,500 builders, remodelers and other members of the home building industry now certified.

International Builders’ Show: Can't Miss Education at Can't Miss Prices
The 2010 International Builders' Show (IBS) will help you retool your business — with a high-power blend of expert advice, insights and best practices ... as well as a chance to see the latest products from leading suppliers and manufacturers.